She spoke softly because the rapidity of her heart's beating hindered her breathing.

" No, I won't let you make me miserable," she thought menacingly, addressing not him, not herself, but the power that made her suffer, and she walked along the platform.

Two maidservants walking along the platform turned their heads, staring at her and making some remarks about her dress.

" Real," they said of the lace she was wearing.

The young men would not leave her in peace.