Mixed reactions

The art teacher, Mrs. Somersby-Walker, who seems loosely allied with Miss Swanson's vocal opposition, she stands and raises her clear voice slightly so it is heard by all.

"And who would be witnessing the administration of the paddling?" Before the Dean can say anything, Ms. Naylor speaks up.

"I will be there if this ever becomes necessary." she says firmly, suppressing the potential revolt and holding up her slender hand to stop any debate before it even starts. "As I said before, this is not a matter for debate. If you feel strongly about this issue I advise you to join the committee charged with rewriting the rules that so offend you." There is a muttered buzz of conversation before the meeting resumes.

The meeting continues with much less drama as one after another detail are ticked off the agenda. The headmistress efficiently deals with a series of mundane topics as you let your mind drift, quietly studying the rest of the faculty.

Your attention comes back when you hear a slight edge in Ms. Naylor's tone. "On another note,I've learned that there is a Boston Globe reporter snooping around town trying to dig up some dirt after last year. I want to remind you that if this, Holly Piper wishes to speak with any of you, please refer her to me." A murmur goes through the hall and you catch a quick glance passing between Mr. Carter and Mr. Watts. This is interesting news, and you wonder if Tony Dogs, and more importantly, his boss Don Maglio are aware that a major paper is snooping around.

The next item is some nonsense about custodial staff and you go back to looking over the faculty, searching for tells or indications of weakness or untapped strength. You take particular note of Miss Swanson's square shoulders and scowling demeanor, seeing a great deal of weakness and self importance in what she imagines to be strength and confidence. As you turn your head you notice the Dean suddenly glancing away, as though he had been observing you and did not wish to be caught doing so. Interesting, you think to yourself. The Dean is obviously no innocent, and perhaps he has some sense that you are more than you seem. You make a note to be careful around him, until you can assess matters fully.

"Ms. Naylor?" Donna Considine stands up near the end of the meeting. "I hate to be a broken record, but I see that the 'Student Auction' is on the calendar again." A muted groan goes up from several of the teachers while you turn your attention to the forthright middle aged woman. You keep a bland expression on your face, but are eager to hear about this Auction, particularly since Ms. Considine seems opposed to it.