I believe those who saw me going out, apparently by stealth, had no conception of my business.

Nothing could be more prudent than the advice he gave me respecting my conduct.

My beginning was admirable; so much attention, assiduity, and zeal, had charmed everyone.

The Abby Gaime advised me to moderate this first ardor, lest I should relax, and that relaxation should be considered as neglect.

"Your setting out," said he, "is the rule of what will be expected of you; endeavor gradually to increase your attentions, but be cautious how you diminish them." As they paid but little attention to my trifling talents, and supposed I possessed no more than nature had given me, there was no appearance (notwithstanding the promises of Count de Gauvon) of my meeting with any particular consideration.