because it was like, I thought, the half of an immense globule of clearest water. Its frame was brown
wood elaborately carved, and now and then the reflection of the carvings seemed to dance in the mirror
like vegetation on the edge of a woodland pool when a breeze ruffles it. I had been wanting to look into
it, and all at once the desire became irresistible. I walked to the mirror. I could see the whole room
reflected in it. Just as though I were looking not at its image or my own image but into another similar
room with a similar me peering out. And then there was a wavering and the reflection of the room
became misty, although the reflection of myself was perfectly clear. Then I could see only myself, and I
seemed to be getting smaller and smaller until I was no bigger than a large doll. I brought my face closer
and the little face thrust itself forward. I shook my head and smiled, and it did the same. It was my
reflection-but so small! And suddenly I felt frightened and shut my eyes tight. And when I looked in the