It is fascinating to watch the deftness and exactitude with which Lakshmi makes the pleats in the fabric, even with the less than perfect vantage point for viewing it that she necessarily has. Alexandrie imagines attempting to do it oneself might be as difficult as lacing oneself into court formal wear, at least until properly practiced. Those who do not wear such things as she may consider having a maid to dress her to be lazy unnecessary luxury, but truly, it would be a nearly impossible feat without such help.

She makes a note to inquire as to whether or not one of the young women working in the household might be taught, if she is to wear this in society at another juncture. Emile would surely have picked it up quickly.

(But Emile was gone.)

"These different drapes, are they for separate classes or occasions, or simply for the sake of variation in dress?"