Her mind traveled in a circle. She tossed and turned, trying one side until it ached and then trying the other; resting on her back for a moment and finding the position intolerable.
At last she fell asleep and woke up stiff and weary in the morning, devoutly wishing the day were well over.
She had hoped to see Professor Green in the morning, if only for a moment, but he had returned to Wellington, leaving the entertainment of Otoyo in charge of some of his brother’s friends.
Of what earthly pleasure is a beautiful corn-colored evening gown when one’s heart is like a lump of lead and one’s conscience heavy within?
All her numerous partners at the ball could not console Molly, nor could the knowledge that she was looking her best as she floated through the dances in her diaphanous dress.
“I know now how Judy felt after she was so unkind to me at the junior play,” she thought, “and, if heaven is kind to me, I hope never to say anything to hurt anyone again.”
In the meantime there were those who were enjoying themselves to the utmost limit of enjoyment.
Otoyo Sen, in a seventh heaven, was dancing with young Andy, who towered above her like a lighthouse over a cottage.
Judy in her black dress was sparkling with vivacity. Her fluffy light brown hair gleamed yellow and her skin was cream white, against the dark folds of her chiffon frock. Could this be the same Judy who, only a few weeks ago, was contemplating—heaven knows what?
Nance, with one eye on Andy, was also happy and light-hearted. How trim and charming she looked in her white silk dress!