After that, of course, it was agreed to; and for five minutes the meeting stood suspended.
Railsford’s friends utilised the interval by begging him to reconsider his position, and if possible put himself right by stating all he knew. He thanked them, but said it was impossible, and finally withdrew again to his own seat, and waited anxiously for the doctor’s arrival.
In due time the head-master arrived, with a tolerable notion of the object of this unusual summons.
Mr Roe briefly explained what had taken place, and reported the circumstances under which the head-master’s authority was now invited.
For once the doctor looked genuinely distressed. Despite all his rebuffs, he had for some weeks looked upon the Master of the Shell as one of the most promising men on his staff; and he deplored the infatuation which now promised to bring his connection with Grandcourt to an abrupt end.
But there was no alternative.
“Mr Railsford,” said he, “you have heard Mr Roe’s statement; is it correct?”
“Quite correct, sir.”
“And you persist in your refusal to say whether or no you have any knowledge as to who the persons were who assaulted Mr Bickers?”
“I cannot answer the question.”