Posh, private, British girls' finishing school in 1950s; when and where the girls are allowed to go is strictly controlled. Going out of bounds without permission is viewed as a serious offense. When Valerie and Maria are caught going down to the village to buy some, they sent to the principal, Dr Cawston. He enforces his rules with as yard of rattan and inevitably the girls are beaten for their transgressions. Twelve strokes later two sullen girls leave his office. (SP178)