All Along the River Chapter 5 - And The Child-Cheek Blushing Scarlet For The Very Shame Of Bliss

In which the Talbot Hotel is transformed into a vivid scene of gaiety and social grace for the Hunt Club ball, where Isola moves dreamily through the whirl of dances and admirers, her thoughts heavy with the shadow of distant cares. Amidst the brightness and music, a tender but troubled encounter with Lord Lostwithiel unfolds, seen through the watchful eyes of onlookers who sense the delicate peril of such close intimacy.