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diff --git a/39305-h/39305-h.htm b/39305-h/39305-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..f6af466 --- /dev/null +++ b/39305-h/39305-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,26576 @@ +<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?> + +<!DOCTYPE html + PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Transitional//EN" + "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-transitional.dtd" > + +<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" lang="en"> + <head> + <title> + The Memoirs of Jacques Casanova de Seingalt 1725-1798 + </title> + <style type="text/css"> + + body { margin:5%; background:#faebd0; text-align:justify} + P { text-indent: 1em; margin-top: .25em; margin-bottom: .25em; } + H1,H2,H3,H4,H5,H6 { text-align: center; margin-left: 15%; margin-right: 15%; } + hr { width: 50%; text-align: center;} + .foot { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; text-indent: -3em; font-size: 90%; } + blockquote {font-size: 97%; font-style: italic; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%;} + .mynote {background-color: #DDE; color: #000; padding: .5em; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 95%;} + .toc { margin-left: 10%; margin-bottom: .75em;} + .toc2 { margin-left: 20%;} + div.fig { display:block; margin:0 auto; text-align:center; } + .figleft {float: left; margin-left: 0%; margin-right: 1%;} + .figright {float: right; margin-right: 0%; margin-left: 1%;} + pre { font-style: italic; font-size: 90%; margin-left: 10%;} + +</style> + </head> + <body> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + +The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Memoires of Casanova, by +Jacques Casanova de Seingalt + +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with +almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: The Memoires of Casanova + The Rare Unabridged London Edition Of 1894, plus An + Unpublished Chapter of History, By Arthur Symons + +Author: Jacques Casanova de Seingalt + +Translator: Arthur Machen + +Release Date: November 2, 2006 [EBook #39305] +Last Updated: December 15, 2016 + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: UTF-8 + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE MEMOIRES OF CASANOVA *** + + + + +Produced by David Widger + + + + + +</pre> + <br /> <br /> <br /> + <h1> + THE MEMOIRS + </h1> + <br /> + <h3> + OF + </h3> + <br /> + <h1> + JACQUES CASANOVA de SEINGALT <br /> <br /> 1725-1798 + </h1> + <br /> <br /> <br /> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img alt="spines (178K)" src="images/spines.jpg" width="100%" /> + </div> + <br /> + <h3> + THE RARE UNABRIDGED LONDON EDITION OF 1894 TRANSLATED BY ARTHUR MACHEN TO + WHICH HAS BEEN ADDED THE CHAPTERS DISCOVERED BY ARTHUR SYMONS. + </h3> + <br /><br /> + <hr /> + <div class="tr"> + [Transcriber’s Note: These memoires were not written for children, they + may outrage readers also offended by Chaucer, La Fontaine, Rabelais and + The Old Testament. D.W.] + </div> + + <br /> <br /> + <hr /> + <br /> <br /> + <p class="toc"> + <big><b>CONTENTS</b></big> + </p> + <br /> + + <br /> <a href="images/cover5.jpg">ENLARGE TO FULL SIZE</a> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img src="images/cover5th.jpg" width="100%" alt="Bookcover 5 " /> + </div> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#linkE2H_4_0001"> <big><b>VOLUME 5 — TO LONDON AND MOSCOW</b></big> + </a> + </p> + <br /> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#linkE2H_4_0002"> <b>EPISODE 21 — SOUTH OF FRANCE</b> + </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#linkE2HCH0001"> CHAPTER I </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#linkE2HCH0002"> CHAPTER II </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#linkE2HCH0003"> CHAPTER III </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#linkE2HCH0004"> CHAPTER IV </a> + </p> + <br /> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#linkE2H_4_0007"> <b>EPISODE 21 — TO LONDON</b> </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#linkE2HCH0005"> CHAPTER V </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#linkE2HCH0006"> CHAPTER VI </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#linkE2HCH0007"> CHAPTER VII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#linkE2HCH0008"> CHAPTER VIII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#linkE2HCH0009"> CHAPTER IX </a> + </p> + <br /> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#linkE2H_4_0013"> <b>EPISODE 23—THE ENGLISH</b> </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#linkE2HCH0010"> CHAPTER X </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#linkE2HCH0011"> CHAPTER XI </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#linkE2HCH0012"> CHAPTER XII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#linkE2HCH0013"> CHAPTER XIII </a> + </p> + <br /> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#linkE2H_4_0018"> <b>EPISODE 24 — FLIGHT FROM LONDON TO + BERLIN</b> </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#linkE2HCH0014"> CHAPTER XIV </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#linkE2HCH0015"> CHAPTER XV </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#linkE2HCH0016"> CHAPTER XVI </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#linkE2HCH0017"> CHAPTER XVII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#linkE2HCH0018"> CHAPTER XVIII </a> + </p> + <br /> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#linkE2H_4_0024"> <b>EPISODE 25 — RUSSIA AND POLAND</b> + </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#linkE2HCH0019"> CHAPTER XIX </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#linkE2HCH0020"> CHAPTER XX </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#linkE2HCH0021"> CHAPTER XXI </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#linkE2HCH0022"> CHAPTER XXII </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#linkE2HCH0023"> CHAPTER XXIII </a> + </p> + + + + + + <br /> <br /> + <hr /> + <br /> <br /> <a name="linkE2H_4_0001" id="linkE2H_4_0001"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <br /> + <h1> + VOLUME 5 -- IN LONDON AND MOSCOW + </h1> + <br /> <a name="linkE2H_4_0002" id="linkE2H_4_0002"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> <a name="linkepisode21" id="linkepisode21"></a> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + EPISODE 21 — SOUTH OF FRANCE + </h2> + <a name="linkE2HCH0001" id="linkE2HCH0001"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER I + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + I Find Rosalie Happy—The Signora Isola-Bella—The Cook— + Biribi—Irene—Possano in Prison—My Niece Proves to be an + Old Friend of Rosalie’s +</pre> + <p> + At Genoa, where he was known to all, Pogomas called himself Possano. He + introduced me to his wife and daughter, but they were so ugly and + disgusting in every respect that I left them on some trifling pretext, and + went to dine with my new niece. Afterwards I went to see the Marquis + Grimaldi, for I longed to know what had become of Rosalie. The marquis was + away in Venice, and was not expected back till the end of April; but one + of his servants took me to Rosalie, who had become Madame Paretti six + months after my departure. + </p> + <p> + My heart beat fast as I entered the abode of this woman, of whom I had + such pleasant recollections. I first went to M. Paretti in his shop, and + he received me with a joyful smile, which shewed me how happy he was. He + took me to his wife directly, who cried out with delight, and ran to + embrace me. + </p> + <p> + M. Paretti was busy, and begged me to excuse him, saying his wife would + entertain me. + </p> + <p> + Rosalie shewed me a pretty little girl of six months old, telling me that + she was happy, that she loved her husband, and was loved by him, that he + was industrious and active in business, and under the patronage of the + Marquis Grimaldi had prospered exceedingly. + </p> + <p> + The peaceful happiness of marriage had improved her wonderfully; she had + become a perfect beauty in every sense of the word. + </p> + <p> + “My dear friend,” she said, “you are very good to call on me directly you + arrive, and I hope you will dine with us to-morrow. I owe all my happiness + to you, and that is even a sweeter thought than the recollection of the + passionate hours we have spent together. Let us kiss, but no more; my duty + as an honest wife forbids me from going any further, so do not disturb the + happiness you have given.” + </p> + <p> + I pressed her hand tenderly, to shew that I assented to the conditions she + laid down. + </p> + <p> + “Oh! by the way,” she suddenly exclaimed, “I have a pleasant surprise for + you.” + </p> + <p> + She went out, and a moment afterward returned with Veronique, who had + become her maid. I was glad to see her and embraced her affectionately, + asking after Annette. She said her sister was well, and was working with + her mother. + </p> + <p> + “I want her to come and wait on my niece while we are here,” said I. + </p> + <p> + At this Rosalie burst out laughing. + </p> + <p> + “What! another niece? You have a great many relations! But as she is your + niece, I hope you will bring her with you to-morrow.” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly, and all the more willingly as she is from Marseilles.” + </p> + <p> + “From Marseilles? Why, we might know each other. Not that that would + matter, for all your nieces are discreet young persons. What is her name?” + </p> + <p> + “Crosin.” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t know it.” + </p> + <p> + “I daresay you don’t. She is the daughter of a cousin of mine who lived at + Marseilles.” + </p> + <p> + “Tell that to someone else; but, after all, what does it matter? You + choose well, amuse yourself, and make them happy. It may be wisdom after + all, and at any rate I congratulate you. I shall be delighted to see your + niece, but if she knows me you must see that she knows her part as well.” + </p> + <p> + On leaving Madame Paretti I called on the Signora Isola-Bella, and gave + her the Marquis Triulzi’s letter. Soon after she came into the room and + welcomed me, saying that she had been expecting me, as Triulzi had written + to her on the subject. She introduced me to the Marquis Augustino Grimaldi + delta Pietra, her ‘cicisbeoin-chief’ during the long absence of her + husband, who lived at Lisbon. + </p> + <p> + The signora’s apartments were very elegant. She was pretty with small + though regular features, her manner was pleasant, her voice sweet, and her + figure well shaped, though too thin. She was nearly thirty. I say nothing + of her complexion, for her face was plastered with white and red, and so + coarsely, that these patches of paint were the first things that caught my + attention. I was disgusted at this, in spite of her fine expressive eyes. + After an hour spent in question and reply, in which both parties were + feeling their way, I accepted her invitation to come to supper on the + following day. When I got back I complimented my niece on the way in which + she had arranged her room, which was only separated from mine by a small + closet which I intended for her maid, who, I told her, was coming the next + day. She was highly pleased with this attention, and it paved the way for + my success. I also told her that the next day she was to dine with me at a + substantial merchant’s as my niece, and this piece of news made her quite + happy. + </p> + <p> + This girl whom Croce had infatuated and deprived of her senses was + exquisitely beautiful, but more charming than all her physical beauties + were the nobleness of her presence and the sweetness of her disposition. I + was already madly in love with her, and I repented not having taken + possession of her on the first day of our journey. If I had taken her at + her word I should have been a steadfast lover, and I do not think it would + have taken me long to make her forget her former admirer. + </p> + <p> + I had made but a small dinner, so I sat down to supper famishing with + hunger; and as my niece had an excellent appetite we prepared ourselves + for enjoyment, but instead of the dishes being delicate, as we had + expected, they were detestable. I told Clairmont to send for the landlady, + and she said that she could not help it, as everything had been done by my + own cook. + </p> + <p> + “My cook?” I repeated. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir, the one your secretary, M. Possano, engaged for you. I could + have got a much better one and a much cheaper one myself.” + </p> + <p> + “Get one to-morrow.” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly; but you must rid yourself and me of the present cook, for he + has taken up his position here with his wife and children. Tell Possano to + send for him.” + </p> + <p> + “I will do so, and in the meanwhile do you get me a fresh cook. I will try + him the day after to-morrow.” + </p> + <p> + I escorted my niece into her room, and begged her to go to bed without + troubling about me, and so saying I took up the paper and began to read + it. When I had finished, I went up to bed, and said, + </p> + <p> + “You might spare me the pain of having to sleep by myself.” + </p> + <p> + She lowered her eyes but said nothing, so I gave her a kiss and left her. + </p> + <p> + In the morning my fair niece came into my room just as Clairmont was + washing my feet, and begged me to let her have some coffee as chocolate + made her hot. I told my man to go and fetch some coffee, and as soon as he + was gone she went down on her knees and would have wiped my feet. + </p> + <p> + “I cannot allow that, my dear young lady.” + </p> + <p> + “Why not? it is a mark of friendship.” + </p> + <p> + “That may be, but such marks cannot be given to anyone but your lover + without your degrading yourself.” + </p> + <p> + She got up and sat down on a chair quietly, but saying nothing. + </p> + <p> + Clairmont came back again, and I proceeded with my toilette. + </p> + <p> + The landlady came in with our breakfast, and asked my niece if she would + like to buy a fine silk shawl made in the Genoese fashion. I did not let + her be confused by having to answer, but told the landlady to let us see + it. Soon after the milliner came in, but by that time I had given my young + friend twenty Genoese sequins, telling her that she might use them for her + private wants. She took the money, thanking me with much grace, and + letting me imprint a delicious kiss on her lovely lips. + </p> + <p> + I had sent away the milliner after having bought the shawl, when Possano + took it upon himself to remonstrate with me in the matter of the cook. + </p> + <p> + “I engaged the man by your orders,” said he, “for the whole time you + stayed at Genoa, at four francs a day, with board and lodging.” + </p> + <p> + “Where is my letter?” + </p> + <p> + “Here it is: ‘Get me a good cook; I will keep him while I stay in Genoa.’” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps you did not remark the expression, a good cook? Well, this fellow + is a very bad cook; and, at all events, I am the best judge whether he is + good or bad.” + </p> + <p> + “You are wrong, for the man will prove his skill. He will cite you in the + law courts, and win his case.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you have made a formal agreement with him?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly; and your letter authorized me to do so.” + </p> + <p> + “Tell him to come up; I want to speak to him.” + </p> + <p> + While Possano was downstairs I told Clairmont to go and fetch me an + advocate. The cook came upstairs, I read the agreement, and I saw that it + was worded in such a manner that I should be in the wrong legally; but I + did not change my mind for all that. + </p> + <p> + “Sir,” said the cook, “I am skilled in my business, and I can get four + thousand Genoese to swear as much.” + </p> + <p> + “That doesn’t say much for their good taste; but whatever they may say, + the execrable supper you gave me last night proves that you are only fit + to keep a low eating-house.” + </p> + <p> + As there is nothing more irritable than the feelings of a culinary artist, + I was expecting a sharp answer; but just then the advocate came in. He had + heard the end of our dialogue, and told me that not only would the man + find plenty of witnesses to his skill, but that I should find a very great + difficulty in getting anybody at all to swear to his want of skill. + </p> + <p> + “That may be,” I replied, “but as I stick to my own opinion, and think his + cooking horrible, he must go, for I want to get another, and I will pay + that fellow as if he had served me the whole time.” + </p> + <p> + “That won’t do,” said the cook; “I will summon you before the judge and + demand damages for defamation of character.” + </p> + <p> + At this my bile overpowered me, and I was going to seize him and throw + him out of the window, when Don Antonio Grimaldi came in. When he heard + what was the matter, he laughed and said, with a shrug of his shoulders, + </p> + <p> + “My dear sir, you had better not go into court, or you will be cast in + costs, for the evidence is against you. Probably this man makes a slight + mistake in believing himself to be an excellent cook, but the chief + mistake is in the agreement, which ought to have stipulated that he should + cook a trial dinner. The person who drew up the agreement is either a + great knave or a great fool.” + </p> + <p> + At this Possano struck in in his rude way, and told the nobleman that he + was neither knave nor fool. + </p> + <p> + “But you are cousin to the cook,” said the landlady. + </p> + <p> + This timely remark solved the mystery. I paid and dismissed the advocate, + and having sent the cook out of the room I said, + </p> + <p> + “Do I owe you any money, Possano?” + </p> + <p> + “On the contrary, you paid me a month in advance, and there are ten more + days of the month to run.” + </p> + <p> + “I will make you a present of the ten days and send you away this very + moment, unless your cousin does not leave my house to-day, and give you + the foolish engagement which you signed in my name.