***
Although Lisle remained shy and reticent, during the next two days she seemed more engaged in the real world than lost in the world of her imaginings. Though she rarely initiated a conversation, she made an attempt to speak more when she was spoken to. Occasionally, she smiled. Occasionally, she made a wry remark that resembled a joke—but only in passing and often so quietly that it was difficult to know exactly what she said. Not surprisingly she talked mostly with Alice when they were together in the kitchen. If Alice couldn’t make her feel comfortable no one could. At least twice Daniel saw the girl smiling naturally at something Alice said. With Daniel, she was more standoffish, often looking frightened and nervous, but determinedly respectful. She made a decided effort to elabora
