It means that you will not be getting what you so richly deserve. The boy looked puzzled. The principal looked down at the unyielding child. Yes, I am going to let you walk. Oh, there has to be punishment.
Lets get on with it.
The principal nodded toward the teacher. The teacher presented the belt to the principal. He carefully folded it in two and then handed it back to the teacher. He looked at the child and said. I want you to count the blows.