They consisted of dry figs, dates, honeycomb, as emblems of "the sweetness of the auspices under which the year should begin its course," and a small piece of money called stips, which foreboded riches.) Here I close the parenthesis, and return to my ill-humor.

The little speech I have just addressed to myself has restored me my self-satisfaction, but made me more dissatisfied with others.

I could now enjoy my breakfast; but the portress has forgotten my morning's milk, and the pot of preserves is empty! Anyone else would have been vexed: as for me, I affect the most supreme indifference.

There remains a hard crust, which I break by main strength, and which I carelessly nibble, as a man far above the vanities of the world and of fresh rolls.
However, I do not know why my thoughts should grow more gloomy by reason of the difficulties of mastication.

I once read the story of an Englishman who hanged himself because they had brought him his tea without sugar.