When Barbara returned to the manor, she was ill for two days. It was the third day that she woke up from her slumber, feeling as if she was inside an oven. Her whole body was sweating profusely. Last night was a torture. Her body felt weaker, and she was burning sometimes, while at other times she felt like she was swimming in the lake.
With heavy steps, she went to bathe. When she finished, she changed into a comfortable beige dress. Her whole body felt lighter. Walking to the window, she saw the earth was painted white as the snow was dropping non-stop.
The door to her room was opened and Baroness Esme came in. "You woke up! I was worried," she exclaimed, her voice had a hint of relief.
"I am fine Baroness," Barbara said.
"It is good," she said, walking closer. "It is your present," she added, handing her a white shawl made from linen with tiny flowers. "Since you were ill, I could not give it to you. Greta and Hans have their own gifts, too."
