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THE PATH OF DESPAIR.
The next morning the first question that occurred to my mind was: "What shall I do ?" I had no occupation.

I had studied medicine and law without being able to decide on either of the two careers; I had worked for a banker for six months, and my services were so unsatisfactory that I was obliged to resign to avoid being discharged.

My studies had been varied but superficial; my memory was active but not retentive.
My only treasure, after love, was reserve.

In my childhood I had devoted myself to a solitary way of life, and had, so to speak, consecrated my heart to it.