The event happened many years ago , but I will never forget it . The memory of it remains alive in my mind . The event occurred on a hot , humid May morning in 1947.
When I was six years old I was a first –graded student in Miss Butler’s class. She was well known for her strict discipline(纪律) in class. We all were kept busy studying all day . There was always so much homework to do . Anyone that had done something wrong would be quickly punished by the long stick she carried. You can imagine the fear I felt when I drew in a deep breath ---I accidentally made a strange sound . Miss Butler immediately stopped her class and looked around the blackboard . Seeing my expression, she asked, “ John , did you do that ?” I managed to find my voice and pointed to the boy close to me and said , “ No . Leandro did it .” Leandro’s explanation (解释) was useless ; in a moment the stick had come down, and Leandro was crying into his old shirt.
Somehow, I had known she would believe me . After all, I was a nicely dressed little white girl , and my mother was active in the Parent-Teacher Association, while Leandro was a fat little Mexican boy . He had trouble speaking English and his mother had too many children to care for and no time to attend meetings . He was never dressed in new clothes .
Leadron , how I wish that I could ask for your forgiveness (原谅)! Please accept my apology , my old desk mate.