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the determination to remain outside the circle of conventions; the disdain felt for the protected ones within that circle. Did I not consider myself as one of "Les Lopidés"?

There was a periodical published in Paris which bore that very title. It argued in favour of those in life were attacked and stoned by the Philistines. The name of Jesus Christ headed the list and was followed by many others famous in the history of the world. It was an honour to belong to such an army.

Unless pampered into submission, youth is naturally rebellious. My rebellion took the form of hating the conventional. Besides I had my own experiences to go by. Who within the despised circle had ever come forward to help me? The rioh relations who now held aloof from the unavoidable break with my mother had never raised a voice on my behalf. I had always stood alone and would proudly continue to do so.

In the end it was with a feeling of relief that I saw my friend off. Thank goodness, I said to myself, there would be no more ridiculous talks about marriage; also, no more walks to take me away from my work.