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s what I call cutting the Gordian knot,” said M. Grimaldi. + </p> + <p> + He then begged me to introduce him to the lady he had seen with me, and I + did so, telling him she was my niece. + </p> + <p> + “Signora Isola-Bella will be delighted to see her.” + </p> + <p> + “As the marquis did not mention her in his letter, I did not take the + liberty of bringing her.” + </p> + <p> + The marquis left a few moments afterwards, and soon after Annette came in + with her mother. The girl had developed in an incredible manner while I + was away. Her cheeks blossomed like the rose, her teeth were white as + pearls, and her breasts, though modestly concealed from view, were + exquisitely rounded. I presented her to her mistress, whose astonishment + amused me. + </p> + <p> + Annette, who looked pleased to be in my service again, went to dress her + new mistress; and, after giving a few sequins to the mother I sent her + away, and proceeded to make my toilette. + </p> + <p> + Towards noon, just as I was going out with my niece to dine at Rosalie’s, + my landlady brought me the agreement Possano had made, and introduced the + new cook. I ordered the next day’s dinner, and went away much pleased with + my comic victory. + </p> + <p> + A brilliant company awaited us at the Paretti’s, but I was agreeably + surprised on introducing my niece to Rosalie to see them recognize each + other. They called each other by their respective names, and indulged in + an affectionate embrace. After this they retired to another room for a + quarter of an hour, and returned looking very happy. Just then Paretti + entered, and on Rosalie introducing him to my niece under her true name he + welcomed her in the most cordial manner. Her father was a correspondent of + his, and drawing a letter he had just received from him from his pocket, + he gave it to her to read. My niece read it eagerly, with tears in her + eyes, and gave the signature a respectful pressure with her lips. This + expression of filial love, which displayed all the feelings of her heart, + moved me to such an extent that I burst into tears. Then taking Rosalie + aside, I begged her to ask her husband not to mention the fact to his + correspondent that he had seen his daughter. + </p> + <p> + The dinner was excellent, and Rosalie did the honours with that grace + which was natural to her. However, the guests did not by any means pay her + all their attentions, the greater portion of which was diverted in the + direction of my supposed niece. Her father, a prosperous merchant of + Marseilles, was well known in the commercial circles of Genoa, and besides + this her wit and beauty captivated everybody, and one young gentleman fell + madly in love with her. He was an extremely good match, and proved to be + the husband whom Heaven had destined for my charming friend. What a happy + thought it was for me that I had been the means of rescuing her from the + gulf of shame, misery, and despair, and placing her on the high road to + happiness. I own that I have always felt a keener pleasure in doing good + than in anything else, though, perhaps, I may not always have done good + from strictly disinterested motives. + </p> + <p> + When we rose from the table in excellent humour with ourselves and our + surroundings, cards were proposed, and Rosalie, who knew my likings, said + it must be trente-quarante. This was agreed to, and we played till supper, + nobody either winning or losing to any extent. We did not go till + midnight, after having spent a very happy day. + </p> + <p> + When we were in our room I asked my niece how she had known Rosalie. + </p> + <p> + “I knew her at home; she and her mother used to bring linen from the wash. + I always liked her.” + </p> + <p> + “You must be nearly the same age.” + </p> + <p> + “She is two years older than I am. I recognized her directly.” + </p> + <p> + “What did she tell you?” + </p> + <p> + “That it was you who brought her from Marseilles and made her fortune.” + </p> + <p> + “She has not made you the depositary of any other confidences?” + </p> + <p> + “No, but there are some things which don’t need telling.” + </p> + <p> + “You are right. And what did you tell her?” + </p> + <p> + “Only what she could have guessed for herself. I told her that you were + not my uncle, and if she thought you were my lover I was not sorry. You do + not know how I have enjoyed myself to-day, you must have been born to make + me happy.” + </p> + <p> + “But how about La Croix?” + </p> + <p> + “For heaven’s sake say nothing about him.” + </p> + <p> + This conversation increased my ardour. She called Annette, and I went to + my room. + </p> + <p> + As I had expected, Annette came to me as soon as her mistress was in bed. + </p> + <p> + “If the lady is really your niece,” said she, “may I hope that you still + love me?” + </p> + <p> + “Assuredly, dear Annette, I shall always love you. Undress, and let us + have a little talk.” + </p> + <p> + I had not long to wait, and in the course of two voluptuous hours I + quenched the flames that another woman had kindled in my breast. + </p> + <p> + Next morning Possano came to tell me that he had arranged matters with the + cook with the help of six sequins. I gave him the money, and told him to + be more careful for the future. + </p> + <p> + I went to Rosalie’s for my breakfast, which she was delighted to give me: + and I asked her and her husband to dinner on the following day, telling + her to bring any four persons she liked. + </p> + <p> + “Your decision,” said I, “will decide the fate of my cook; it will be his + trial dinner.” + </p> + <p> + She promised to come, and then pressed me to tell her the history of my + amours with her fair country-woman. + </p> + <p> + “Alas!” I said, “you may not believe me, but I assure you I am only + beginning with her.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall certainly believe you, if you tell me so, though it seems very + strange.” + </p> + <p> + “Strange but true. You must understand, however, that I have only known + her for a very short time; and, again, I would not be made happy save + through love, mere submission would kill me.” + </p> + <p> + “Good! but what did she say of me?” + </p> + <p> + I gave her a report of the whole conversation I had had with my niece the + night before, and she was delighted. + </p> + <p> + “As you have not yet gone far with your niece, would you object if the + young man who shewed her so much attention yesterday were of the party + to-morrow?” + </p> + <p> + “Who is he? I should like to know him.” + </p> + <p> + “M. N——, the only son of a rich merchant.” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly, bring him with you.” + </p> + <p> + When I got home I went to my niece, who was still in bed, and told her + that her fellow-countryman would dine with us to-morrow. I comforted her + with the assurance that M. Paretti would not tell her father that she was + in Genoa. She had been a good deal tormented with the idea that the + merchant would inform her father of all. + </p> + <p> + As I was going out to supper I told her that she could go and sup with + Rosalie, or take supper at home if she preferred it. + </p> + <p> + “You are too kind to me, my dear uncle. I will go to Rosalie’s.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good. Are you satisfied with Annette?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! by the way, she told me that you spent last night with her, and that + you had been her lover and her sister’s at the same time.” + </p> + <p> + “It is true, but she is very indiscreet to say anything about it.” + </p> + <p> + “We must forgive her, though. She told me that she only consented to sleep + with you on the assurance that I was really your niece. I am sure she only + made this confession out of vanity, and in the hope of gaining my favour, + which would be naturally bestowed on a woman you love.” + </p> + <p> + “I wish you had the right to be jealous of her; and I swear that if she + does not comport herself with the utmost obedience to you in every + respect, I will send her packing, in despite of our relations. As for you, + you may not be able to love me, and I have no right to complain; but I + will not have you degrade yourself by becoming my submissive victim.” + </p> + <p> + I was not sorry for my niece to know that I made use of Annette, but my + vanity was wounded at the way she took it. It was plain that she was not + at all in love with me, and that she was glad that there was a safeguard + in the person of her maid, and that thus we could be together without + danger, for she could not ignore the power of her charms. + </p> + <p> + We dined together, and augured well of the skill of the new cook. M. + Paretti had promised to get me a good man, and he presented himself just + as we were finishing dinner, and I made a present of him to my niece. We + went for a drive together, and I left my niece at Rosalie’s, and I then + repaired to Isola-Bella’s, where I found a numerous and brilliant company + had assembled consisting of all the best people in Genoa. + </p> + <p> + Just then all the great ladies were mad over ‘biribi’, a regular cheating + game. It was strictly forbidden at Genoa, but this only made it more + popular, and besides, the prohibition had no force in private houses, + which are outside of the jurisdiction of the Government; in short, I found + the game in full swing at the Signora Isola-Bella’s. The professional + gamesters who kept the bank went from house to house, and the amateurs + were advised of their presence at such a house and at such a time. + </p> + <p> + Although I detested the game, I began to play—to do as the others + did. + </p> + <p> + In the room there was a portrait of the mistress of the house in harlequin + costume, and there happened to be the same picture on one of the divisions + of the biribi-table: I chose this one out of politeness, and did not play + on any other. I risked a sequin each time. The board had thirty-six + compartments, and if one lost, one paid thirty-two tines the amount of the + stake; this, of course, was an enormous advantage for the bank. + </p> + <p> + Each player drew three numbers in succession, and there were three + professionals; one kept the bag, another the bank, and the third the + board, and the last took care to gather in the winnings as soon as the + result was known, and the bank amounted to two thousand sequins or + thereabouts. The table, the cloth, and four silver candlesticks belonged + to the players. + </p> + <p> + I sat at the left of Madame Isola-Bella, who began to play, and as there + were fifteen or sixteen of us I had lost about fifty sequins when my turn + came, for my harlequin had not appeared once. Everybody pitied me, or + pretended to do so, for selfishness is the predominant passion of + gamesters. + </p> + <p> + My turn came at last. I drew my harlequin and received thirty-two sequins. + I left them on the same figure, and got a thousand sequins. I left fifty + still on the board, and the harlequin came out for the third time. The + bank was broken, and the table, the cloth, the candlesticks, and the board + all belonged to me. Everyone congratulated me, and the wretched bankrupt + gamesters were hissed, hooted, and turned out of doors. + </p> + <p> + After the first transports were over, I saw that the ladies were in + distress; for as there could be no more gaming they did not know what to + do. I consoled them by declaring that I would be banker, but with equal + stakes, and that I would pay winning cards thirty-six times the stake + instead of thirty-two. This was pronounced charming of me, and I amused + everybody till supper-time, without any great losses or gains on either + side. By dint of entreaty I made the lady of the house accept the whole + concern as a present, and a very handsome one it was. + </p> + <p> + The supper was pleasant enough, and my success at play was the chief topic + of conversation. Before leaving I asked Signora Isola-Bella and her + marquis to dine with me, and they eagerly accepted the invitation. When I + got home I went to see my niece, who told me she had spent a delightful + evening. + </p> + <p> + “A very pleasant young man,” said she, “who is coming to dine with us + to-morrow, paid me great attention.” + </p> + <p> + “The same, I suppose, that did so yesterday?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes. Amongst other pretty things he told me that if I liked he would go + to Marseilles and ask my hand of my father. I said nothing, but I thought + to myself that if the poor young man gave himself all this trouble he + would be woefully misled, as he would not see me.” + </p> + <p> + “Why not?” + </p> + <p> + “Because I should be in a nunnery. My kind good father will forgive me, + but I must punish myself.” + </p> + <p> + “That is a sad design, which I hope you will abandon. You have all that + would make the happiness of a worthy husband. The more I think it over, + the more I am convinced of the truth of what I say.” + </p> + <p> + We said no more just then, for she needed rest. Annette came to undress + her, and I was glad to see the goodness of my niece towards her, but the + coolness with which the girl behaved to her mistress did not escape my + notice. As soon as she came to sleep with me I gently remonstrated with + her, bidding her to do her duty better for the future. Instead of + answering with a caress, as she ought to have done, she began to cry. + </p> + <p> + “My dear child,” said I, “your tears weary me. You are only here to amuse + me, and if you can’t do that, you had better go.” + </p> + <p> + This hurt her foolish feelings of vanity, and she got up and went away + without a word, leaving me to go to sleep in a very bad temper. + </p> + <p> + In the morning I told her, in a stern voice, that if she played me such a + trick again I would send her away. Instead of trying to soothe me with a + kiss the little rebel burst out crying again. I sent her out of the room + impatiently, and proceeded to count my gains. + </p> + <p> + I thought no more about it, but presently my niece came in and asked me + why I had vexed poor Annette. + </p> + <p> + “My dear niece,” said I, “tell her to behave better or else I will send + her back to her mother’s.” + </p> + <p> + She gave me no reply, but took a handful of silver and fled. I had not + time to reflect on this singular conduct, for Annette came in rattling her + crowns in her pocket, and promised, with a kiss, not to make me angry any + more. + </p> + <p> + Such was my niece. She knew I adored her, and she loved me; but she did + not want me to be her lover, though she made use of the ascendancy which + my passion gave her. In the code of feminine coquetry such cases are + numerous. + </p> + <p> + Possano came uninvited to see me, and congratulated me on my victory of + the evening before. + </p> + <p> + “Who told you about it?” + </p> + <p> + “I have just been at the coffee-house, where everybody is talking of it. + It was a wonderful victory, for those biribanti are knaves of the first + water. Your adventure is making a great noise, for everyone says that you + could not have broken their bank unless you had made an agreement with the + man that kept the bag.” + </p> + <p> + “My dear fellow, I am tired of you. Here, take this piece of money for + your wife and be off.” + </p> + <p> + The piece of money I had given him was a gold coin worth a hundred Genoese + livres, which the Government had struck for internal commerce; there were + also pieces of fifty and twenty-five livres. + </p> + <p> + I was going on with my calculations when Clairmont brought me a note. It + was from Irene, and contained a tender invitation to breakfast with her. I + did not know that she was in Genoa, and the news gave me very great + pleasure. I locked up my money, dressed in haste, and started out to see + her. I found her in good and well-furnished rooms, and her old father, + Count Rinaldi, embraced me with tears of joy. + </p> + <p> + After the ordinary compliments had been passed, the old man proceeded to + congratulate me on my winnings of the night before. + </p> + <p> + “Three thousand sequins!” he exclaimed, “that is a grand haul indeed.” + </p> + <p> + “Quite so.” + </p> + <p> + “The funny part of it is that the man who keeps the bag is in the pay of + the others.” + </p> + <p> + “What strikes you as funny in that?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, he gained half without any risk, otherwise he would not have been + likely to have entered into an agreement with you.” + </p> + <p> + “You think, then, that it was a case of connivance?” + </p> + <p> + “Everybody says so; indeed what else could it be? The rascal has made his + fortune without running any risk. All the Greeks in Genoa are applauding + him and you.” + </p> + <p> + “As the greater rascal of the two?” + </p> + <p> + “They don’t call you a rascal; they say you’re a great genius; you are + praised and envied.” + </p> + <p> + “I am sure I ought to be obliged to them.” + </p> + <p> + “I heard it all from a gentleman who was there. He says that the second + and the third time the man with the bag gave you the office.” + </p> + <p> + “And you believe this?” + </p> + <p> + “I am sure of it. No man of honour in your position could have acted + otherwise. However, when you come to settle up with the fellow I advise + you to be very careful, for there will be spies on your tracks. If you + like, I will do the business for you.” + </p> + <p> + I had enough self-restraint to repress the indignation and rage I felt. + Without a word I took my hat and marched out of the room, sternly + repulsing Irene who tried to prevent me from going as she had done once + before. I resolved not to have anything more to do with the wretched old + count. + </p> + <p> + This calumnious report vexed me extremely, although I knew that most + gamesters would consider it an honour. Possano and Rinaldi had said enough + to shew me that all the town was talking over it, and I was not surprised + that everyone believed it; but for my part I did not care to be taken for + a rogue when I had acted honourably. + </p> + <p> + I felt the need of unbosoming myself to someone, and walked towards the + Strada Balbi to call on the Marquis Grimaldi, and discuss the matter with + him. I was told he was gone to the courts, so I followed him there and was + ushered into vast hall, where he waited on me. I told him my story, and he + said, + </p> + <p> + “My dear chevalier, you ought to laugh at it, and I should not advise you + to take the trouble to refute the calumny.