“Was this boy running after you, Jupe?” asked Mr. Gradgrind.

“Yes, sir,” said the girl reluctantly.

“No, I wasn’t, sir!” cried Bitzer. “Not till she run away from me. But the horse-riders never mind what they say, sir; they’re famous for it. You know the horse-riders are famous for never minding what they say,” addressing Sissy. “It’s as well known in the town as⁠—please, sir, as the multiplication table isn’t known to the horse-riders.” Bitzer tried Mr. Bounderby with this.

“He frightened me so,” said the girl, “with his cruel faces!”