[There’s a measure of disappointment that the matter seems closed, despite she being the one to do so. Her marriage was complicated, made more difficult by his preferences and her ill health.

Being noticed, desired, it was uncommon and flattering. Whatever propriety dictated, she was curious.]

My husband is...lenient. At present, he is being held prisoner in the South. What I do privately is not a large concern for him. It's me. I don't know what is permissible, what is proper.

[She placed a hand over her chest, lightly rubbing above her bust.]

Are you? You are out of practice then?

It's better for me not to dance.