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you advise me to confess openly that I am a rogue?” + </p> + <p> + “No, for only fools will think that of you. Despise them, unless they tell + you you are a rogue to your face.” + </p> + <p> + “I should like to know the name of the nobleman who was present and sent + this report about the town.” + </p> + <p> + “I do not know who it is. He was wrong to say anything, but you would be + equally wrong in taking any steps against him, for I am sure he did not + tell the story with any intention of giving offence; quite the contrary.” + </p> + <p> + “I am lost in wonder at his course of reasoning. Let us suppose that the + facts were as he told them, do you think they are to my honour?” + </p> + <p> + “Neither to your honour nor shame. Such are the morals and such the maxims + of gamesters. The story will be laughed at, your skill will be applauded, + and you will be admired, for each one will say that in your place he would + have done likewise!” + </p> + <p> + “Would you?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly. If I had been sure that the ball would have gone to the + harlequin, I would have broken the rascal’s bank, as you did. I will say + honestly that I do not know whether you won by luck or skill, but the most + probable hypothesis, to my mind, is that you knew the direction of the + ball. You must confess that there is something to be said in favour of the + supposition.” + </p> + <p> + “I confess that there is, but it is none the less a dishonourable + imputation on me, and you in your turn must confess that those who think + that I won by sleight of hand, or by an agreement with a rascal, insult me + grievously.” + </p> + <p> + “That depends on the way you look at it. I confess they insult you, if you + think yourself insulted; but they are not aware of that, and their + intention being quite different there is no insult at all in the matter. I + promise you no one will tell you to your face that you cheated, but how + are you going to prevent them thinking so?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, let them think what they like, but let them take care not to tell + me their thoughts.” + </p> + <p> + I went home angry with Grimaldi, Rinaldi, and everyone else. My anger + vexed me, I should properly have only laughed, for in the state of morals + at Genoa, the accusation, whether true or false, could not injure my + honour. On the contrary I gained by it a reputation for being a genius, a + term which the Genoese prefer to that Methodistical word, “a rogue,” + though the meaning is the same. Finally I was astonished to find myself + reflecting that I should have had no scruple in breaking the bank in the + way suggested, if it had only been for the sake of making the company + laugh. What vexed me most was that I was credited with an exploit I had + not performed. + </p> + <p> + When dinner-time drew near I endeavoured to overcome my ill temper for the + sake of the company I was going to receive. My niece was adorned only with + her native charms, for the rascal Croce had sold all her jewels; but she + was elegantly dressed, and her beautiful hair was more precious than a + crown of rubies. + </p> + <p> + Rosalie came in richly dressed and looking very lovely. Her husband, her + uncle, and her aunt were with her, and also two friends, one of whom was + the aspirant for the hand of my niece. + </p> + <p> + Madame Isola-Bella and her shadow, M. Grimaldi, came late, like great + people. Just as we were going to sit down, Clairmont told me that a man + wanted to speak to me. + </p> + <p> + “Shew him in.” + </p> + <p> + As soon as he appeared M. Grimaldi exclaimed: + </p> + <p> + “The man with the bag!” + </p> + <p> + “What do you want?” I said, dryly. + </p> + <p> + “Sir, I am come to ask you to help me. I am a family man, and it is + thought that . . .” + </p> + <p> + I did not let him finish. + </p> + <p> + “I have never refused to aid the unfortunate,” said I. “Clairmont, give + him ten sequins. Leave the room.” + </p> + <p> + This incident spoke in my favour, and made me in a better temper. + </p> + <p> + We sat down to table, and a letter was handed to me. I recognized + Possano’s writing, and put it in my pocket without reading it. + </p> + <p> + The dinner was delicious, and my cook was pronounced to have won his + spurs. Though her exalted rank and the brilliance of her attire gave + Signora Isoia-Bella the first place of right, she was nevertheless + eclipsed by my two nieces. The young Genoese was all attention for the + fair Marseillaise, and I could see that she was not displeased. I + sincerely wished to see her in love with someone, and I liked her too well + to bear the idea of her burying herself in a convent. She could never be + happy till she found someone who would make her forget the rascal who had + brought her to the brink of ruin. + </p> + <p> + I seized the opportunity, when all my guests were engaged with each other, + to open Possano’s letter. It ran as follows: + </p> + <p> + “I went to the bank to change the piece of gold you gave me. It was + weighed, and found to be ten carats under weight. I was told to name the + person from whom I got it, but of course I did not do so. I then had to go + to prison, and if you do not get me out of the scrape I shall be + prosecuted, though of course I am not going to get myself hanged for + anybody.” + </p> + <p> + I gave the letter to Grimaldi, and when we had left the table he took me + aside, and said,— + </p> + <p> + “This is a very serious matter, for it may end in the gallows for the man + who clipped the coin.” + </p> + <p> + “Then they can hang the biribanti! That won’t hurt me much.” + </p> + <p> + “No, that won’t do; it would compromise Madame Isola-Bella, as biribi is + strictly forbidden. Leave it all to me, I will speak to the State + Inquisitors about it. Tell Possano to persevere in his silence, and that + you will see him safely through. The laws against coiners and clippers are + only severe with regard to these particular coins, as the Government has + special reasons for not wishing them to be depreciated.” + </p> + <p> + I wrote to Possano, and sent for a pair of scales. We weighed the gold I + had won at biribi, and every single piece had been clipped. M. Grimaldi + said he would have them defaced and sold to a jeweller. + </p> + <p> + When we got back to the dining-room we found everybody at play. M. + Grimaldi proposed that I should play at quinze with him. I detested the + game, but as he was my guest I felt it would be impolite to refuse, and in + four hours I had lost five hundred sequins. + </p> + <p> + Next morning the marquis told me that Possano was out of prison, and that + he had been given the value of the coin. He brought me thirteen hundred + sequins which had resulted from the sale of the gold. We agreed that I was + to call on Madame Isola-Bella the next day, when he would give me my + revenge at quinze. + </p> + <p> + I kept the appointment, and lost three thousand sequins. I paid him a + thousand the next day, and gave him two bills of exchange, payable by + myself, for the other two thousand. When these bills were presented I was + in England, and being badly off I had to have them protested. Five years + later, when I was at Barcelona, M. de Grimaldi was urged by a traitor to + have me imprisoned, but he knew enough of me to be sure that if I did not + meet the bills it was from sheer inability to do so. He even wrote me a + very polite letter, in which he gave the name of my enemy, assuring me + that he would never take any steps to compel me to pay the money. This + enemy was Possano, who was also at Barcelona, though I was not aware of + his presence. I will speak of the circumstance in due time, but I cannot + help remarking that all who aided me in my pranks with Madame d’Urfe + proved traitors, with the exception of a Venetian girl, whose acquaintance + the reader will make in the following chapter. + </p> + <p> + In spite of my losses I enjoyed myself, and had plenty of money, for after + all I had only lost what I had won at biribi. Rosalie often dined with us, + either alone or with her husband, and I supped regularly at her home with + my niece, whose love affair seemed quite promising. I congratulated her + upon the circumstance, but she persisted in her determination to take + refuge from the world in a cloister. Women often do the most idiotic + things out of sheer obstinacy; possibly they deceive even themselves, and + act in good faith; but unfortunately, when the veil falls from before + their eyes, they see but the profound abyss into which their folly had + plunged them. + </p> + <p> + In the meanwhile, my niece had become so friendly and familiar that she + would often come and sit on my bed in the morning when Annette was still + in my arms. Her presence increased my ardour, and I quenched the fires on + the blonde which the brunette was kindling. My niece seemed to enjoy the + sight, and I could see that her senses were being pleasantly tortured. + Annette was short-sighted, and so did not perceive my distractions, while + my fair niece caressed me slightly, knowing that it would add to my + pleasures. When she thought I was exhausted she told Annette to get up and + leave me alone with her, as she wanted to tell me something. She then + began to jest and toy, and though her dress was extremely disordered she + seemed to think that her charms would exercise no power over me. She was + quite mistaken, but I was careful not to undeceive her for fear of losing + her confidence. I watched the game carefully, and noting how little by + little her familiarity increased, I felt sure that she would have to + surrender at last, if not at Genoa, certainly on the journey, when we + would be thrown constantly in each other’s society with nobody to spy upon + our actions, and with nothing else to do but to make love. It is the + weariness of a journey, the constant monotony, that makes one do something + to make sure of one’s existence; and when it comes to the reckoning there + is usually more joy than repentance. + </p> + <p> + But the story of my journey from Genoa to Marseilles was written in the + book of fate, and could not be read by me. All I knew was that I must soon + go as Madame d’Urfe was waiting for me at Marseilles. I knew not that in + this journey would be involved the fate of a Venetian girl of whom I had + never heard, who had never seen me, but whom I was destined to render + happy. My fate seemed to have made me stop at Genoa to wait for her. + </p> + <p> + I settled my accounts with the banker, to whom I had been accredited, and + I took a letter of credit on Marseilles, where, however, I was not likely + to want for funds, as my high treasurer, Madame d’Urfe was there. I took + leave of Madame Isola-Bella and her circle that I might be able to devote + all my time to Rosalie and her friends. + </p> + <a name="linkE2HCH0002" id="linkE2HCH0002"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER II + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Disgraceful Behaviour of My Brother, the Abbe, I Relieve Him + of His Mistress—Departure from Genoa—The Prince of Monaco- + -My Niece Overcome—Our Arrival at Antibes +</pre> + <p> + On the Tuesday in Holy Week I was just getting up, when Clairmont came to + tell me that a priest who would not give his name wanted to speak to me. I + went out in my night-cap, and the rascally priest rushed at me and nearly + choked me with his embraces. I did not like so much affection, and as I + had not recognized him at first on account of the darkness of the room, I + took him by the arm and led him to the window. It was my youngest brother, + a good-for-nothing fellow, whom I had always disliked. I had not seen him + for ten years, but I cared so little about him that I had not even + enquired whether he were alive or dead in the correspondence I maintained + with M. de Bragadin, Dandolo, and Barbaro. + </p> + <p> + As soon as his silly embraces were over, I coldly asked him what chance + had brought him to Genoa in this disgusting state of dirt, rags, and + tatters. He was only twenty-nine, his complexion was fresh and healthy, + and he had a splendid head of hair. He was a posthumous son, born like + Mahomet, three months after the death of his father. + </p> + <p> + “The story of my misfortunes would be only too long. Take me into your + room, and I will sit down and tell you the whole story.” + </p> + <p> + “First of all, answer my questions. How long have you been here?” + </p> + <p> + “Since yesterday.” + </p> + <p> + “Who told you that I was here?” + </p> + <p> + “Count B——, at Milan.” + </p> + <p> + “Who told you that the count knew me?” + </p> + <p> + “I found out by chance. I was at M. de Bragadin’s a month ago, and on his + table I saw a letter from the count to you.” + </p> + <p> + “Did you tell him you were my brother?” + </p> + <p> + “I had to when he said how much I resembled you.” + </p> + <p> + “He made a mistake, for you are a blockhead.” + </p> + <p> + “He did not think so, at all events, for he asked me to dinner.” + </p> + <p> + “You must have cut a pretty figure, if you were in your present state.” + </p> + <p> + “He gave me four sequins to come here; otherwise, I should never have been + able to do the journey.” + </p> + <p> + “Then he did a very foolish thing. You’re a mere beggar, then; you take + alms. Why did you leave Venice? What do you want with me? I can do nothing + for you.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! do not make me despair, or I shall kill myself.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s the very best thing you could do; but you are too great a coward. + I ask again why you left Venice, where you could say mass, and preach, and + make an honest living, like many priests much better than you?” + </p> + <p> + “That is the kernel of the whole matter. Let us go in and I will tell + you.” + </p> + <p> + “No; wait for me here. We will go somewhere where you can tell me your + story, if I have patience to listen to it. But don’t tell any of my people + that you are my brother, for I am ashamed to have such a relation. Come, + take me to the place where you are staying.” + </p> + <p> + “I must tell you that at my inn I am not alone, and I want to have a + private interview with you.” + </p> + <p> + “Who is with you?” + </p> + <p> + “I will tell you presently, but let us go into a coffeehouse.” + </p> + <p> + “Are you in company with a band of brigands? What are you sighing at?” + </p> + <p> + “I must confess it, however painful it may be to my feelings. I am with a + woman.” + </p> + <p> + “A woman! and you a priest!” + </p> + <p> + “Forgive me. I was blinded by love, and seduced by my senses and her + beauty, so I seduced her under a promise to marry her at Geneva. I can + never go back to Venice, for I took her away from her father’s house.” + </p> + <p> + “What could you do at Geneva? They would expel you after you had been + there three or four days. Come, we will go to the inn and see the woman + you have deceived. I will speak to you afterwards.” + </p> + <p> + I began to trace my steps in the direction he had pointed out, and he was + obliged to follow me. As soon as we got to the inn, he went on in front, + and after climbing three flights of stairs I entered a wretched den where + I saw a tall young girl, a sweet brunette, who looked proud and not in the + least confused. As soon as I made my appearance she said, without any + greeting,— + </p> + <p> + “Are you the brother of this liar and monster who has deceived me so + abominably?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said I. “I have the honour.” + </p> + <p> + “A fine honour, truly. Well, have the kindness to send me back to Venice, + for I won’t stop any longer with this rascal whom I listened to like the + fool I was, who turned my head with his lying tales. He was going to meet + you at Milan, and you were to give us enough money to go to Geneva, and + there we were to turn Protestants and get married. He swore you were + expecting him at Milan, but you were not there at all, and he contrived to + get money in some way or another, and brought me here miserably enough. I + thank Heaven he has found you at last, for if he had not I should have + started off by myself and begged my way. I have not a single thing left; + the wretch sold all I possessed at Bergamo and Verona. I don’t know how I + kept my senses through it all. To hear him talk, the world was a paradise + outside Venice, but I have found to my cost that there is no place like + home. I curse the hour when I first saw the miserable wretch. He’s a + beggarly knave; always whining. He wanted to enjoy his rights as my + husband when we got to Padua, but I am thankful to say I gave him nothing. + Here is the writing he gave me; take it, and do what you like with it. But + if you have any heart, send me back to Venice or I will tramp there on + foot.” + </p> + <p> + I had listened to this long tirade without interrupting her. She might + have spoken at much greater length, so far as I was concerned; my + astonishment took my breath away. Her discourse had all the fire of + eloquence, and was heightened by her expressive face and the flaming + glances she shot from her eyes. + </p> + <p> + My brother, sitting down with his head between his hands, and obliged to + listen in silence to this long catalogue of well-deserved reproaches, gave + something of a comic element to the scene. In spite of that, however, I + was much touched by the sad aspects of the girl’s story. I felt at once + that I must take charge of her, and put an end to this ill-assorted match. + I imagined that I should not have much difficulty in sending her back to + Venice, which she might never have quitted if it had not been for her + trust in me, founded on the fallacious promises of her seducer. + </p> + <p> + The true Venetian character of the girl struck me even more than her + beauty. Her courage, frank indignation, and the nobility of her aspect + made me resolve not to abandon her. I could not doubt that she had told a + true tale, as my brother continued to observe a guilty silence. + </p> + <p> + I watched her silently for some time, and, my mind being made up, said,— + </p> + <p> + “I promise to send you back to Venice with a respectable woman to look + after you; but you will be unfortunate if you carry back with you the + results of your amours.” + </p> + <p> + “What results? Did I not tell you that we were going to be married at + Geneva?