The Madcap of the School

Metadata

Gutenberg ID

28749

Title

The Madcap of the School

Language

en

Book source

Project Gutenberg

Description max 80 words

Set in a picturesque Elizabethan schoolhouse, this spirited tale follows Raymonde Armitage, an irrepressible 'madcap' whose boundless energy and mischievous pranks constantly challenge authority. Blending historical romance with modern schoolgirl antics, the story offers a lighthearted, fast-paced adventure filled with secret passages, daring escapades, and unforgettable friendships.

Summary up to 500 words

Set at Marlowe Grange, a historic Tudor mansion converted into a school, *The Madcap of the School* by Angela Brazil introduces sixteen new students, including the spirited and rule-breaking Raymonde Armitage. Known as the school's scapegoat, Raymonde frequently absorbs the blame for others' misdeeds, earning the stern disapproval of Miss Gibbs but the affection of the Principal, Miss Beasley. The narrative tension rises when Raymonde and her friend Aveline discover a letter indicating that a German escapee is meeting a contact near the school. Acting swiftly, they enlist the aid of local gypsies to track the fugitive through the woods. In a daring move, Raymonde hides in a hollow tree, narrowly escaping capture before the gypsies successfully apprehend the man. Simultaneously, Raymonde faces suspicion regarding missing school funds. Evidence suggests she purchased a postal order while supposedly at school, a discrepancy that threatens her reputation. The mystery is resolved with the dramatic arrival of Violet Chalmers, Raymonde's American friend, who enters the school through a secret passage. Violet reveals that she and Raymonde had swapped clothes earlier, explaining why Raymonde was seen in civilian attire buying the postal order. Together, the girls investigate the missing money and discover it hidden behind a mouse nest in a bureau, where a family of mice had used the banknotes to build their home. The story concludes with the Principal forgiving Raymonde, clearing her name. Violet decides to remain at the school for another term, promising a future filled with lively adventures. The novel blends themes of loyalty, patriotism, and youthful ingenuity, highlighting the contrast between the school's strict discipline and the 'madcap' spirit of its most energetic students. Through a mix of suspenseful detective work and humorous school life, the narrative celebrates friendship and the courage required to stand up for one's peers.

LLM editorial rating

4.2/5

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https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/28749.epub.noimages

Local file path

data/epubs/pg28749.epub

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Categories

• Girls
• Boarding schools