Page 70 - of-human-bondage-

He looked from Singer to Philip, but neither answered.
‘Don’t you know that I’ve forbidden you to play that idi-
otic game?’
Philip’s heart beat fast. He knew what was coming and
was dreadfully frightened, but in his fright there was a
certain exultation. He had never been swished. Of course
it would hurt, but it was something to boast about after-
wards.
‘Come into my study.’
The headmaster turned, and they followed him side by
side Singer whispered to Philip:
‘We’re in for it.’
Mr. Watson pointed to Singer.
‘Bend over,’ he said.
Philip, very white, saw the boy quiver at each stroke, and
after the third he heard him cry out. Three more followed.
‘That’ll do. Get up.’
Singer stood up. The tears were streaming down his face.
Philip stepped forward. Mr. Watson looked at him for a mo-
ment.
‘I’m not going to cane you. You’re a new boy. And I can’t
hit a cripple. Go away, both of you, and don’t be naughty
again.’
When they got back into the school-room a group of
boys, who had learned in some mysterious way what was
happening, were waiting for them. They set upon Singer
at once with eager questions. Singer faced them, his face
red with the pain and marks of tears still on his cheeks. He
pointed with his head at Philip, who was standing a little