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but in spite of that . . .” + </p> + <p> + “I understand you, sir, but I am quite at ease on that point, as I am + happy to say that I did not yield to any of the wretch’s desires.” + </p> + <p> + “Remember,” said the abbe, in a plaintive voice, “the oath you took to be + mine for ever. You swore it upon the crucifix.” + </p> + <p> + So saying he got up and approached her with a supplicating gesture, but as + soon as he was within reach she gave him a good hearty box on the ear. I + expected to see a fight, in which I should not have interfered, but + nothing of the kind. The humble abbe gently turned away to the window, and + casting his eyes to heaven began to weep. + </p> + <p> + “You are too malicious, my dear,” I said; “the poor devil is only unhappy + because you have made him in love with you.” + </p> + <p> + “If he is it’s his own fault, I should never have thought of him but for + his coming to me and fooling me, I shall never forgive him till he is out + of my sight. That’s not the first blow I have given him; I had to begin at + Padua.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said the abbe, “but you are excommunicated, for I am a priest.” + </p> + <p> + “It’s little I care for the excommunication of a scoundrel like you, and + if you say another word I will give you some more.” + </p> + <p> + “Calm yourself, my child,” said I; “you have cause to be angry, but you + should not beat him. Take up your things and follow me.” + </p> + <p> + “Where are you going to take her?” said the foolish priest. + </p> + <p> + “To my own house, and I should advise you to hold your tongue. Here, take + these twenty sequins and buy yourself some clean clothes and linen, and + give those rags of yours to the beggars. I will come and talk to you + to-morrow, and you may thank your stars that you found me here. As for + you, mademoiselle, I will have you conducted to my lodging, for Genoa must + not see you in my company after arriving here with a priest. We must not + have any scandal. I shall place you under the charge of my landlady, but + whatever you do don’t tell her this sad story. I will see that you are + properly dressed, and that you want for nothing.” + </p> + <p> + “May Heaven reward you!” + </p> + <p> + My brother, astonished at the sight of the twenty sequins, let me go away + without a word. I had the fair Venetian taken to my lodging in a + sedan-chair, and putting her under the charge of my landlady I told the + latter to see that she was properly dressed. I wanted to see how she would + look in decent clothes, for her present rags and tatters detracted from + her appearance. I warned Annette that a girl who had been placed in my + care would eat and sleep with her, and then having to entertain a numerous + company of guests I proceeded to make my toilette. + </p> + <p> + Although my niece had no rights over me, I valued her esteem, and thought + it best to tell her the whole story lest she should pass an unfavourable + judgment on me. She listened attentively and thanked me for my confidence + in her, and said she should very much like to see the girl and the abbe + too, whom she pitied, though she admitted he was to be blamed for what he + had done. I had got her a dress to wear at dinner, which became her + exquisitely. I felt only too happy to be able to please her in any way, + for her conduct towards myself and the way she treated her ardent lover + commanded my admiration. She saw him every day either at my house or at + Rosalie’s. The young man had received an excellent education, though he + was of the mercantile class, and wrote to her in a business-like manner, + that, as they were well suited to each other in every way, there was + nothing against his going to Marseilles and obtaining her father’s consent + to the match, unless it were a feeling of aversion on her side. He + finished by requesting her to give him an answer. She shewed me the + letter, and I congratulated her, and advised her to accept, if there was + nothing about the young man which displeased her. + </p> + <p> + “There is nothing of the kind,” she said, “and Rosalie thinks with you.” + </p> + <p> + “Then tell him by word of mouth that you give your consent, and will + expect to see him at Marseilles.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good; as you think so, I will tell him tomorrow.” + </p> + <p> + When dinner was over a feeling of curiosity made me go into the room where + Annette was dining with the Venetian girl, whose name was Marcoline. I was + struck with astonishment on seeing her, for she was completely changed, + not so much by the pretty dress she had on as by the contented expression + of her face, which made her look quite another person. Good humour had + vanquished unbecoming rage, and the gentleness born of happiness made her + features breathe forth love. I could scarcely believe that this charming + creature before me was the same who had dealt such a vigorous blow to my + brother, a priest, and a sacred being in the eyes of the common people. + They were eating, and laughing at not being able to understand each other, + for Marcoline only spoke Venetian, and Annette Genoese, and the latter + dialect does not resemble the former any more than Bohemian resembles + Dutch. + </p> + <p> + I spoke to Marcoline in her native tongue, which was mine too, and she + said,— + </p> + <p> + “I seem to have suddenly passed from hell to Paradise.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed, you look like an angel.” + </p> + <p> + “You called me a little devil this morning. But here is a fair angel,” + said she, pointing to Annette; “we don’t see such in Venice.” + </p> + <p> + “She is my treasure.” + </p> + <p> + Shortly after my niece came in, and seeing me talking and laughing with + the two girls began to examine the new-comer. She told me in French that + she thought her perfectly beautiful, and repeating her opinion to the girl + in Italian gave her a kiss. Marcoline asked her plainly in the Venetian + manner who she was. + </p> + <p> + “I am this gentleman’s niece, and he is taking me back to Marseilles, + where my home is.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you would have been my niece too, if I had married his brother. I + wish I had such a pretty niece.” + </p> + <p> + This pleasant rejoinder was followed by a storm of kisses given and + returned with ardour which one might pronounce truly Venetian, if it were + not that this would wound the feelings of the almost equally ardent + Provencals. + </p> + <p> + I took my niece for a sail in the bay, and after we had enjoyed one of + those delicious evenings which I think can be found nowhere else—sailing + on a mirror silvered by the moon, over which float the odours of the + jasmine, the orange-blossom, the pomegranates, the aloes, and all the + scented flowers which grow along the coasts—we returned to our + lodging, and I asked Annette what had become of Marcoline. She told me + that she had gone to bed early, and I went gently into her room, with no + other intention than to see her asleep. The light of the candle awoke her, + and she did not seem at all frightened at seeing me. I sat by the bed, and + fell to making love to her, and at last made as if I would kiss her, but + she resisted, and we went on talking. + </p> + <p> + When Annette had put her mistress to bed, she came in and found us + together. + </p> + <p> + “Go to bed, my dear,” said I. “I will come to you directly.” + </p> + <p> + Proud of being my mistress, she gave me a fiery kiss and went away without + a word. + </p> + <p> + I began to talk about my brother, and passing from him to myself I told + her of the interest I felt for her, saying that I would either have her + taken to Venice, or bring her with me when I went to France. + </p> + <p> + “Do you want to marry me?” + </p> + <p> + “No, I am married already.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s a lie, I know, but it doesn’t matter. Send me back to Venice, and + the sooner the better. I don’t want to be anybody’s concubine.” + </p> + <p> + “I admire your sentiments, my dear, they do you honour.” + </p> + <p> + Continuing my praise I became pressing, not using any force, but those + gentle caresses which are so much harder for a woman to resist than a + violent attack. Marcoline laughed, but seeing that I persisted in spite of + her resistance, she suddenly glided out of the bed and took refuge in my + niece’s room and locked the door after her. I was not displeased; the + thing was done so easily and gracefully. I went to bed with Annette, who + lost nothing by the ardour with which Marcoline had inspired me. I told + her how she had escaped from my hands, and Annette was loud in her + praises. + </p> + <p> + In the morning I got up early and went into my niece’s room to enjoy the + sight of the companion I had involuntarily given her, and the two girls + were certainly a very pleasant sight. As soon as my niece saw me, she + exclaimed,— + </p> + <p> + “My dear uncle, would you believe it? This sly Venetian has violated me.” + </p> + <p> + Marcoline understood her, and far from denying the fact proceeded to give + my niece fresh marks of her affection, which were well received, and from + the movements of the sheets which covered them I could make a pretty good + guess as to the nature of their amusement. + </p> + <p> + “This is a rude shock to the respect which your uncle has had for your + prejudices,” said I. + </p> + <p> + “The sports of two girls cannot tempt a man who has just left the arms of + Annette.” + </p> + <p> + “You are wrong, and perhaps you know it, for I am more than tempted.” + </p> + <p> + With these words I lifted the sheets of the bed. Marcoline shrieked but + did not move, but my niece earnestly begged me to replace the bed-clothes. + However, the picture before me was too charming to be concealed. + </p> + <p> + At this point Annette came in, and in obedience to her mistress replaced + the coverlet over the two Bacchantes. I felt angry with Annette, and + seizing her threw her on the bed, and then and there gave the two + sweethearts such an interesting spectacle that they left their own play to + watch us. When I had finished, Annette, who was in high glee; said I was + quite right to avenge myself on their prudery. I felt satisfied with what + I had done, and went to breakfast. I then dressed, and visited my brother. + </p> + <p> + “How is Marcoline?” said he, as soon as he saw me. + </p> + <p> + “Very well, and you needn’t trouble yourself any more about her. She is + well lodged, well dressed, and well fed, and sleeps with my niece’s maid.” + </p> + <p> + “I didn’t know I had a niece.” + </p> + <p> + “There are many things you don’t know. In three or four days she will + return to Venice.” + </p> + <p> + “I hope, dear brother, that you will ask me to dine with you to-day.” + </p> + <p> + “Not at all, dear brother. I forbid you to set foot in my house, where + your presence would be offensive to Marcoline, whom you must not see any + more.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I will; I will return to Venice, if I have to hang for it.” + </p> + <p> + “What good would that be? She won’t have you.” + </p> + <p> + “She loves me.” + </p> + <p> + “She beats you.” + </p> + <p> + “She beats me because she loves me. She will be as gentle as a lamb when + she sees me so well dressed. You do not know how I suffer.” + </p> + <p> + “I can partly guess, but I do not pity you, for you are an impious and + cruel fool. You have broken your vows, and have not hesitated to make a + young girl endure misery and degradation to satisfy your caprice. What + would you have done, I should like to know, if I had given you the cold + shoulder instead of helping you?” + </p> + <p> + “I should have gone into the street, and begged for my living with her.” + </p> + <p> + “She would have beaten you, and would probably have appealed to the law to + get rid of you.” + </p> + <p> + “But what will you do for me, if I let her go back to Venice without + following her.” + </p> + <p> + “I will take you to France, and try to get you employed by some bishop.” + </p> + <p> + “Employed! I was meant by nature to be employed by none but God.” + </p> + <p> + “You proud fool! Marcoline rightly called you a whiner. Who is your God? + How do you serve Him? You are either a hypocrite or an idiot. Do you think + that you, a priest, serve God by decoying an innocent girl away from her + home? Do you serve Him by profaning the religion you do not even + understand? Unhappy fool! do you think that with no talent, no theological + learning, and no eloquence, you can be a Protestant minister. Take care + never to come to my house, or I will have you expelled from Genoa.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, well, take me to Paris, and I will see what my brother Francis can + do for me; his heart is not so hard as yours.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good! you shall go to Paris, and we will start from here in three or + four days. Eat and drink to your heart’s content, but remain indoors; I + will let you know when we are going. I shall have my niece, my secretary, + and my valet with me. We shall travel by sea.” + </p> + <p> + “The sea makes me sick.” + </p> + <p> + “That will purge away some of your bad humours.” + </p> + <p> + When I got home I told Marcoline what had passed between us. + </p> + <p> + “I hate him!” said she; “but I forgive him, since it is through him I know + you.” + </p> + <p> + “And I forgive him, too, because unless it had been for him I should never + have seen you. But I love you, and I shall die unless you satisfy my + desires.” + </p> + <p> + “Never; for I know I should be madly in love with you, and then you would + leave me, and I should be miserable again.” + </p> + <p> + “I will never leave you.” + </p> + <p> + “If you will swear that, take me into France and make me all your own. + Here you must continue living with Annette; besides, I have got your niece + to make love to.” + </p> + <p> + The pleasant part of the affair was that my niece was equally taken with + her, and had begged me to let her take meals with us and sleep with her. + As I had a prospect of being at their lascivious play, I willingly + consented, and henceforth she was always present at the table. We enjoyed + her company immensely, for she told us side-splitting tales which kept us + at table till it was time to go to Rosalie’s, where my niece’s adorer was + certain to be awaiting us. + </p> + <p> + The next day, which was Holy Thursday, Rosalie came with us to see the + processions. I had Rosalie and Marcoline with me, one on each arm, veiled + in their mezzaros, and my niece was under the charge of her lover. The day + after we went to see the procession called at Genoa Caracce, and Marcoline + pointed out my brother who kept hovering round us, though he pretended not + to see us. He was most carefully dressed, and the stupid fop seemed to + think he was sure to find favour in Marcoline’s eyes, and make her regret + having despised him; but he was woefully deceived, for Marcoline knew how + to manage her mezzaro so well that, though he was both seen and laughed + at, the poor devil could not be certain that she had noticed him at all, + and in addition the sly girl held me so closely by the arm that he must + have concluded we were very intimate. + </p> + <p> + My niece and Marcoline thought themselves the best friends in the world, + and could not bear my telling them that their amorous sports were the only + reason for their attachment. They therefore agreed to abandon them as soon + as we left Genoa, and promised that I should sleep between them in the + felucca, all of us to keep our clothes on. I said I should hold them to + their word, and I fixed our departure for Thursday. I ordered the felucca + to be in readiness and summoned my brother to go on board. + </p> + <p> + It was a cruel moment when I left Annette with her mother. She wept so + bitterly that all of us had to shed tears. My niece gave her a handsome + dress and I thirty sequins, promising to come and see her again on my + return from England. Possano was told to go on board with the abbe; I had + provisioned the boat for three days. The young merchant promised to be at + Marseilles, telling my niece that by the time he came everything would be + settled. I was delighted to hear it; it assured me that her father would + give her a kind reception. Our friends did not leave us till the moment we + went on board. + </p> + <p> + The felucca was very conveniently arranged, and was propelled by the + twelve oarsmen. On the deck there were also twenty-four muskets, so that + we should have been able to defend ourselves against a pirate. Clairmont + had arranged my carriage and my trunks so cleverly, that by stretching + five mattresses over them we had an excellent bed, where we could sleep + and undress ourselves in perfect comfort; we had good pillows and plenty + of sheets. A long awning covered the deck, and two lanterns were hung up, + one at each end. In the evening they were lighted and Clairmont brought in + supper. I had warned my brother that at the slightest presumption on his + part he should be flung into the sea, so I allowed him and Possano to sup + with us. + </p> + <p> + I sat between my two nymphs and served the company merrily, first my + niece, then Marcoline, then my brother, and finally Possano. No water was + drunk at table, so we each emptied a bottle of excellent Burgundy, and + when we had finished supper the rowers rested on their oars, although the + wind was very light. I had the lamps put out and went to bed with my two + sweethearts, one on each side of me. + </p> + <p> + The light of dawn awoke me, and I found my darlings still sleeping in the + same position. I could kiss neither of them, since one passed for my + niece, and my sense of humanity would not allow me to treat Marcoline as + my mistress in the presence of an unfortunate brother who adored her, and + had never obtained the least favour from her. He was lying near at hand, + overwhelmed with grief and seasickness, and watching and listening with + all his might for the amorous encounter he suspected us of engaging in. I + did not want to have any unpleasantness, so I contented myself with gazing + on them till the two roses awoke and opened their eyes. + </p> + <p> + When this delicious sight was over, I got up and found that we were only + opposite Final, and I proceeded to reprimand the master. + </p> + <p> + “The wind fell dead at Savona, sir;” and all the seamen chorused his + excuse. + </p> + <p> + “Then you should have rowed instead of idling.” + </p> + <p> + “We were afraid of waking you. You shall be at Antibes by tomorrow.” + </p> + <p> + After passing the time by eating a hearty meal, we took a fancy to go on + shore at St. Remo. Everybody was delighted. I took my two nymphs on land, + and after forbidding any of the others to disembark I conducted the ladies + to an inn, where I ordered coffee. A man accosted us, and invited us to + come and play biribi at his house. + </p> + <p> + “I thought the game was forbidden in Genoa,” said I. I felt certain that + the players were the rascals whose bank I had broken at Genoa, so I + accepted the invitation. My niece had fifty Louis in her purse, and I gave + fifteen to Marcoline. We found a large assemblage, room was made for us, + and I recognized the knaves of Genoa. As soon as they saw me they turned + pale and trembled. I should say that the man with the bag was not the poor + devil who had served me so well without wanting to. + </p> + <p> + “I play harlequin,” said I. + </p> + <p> + “There isn’t one.” + </p> + <p> + “What’s the bank?” + </p> + <p> + “There it is. We play for small stakes here, and those two hundred louis + are quite sufficient. You can bet as low as you like, and the highest + stake is of a louis.