‘Mr. Wilkins,’ he said to the other tutor, ‘I should like you to commence. What shall you choose initially?’
Mr. Wilkins got up to look in the drawer. Evidently it contained a selection of disciplinary implements. He drew out a heavy leather strap, one end fashioned into a handle. He tapped it against his palm.
‘The tawse,’ said the senior tutor. ‘Admirable.’
‘Miss Sexton,’ said Mr. Wilkins. ‘I fear the young lady is likely to make rather a noise in response to our activities. I suggest a gag.’
From the drawer Miss Sexton produced a ball-gag, a red rubber ball attached to straps. She offered it to Lucy, but Lucy didn’t want it. Better to have free use of her voice, she thought, and if I scream, so be it. She shook her head and closed her mouth firmly.
‘We’re not offering you a choice,
