The Headmaster had officially invited Wildman to give a lecture to the assembled scholars, and to demonstrate to the lads (though not, of course, on them) his methods of imposing school discipline. The theme of the lecture was to be general: discipline, manliness, corporal punishment and so forth. Wildman fell straight into the trap. Accepting with eagerness, he packed his bag with a selection of punitive manufactures, and took a train for the Midlands. He was fêted and indeed impressed by the intent assembly of masters, scholars, school-staff, and local visitors, among whom sat a considerable journalistic contingent.