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s all very well, but my louis is full weight.” + </p> + <p> + “I think ours are, too.” + </p> + <p> + “Are you sure?” + </p> + <p> + “No.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I won’t play,” said I, to the keeper of the rooms. + </p> + <p> + “You are right; bring the scales.” + </p> + <p> + The banker then said that when play was over he would give four crowns of + six livres for every louis that the company had won, and the matter was + settled. In a moment the board was covered with stakes. + </p> + <p> + We each punted a louis at a time, and I and my niece lost twenty Louis, + but Marcoline, who had never possessed two sequins in her life before, won + two hundred and forty Louis. She played on the figure of an abbe which + came out fifth twenty times. She was given a bag full of crown pieces, and + we returned to the felucca. + </p> + <p> + The wind was contrary, and we had to row all night, and in the morning the + sea was so rough that we had to put in at Mentone. My two sweethearts were + very sick, as also my brother and Possano, but I was perfectly well. I + took the two invalids to the inn, and allowed my brother and Possano to + land and refresh themselves. The innkeeper told me that the Prince and + Princess of Monaco were at Mentone, so I resolved to pay them a visit. It + was thirteen years since I had seen the prince at Paris, where I had + amused him and his mistress Caroline at supper. It was this prince who had + taken me to see the horrible Duchess of Rufec; then he was unmarried, and + now I met him again in his principality with his wife, of whom he had + already two sons. The princess had been a Duchess de Borgnoli, a great + heiress, and a delightful and pretty woman. I had heard all about her, and + I was curious to verify the facts for myself. + </p> + <p> + I called on the prince, was announced, and after a long wait they + introduced me to his presence. I gave him his title of highness, which I + had never done at Paris, where he was not known under his full style and + title. He received me politely, but with that coolness which lets one know + that one is not an over-welcome visitor. + </p> + <p> + “You have put in on account of the bad weather, I suppose?” said he. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, prince, and if your highness will allow me I will spend the whole + day in your delicious villa.” (It is far from being delicious.) + </p> + <p> + “As you please. The princess as well as myself likes it better than our + place at Monaco, so we live here by preference.” + </p> + <p> + “I should be grateful if your highness would present me to the princess.” + </p> + <p> + Without mentioning my name he ordered a page in waiting to present me to + the princess. + </p> + <p> + The page opened the door of a handsome room and said, “The Princess,” and + left me. She was singing at the piano, but as soon as she saw me she rose + and came to meet me. I was obliged to introduce myself, a most unpleasant + thing, and no doubt the princess felt the position, for she pretended not + to notice it, and addressed me with the utmost kindness and politeness, + and in a way that shewed that she was learned in the maxims of good + society. I immediately became very much at my ease, and proceeded in a + lordly manner to entertain her with pleasant talk, though I said nothing + about my two lady friends. + </p> + <p> + The princess was handsome, clever, and good-natured. Her mother, who knew + that a man like the prince would never make her daughter happy, opposed + the marriage, but the young marchioness was infatuated, and the mother had + to give in when the girl said,— + </p> + <p> + “O Monaco O monaca.” (Either Monaco or a convent.) + </p> + <p> + We were still occupied in the trifles which keep up an ordinary + conversation, when the prince came in running after a waiting-maid, who + was making her escape, laughing. The princess pretended not to see him, + and went on with what she was saying. The scene displeased me, and I took + leave of the princess, who wished me a pleasant journey. I met the prince + as I was going out, and he invited me to come and see him whenever I + passed that way. + </p> + <p> + “Certainly,” said I; and made my escape without saying any more. + </p> + <p> + I went back to the inn and ordered a good dinner for three. + </p> + <p> + In the principality of Monaco there was a French garrison, which was worth + a pension of a hundred thousand francs to the prince—a very welcome + addition to his income. + </p> + <p> + A curled and scented young officer, passing by our room, the door of which + was open, stopped short, and with unblushing politeness asked us if we + would allow him to join our party. I replied politely, but coldly, that he + did us honour—a phrase which means neither yes nor no; but a + Frenchman who has advanced one step never retreats. + </p> + <p> + He proceeded to display his graces for the benefit of the ladies, talking + incessantly, without giving them time to get in a word, when he suddenly + turned to me and said that he wondered how it was that the prince had not + asked me and my ladies to dinner. I told him that I had not said anything + to the prince about the treasure I had with me. + </p> + <p> + I had scarcely uttered the words, when the kindly blockhead rose and cried + enthusiastically,— + </p> + <p> + “Parbleu! I am no longer surprised. I will go and tell his highness, and I + shall soon have the honour of dining with you at the castle.” + </p> + <p> + He did not wait to hear my answer, but went off in hot haste. + </p> + <p> + We laughed heartily at his folly, feeling quite sure that we should + neither dine with him nor the prince, but in a quarter of an hour he + returned in high glee, and invited us all to dinner on behalf of the + prince. + </p> + <p> + “I beg you will thank his highness, and at the same time ask him to excuse + us. The weather has improved, and I want to be off as soon as we have + taken a hasty morsel.” + </p> + <p> + The young Frenchman exerted all his eloquence in vain, and at length + retired with a mortified air to take our answer to the prince. + </p> + <p> + I thought I had got rid of him at last, but I did not know my man. He + returned a short time after, and addressing himself in a complacent manner + to the ladies, as if I was of no more account, he told them that he had + given the prince such a description of their charms that he had made up + his mind to dine with them. + </p> + <p> + “I have already ordered the table to be laid for two more, as I shall have + the honour of being of the party. In a quarter of an hour, ladies, the + prince will be here.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good,” said I, “but as the prince is coming I must go to the felucca + and fetch a capital pie of which the prince is very fond, I know. Come, + ladies.” + </p> + <p> + “You can leave them here, sir. I will undertake to keep them amused.” + </p> + <p> + “I have no doubt you would, but they have some things to get from the + felucca as well.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you will allow me to come too.” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly with pleasure.” + </p> + <p> + As we were going down the stairs, I asked the innkeeper what I owed him. + </p> + <p> + “Nothing, sir, I have just received orders to serve you in everything, and + to take no money from you.” + </p> + <p> + “The prince is really magnificent!” During this short dialogue, the ladies + had gone on with the fop. I hastened to rejoin them, and my niece took my + arm, laughing heartily to hear the officer making love to Marcoline, who + did not understand a word he said. He did not notice it in the least, for + his tongue kept going like the wheel of a mill, and he did not pause for + any answers. + </p> + <p> + “We shall have some fun at dinner,” said my niece, “but what are we going + to do on the felucca?” + </p> + <p> + “We are leaving. Say nothing.” + </p> + <p> + “Leaving?” + </p> + <p> + “Immediately.” + </p> + <p> + “What a jest! it is worth its weight in gold.” + </p> + <p> + We went on board the felucca, and the officer, who was delighted with the + pretty vessel, proceeded to examine it. I told my niece to keep him + company, and going to the master, whispered to him to let go directly. + </p> + <p> + “Directly?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, this moment.” + </p> + <p> + “But the abbe and your secretary are gone for a walk, and two of my men + are on shore, too.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s no matter; we shall pick them up again at Antibes; it’s only ten + leagues, and they have plenty of money. I must go, and directly. Make + haste.” + </p> + <p> + “All right.” + </p> + <p> + He tripped the anchor, and the felucca began to swing away from the shore. + The officer asked me in great astonishment what it meant. + </p> + <p> + “It means that I am going to Antibes and I shall be very glad to take you + there for nothing.” + </p> + <p> + “This is a fine jest! You are joking, surely?” + </p> + <p> + “Your company will be very pleasant on the journey.” + </p> + <p> + “Pardieu! put me ashore, for with your leave, ladies, I cannot go to + Antibes.” + </p> + <p> + “Put the gentleman ashore,” said I to the master, “he does not seem to + like our company.” + </p> + <p> + “It’s not that, upon my honour. These ladies are charming, but the prince + would think that I was in the plot to play this trick upon him, which you + must confess is rather strong.” + </p> + <p> + “I never play a weak trick.” + </p> + <p> + “But what will the prince say?” + </p> + <p> + “He may say what he likes, and I shall do as I like.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, it’s no fault of mine. Farewell, ladies! farewell, sir!” + </p> + <p> + “Farewell, and you may thank the prince for me for paying my bill.” + </p> + <p> + Marcoline who did not understand what was passing gazed in astonishment, + but my niece laughed till her sides ached, for the way in which the poor + officer had taken the matter was extremely comic. + </p> + <p> + Clairmont brought us an excellent dinner, and we laughed incessantly + during its progress, even at the astonishment of the abbe and Possano when + they came to the quay and found the felucca had flown. However, I was sure + of meeting them again at Antibes, and we reached that port at six o’clock + in the evening. + </p> + <p> + The motion of the sea had tired us without making us feel sick, for the + air was fresh, and our appetites felt the benefits of it, and in + consequence we did great honour to the supper and the wine. Marcoline + whose stomach was weakened by the sickness she had undergone soon felt the + effects of the Burgundy, her eyes were heavy, and she went to sleep. My + niece would have imitated her, but I reminded her tenderly that we were at + Antibes, and said I was sure she would keep her word. She did not answer + me, but gave me her hand, lowering her eyes with much modesty. + </p> + <p> + Intoxicated with her submission which was so like love, I got into bed + beside her, exclaiming,— + </p> + <p> + “At last the hour of my happiness has come! + </p> + <p> + “And mine too, dearest.” + </p> + <p> + “Yours? Have you not continually repulsed me?” + </p> + <p> + “Never! I always loved you, and your indifference has been a bitter grief + to me.” + </p> + <p> + “But the first night we left Milan you preferred being alone to sleeping + with me.” + </p> + <p> + “Could I do otherwise without passing in your eyes for one more a slave to + sensual passion than to love? Besides you might have thought I was giving + myself to you for the benefits I had received; and though gratitude be a + noble feeling, it destroys all the sweet delights of love. You ought to + have told me that you loved me and subdued me by those attentions which + conquer the hearts of us women. Then you would have seen that I loved you + too, and our affection would have been mutual. On my side I should have + known that the pleasure you had of me was not given out of a mere feeling + of gratitude. I do not know whether you would have loved me less the + morning after, if I had consented, but I am sure I should have lost your + esteem.” + </p> + <p> + She was right, and I applauded her sentiments, while giving her to + understand that she was to put all notions of benefits received out of her + mind. I wanted to make her see that I knew that there was no more need for + gratitude on her side than mine. + </p> + <p> + We spent a night that must be imagined rather than described. She told me + in the morning that she felt all had been for the best, as if she had + given way at first she could never have made up her mind to accept the + young Genoese, though he seemed likely to make her happy. + </p> + <p> + Marcoline came to see us in the morning, caressed us, and promised to + sleep by herself the rest of the voyage. + </p> + <p> + “Then you are not jealous?” said I. + </p> + <p> + “No, for her happiness is mine too, and I know she will make you happy.” + </p> + <p> + She became more ravishingly beautiful every day. + </p> + <p> + Possano and the abbe came in just as we were sitting down to table, and my + niece having ordered two more plates I allowed them to dine with us. My + brother’s face was pitiful and yet ridiculous. He could not walk any + distance, so he had been obliged to come on horseback, probably for the + first time in his life. + </p> + <p> + “My skin is delicate,” said he, “so I am all blistered. But God’s will be + done! I do not think any of His servants have endured greater torments + than mine during this journey. My body is sore, and so is my soul.” + </p> + <p> + So saying he cast a piteous glance at Marcoline, and we had to hold our + sides to prevent ourselves laughing. My niece could bear it no more, and + said,— + </p> + <p> + “How I pity you, dear uncle!” + </p> + <p> + At this he blushed, and began to address the most absurd compliments to + her, styling her “my dear niece.” I told him to be silent, and not to + speak French till he was able to express himself in that equivocal + language without making a fool of himself. But the poet Pogomas spoke no + better than he did. + </p> + <p> + I was curious to know what had happened at Mentone after we had left, and + Pogomas proceeded to tell the story. + </p> + <p> + “When we came back from our walk we were greatly astonished not to find + the felucca any more. We went to the inn, where I knew you had ordered + dinner; but the inn-keeper knew nothing except that he was expecting the + prince and a young officer to dine with you. I told him he might wait for + you in vain, and just then the prince came up in a rage, and told the + inn-keeper that now you were gone he might look to you for his payment. + ‘My lord,’ said the inn-keeper, ‘the gentleman wanted to pay me, but I + respected the orders I had received from your highness and would not take + the money.’ At this the prince flung him a louis with an ill grace, and + asked us who we were. I told him that we belonged to you, and that you had + not waited for us either, which put us to great trouble. ‘You will get + away easily enough,’ said he; and then he began to laugh, and swore the + jest was a pleasant one. He then asked me who the ladies were. I told him + that the one was your niece, and that I knew nothing of the other; but the + abbe interfered, and said she was your cuisine. The prince guessed he + meant to say ‘cousin,’ and burst out laughing, in which he was joined by + the young officer. ‘Greet him from me,’ said he, as he went away, ‘and + tell him that we shall meet again, and that I will pay him out for the + trick he has played me.’ The worthy host laughed, too, when the prince had + gone, and gave us a good dinner, saying that the prince’s Louis would pay + for it all. When we had dined we hired two horses, and slept at Nice. In + the morning we rode on again, being certain of finding you here.” + Marcoline told the abbe in a cold voice to take care not to tell anyone + else that she was his cuisine, or his cousin, or else it would go ill with + him, as she did not wish to be thought either the one or the other. I also + advised him seriously not to speak French for the future, as the absurd + way in which he had committed himself made everyone about him ashamed. + </p> + <p> + Just as I was ordering post-horses to take us to Frejus, a man appeared, + and told me I owed him ten louis for the storage of a carriage which I had + left on his hands nearly three years ago. This was when I was taking + Rosalie to Italy. I laughed, for the carriage itself was not worth five + louis. “Friend,” said I, “I make you a present of the article.” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t want your present. I want the ten louis you owe me.” + </p> + <p> + “You won’t get the ten louis. I will see you further first.” + </p> + <p> + “We will see about that;” and so saying he took his departure. + </p> + <p> + I sent for horses that we might continue our journey. + </p> + <p> + A few moments after, a sergeant summoned me to the governor’s presence. I + followed him, and was politely requested to pay the ten louis that my + creditor demanded. I answered that, in the agreement I had entered into + for six francs a month, there was no mention of the length of the term, + and that I did not want to withdraw my carriage. + </p> + <p> + “But supposing you were never to withdraw it?” + </p> + <p> + “Then the man could bequeath his claim to his heir.” + </p> + <p> + “I believe he could oblige you to withdraw it, or to allow it to be sold + to defray expenses.” + </p> + <p> + “You are right, sir, and I wish to spare him that trouble. I make him a + present of the carriage.