"It is a disreputable affair," he wrote, "and it
has upset me very much, and Maud even more. But you have put it in
the right light, and I am very grateful to you for your good
offices. I couldn't have believed it of Jack, but I look back to
dear old Pembroke, and I remember there was one occasion--but I
need not revive ancient memories, and I am sufficiently versed in
human nature not to waste indignation over a boyish escapade. I
have ventured to address letters to Mr. Gretton and the Master on
the subject, apologising for Jack's misdemeanour, and saying how
much I appreciate the excellence of the tone that prevails in the
College."
What, however, pleased Howard still more was that Gretton spoke to
him after Hall and said, "I am much obliged to you, Kennedy, for
your prompt action. Sandys came and apologised to me in a very
proper manner, and entirely removed the disagreeable impression
from my mind. I owe this to your kindly intervention; and I must
honestly say that I thought well of Sandys. He did not attempt to
excuse himself, or to extenuate his fault. He showed very good
feeling, and I believe that henceforth his influence will be on the
side of order. I was really pleased with him."
Howard spoke to Jack again the following day, and said he was glad
he had done the thing thoroughly.
"Thoroughly?" said Jack; "I should think I did. I fairly licked the
old man's boots. We had quite an affecting scene.
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