So to-day I am obliged to write without epistolary circumlocution.

I feel for the misfortune which has overtaken you, but, my dearest, I can do no more than pity you.

And this is why: Hochon, at eighty-five years of age, takes four meals a day, eats a salad with hard-boiled eggs every night, and frisks about like a rabbit.

I shall have spent my whole life--for he will live to write my epitaph--without ever having had twenty francs in my purse.

If you will come to Issoudun and counteract the influence of that concubine over your brother, you must stay with me, for there are reasons why Rouget cannot receive you in his own house; but even then, I shall have hard work to get my husband to let me have you here.