I don't suppose any teacher
was ever quite perfect in the practice of them, but a sincere
endeavour is often useful. On reflection, Philip thought it best to
add two other virtues to the catalogue--viz., Firmness, and a Strap
of Sole-Leather.
There was a full attendance of scholars the first morning, and when
all the names had been entered on the roll, Philip observed that the
Boyles and the Blakes were all there; they were expecting some new
kind of fun with the new master. In order that the fun might be
inside the school and not all over the paddocks, Philip placed his
chair near the door, and locked it. Then education began; the
scholars were all repeating their lessons, talking to one another
aloud and quarrelling.
"Please, sir, Josh Blake's a-pinching me." "Please, sir, Hugh Boyle
is a-scroodgin." "Please, sir, Nancy Toomey is making faces at me."
It was a pandemonium of little devils, to be changed, if possible,
into little angels. The master rose from the chair, put up one hand,
and said: "Silence!"
Every eye was on him, every tongue was silent, and every ear was
listening, "Joseph Blake and Hugh Boyle, come this way." They did so.
"No one here is to shout or talk, or read in a loud voice. If any of
you want to speak to me you must hold up your hand, so. When I nod
you can come to me.
Pages:
153
154
155
156
157
158
159
160
161
162
163
164
165
166
167
168
169
170
171
172
173
174
175
176
177