He ate very little,--only some soup, and a very thin fillet of sole with white wine.

While eating, he said to M.Contois, the butler: "Remind the cook to spice the sauce a little more, in future," and then added in a low tone, "Ah! to what purpose ?" In the evening he dismissed his servants from all duties, saying, "Go, and amuse yourselves." He expressly warned them not to disturb him unless he rang.
On the Monday, he did not get up until noon, although usually an early riser.

He complained of a violent headache, and of feeling sick.
He took, however a cup of tea.

He ordered his brougham, but almost immediately countermanded the order.

Lubin, his valet, heard him say: "I am hesitating too much;" and a few moments later, "I must make up my mind." Shortly afterwards he began writing.
He then gave Lubin a letter to carry to Mademoiselle Claire d'Arlange, with orders to deliver it only to herself or to Mademoiselle Schmidt, the governess.