Chapter XI Summary

Chips and Headmaster Ralston had quite an argument. After calling Chips to his study, Ralston basically asked for his resignation. He asserted that Chips was not cutting mustard. He was not up on his Greek and Latin, refusing to follow the pronunciation standards set by Ralston. For example, he insisted that staff and student pronounce "Cicero" as "Kickero." Mr. Chips was slovenly as well—his tattered robe was the talk of the school. He is just past sixty, however, and is not ready to retire which he forcefully let Ralston know.

A student happened to be just outside the room as the argument ensued. It was soon all around among staff and students that Ralston had been rude to Mr. Chips and had shown a total lack of respect. No one liked Ralston and his treatment of Chips confirmed their...