A murmur answered the teacher 's question , and he continued , `` You all know that the rule was broken several times , and I told you the next offender would be publicly reprimanded , as private punishments had no effect . I am sorry to say that the time has come , and the offender is a boy whom I trusted entirely . It grieves me to do this , but I must keep my promise , and hope the example will have a good effect . '' Mr. Acton paused , as if he found it hard to go on , and the boys looked at one another with inquiring eyes , for their teacher seldom punished , and when he did , it was a very solemn thing . Several of these anxious glances fell upon Joe , who was very red and sat whittling a pencil as if he dared not lift his eyes . `` He 's the chap . Wo n't he catch it ? '' whispered Gus to Frank , for both owed him a grudge . `` The boy who broke the rule last Friday , at afternoon recess , will come to the desk , '' said Mr. Acton in his most impressive manner . If a thunderbolt had fallen through the roof it would hardly have caused a greater surprise than the sight of Jack Minot walking slowly down the aisle , with a wrathful flash in the eyes he turned on Joe as he passed him . `` Now , Minot , let us have this over as soon as possible , for I do not like it any better than you do , and I am sure there is some mistake . I 'm told you went to the shop on Friday . Is it true ? '' asked Mr. Acton very gently , for he liked Jack and seldom had to correct him in any way . `` Yes , sir ; '' and Jack looked up as if proud to show that he was not afraid to tell the truth as far as he could . `` To buy something ? '' `` No , sir . '' `` To meet someone ? '' `` Yes , sir . '' `` Was it Jerry Shannon ? ''
No answer , but XXXXX 's fists doubled up of themselves as he shot another fiery glance at Joe , whose face burned as if it scorched him .
Acton Frank Jack Joe Minot Mr. Shannon afternoon manner thunderbolt