She sat out of the way under the shade of the
awning, with her tray before her, the veil drawn well over her face,
feeling shy amongst so many men. She smiled at all buyers, but spoke to
none, letting their jests pass with stolid unconcern. She heard many
tales told around her of far-off countries, of strange customs, of events
stranger still. Those men were brave; but the most fearless of them
spoke of their chief with fear. Often the man they called their master
passed before her, walking erect and indifferent, in the pride of youth,
in the flash of rich dress, with a tinkle of gold ornaments, while
everybody stood aside watching anxiously for a movement of his lips,
ready to do his bidding. Then all her life seemed to rush into her eyes,
and from under her veil she gazed at him, charmed, yet fearful to attract
attention. One day he noticed her and asked, "Who is that girl?" "A
slave, Tuan! A girl that sells cakes," a dozen voices replied together.
She rose in terror to run on shore, when he called her back; and as she
stood trembling with head hung down before him, he spoke kind words,
lifting her chin with his hand and looking into her eyes with a smile.
"Do not be afraid," he said. He never spoke to her any more.
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