These words seemed to put a drag on me. As in- tending as my mind was to beat her, my physical stren- gth was lacking. When I was about 2/3 of the way across and slowing down more by the second, I could hear Debbie but a stride or two behind. Female that she was, it was nevertheless evident that she possessed a superior physical strength.

It wasn't more than a few feet more and she was up to me. But instead of passing me, she lunged upon me and pushed my whole frame under the water, holding me there until I thought I would burst.

11

Then she brought me up and demanded, "Tell me you're sorry and that you'll never do that again. I hesitated and back I went under the water. When I came up, I broke all records complying with her de- mands.

But this was not enough. She added to my humilia- tion by insisting that I say, "I'm a naughty girl." I did so quickly but sadly. She then threw me backwards and went on her way to the shore, proclaimed herself the winner, and swam back to the point of beginning.

I waited on the other side for quite awhile, reflect- ing on all that had happened in such a short time. I could see beautiful Debbie across the river, preparing lunch, as though nothing had happened.

SO

I was filled with mixed emotions. I had wanted to make a hit with Debbie, showing off what skills I might have, acting the boastful male. I was failing miserably in this and yet, I was experiencing an unus- ual but truly glorious feeling. I was being dominated by Debbie and I liked it-I really liked it! But did she like me this way? I decided that she must not and that I must do all I could to regain stature in her eyes.

Back I went to the other side, slower and indeed wiser. Debbie was there and really quite nice to me, smiling with that gorgeous smile of hers. I started to apologize and she said, "Oh forget it, Merrill; Let's

cat.

·

I was delighted, Perhaps she had forgotten all of

22.