Walking on eggshells

 In chapter five, Anne is basically procrastinating returning to court. I do not blame her. She wants to absorb as much of Anne's home life as she can before she "enters the lion's den," as she tells Thomas. Speaking of Thomas, I wondered why Anne did not speak with him privately or through her father to retrieve her locket? I understand the need to not make a fuss in front of the others, but sheesh that was HER locket. It was valuable and should not have been kept.

When she gets the news from her brother that the Queen has been talking trash  about her, and her maidenhead, she reacts the same way I think every woman would in her situation, regardless of  the century. She set out to face the slanderous lady. It is kind of bittersweet because she receives this news along with a very romantic love letter. Either way she sets off to court. It would have been cool if she etched her name in a rock or stone before she left, just to see if is still there in the 21st century.

While reading about her long journey I felt her pain. We think long car rides are bad? I was so happy when she finally got there, although I did enjoy her observations on the past and present views of the landscape and cities. As soon as she does arrive the drama immediately begins. I understood fully when she described being overwhelmed. I hate it when I get home from work or something and everyone pounces on me when I get home. I need this, I need that! The second she arrives she is briefed by her dad, told she has to assist the dreaded Queen, informed of her expectancy to have dinner with the King, and given awesome presents. Talk about a rollercoaster!

The drama that unfolds once she meets the queen, reminds me of high school drama. I can not say that I would be any more mature that them in that situation though. Also I had wondered why the King and Queen had had so few children over the span of twenty years, so appreciated being informed of how she got her figure. I answered that question. I'll be honest I cheated a bit and read a few random pages later in the book. I always do this when I am enjoying a book, and I do not know why. It just makes my curiosity worse. I can't wait to continue reading, but I am trying to go with the pace the class is at. I'll live. :)