The Midnight Gang

George denies any wrongdoing to Matron. Matron says his denial is excessive and insists the small footprints and wheelchair marks must be theirs. Sally lies for them, claiming she observed them sleeping in the ward all night; she swears on her pet hamster’s life that it is the truth. Matron tells Tom he will have an X-ray and then likely be discharged, which disappoints Tom. Once Matron returns to her office, Tom thanks Sally, who reveals she has no pet hamster.

Dr. Luppers shows Tom his healthy X-ray. The doctor plans to call Tom’s school to arrange for his return. Tom decides to fake an illness to avoid leaving. He claims he feels hot and needs water, then holds the thermometer near a lit bulb when the doctor goes for a cup. He answers all the doctor’s questions to imply sickness. The doctor can find only a vase of flowers, so Tom drinks the water, though it “taste[s] of pond” (219). Dr. Luppers panics at the sight of Tom’s temperature and starts a battery of tests.