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180 and I was under the impression that I knew it myself, still I made several blunders. However, it began to occupy my thoughts, and I got on better towards the end. When it was over, I suggested a seat on the middle deck. She agreed, and we repaired thither.

On the way I began to think of Vandalia, this strange and beautiful girl, who had never yet caused me a pang, who never took the slightest notice of me keeping the company of other young ladies, and who frankly confessed that she would love none. Surely there must be something superior in her nature! Did I meet any one like her in Neuroomia? I could only answer this question in the negative. I had met several equal to her in beauty, but none of such a sweet disposition. And why was this so? Ah, she had known distress, and had herself tasted the pangs of bitterness and despair, which the other girls with whom I was acquainted had not experienced.

We chose a seat in the far front, where we could get a good view of the sea and islands that we passed.

The cold, fresh breezes from the icy expanse played through her flaxen tresses, and she looked beautiful in her sadness.