But he was dazed and blinded, and his
skin was wet and shining with oil, or perspiration, or something.
Philip gave him a finishing stroke with his stick, and tossed him
back into the fire. Of course a new mattress was necessary, and a
keen eye for snakes ever afterwards.
The teaching in the school went on with regularity and success.
There was, however, an occasional interruption. Once a furious
squall came over the lake, and shook the frail building so much that
Philip threw open the door and sent out all the children, the little
ones and girls first, and then the boys, remaining himself to the
last like the captain of a sinking ship; but he was not so much of a
fool to stay inside and brave destruction; he went out to a safe
distance until the squall was over.
Sometimes a visitor interfered with the work of the school, and
Philip for that reason hated visitors; but it was his duty to be
civil and patient. Two inspectors called on two different occasions
to examine the scholars. One of them was scarcely sober, and he
behaved in a manner so eccentric that the master had a strong
temptation to kick him out. However, he at last succeeded in seeing
the inspector outside the door peaceably, and soon afterwards the
department dispensed with that gentleman's services.
He had obtained his office by favour of a minister at home for
services rendered at an election.
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