her heart was beating so hard she was sure the creature could hear it . the most youthful of sitters had been chosen , their replacements in the tower intended to serve only a short time . its late , and im sure youre all tired . the night had been long , sitting on the couch and thinking about her in the next room . the sun was now high above , turning the ground into a furnace once again . he was relaxed and comfortable long before they arrived at the wonderful old house and he met his fellow guests . 