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s fair enough. Friend, the carriage is yours.” + </p> + <p> + “But sir,” said the plaintiff, “it is not enough; the carriage is not + worth ten louis, and I want the surplus.” + </p> + <p> + “You are in the wrong. I wish you a pleasant journey, sir, and I hope you + will forgive the ignorance of these poor people, who would like to shape + the laws according to their needs.” + </p> + <p> + All this trouble had made me lose a good deal of time, and I determined to + put off my departure till the next day. However, I wanted a carriage for + Possano and the abbe, and I got my secretary to buy the one I had + abandoned for four louis. It was in a deplorable state, and I had to have + it repaired, which kept us till the afternoon of the next day; however, so + far as pleasure was concerned, the time was not lost. + </p> + <a name="linkE2HCH0003" id="linkE2HCH0003"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER III + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + My Arrival at Marseilles—Madame d’Urfe—My Niece Is + Welcomed by Madame Audibert—I Get Rid of My Brother and + Possano—Regeneration—Departure of Madame d’Urfe—Marcoline + Remains Constant +</pre> + <p> + My niece, now my mistress, grew more dear to me every day, and I could not + help trembling when I reflected that Marseilles would be the tomb of our + love. Though I could not help arriving there, I prolonged my happiness as + long as I could by travelling by short stages. I got to Frejus in less + than three hours, and stopped there, and telling Possano and the abbe to + do as they liked during our stay, I ordered a delicate supper and choice + wine for myself and my nymphs. Our repast lasted till midnight, then we + went to bed, and passed the time in sweet sleep and sweeter pleasures. I + made the same arrangements at Lucca, Brignoles, and Aubayne, where I + passed the sixth and last night of happiness. + </p> + <p> + As soon as I got to Marseilles I conducted my niece to Madame Audibert’s, + and sent Possano and my brother to the “Trieze Cantons” inn, bidding them + observe the strictest silence with regard to me, for Madame d’Urfe had + been awaiting me for three weeks, and I wished to be my own herald to her. + </p> + <p> + It was at Madame Audibert’s that my niece had met Croce. She was a clever + woman, and had known the girl from her childhood, and it was through her + that my niece hoped to be restored to her father’s good graces. We had + agreed that I should leave my niece and Marcoline in the carriage, and + should interview Madame Audibert, whose acquaintance I had made before, + and with whom I could make arrangements for my niece’s lodging till some + arrangement was come to. + </p> + <p> + Madame Audibert saw me getting out of my carriage, and as she did not + recognize me her curiosity made her come down and open the door. She soon + recognized me, and consented to let me have a private interview with the + best grace in the world. + </p> + <p> + I did not lose any time in leading up to the subject, and after I had + given her a rapid sketch of the affair, how misfortune had obliged La + Croix to abandon Mdlle. Crosin, how I had been able to be of service to + her, and finally, how she had had the good luck to meet a wealthy and + distinguished person, who would come to Marseilles to ask her hand in a + fortnight, I concluded by saying that I should have the happiness of + restoring to her hands the dear girl whose preserver I had been. + </p> + <p> + “Where is she?” cried Madame Audibert. + </p> + <p> + “In my carriage. I have lowered the blinds.” + </p> + <p> + “Bring her in, quick! I will see to everything. Nobody shall know that she + is in my house.” + </p> + <p> + Happier than a prince, I made one bound to the carriage and, concealing + her face with her cloak and hood, I led my niece to her friend’s arms. + This was a dramatic scene full of satisfaction for me. Kisses were given + and received, tears of happiness and repentance shed, I wept myself from + mingled feelings of emotion, happiness, and regret. + </p> + <p> + In the meanwhile Clairmont had brought up my niece’s luggage, and I went + away promising to return and see her another day. + </p> + <p> + I had another and as important an arrangement to conclude, I mean with + respect to Marcoline. I told the postillions to take me to the worthy old + man’s where I had lodged Rosalie so pleasantly. Marcoline was weeping at + this separation from her friend. I got down at the house, and made my + bargain hastily. My new mistress was, I said, to be lodged, fed, and + attended on as if she had been a princess. He shewed me the apartment she + was to occupy; it was fit for a young marchioness, and he told me that she + should be attended by his own niece, that she should not leave the house, + and that nobody but myself should visit her. + </p> + <p> + Having made these arrangements I made the fair Venetian come in. I gave + her the money she had won, which I had converted into gold and made up to + a thousand ducats. + </p> + <p> + “You won’t want it here,” said I, “so take care of it. At Venice a + thousand ducats will make you somebody. Do not weep, dearest, my heart is + with you, and to-morrow evening I will sup with you.” + </p> + <p> + The old man gave me the latch-key, and I went off to the “Treize Cantons.” + I was expected, and my rooms were adjacent to those occupied by Madame + d’Urfe. + </p> + <p> + As soon as I was settled, Bourgnole waited on me, and told me her mistress + was alone and expecting me impatiently. + </p> + <p> + I shall not trouble my readers with an account of our interview, as it was + only composed of Madame d’Urfe’s mad flights of fancy, and of lies on my + part which had not even the merit of probability. A slave to my life of + happy profligacy, I profited by her folly; she would have found someone + else to deceive her, if I had not done so, for it was really she who + deceived herself. I naturally preferred to profit by her rather than that + a stranger should do so; she was very rich, and I did myself a great deal + of good, without doing anyone any harm. The first thing she asked me was, + “Where is Querilinthos?” And she jumped with joy when I told her that he + was under the same roof. + </p> + <p> + “‘Tis he, then, who shall make me young again. So has my genius assured me + night after night. Ask Paralis if the presents I have prepared are good + enough for Semiramis to present to the head of the Fraternity of the Rosy + Cross.” + </p> + <p> + I did not know what these presents were, and as I could not ask to see + them, I answered that, before consulting Paralis, it would be necessary to + consecrate the gifts under the planetary hours, and that Querilinthos + himself must not see them before the consecration. Thereupon she took me + to her closet, and shewed me the seven packets meant for the Rosicrucian + in the form of offerings to the seven planets. + </p> + <p> + Each packet contained seven pounds of the metal proper to the planet, and + seven precious stones, also proper to the planets, each being seven carats + in weight; there were diamonds, rubies, emeralds, sapphires, chrysolites, + topazes, and opals. + </p> + <p> + I made up my mind that nothing of this should pass into the hands of the + Genoese, and told the mad woman that we must trust entirely in Paralis for + the method of consecration, which must be begun by our placing each packet + in a small casket made on purpose. One packet, and one only, could be + consecrated in a day, and it was necessary to begin with the sun. It was + now Friday, and we should have to wait till Sunday, the day of the sun. On + Saturday I had a box with seven niches made for the purpose. + </p> + <p> + For the purposes of consecration I spent three hours every day with Madame + d’Urfe, and we had not finished till the ensuing Saturday. Throughout this + week I made Possano and my brother take their meals with us, and as the + latter did not understand a word the good lady said, he did not speak a + word himself, and might have passed for a mute of the seraglio. Madame + d’Urfe pronounced him devoid of sense, and imagined we were going to put + the soul of a sylph into his body that he might engender some being half + human, half divine. + </p> + <p> + It was amusing to see my brother’s despair and rage at being taken for an + idiot, and when he endeavoured to say something to shew that he was not + one, she only thought him more idiotic than ever. I laughed to myself, and + thought how ill he would have played the part if I had asked him to do it. + All the same the rascal did not lose anything by his reputation, for + Madame d’Urfe clothed him with a decent splendour that would have led one + to suppose that the abbe belonged to one of the first families in France. + The most uneasy guest at Madame d’Urfe’s table was Possano, who had to + reply to questions, of the most occult nature, and, not knowing anything + about the subject, made the most ridiculous mistakes. + </p> + <p> + I brought Madame d’Urfe the box, and having made all the necessary + arrangements for the consecrations, I received an order from the oracle to + go into the country and sleep there for seven nights in succession, to + abstain from intercourse with all mortal women, and to perform ceremonial + worship to the moon every night, at the hour of that planet, in the open + fields. This would make me fit to regenerate Madame d’Urfe myself in case + Querilinthos, for some mystic reasons, might not be able to do so. + </p> + <p> + Through this order Madame d’Urfe was not only not vexed with me for + sleeping away from the hotel, but was grateful for the pains I was taking + to ensure the success of the operation. + </p> + <p> + The day after my arrival I called on Madame Audibert, and had the pleasure + of finding my niece well pleased with the efforts her friend was making in + her favour. Madame Audibert had spoken to her father, telling him that his + daughter was with her, and that she hoped to obtain his pardon and to + return to his house, where she would soon become the bride of a rich + Genoese, who wished to receive her from her father’s hands. The worthy + man, glad to find again the lost sheep, said he would come in two days and + take her to her aunt, who had a house at St. Louis, two leagues from the + town. She might then quietly await the arrival of her future husband, and + avoid all occasion of scandal. My niece was surprised that her father had + not yet received a letter from the young man, and I could see that she was + anxious about it; but I comforted her and assured her that I would not + leave Marseilles till I had danced at her wedding. + </p> + <p> + I left her to go to Marcoline, whom I longed to press to my heart. I found + her in an ecstasy of joy, and she said that if she could understand what + her maid said her happiness would be complete. I saw that her situation + was a painful one, especially as she was a woman, but for the present I + saw no way out of the difficulty; I should have to get an Italian-speaking + servant, and this would have been a troublesome task. She wept with joy + when I told her that my niece desired to be remembered to her, and that in + a day she would be on her father’s hearth. Marcoline had found out that + she was not my real niece when she found her in my arms. + </p> + <p> + The choice supper which the old man had procured us, and which spewed he + had a good memory for my favorite tastes, made me think of Rosalie. + Marcoline heard me tell the story with great interest, and said that it + seemed to her that I only went about to make unfortunate girls happy, + provided I found them pretty. + </p> + <p> + “I almost think you are right,” said I; “and it is certain that I have + made many happy, and have never brought misfortune to any girl.” + </p> + <p> + “God will reward you, my dear friend.” + </p> + <p> + “Possibly I am not worth His taking the trouble!” + </p> + <p> + Though the wit and beauty of Marcoline had charmed me, her appetite + charmed me still more; the reader knows that I have always liked women who + eat heartily. And in Marseilles they make an excellent dish of a common + fowl, which is often so insipid. + </p> + <p> + Those who like oil will get on capitally in Provence, for it is used in + everything, and it must be confessed that if used in moderation it makes + an excellent relish. + </p> + <p> + Marcoline was charming in bed. I had not enjoyed the Venetian vices for + nearly eight years, and Marcoline was a beauty before whom Praxiteles + would have bent the knee. I laughed at my brother for having let such a + treasure slip out of his hands, though I quite forgave him for falling in + love with her. I myself could not take her about, and as I wanted her to + be amused I begged my kind old landlord to send her to the play every day, + and to prepare a good supper every evening. I got her some rich dresses + that she might cut a good figure, and this attention redoubled her + affection for me. + </p> + <p> + The next day, which was the second occasion on which I had visited her, + she told me that she had enjoyed the play though she could not understand + the dialogues; and the day after she astonished me by saying that my + brother had intruded himself into her box, and had said so many + impertinent things that if she had been at Venice she would have boxed his + ears. + </p> + <p> + “I am afraid,” she added, “that the rascal has followed me here, and will + be annoying me.” + </p> + <p> + “Don’t be afraid,” I answered, “I will see what I can do.” + </p> + <p> + When I got to the hotel I entered the abbe’s room, and by Possano’s bed I + saw an individual collecting lint and various surgical instruments. + </p> + <p> + “What’s all this? Are you ill?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I have got something which will teach me to be wiser for the + future.” + </p> + <p> + “It’s rather late for this kind of thing at sixty.” + </p> + <p> + “Better late than never.” + </p> + <p> + “You are an old fool. You stink of mercury.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall not leave my room.” + </p> + <p> + “This will harm you with the marchioness, who believes you to be the + greatest of adepts, and consequently above such weaknesses.” + </p> + <p> + “Damn the marchioness! Let me be.” + </p> + <p> + The rascal had never talked in this style before. I thought it best to + conceal my anger, and went up to my brother who was in a corner of the + room. + </p> + <p> + “What do you mean by pestering Marcoline at the theatre yesterday?” + </p> + <p> + “I went to remind her of her duty, and to warn her that I would not be her + complaisant lover.” + </p> + <p> + “You have insulted me and her too, fool that you are! You owe all to + Marcoline, for if it had not been for her, I should never have given you a + second glance; and yet you behave in this disgraceful manner.” + </p> + <p> + “I have ruined myself for her sake, and I can never shew my face in Venice + again. What right have you to take her from me?” + </p> + <p> + “The right of love, blockhead, and the right of luck, and the right of the + strongest! How is it that she is happy with me, and does not wish to leave + me?” + </p> + <p> + “You have dazzled her.” + </p> + <p> + “Another reason is that with you she was dying of misery and hunger.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but the end of it will be that you will abandon her as you have done + with many others, whereas I should have married her.” + </p> + <p> + “Married her! You renegade, you seem to forget that you are a priest. I do + not propose to part with her, but if I do I will send her away rich.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, well, do as you please; but still I have the right to speak to her + whenever I like.” + </p> + <p> + “I have forbidden you to do so, and you may trust me when I tell you that + you have spoken to her for the last time.” + </p> + <p> + So saying I went out and called on an advocate. I asked him if I could + have a foreign abbe, who was indebted to me, arrested, although I had no + proof of the debt. + </p> + <p> + “You can do so, as he is a foreigner, but you will have to pay + caution-money. You can have him put under arrest at his inn, and you can + make him pay unless he is able to prove that he owes you nothing. Is the + sum a large one?” + </p> + <p> + “Twelve louis.” + </p> + <p> + “You must come with me before the magistrate and deposit twelve louis, and + from that moment you will be able to have him arrested. Where is he + staying?” + </p> + <p> + “In the same hotel as I am, but I do not wish to have him arrested there, + so I will get him to the ‘Ste. Baume,’ and put him under arrest. Here are + the twelve louis caution-money, so you can get the magistrate’s order, and + we will meet again to-morrow.” + </p> + <p> + “Give me his name, and yours also.” + </p> + <p> + I returned in haste to the “Treize Cantons,” and met the abbe, dressed up + to the nines, and just about to go out. + </p> + <p> + “Follow me,” said I, “I am going to take you to Marcoline, and you shall + have an explanation in her presence.” + </p> + <p> + “With pleasure.” + </p> + <p> + He got into a carriage with me, and I told the coachman to take us to the + “Ste. Baume” inn. When we got there, I told him to wait for me, that I was + going to fetch Marcoline, and that I would return with her in a minute. + </p> + <p> + I got into the carriage again, and drove to the advocate, who gave the + order for arrest to a policeman, who was to execute it. I then returned to + the “Treize Cantons” and put his belongings into a trunk, and had them + transported to his new abode. + </p> + <p> + I found him under arrest, and talking to the astonished host, who could + not understand what it was all about. I told the landlord the mythical + history of the abbe debt to me, and handed over the trunk, telling him + that he had nothing to fear with regard to the bill, as I would take care + that he should be well paid. + </p> + <p> + I then began my talk with the abbe, telling him that he must get ready to + leave Marseilles the next day, and that I would pay for his journey to + Paris; but that if he did not like to do so, I should leave him to his + fate, and in three days he would be expelled from Marseilles. The coward + began to weep and said he would go to Paris. + </p> + <p> + “You must start for Lyons to-morrow, but you will first write me out an I + O U for twelve louis.” + </p> + <p> + “Why?” + </p> + <p> + “Because I say so. If you do so I will give you twelve louis and tear up + the document before your face.” + </p> + <p> + “I have no choice in the matter.” + </p> + <p> + “You are right.” + </p> + <p> + When he had written the I O U, I went to take a place in the diligence for + him, and the next morning I went with the advocate to withdraw the arrest + and to take back the twelve louis, which I gave to my brother in the + diligence, with a letter to M. Bono, whom I warned not to give him any + money, and to send him on to Paris by the same diligence. I then tore up + his note of hand, and wished him a pleasant journey. + </p> + <p> + Thus I got rid of this foolish fellow, whom I saw again in Paris in a + month’s time. + </p> + <p> + The day I had my brother arrested and before I went to dine with Madame + d’Urfe I had an interview with Possano in the hope of discovering the + reason of his ill humour. + </p> + <p> + “The reason is,” said he, “that I am sure you are going to lay hands on + twenty or thirty thousand crowns in gold and diamonds, which the + marchioness meant me to have.” + </p> + <p> + “That may be, but it is not for you to know anything about it. I may tell + you that it rests entirely with me to prevent your getting anything. If + you think you can succeed go to the marchioness and make your complaints + to her. I will do nothing to prevent you.