"If it is as they say, it may account for the explosion. I certainly
dropped several matches through the grating."
"It is as we say, isn't it, you chaps?" said Langrish. "We wouldn't
tell a cram about it."
"Rather not!" chimed we.
"Very well. Then I don't see that I can do much good," said the
magistrate. "Dr England will know better how to deal with the matter.
An accident is an accident after all; and if I may give an opinion,
these boys have done quite properly in coming here and telling all about
it. Little boys should not be allowed to play with explosives. At the
same time, you must allow me to say, Mr Jarman, that it is unfortunate
for a master to put himself in the position of being made the subject of
an effigy. As for Tempest, there is absolutely nothing against him,
unless according to the rules of the school it is an offence for a boy
who is locked up in a dark room at night to do his best to get out. It
is a great pity the matter was brought to me at all; but as it has been,
my advice is to let it rest where it is. Meanwhile, this poor fellow
who has been injured has some claim, and I dare say this sovereign will
help get him the necessary bandages and plaster for his forehead. Good
morning, Dr England; good morning, Mr Jarman. Good day, my lads. Let
this be a lesson against touch-paper tongues." So ended the famous
affair of Mr Jarman's guy.