Thenceforth the successful conduct of the classes depended upon the ability of the superintendent to anticipate Coley's varying moods and inclinations, for that young man claimed and exercised the privilege of introducing features agreeable to the gang, though not necessarily upon the regular curriculum of study.
Some time after Ranald's appearance in the Institute as an assistant, it happened one night that a sudden illness of the superintendent laid upon his shoulders the responsibility of government.

The same night it also happened that Coley saw fit to introduce the enlivening but quite impromptu feature of a song and dance.

To this Ranald objected, and was invited to put the gang out if he was man enough.

After the ladies had withdrawn beyond the reach of missiles, Ranald adopted the unusual tactics of preventing exit by locking the doors, and then immediately became involved in a discussion with Coley and his followers.

It cost the Institute something for furniture and windows, but thenceforth in Ranald's time there was peace.