“We feel that most schools in this country try to sexualize children far too early,” said Dr. Harrington. “We’d rather see our son brought up with unambiguous moral values, rather than being led to believe that immorality is a choice, or that foul language, or references to sodomy or fornication, are acceptable because they occur in so-called literature rather than the real world.”

I gave another inward sigh. “I see. This is about Johnny’s English exam.”

Dr. Harrington nodded. “In part. When a boy is given trash to read, he becomes lazy and indolent. Before long, he starts to believe that learning doesn’t matter, or that hard work can be faked, or that his elders can be mocked—”

I sensed the approach of a sermon. “I’m afraid the School curriculum can’t be altered just for one boy. I’m sure Johnny’s faith is strong enough to withstand a bit of Chaucer.”

“It isn’t just a question of faith,” said Dr. Harrington crisply. “It’s a question of innocence. Our son is an innocent. It’s your job to see that he stays that way. As for the curriculum, we’ve arranged for Johnny to be moved out of Mr. Fabricant’s group. We think a sound teacher and a different reading list would solve most of his problems.”

“Well,” I said. “Perhaps it would. But don’t you think—”

“We’ve taken advice from Mr. Speight, who happens to be a member of our Church. He fully supports our decision. In fact, he believes that it should be up to the parents to decide which books are suitable for their sons to study. And I, for one, don’t think that Mr. Fabricant, with his predilection for French pornography, is fit to choose the syllabus.”

French pornography? “You mean his book on the Marquis de Sade.”

“Absolutely. And I mean to speak to the Headmaster about this. Parents have a right to know if a pervert is teaching their sons.”

“I wouldn’t call Mr. Fabricant a pervert,” I protested.

“Then what exactly would you call a man who makes a celebration of filth, and writes books encouraging young people to treat it as literature?”

I steered the discussion back to less difficult waters. Of course Johnny Harrington’s parents had a right to their beliefs, but as far as education is concerned, I’ve always believed that religion, like politics, is something best left at the School gates.

“English aside, how does Johnny feel about the way he’s settling in? It’s sometimes hard for a seventh-term boy to make friends as quickly as the rest. But he does have a couple of good friends. Charlie Nutter, for instance—”

“That’s not a connection we’re keen to encourage,” interrupted Dr. Harrington.

“Really? Why?”

There was a pause. They looked at each other.