“What will your mater say, kid?”

“She’ll understand. I hope she won’t send me back though.”

“Get her to send you to Low Heath.”

“She couldn’t afford it. You’ll write to me, Dux?”

“Most likely. Tell Brown how sorry I am.”

“Now, Tempest, ready?” said Mr Ramsbottom.

“Good-bye, kid. I sha’n’t forget you.”

Next minute he was off, and I was left alone.

I do not deny that for a moment or two I found it convenient to rub my eyes. It was a hot day, and the light through the window was dazzling, I think.

Then to my relief up came my cab, and under the stalwart escort of Mrs Potts, the matron, I quitted Dangerfield for good.