her lengthy hikes
This phrase describes the way that Francesca ran from Michael Stirling and her feelings for him constantly. She had run to Scotland.
keep the devil inside
The devil is anger. This phrase is used to describe how Michael Stirling was trying to subside his anger.
ecru silk fabric
This a fabric that was used to line the walls of the Scotland home of Kilmartin. This is a lightweight fabric that is mainly used as a curtain.
Tilted right off its axis
This phrase means that circumstances had radically shifted in the relationship between Michael and Francesca which moved from friendship to a romantic relationship.
loopy smile
This is a smile that Francesca and Michael were making when they were together. It is a smile that revealed the deep feelings that they have for each other.
malaria
This is a tropical disease that is spread and caused by mosquitoes. Michael Stirling had the disease twice after he came back from India to England.
Irish reel
This is a folk dance that is of Scottish origin. This is a reel that members of the Stirling family indulged in because they were proud of their Scottish roots.
benediction
As a verb, benediction means a state of feeling blessed. Michael felt blessed when he learned that Francesca was in love with him.
peonies
This is a kind of flower that was used by gentlemen to impress the women that they were courting in the book.
levity
This is the lack of appreciation of the difficulty of a situation. This is a verb that describes serious matters that are taken lightly.
