he came to me and repeated the word , 'errand . ' he nodded slowly , as if taking it all in . the girl asked , her voice timid . he struggled just a little in spite of himself , and it was also quite obvious that the page who delivered the paddling was very much enjoying it . it brought with it a confidence that my future was bright and happy and well within my control . minutes ticked slowly by with nothing but the sounds of breathing . come on , lets go clean up your hand . 