But,
from the first, something seemed to whisper to me that he was innocent
of the crime of which, to all appearance, he was proved guilty. When I
listened to your conversation this morning I fully decided in my own
mind to expel you both from school in disgrace; but I have since
reflected that even justice should be tempered with mercy; and, if you
are willing both to come forward in presence of all the school and ask
my pardon, as well as that of your deeply-injured school-mate, and
promise good conduct for the future, we will allow the matter to rest,
and you can remain my pupils. I would, if possible, spare your parents,
as well as yourselves, the disgrace which would follow your being
expelled from school under such circumstances, and I would also grant
you the opportunity to prove the sincerity of your promises of good
conduct for the future."
There was a severe struggle in the breast of the two boys; they were
aware of the justice of their teacher's decision, but pride pled for
them to brave the matter out in bold defiance.
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