Algy Herries announces his intention to retire and Carter is first off the mark to say that he will be applying for the headship. Howarth feels that David would make a good headmaster and urges him to run. David doesn't think he would have much of a chance but after Algy suggests the same to him, he too submits an application. Other candidates include another Bamfylde teacher, Pettigrew and Mr. Alcock who has just returned to England from South Africa where he was headmaster of a small school. David's interview goes well, though he feels he was perhaps a bit too honest about his feelings should Carter be named head. Meanwhile, David once again visits Julia Darbyshire in London and this time spends the night with her.
—garykmcd