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you think I am going to help you in your imposture for nothing; you + are very much mistaken. I want a thousand louis, and I will have it, too.” + </p> + <p> + “Then get somebody to give it you,” said I; and I turned my back on him. + </p> + <p> + I went up to the marchioness and told her that dinner was ready, and that + we should dine alone, as I had been obliged to send the abbe away. + </p> + <p> + “He was an idiot; but how about Querilinthos?” + </p> + <p> + “After dinner Paralis will tell us all about him. I have strong suspicions + that there is something to be cleared up.” + </p> + <p> + “So have I. The man seems changed. Where is he?” + </p> + <p> + “He is in bed, ill of a disease which I dare not so much as name to you.” + </p> + <p> + “That is a very extraordinary circumstance; I have never heard of such a + thing before. It must be the work of an evil genius.” + </p> + <p> + “I have never heard of such a thing, either; but now let us dine. We shall + have to work hard to-day at the consecration of the tin.” + </p> + <p> + “All the better. We must offer an expiatory sacrifice to Oromasis, for, + awful thought! in three days he would have to regenerate me, and the + operation would be performed in that condition.” + </p> + <p> + “Let us eat now,” I repeated; “I fear lest the hour of Jupiter be + over-past.” + </p> + <p> + “Fear nothing, I will see that all goes well.” + </p> + <p> + After the consecration of the tin had been performed, I transferred that + of Oromasis to another day, while I consulted the oracle assiduously, the + marchioness translating the figures into letters. The oracle declared that + seven salamanders had transported the true Querilinthos to the Milky Way, + and that the man in the next room was the evil genius, St. Germain, who + had been put in that fearful condition by a female gnome, who had intended + to make him the executioner of Semiramis, who was to die of the dreadful + malady before her term had expired. The oracle also said that Semiramis + should leave to Payaliseus Galtinardus (myself) all the charge of getting + rid of the evil genius, St. Germain; and that she was not to doubt + concerning her regeneration, since the word would be sent me by the true + Querilinthos from the Milky Way on the seventh night of my worship of the + moon. Finally the oracle declared that I was to embrace Semiramis two days + before the end of the ceremonies, after an Undine had purified us by + bathing us in the room where we were. + </p> + <p> + I had thus undertaken to regenerate the worthy Semiramis, and I began to + think how I could carry out my undertaking without putting myself to + shame. The marchioness was handsome but old, and I feared lest I should be + unable to perform the great act. I was thirty-eight, and I began to feel + age stealing on me. The Undine, whom I was to obtain of the moon, was none + other than Marcoline, who was to give me the necessary generative vigour + by the sight of her beauty and by the contact of her hands. The reader + will see how I made her come down from heaven. + </p> + <p> + I received a note from Madame Audibert which made me call on her before + paying my visit to Marcoline. As soon as I came in she told me joyously + that my niece’s father had just received a letter from the father of the + Genoese, asking the hand of his daughter for his only son, who had been + introduced to her by the Chevalier de Seingalt, her uncle, at the + Paretti’s. + </p> + <p> + “The worthy man thinks himself under great obligations to you,” said + Madame Audibert. “He adores his daughter, and he knows you have cared for + her like a father. His daughter has drawn your portrait in very favourable + colors, and he would be extremely pleased to make your acquaintance. Tell + me when you can sup with me; the father will be here to meet you, though + unaccompanied by his daughter.” + </p> + <p> + “I am delighted at what you tell me, for the young man’s esteem for his + future wife will only be augmented when he finds that I am her father’s + friend. I cannot come to supper, however; I will be here at six and stop + till eight.” + </p> + <p> + As the lady left the choice of the day with me I fixed the day after next, + and then I repaired to my fair Venetian, to whom I told my news, and how I + had managed to get rid of the abbe. + </p> + <p> + On the day after next, just as we were sitting down to dinner, the + marchioness smilingly gave me a letter which Possano had written her in + bad but perfectly intelligible French. He had filled eight pages in his + endeavour to convince her that I was deceiving her, and to make sure he + told the whole story without concealing any circumstance to my + disadvantage. He added that I had brought two girls with me to Marseilles; + and though he did not know where I had hidden them, he was sure that it + was with them that I spent my nights. + </p> + <p> + After I had read the whole letter through, with the utmost coolness I gave + it back to her, asking her if she had had the patience to read it through. + She replied that she had run through it, but that she could not make it + out at all, as the evil genius seemed to write a sort of outlandish + dialect, which she did not care to puzzle herself over, as he could only + have written down lies calculated to lead her astray at the most important + moment of her life. I was much pleased with the marchioness’s prudence, + for it was important that she should have no suspicions about the Undine, + the sight and the touch of whom were necessary to me in the great work I + was about to undertake. + </p> + <p> + After dining, and discharging all the ceremonies and oracles which were + necessary to calm the soul of my poor victim, I went to a banker and got a + bill of a hundred louis on Lyons, to the order of M. Bono, and I advised + him of what I had done, requesting him to cash it for Possano if it were + presented on the day named thereon. + </p> + <p> + I then wrote the advice for Possano to take with him, it ran as follows: + “M. Bono, pay to M. Possano, on sight, to himself, and not to order, the + sum of one hundred louis, if these presents are delivered to you on the + 30th day of April, in the year 1763; and after the day aforesaid my order + to become null and void.” + </p> + <p> + With this letter in my hand I went to the traitor who had been lanced an + hour before. + </p> + <p> + “You’re an infamous traitor,” I began, “but as Madame d’Urfe knows of the + disgraceful state you are in she would not so much as read your letter. I + have read it, and by way of reward I give you two alternatives which you + must decide on immediately. I am in a hurry. You will either go to the + hospital—for we can’t have pestiferous fellows like you here—or + start for Lyons in an hour. You must not stop on the way, for I have only + given you sixty hours, which is ample to do forty posts in. As soon as you + get to Lyons present this to M. Bono, and he will give you a hundred + louis. This is a present from me, and afterwards I don’t care what you do, + as you are no longer in my service. You can have the carriage I bought for + you at Antibes, and there is twenty-five louis for the journey: that is + all. Make your choice, but I warn you that if you go to the hospital I + shall only give you a month’s wages, as I dismiss you from my service now + at this instant.” + </p> + <p> + After a moment’s reflection he said he would go to Lyons, though it would + be at the risk of his life, for he was very ill. + </p> + <p> + “You must reap the reward of your treachery,” said I, “and if you die it + will be a good thing for your family, who will come in for what I have + given you, but not what I should have given you if you had been a faithful + servant.” + </p> + <p> + I then left him and told Clairmont to pack up his trunk. I warned the + inn-keeper of his departure and told him to get the post horses ready as + soon as possible. + </p> + <p> + I then gave Clairmont the letter to Bono and twenty-five Louis, for him to + hand them over to Possano when he was in the carriage and ready to go off. + </p> + <p> + When I had thus successfully accomplished my designs by means of the + all-powerful lever, gold, which I knew how to lavish in time of need, I + was once more free for my amours. I wanted to instruct the fair Marcoline, + with whom I grew more in love every day. She kept telling me that her + happiness would be complete if she knew French, and if she had the + slightest hope that I would take her to England with me. + </p> + <p> + I had never flattered her that my love would go as far as that, but yet I + could not help feeling sad at the thought of parting from a being who + seemed made to taste voluptuous pleasures, and to communicate them with + tenfold intensity to the man of her choice. She was delighted to hear that + I had got rid of my two odious companions, and begged me to take her to + the theatre, “for,” said she, “everybody is asking who and what I am, and + my landlord’s niece is quite angry with me because I will not let her tell + the truth.” + </p> + <p> + I promised I would take her out in the course of the next week, but that + for the present I had a most important affair on hand, in which I had need + of her assistance. + </p> + <p> + “I will do whatever you wish, dearest.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good! then listen to me. I will get you a disguise which will make + you look like a smart footman, and in that costume you will call on the + marchioness with whom I live, at the hour I shall name to you, and you + will give her a note. Have you sufficient courage for that?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly. Will you be there?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes. She will speak, but you must pretend to be dumb, as the note you + bring with you will tell us; as also that you have come to wait upon us + while we are bathing. She will accept the offer, and when she tells you to + undress her from head to foot you will do so. When you have done, undress + yourself, and gently rub the marchioness from the feet to the waist, but + not higher. In the meanwhile I shall have taken off my clothes, and while + I hold her in a close embrace you must stand so that I can see all your + charms. + </p> + <p> + “Further, sweetheart, when I leave you you must gently wash her generative + organs, and afterwards wipe them with a fine towel. Then do the same to + me, and try to bring me to life again. I shall proceed to embrace the + marchioness a second time, and when it is over wash her again and embrace + her, and then come and embrace me and kiss in your Venetian manner the + instrument with which the sacrifice is consummated. I shall then clasp the + marchioness to my arms a third time, and you must caress us till the act + is complete. Finally, you will wash us for the third time, then dress, + take what she gives you and come here, where I will meet you in the course + of an hour.” + </p> + <p> + “You may reckon on my following all your instructions, but you must see + that the task will be rather trying to my feelings.” + </p> + <p> + “Not more trying than to mine. I could do nothing with the old woman if + you were not present.” + </p> + <p> + “Is she very old?” + </p> + <p> + “Nearly seventy.” + </p> + <p> + “My poor sweetheart! I do pity you. But after this painful duty is over + you must sup here and sleep with me.” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly.” + </p> + <p> + On the day appointed I had a long and friendly interview with the father + of my late niece. I told him all about his daughter, only suppressing the + history of our own amours, which were not suitable for a father’s ears. + The worthy man embraced me again and again, calling me his benefactor, and + saying that I had done more for his daughter than he would have done + himself, which in a sense was perhaps true. He told me that he had + received another letter from the father, and a letter from the young man + himself, who wrote in the most tender and respectful manner possible. + </p> + <p> + “He doesn’t ask anything about the dower,” said he, “a wonderful thing + these days, but I will give her a hundred and fifty thousand francs, for + the marriage is an excellent one, above all after my poor simpleton’s + escape. All Marseilles knows the father of her future husband, and + to-morrow I mean to tell the whole story to my wife, and I am sure she + will forgive the poor girl as I have done.” + </p> + <p> + I had to promise to be present at the wedding, which was to be at Madame + Audibert’s. That lady knowing me to be very fond of play, and there being + a good deal of play going on at her house, wondered why she did not see + more of me; but I was at Marseilles to create and not to destroy: there is + a time for everything. + </p> + <p> + I had a green velvet jacket made for Marcoline, with breeches of the same + and silver-lace garters, green silk stockings, and fine leather shoes of + the same colour. Her fine black hair was confined in a net of green silk, + with a silver brooch. In this dress the voluptuous and well-rounded form + of Marcoline was displayed to so much advantage, that if she had shewn + herself in the street all Marseilles would have run after her, for, in + spite of her man’s dress, anybody could see that she was a girl. I took + her to my rooms in her ordinary costume, to shew her where she would have + to hide after the operation was over. + </p> + <p> + By Saturday we had finished all the consecrations, and the oracle fixed + the regeneration of Semiramis for the following Tuesday, in the hours of + the sun, Venus, and Mercury, which follow each other in the planetary + system of the magicians, as also in Ptolemy’s. These hours were in + ordinary parlance the ninth, tenth, and eleventh of the day, since the day + being a Tuesday, the first hour was sacred to Mars. And as at the + beginning of May the hours are sixty-five minutes long, the reader, + however little of a magician he may be, will understand that I had to + perform the great work on Madame d’Urfe, beginning at half-past two and + ending at five minutes to six. I had taken plenty of time, as I expected I + should have great need of it. + </p> + <p> + On the Monday night, at the hour of the moon, I had taken Madame d’Urfe to + the sea-shore, Clairmont following behind with the box containing the + offerings, which weighed fifty pounds. + </p> + <p> + I was certain that nobody could see us, and I told my companion that the + time was come. I told Clairmont to put down the box beside us, and to go + and await us at the carriage. When we were alone we addressed a solemn + prayer to Selenis, and then to the great satisfaction of the marchioness + the box was consigned to the address. My satisfaction however was still + greater than hers, for the box contained fifty pounds of lead. The real + box, containing the treasure, was comfortably hidden in my room. + </p> + <p> + When we got back to the “Treize Cantons,” I left Madame d’Urfe alone, + telling her that I would return to the hotel when I had performed my + conjurations to the moon, at the same hour and in the same place in which + I had performed the seven consecrations. + </p> + <p> + I spoke the truth. I went to Marcoline, and while she was putting on her + disguise I wrote on a sheet of white paper, in large and odd-looking + letters, the following sentences, using, instead of ink, rock-alum: + </p> + <p> + “I am dumb but not deaf. I am come from the Rhone to bathe you. The hour + of Oromasis has begun.” + </p> + <p> + “This is the note you are to give to the marchioness,” I said, “when you + appear before her.” + </p> + <p> + After supper we walked to the hotel and got in without anyone seeing us. I + hid Marcoline in a large cupboard, and then putting on my dressing-gown I + went to the marchioness to inform her that Selenis had fixed the next day + for the hour of regeneration, and that we must be careful to finish before + the hour of the moon began, as otherwise the operation would be annulled + or at least greatly enfeebled. + </p> + <p> + “You must take care,” I added, “that the bath be here beside your bed, and + that Brougnole does not interrupt us.” + </p> + <p> + “I will tell her to go out. But Selenis promised to send an Undine.” + </p> + <p> + “True, but I have not yet seen such a being.” + </p> + <p> + “Ask the oracle.” + </p> + <p> + “Willingly.” + </p> + <p> + She herself asked the question imploring Paralis not to delay the time of + her regeneration, even though the Undine were lacking, since she could + very well bathe herself. + </p> + <p> + “The commands of Oromasis change not,” came the reply; “and in that you + have doubted them you have sinned.” + </p> + <p> + At this the marchioness arose and performed an expiatory sacrifice, and it + appeared, on consulting the oracle, that Oromasis was satisfied. + </p> + <p> + The old