Well,Miss Dare? Her eyes were black with anger and humiliation,but she stood up and walked out,closing the door quietly behind her;then to my surprise,and I must confess, my relief,she open it as quietly,and with a grace and dignity that would have befitted a queen, she walked to her seat.
"Thank you.As from today there are certain courtesies which will be observed at all times in this classroom.Myself you will address as 'Mr.Braithwaite' or 'Sirㅡthe choice is yours; the young ladies will be addressed as 'Miss' and the young men will be addressed by their surnames."
I hadn't planned any of this, but it was unfolding all by itself, and I hoped, fitting into place. There was a general gasp at this, from boys and girls alike.
Potter was the first to protest.
"Why should we call 'em' miss',we know 'em."
"What is your name?"
"Potter."
I beg your pardon?"
"Potter,Sir." The "Sir" was somewhat delayed.
"Thank you,Potter.Now,is there any young lady present whom you consider unworthy of your courtesies?"
"Sir?"
"It there any one of these young ladies who you think does not deserve to be addressed as Miss?"
With one accord the girls turned to look at potter, as if daring him; he quailed visibly before their converted eyes and said:"No,Sir."
"You should remember,Potter,that in a little while all of you may be expected to express these courtesies as part of your jobs;it would be helpful to you to become accustomed to giving and receiving them."
I walked around my desk and sat in my chair. For the time being at least they were listening,really listening to me;maybe they would not understand every word,but they'd get the general import of my remarks.