The critic Patricia Allen points out that "So far, Leonce had put a saving public face on her actions…and so far no irrevocable damage had yet been done" (72), but that saving face will soon disappear.

This inclusion of critical commentary again bolster’s the student’s argument. A voice of authority concurs with the student’s contention that Edna’s acts put her at risk, albeit not right away. The critic’s voice supplies additional proof – Leonce protects her in the early stages of her defiance.