The Mrs. Henry Wood Library

The Channings Chapter XLIII - Dragging The River.

In which a tragic event casts a sombre shadow over the college, prompting a heartfelt but difficult gathering of family, friends, and staff to grapple with uncertainty and unfolding grief. Amidst the turmoil, painful conversations and strained affections surface, revealing the delicate ties and unspoken hopes entwined with the fate of young Charles Channing.

The Channings Chapter XLII - An Official Ceremony Interrupted.

In which a cruel prank involving a ghostly apparition at the college school leads to a fearful suspicion among the boys concerning the fate of young Charles Channing, whose sudden disappearance casts a shadow of dread and regret. The head-master’s search for truth unravels the reluctant confessions of the guilty lads, culminating in a sombre revelation that deeply moves the school community.

The Channings Chapter XLI - The Search.

In which a sudden and unaccountable absence of young Charles Channing causes growing anxiety among his family and the school, leading to a thorough but fruitless search through the night. The mystery deepens as suspicions and fears arise, prompting a steadfast investigation that unites those anxious to discover his whereabouts.

The Channings Chapter XL - Mr. Ketch's Evening Visit.

In which the poor old Mr. Ketch is lured out by a mischievous invitation to a supper of tripe and onions that turns out to be a jest, leaving him bewildered and famished at Mrs. Jenkins's doorstep. Following his fruitless quest and discovery of the missing cloister keys, he confronts Tom Channing, who reveals the prank to be the work of some of the schoolboys, setting the scene with gentle humour and a touch of kindly mischief.

The Channings Chapter XXXIX - The Ghost.

In which moonlight reveals the quiet grandeur of Helstonleigh, setting the scene for a mischievous plot by the college boys to conjure a ghostly scene in the cloisters, casting poor Charley Channing into an unwelcome solitary adventure. Amidst secret messages and locked gates, Charley’s deep-seated fears and the eerie surroundings drive him to a frantic escape, culminating in a sudden and startling accident by the river.