Suzanne comes to school accompanied by her mother and almost leaves straight away, except that Mr. Hopwood intercepts her exit. She is put "on report", meaning every teacher has to sign to acknowledge her presence. Stewpot writes "Claire" on his fingers, but she is not amused. Gripper's racist attitude is become stronger and more vociferous - he starts asking people for an "Oath of Allegience to the British People", under pressure. He tries to force Stewpot to take the oath, but is interrupted by the arrival Mr. Hopwood. Precious Matthews is finally pushed too far by Gripper - she threatens him with reprisals by her older brother. Suzanne plans to leave home because she feels so frustrated about her options, but word gets out to Mr. Hopwood, and he reassures her.
—Geffers