After I lit the wick, the flame bounced around as if it were debating whether or not to go out. I glared at the wayward flame; it recovered quickly, obeyed and began to sway to its own rhythm within the lamp. I closed the lamp feeling proud of myself, and wiped my hands on the apron of my dress. The apron was a recent addition to my wardrobe. If I came home with a soiled dress, Mother would forbid me from accompanying Father again. The thought of what that would do to our inc