This story has a classic theme: riches, at what cost? Parables that talk about a bargain with the devil are really about, what moral cost is there to success? In this story, apparently, something grim has happened. Readers worry on two counts: What will happen to the brother, and what will happen to Bianca since she has violated the strict prohibition.

Any number of endings suggest themselves. Most of these do not appear to be happy. You build suspense nicely as Bianca goes down the hall. We do wish, though, for some clearer resolution. What business was her brother in? The story is well-written enough that readers actually do want to know.

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