When this was completed a platform was dragged into the centre of the room and a kind of raised wicker bed with straps attached was placed alongside it. The presiding monk, Brother Anselm, invited anyone who was so moved to come forward and make confession before receiving absolution.
I found myself stepping out of the line and walking forward to stand on the dais. When I looked round at the expectant faces I wondered what had possessed me. The monk still had his whip in his hand and I knew the bed would play its part.
“I confess to the sins of pride, vanity and self-regard,” I began. “I am glad my breasts are bound because I thought them shapelier than those of other girls. I considered my skin to be softer and my face more beautiful. I am guilty of trying to tempt men to look at me and
