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THE effect of the cane [Andrew Tripp, Junior Letters] is greatly increased by the procedures adopted at my school.

For minor misdemeanours, boys are caned almost immediately. More serious offences are dealt with by the headmaster during lunch breaks on Fridays.

I was recently reported for smoking and had several days to think about my impending punishment. At the appointed time I was outside the Head’s office and I heard another boy being caned for the same offence. My apprehension increased when the boy re-appeared obviously in great pain.

I was called in and lectured to by the Head who emphasised a number of points by waving his cane about. When he finally ordered me to bend over to receive four strokes it was almost a relief.

On reflection I have resolved that the anxiety of waiting and then the hour or so of excruciating pain following the actual caning, make smoking completely unworthwhile.

ROGER TURNER (16), Luton, Bedfordshire.