Now that Matilda has finally tied her sailor boy down, Aunt Iceni has one more lesson to pass on to her slightly sadistic protegee. Iceni ruled over her own household not with an iron fist but with a wooden spoon, and she’s keen for Matilda to keep the tradition alive – nearly as keen as Matilda seems to be to learn how!
Jamie, meanwhile, is less impressed. He’d hoped the matter was put to bed already, and is alarmed to discover that apparently he’s to be treated in this ignominious way several times a week for the rest of his life. Still, though, his bottom does end up beautifully pink, and there’s a gleam in Matilda’s eye that’s difficult to resist…