The Small House at Allington Chapter XXXVI - "See the Conquering Hero Comes"

In which young John Eames, having boldly confronted and bested his adversary Crosbie at the railway station, finds himself summoned before the stern Sir Raffle Buffle, chairman of the Income-tax Office, to answer for his breach of the peace, only to emerge with his reputation curiously untarnished. Meanwhile, the office buzzes with gossip and the favour of Lord De Guest elevates Eames’s standing, as he navigates the curious complications of honour, office politics, and social acquaintance with a touch of youthful defiance.