Among these was a blacksmith and farrier, who took
cognizance of his carcase, every limb of which having examined,
he declared there was no bone broken, and taking out his fleam,
blooded him plentifully as he lay. He was then conveyed to his
bed, from which he was not able to stir during a whole month. His
family coming upon the parish, a formal complaint was made to the
master of the school, and Peregrine represented as the ringleader
of those who committed this barbarous assault. An inquiry was
immediately set on foot; and the articles of impeachment being
fully proved, our hero was sentenced to be severely chastised in
the face of the whole school. This was a disgrace, the thoughts
of which his proud heart could not brook. He resolved to make
his elopement rather than undergo the punishment to which he was
doomed; and having signified his sentiments to his confederates,
they promised one and all to stand by him, and either screen him
from chastisement or share his fate.
Confiding in this friendly protestation, he appeared unconcerned
on the day that was appointed for his punishment; and when he was
called to his destiny, advanced the scene, attended by the greatest
part of the scholars, who intimated their determination to the
master, and proposed that Peregrine should be forgiven.
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