Two days later, I had Simone in my room again. This time clutching a note from Miss Archer, but addressed to me. I asked Simone if she knew what this was about but she just shrugged her shoulders a little and didn't speak. I opened the note and read it. 'Mr. Kelaway. I have had cause to discuss a matter with Simone Tallington. This matter needs no further discussion but Simone is aware of her wrong-doing and must be punished. I pass to you the responsibility for administering some discipline to this wayward girl. Yours, L. Archer'.

I looked at Simone and her face showed no emotion. "Do you know...