Remember, I had passed eight years in the Hotel du Senat, and I knew nothing of Paris life.

A home of my own! My own furniture, and a servant in my anteroom! I should be somebody! My upholsterer could have installed me in his own quarter of Paris, and perhaps could have obtained some patients for me among his customers, who are rich and fashionable.

But he did not do this, probably concluding that with my awkward appearance I would not be a success with such people.

When you are successful it is original to be a peasant--people find you clever; but before success comes to you it is a disgrace.

He furnished me an apartment in a very respectable house in the Rue Louis-le-Grand.