Catholic School in New England21

Did you think that didn’t apply to girls? Were there any boys here when I told you to stay off the fire escape?” Mother Frances turned her attention to me. She said, “I usually don’t have to paddle girls, because they usually don’t behave as badly as boys. But you, young lady, have this coming. So here’s your medicine.” I could hear the “whoosh” as the paddle descended. I braced myself, but I still wasn’t prepared for the impact. A loud “crack” resounded, and the force of the blow nearly pushed me onto my face. My bottom felt like it was on fire. I gasped loudly. A few seconds latter she hit me again, and this time I couldn’t resist reaching behind me to try to protect myself. Mother Frances said, “Move that hand, young lady. I don’t want you to do that again.” After that the blows rained down fast and furious.