Mr Miles, a well reputed long term Swimming tutor of sixty five, was holding his last swimming class before retirement and it was certainly not going to be easy for him to say goodbye to all the boys and girls at the end of the lesson, as they had all grown very attached to him.  As always, he was first to arrive at the School Swimming Pool and because the news had spread all across the school that he was leaving, it was a full afternoon class today.  He smiled as all the students arrived and formed a line, in their swimming kits and he blew his whistle for their attention and complete silence.

     “Hello boys and girls,” He said in a low voice,  ”as you all must be aware by now, it’s your last lesson with me today, so I’ve decided…that we’re all going to have some fun today!”  All the students applauded and whistled.

     “Sir, you’re a real sport and we’re really going to miss you heaps!”  Quipped Stuart Dunlop, one of the boys.

     “Too right, Sir,”  called out another voice, belonging to Derek Fisher, “but this is not fair.  You’re easily the best teacher in the entire school and now you’re going to abandon us all.”  He burst  out crying.  Mr Miles walked up to him and gave him a tight hug.

     “Listen Derek.  Look at me.”  Mr Miles placed his left hand under Derek’s chin and raised his head up softly.  “You’re just like a son to me.  But you must be strong.  Life must continue as normal and that applies to all of you, do you hear?”  He looked around at everyone and they saluted him and replied loudly, “Yes sir!!”

     The girls were definitely alot stronger than the boys, who were clearly upset.  They were more reserved and mature. Mr Miles stared at his wrist watch to estimate the length of the lesson.