CHAPTER TWENTY ONE.
THE NATURALISTS' FIELD CLUB.
Felgate, as we have said, had almost forgotten the existence of the sweep or the fact that he had given his name to the venture.

When therefore Railsford unexpectedly walked into his study, he did not in any way connect the visit with that trivial incident.

He conjured up in his mind any possible motive the master could have for this interview.
He could only think of one, and perceiving a paper in Railsford's hands, concluded that he had discovered the authorship of a certain anonymous letter addressed to Mr Bickers, and had looked in for a little explanation.
Felgate was quite prepared to gratify him, and promised himself a cheerful quarter of an hour over so congenial an occupation.

He was, in consequence, considerably mortified when the real object of the visit unfolded itself.
"Felgate," said Railsford, "I have come to you on very unpleasant business.

This is not the first time I have had to caution you that your example in the house is neither worthy of a prefect nor a senior boy." "Thank you, sir," said Felgate, with ostentatious indifference.