He took a pace backwards and tapped his riding crop on my bottom. Then I heard it whistle as it came down with full force. I let out a cry. The blow was immediately followed by another one, then another, then another. I do not know, dear reader, whether you have ever received a severe beating. But if so you will know that the pain is considerably increased if the blows fall in rapid succession. If there is a pause between each stroke, then the victim has a moment to recover while the pain dissipates a little. If there is no such pause, the pain is intensified. Clearly Mr. Rochester was intent on inflicting the maximum discomfort to my bared and vulnerable bottom. I glanced behind and caught sight of his face. Passion blazed in his eyes; his jaw was set firm. This was a man intent upon his
