She was conscious of some change in herself.

The slight sense of physical repugnance to the hunchback had vanished since his declaration.

He and his shop stood for power and success.

What else mattered?
Her spirits drooped suddenly as she remembered the obstacle that lay between her and the pride of openly sharing the triumphs of the Silver Shoe as she already shared its secrets.

She thought with dismay of the furtive meetings drawn out for years without hope of relief unless the impossible happened.