M.Barreaux had retired from the world, and almost from society, to live in a pleasant chateau, on the skirts of the woods, near La Vallee.

He also had been disappointed in his opinion of mankind; but he did not, like St.Aubert, pity and mourn for them; he felt more indignation at their vices, than compassion for their weaknesses.
St.Aubert was somewhat surprised to see him; for, though he had often pressed him to come to the chateau, he had never till now accepted the invitation; and now he came without ceremony or reserve, entering the parlour as an old friend.

The claims of misfortune appeared to have softened down all the ruggedness and prejudices of his heart.

St.Aubert unhappy, seemed to be the sole idea that occupied his mind.

It was in manners, more than in words, that he appeared to sympathize with his friends: he spoke little on the subject of their grief; but the minute attention he gave them, and the modulated voice, and softened look that accompanied it, came from his heart, and spoke to theirs.
At this melancholy period St.Aubert was likewise visited by Madame Cheron, his only surviving sister, who had been some years a widow, and now resided on her own estate near Tholouse.