Your brother received the offer with joy, but he made no promises at first.

The First Consul, before Roland's departure for the Vendee, had already spoken of making himself responsible for your establishment.

But since then he has asked to see Lord Tanlay, and Sir John, though he maintained his national reserve, was taken into the first Consul's good graces at once, to such a degree that he received from him, at their first interview, a mission to his uncle, Lord Grenville.

Sir John started for England immediately.
I do not know how many days Sir John will be absent, but on his return he is certain to present himself to you as your betrothed.
Lord Tanlay is still young, pleasing in appearance, and immensely rich; he is highly connected in England, and Roland's friend.

I do not know a man who has more right, I will not say to your love, but to your profound esteem.
The rest of my news I can tell you in two words.