I felt instantly at home, and wanted only to dismiss Alistair, along with the rest of Justice Hall, that I might have a closer look at the shelves.I had to content myself instead with a strolling perusal, my hands locked behind my back to keep them from reaching out for Le Morte D'Arthur, Caxton 1485 or the delicious little red-and-gilt Bestiary, MS Circa 1250 or.... If I took one down, I should be lost. So I looked, like a hungry child in a sweet shop, and trailed out on my guide's heels with one longing backward glance.
The narrator expresses a deep sense of belonging while visiting Justice Hall, wishing to explore the impressive collection of books without distractions. Their desire to dismiss their guide, Alistair, highlights their eagerness to delve into the treasures on the shelves, particularly classic works like Le Morte D'Arthur and an exquisite Bestiary. The narrator's feelings evoke the innocence and yearning of a child longing for sweets.
This internal conflict reflects their fascination with literature, as they can only wander through the hall and admire the books from a distance. The image of trailing behind their guide, coupled with a longing glance at the books, illustrates a profound appreciation for the knowledge and stories contained within, emphasizing the power of books to captivate the imagination.
