Kate noticed that Abby was not the least bit interested in a dress. Jasper, excuse me a moment. I need to speak to your sister and I do not think she will like what I say. It has to be said."<br/>Kate stood in front of Abby and motioned her away from Jasper and Mrs. Snead. "I need to explain this and you are not going to like it. Here it how things are, "You agree you want to stay. My father is Lord of the shire and adviser to King Atrius. There are times the family and household members have to, not choose to, are required, to visit several times a year the King’s palace. I am asking politely that you have a formal dress and all the underpinnings. I wish I could tell you, you would be allowed to stay behind. There are times that you will be asked to wear a dress. I know you like doeskin. Would you consider a formal tribal dress nothing too revealing? You walk around the soldiers’ attraction their attention would not be good. Papa, he is a bit stern on what is and is not acceptable. Abby, please stay on good terms with him. Sara is nearly 14 and she pushes Papa to the limit. A little cleavage showing at the ball but all dresses have to be shoe length or longer. At the king’s palace, any dress above the ankles is taboo. Do not ask why our customs are that way because I have no idea."