I took the first dance's hand again today, first as always. All it takes is smiling half a beat before anyone else.

• Varvara SokolskayaThose who smile half a beat early tend to be forgotten half a beat early too.
  Anatoly ZverinMy lady, you endure the first two remarks just to land that last line.
• LiliyaWhen the Second Captain smiles, the maids really do make noise.
  Anatoly ZverinMake that noise a little louder for me, would you.