Teresa went to the closet, got the violet gown and took the plastic off. "You should decide which of these you want to wear."

"Oh, very well."

"We must find the perfect shoes to wear with it."

"You are a dear girl," said Laura, "but I truly do not care."

"Well, I do. What will the agency think of me, if I let you go to a ball in shoes that do not match?"

Laura stared at her for a moment. "I had not thought of that. Indeed, what I wear is a reflection on you. Help me find the right shoes, will you?"

Teresa began to breathe a little easier. "First, we must get you out of that robe and into each of these gowns, so you can make your choice."

"Very well." Laura took off her robe and let Teresa help her put on the violet, floor-length satin gown. Then she turned to look in the full-length mirror. "Do you like this color on me?"

"I think you look good in any color you choose."

"Which do you like best?"

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"With your dark hair, I like the pastel yellow."

"Do you?"

She helped Laura out of the violet and went to get the yellow gown. "I took the liberty of sending Mr. Connelly's tux out to be cleaned as well."

"That was very thoughtful of you. Perhaps he will show up, come to think of it. We are due back in court on Tuesday anyway. Perhaps he will at that."

"How handsome the two of you shall look together."

"Yes, well, do not be too disappointed if he does not come home." Laura examined how she looked in yellow and sighed. "Not this one, it makes me look frumpy."

"Very well, let's try the green one. It is quite magnificent."

"I like it too. I believe I have shoes to match it as well, if they still fit."

Teresa helped her change once more, this time to a forest green gown with pale green embroidery on the bodice. She went to the closet, found the matching green shoes and when they fit, Teresa smiled her approval. "You look divine in this dress."

"Thank you." Laura looked at her reflection and simply shrugged. "I believe I am quite worn out."

"How about a swim? That always makes you feel better."

Laura nodded. "And while we're there, we can see if Mathew is back in town."

"How?"

"He swims at night sometimes. He thinks I don't know, but a maid told me long ago. Each morning, I check to see if his swimsuit is wet."

Teresa hid her surprise. "I see. Why does he not just tell you he is here?"




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