Of course she will put on a cap,' said Sophie, with a pitying look. 'How could she possibly receive strange gentlemen without a cap? But her hair must be dressed under it.
Sophie regards the importance of appearance and propriety, noting that a woman must wear a cap, especially in the presence of unfamiliar men. She feels that it is essential for the woman to adhere to societal norms, suggesting a level of respectability is necessary in such situations. Her comment reflects an understanding of social expectations of the time regarding dress and etiquette.
In addition to the cap, Sophie implies that there is still a need for the woman's hair to be styled appropriately beneath it. This indicates that while outward appearances matter, there is also a nuance to feminine presentation—reflecting a balance between societal conformity and personal care. Overall, these observations highlight the intersections of social conduct and femininity in a historical context.
