Others emptied the contents of their exchequer sullenly, and under protest; while not a few openly grumbled in the presence of Mr.Lowington.Some of "our fellows" attempted to keep back a portion of their funds, and perhaps a few succeeded, though the tact of the principal exposed the deceit in several instances.

Whatever may be thought of the justice or the expediency of depriving the students of their money, it was evidently an exceedingly unpopular step.
In the second dog watch, when Shuffles and Paul Kendall were off duty, they happened to meet in the waist; and the exciting topic of the day came up for discussion, as it had in every little group that collected that afternoon.

Shuffles had accomplished his purpose; he had accomplished far more than he intended.

He had expected nothing more than a general onslaught upon gambling, followed by increased stringency in the regulations, and a closer watch over the students in their rooms, which would produce sufficient irritation among the boys to suit his purposes.

Now the crew, and even some of the officers, were in a ferment of indignation, and ripe for a demonstration of any kind.
"The business is done," said Paul Kendall, as he met the conspirator.
"I'm afraid it's overdone," answered Shuffles, seriously, though he was actually in a state of exultation over the effect which had been produced by the new regulation.
"I hope not.