Mrs Hamilton walked around behind me. I didn’t dare move but I assume she was admiring her handiwork.
As I dressed, she said sternly: “I sincerely hope I never have to discipline you again, James. If I do, I will cane you – and that will make a smacked bottom across my knee seem like a picnic!” She offered me another tissue, and I wiped my face.
Mrs Hamilton handed me the envelope and instructed me to give it to my parents as soon as I got home that afternoon. She fetched my jacket for me and helped me dress. “Now, ask my secretary for the note for your teacher to explain why you are late for class. Off you go!”