The term 'profound' means 'great' in the given passage.
Usually, it is seen that women are attracted to men and become intimate with men. However, the female figure in the given passage did not show any interest in men and became intimate with the ladies in the room.
In earlier times, homosexual relations were not approved of and they were considered to be a disgrace to society. They were not seen in a good light and were harassed by society. Thus, it would have been a matter of great surprise and astonishment to the speaker to see a woman becoming intimate with other women.
The term 'profound' is synonymous with 'great,' 'unequaled,' and 'extreme.' Thus, 'profound astonishment' would mean 'great surprise.'
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