I've heard you called a sneak, mister, though I don't believe that for a single minute.

But I've heard mutterings to the effect that your class will send you to coventry for excessive zeal in greasing, to the detriment of your classmates.
What about it all, mister ?" Dave Darrin gazed at the youngster with eyes full of wonder.
"What about it ?" repeated Dave.

"That's the very thing I'd like to know, sir, for this is the very first word I've heard of it." Nor could Midshipman Trotter doubt that Dave Darrin had answered in all sincerity.
"Well, you certainly must be innocent, mister, if you're as puzzled as all this," replied the youngster.

"Then it must be that malicious mischief is brewing against you in some quarter.

Take my advice, mister, and find out what it all means." "Thank you.