lady did not move my pity so much as my laughter. She solemnly + embraced me and said,— + </p> + <p> + “To-morrow, Galtinardus, you will be my spouse and my father.” When I got + back to my room and had shut the door, I drew the Undine out of her place + of concealment. She undressed, and as she knew that I should be obliged to + husband my forces, she turned her back on me, and we passed the night + without giving each other a single kiss, for a spark would have set us all + ablaze. + </p> + <p> + Next morning, before summoning Clairmont, I gave her her breakfast, and + then replaced her in the cupboard. Later on, I gave her her instructions + over again, telling her to do everything with calm precision, a cheerful + face, and, above all, silence. + </p> + <p> + “Don’t be afraid,” said she, “I will make no mistakes.” + </p> + <p> + As we were to dine at noon exactly, I went to look for the marchioness, + but she was not in her room, though the bath was there, and the bed which + was to be our altar was prepared. + </p> + <p> + A few moments after, the marchioness came out of her dressing-room, + exquisitely painted, her hair arranged with the choicest lace, and looking + radiant. Her breasts, which forty years before had been the fairest in all + France, were covered with a lace shawl, her dress was of the antique kind, + but of extremely rich material, her ear-rings were emeralds, and a + necklace of seven aquamarines of the finest water, from which hung an + enormous emerald, surrounded by twenty brilliants, each weighing a carat + and a half, completed her costume. She wore on her finger the carbuncle + which she thought worth a million francs, but which was really only a + splendid imitation. + </p> + <p> + Seeing Semiramis thus decked out for the sacrifice, I thought it my + bounden duty to offer her my homage. I would have knelt before her and + kissed her hand, but she would not let me, and instead opened her arms and + strained me to her breast. + </p> + <p> + After telling Brougnole that she could go out till six o’clock, we talked + over our mysteries till the dinner was brought in. + </p> + <p> + Clairmont was the only person privileged to see us at dinner, at which + Semiramis would only eat fish. At half-past one I told Clairmont I was not + at home to anyone, and giving him a louis I told him to go and amuse + himself till the evening. + </p> + <p> + The marchioness began to be uneasy, and I pretended to be so, too. I + looked at my watch, calculated how the planetary hours were proceeding, + and said from time to time,— + </p> + <p> + “We are still in the hour of Mars, that of the sun has not yet commenced.” + </p> + <p> + At last the time-piece struck half-past two, and in two minutes afterwards + the fair and smiling Undine was seen advancing into the room. She came + along with measured steps, and knelt before Madame d’Urfe, and gave her + the paper she carried. Seeing that I did not rise, the marchioness + remained seated, but she raised the spirit with a gracious air and took + the paper from her. She was surprised, however, to find that it was all + white. + </p> + <p> + I hastened to give her a pen to consult the oracle on the subject, and + after I had made a pyramid of her question, she interpreted it and found + the answer: + </p> + <p> + “That which is written in water must be read in water.” + </p> + <p> + “I understand now,” said she, and going to the bath she plunged the paper + into it, and then read in still whiter letters: “I am dumb, but not deaf. + I am come from the Rhone to bathe you. The hour of Oromasis has begun.” + </p> + <p> + “Then bathe me, divine being,” said Semiramis, putting down the paper and + sitting on the bed. + </p> + <p> + With perfect exactitude Marcoline undressed the marchioness, and + delicately placed her feet in the water, and then, in a twinkling she had + undressed herself, and was in the bath, beside Madame d’Urfe. What a + contrast there was between the two bodies; but the sight of the one + kindled the flame which the other was to quench. + </p> + <p> + As I gazed on the beautiful girl, I, too, undressed, and when I was ready + to take off my shirt I spoke as follows: “O divine being, wipe the feet of + Semiramis, and be the witness of my union with her, to the glory of the + immortal Horomadis, King of the Salamanders.” + </p> + <p> + Scarcely had I uttered my prayer when it was granted, and I consummated my + first union with Semiramis, gazing on the charms of Marcoline, which I had + never seen to such advantage before. + </p> + <p> + Semiramis had been handsome, but she was then what I am now, and without + the Undine the operation would have failed. Nevertheless, Semiramis was + affectionate, clean, and sweet in every respect, and had nothing + disgusting about her, so I succeeded. + </p> + <p> + When the milk had been poured forth upon the altar, I said,— + </p> + <p> + “We must now await the hour of Venus.” + </p> + <p> + The Undine performed the ablutions, embraced the bride, and came to + perform the same office for me. + </p> + <p> + Semiramis was in an ecstasy of happiness, and as she pointed out to me the + beauties of the Undine I was obliged to confess that I had never seen any + mortal woman to be compared to her in beauty. Semiramis grew excited by so + voluptuous a sight, and when the hour of Venus began I proceeded to the + second assault, which would be the severest, as the hour was of sixty-five + minutes. I worked for half an hour, steaming with perspiration, and tiring + Semiramis, without being able to come to the point. Still I was ashamed to + trick her. She, the victim, wiped the drops of sweat from my forehead, + while the Undine, seeing my exhaustion, kindled anew the flame which the + contact of that aged body had destroyed. Towards the end of the hour, as I + was exhausted and still unsuccessful, I was obliged to deceive her by + making use of those movements which are incidental to success. As I went + out of the battle with all the signs of my strength still about me, + Semiramis could have no doubts as to the reality of my success, and even + the Undine was deceived when she came to wash me. But the third hour had + come, and we were obliged to satisfy Mercury. We spent a quarter of the + time in the bath, while the Undine delighted Semiramis by caresses which + would have delighted the regent of France, if he had ever known of them. + The good marchioness, believing these endearments to be peculiar to river + spirits, was pleased with everything, and begged the Undine to shew me the + same kindness. Marcoline obeyed, and lavished on me all the resources of + the Venetian school of love. She was a perfect Lesbian, and her caresses + having soon restored me to all my vigour I was encouraged to undertake to + satisfy Mercury. I proceeded to the work, but alas! it was all in vain. I + saw how my fruitless efforts vexed the Undine, and perceiving that Madame + d’Urfe had had enough, I again took the course of deceiving her by + pretended ecstacies and movements, followed by complete rest. Semiramis + afterwards told me that my exertions shewed that I was something more than + mortal. + </p> + <p> + I threw myself into the bath, and underwent my third ablution, then I + dressed. Marcoline washed the marchioness and proceeded to clothe her, and + did so with such a graceful charm that Madame d’Urfe followed the + inspiration of her good genius, and threw her magnificent necklace over + the Undine’s neck. After a parting Venetian kiss she vanished, and went to + her hiding place in the cupboard. + </p> + <p> + Semiramis asked the oracle if the operation had been successful. The + answer was that she bore within her the seed of the sun, and that in the + beginning of next February she would be brought to bed of another self of + the same sex as the creator; but in order that the evil genii might not be + able to do her any harm she must keep quiet in her bed for a hundred and + seven hours in succession. + </p> + <p> + The worthy marchioness was delighted to receive this order, and looked + upon it as a good omen, for I had tired her dreadfully. I kissed her, + saying that I was going to the country to collect together what remained + of the substances that I had used in my ceremonies, but I promised to dine + with her on the morrow. + </p> + <p> + I shut myself up in my room with the Undine, and we amused ourselves as + best we could till it was night, for she could not go out while it was + light in her spiritual costume. I took off my handsome wedding garment, + and as soon as it was dusk we crept out, and went away to Marcoline’s + lodging in a hackney coach, carrying with us the planetary offerings which + I had gained so cleverly. + </p> + <p> + We were dying of hunger, but the delicious supper which was waiting for us + brought us to life again. As soon as we got into the room Marcoline took + off her green clothes and put on her woman’s dress, saying,— + </p> + <p> + “I was not born to wear the breeches. Here, take the beautiful necklace + the madwoman gave me!” + </p> + <p> + “I will sell it, fair Undine, and you shall have the proceeds.” + </p> + <p> + “Is it worth much?” + </p> + <p> + “At least a thousand sequins. By the time you get back to Venice you will + be worth at least five thousand ducats, and you will be able to get a + husband and live with him in a comfortable style.” + </p> + <p> + “Keep it all, I don’t want it; I want you. I will never cease to love you; + I will do whatever you tell me, and I promise never to be jealous. I will + care for you—yes, as if you were my son.” + </p> + <p> + “Do not let us say anything more about it, fair Marcoline, but let us go + to bed, for you have never inspired me with so much ardour as now.” + </p> + <p> + “But you must be tired.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but not exhaustion, for I was only able to perform the distillation + once.” + </p> + <p> + “I thought you sacrificed twice on that old altar. Poor old woman! she is + still pretty, and I have no doubt that fifty years ago she was one of the + first beauties in France. How foolish of her to be thinking of love at + that age.” + </p> + <p> + “You excited me, but she undid your work even more quickly.” + </p> + <p> + “Are you always obliged to have a girl beside you when you make love + to her?” + </p> + <p> + “No; before, there was no question of making a son.” + </p> + <p> + “What? you are going to make her pregnant? That’s ridiculous! Does she + imagine that she has conceived?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly; and the hope makes her happy.” + </p> + <p> + “What a mad idea! But why did you try to do it three times?” + </p> + <p> + “I thought to shew my strength, and that if I gazed on you I should not + fail; but I was quite mistaken.” + </p> + <p> + “I pity you for having suffered so much.” + </p> + <p> + “You will renew my strength.” + </p> + <p> + As a matter of fact, I do not know whether to attribute it to the + difference between the old and the young, but I spent a most delicious + night with the beautiful Venetian—a night which I can only compare + to those I passed at Parma with Henriette, and at Muran with the beautiful + nun. I spent fourteen hours in bed, of which four at least were devoted to + expiating the insult I had offered to love. When I had dressed and taken + my chocolate I told Marcoline to dress herself with elegance, and to + expect me in the evening just before the play began. I could see that she + was intensely delighted with the prospect. + </p> + <p> + I found Madame d’Urfe in bed, dressed with care and in the fashion of a + young bride, and with a smile of satisfaction on her face which I had + never remarked there before. + </p> + <p> + “To thee, beloved Galtinardus, I owe all my happiness,” said she, as she + embraced me. + </p> + <p> + “I am happy to have contributed to it, divine Semiramis, but you must + remember I am only the agent of the genii.” + </p> + <p> + Thereupon the marchioness began to argue in the most sensible manner, but + unfortunately the foundation of her argument was wholly chimerical. + </p> + <p> + “Marry me,” said she; “you will then be able to be governor of the child, + who will be your son. In this manner you will keep all my property for me, + including what I shall have from my brother M. de Pontcarre, who is old + and cannot live much longer. If you do not care for me in February next, + when I shall be born again, into what hands shall I fall! I shall be + called a bastard, and my income of twenty-four thousand francs will be + lost to me. Think over it, dear Galtinardus. I must tell you that I feel + already as if I were a man. I confess I am in love with the Undine, and I + should like to know whether I shall be able to sleep with her in fourteen + or fifteen years’ time. I shall be so if Oromasis will it, and then I shall + be happy indeed. What a charming creature she is? Have you ever seen a + woman like her? What a pity she is dumb!” + </p> + <p> + “She, no doubt, has a male water-spirit for a lover. But all of them are + dumb, since it is impossible to speak in the water. I wonder she is not + deaf as well. I can’t think why you didn’t touch her. The softness of her + skin is something wonderful—velvet and satin are not to be compared + to it! And then her breath is so sweet! How delighted I should be if I + could converse with such an exquisite being.” + </p> + <p> + “Dear Galtinardus, I beg you will consult the oracle to find out where I + am to be brought to bed, and if you won’t marry me I think I had better + save all I have that I may have some provision when I am born again, for + when I am born I shall know nothing, and money will be wanted to educate + me. By selling the whole a large sum might be realized which could be put + out at interest. Thus the interest would suffice without the capital being + touched.” + </p> + <p> + “The oracle must be our guide,” said I. “You will be my son, and I will + never allow anyone to call you a bastard.” + </p> + <p> + The sublime madwoman was quiet by this assurance. + </p> + <p> + Doubtless many a reader will say that if I had been an honest man I should + have undeceived her, but I cannot agree with them; it would have been + impossible, and I confess that even if it had been possible I would not + have done so, for it would only have made me unhappy. + </p> + <p> + I had told Marcoline to dress with elegance, and I put on one of my + handsomest suits to accompany her to the theatre. Chance brought the two + sisters Rangoni, daughters of the Roman consul, into our box. As I had + made their acquaintance on my first visit to Marseilles, I introduced + Marcoline to them as my niece, who only spoke Italian. As the two young + ladies spoke the tongue of Tasso also, Marcoline was highly delighted. The + younger sister, who was by far the handsomer of the two, afterwards became + the wife of Prince Gonzaga Solferino. The prince was a cultured man, and + even a genius, but very poor. For all that he was a true son of Gonzaga, + being a son of Leopold, who was also poor, and a girl of the Medini + family, sister to the Medini who died in prison at London in the year + 1787. + </p> + <p> + Babet Rangoni, though poor, deserved to become a princess, for she had all + the airs and manners of one. She shines under her name of Rangoni amongst + the princess and princesses of the almanacs. Her vain husband is delighted + at his wife being thought to belong to the illustrious family of Medini—an + innocent feeling, which does neither good nor harm. The same publications + turn Medini into Medici, which is equally harmless. This species of lie + arises from the idiotic pride of the nobles who think themselves raised + above the rest of humanity by their titles which they have often acquired + by some act of baseness. It is of no use interfering with them on this + point, since all things are finally appreciated at their true value, and + the pride of the nobility is easily discounted when one sees them as they + really are. + </p> + <p> + Prince Gonzaga Solferino, whom I saw at Venice eighteen years ago, lived + on a pension allowed him by the empress. I hope the late emperor did not + deprive him of it, as it was well deserved by this genius and his + knowledge of literature. + </p> + <p> + At the play Marcoline did nothing but chatter with Babet Rangoni, who + wanted me to bring the fair Venetian to see her, but I had my own reasons + for not doing so. + </p> + <p> + I was thinking how I could send Madame d’Urfe to Lyons, for I had no + further use for her at Marseilles, and she was often embarrassing. For + instance, on the third day after her regeneration, she requested me to ask + Paralis where she was to die—that is, to be brought to bed. I made + the oracle reply that she must sacrifice to the water-spirits on the banks + of two rivers, at the same hour, and that afterwards the question of her + lying-in would be resolved. The oracle added that I must perform three + expiatory sacrifices to Saturn, on account of my too harsh treatment of + the false Querilinthos, and that Semiramis need not take part in these + ceremonies, though she herself must perform the sacrifices to the + water-spirits. + </p> + <p> + As I was pretending to think of a place where two rivers were sufficiently + near to each other to fulfil the requirements of the oracle, Semiramis + herself suggested that Lyons was watered by the Rhone and the Saone, and + that it would be an excellent place for the ceremony. As may be imagined, + I immediately agreed with her. On asking Paralis if there were any + preparations to be made, he replied that it would be necessary to pour a + bottle of sea-water into each river a fortnight before the sacrifice, and + that this ceremony was to be performed by Semiramis in person, at the + first diurnal hour of the moon. + </p> + <p> + “Then,” said the marchioness, “the bottles must be filled here, for the + other French ports are farther off. I will go as soon as ever I can leave + my bed, and will wait for you at Lyons; for as you have to perform + expiatory sacrifices to Saturn in this place, you cannot come with me.” + </p> + <p> + I assented, pretending sorrow at not being able to accompany her. The next + morning I brought her two well-sealed bottles of sea-water, telling her + that she was to pour them out into the two rivers on the 15th of May (the + current month). We fixed her departure for the 11th, and I promised to + rejoin her before the expiration of the fortnight. I gave her the hours of + the moon in writing, and also directions for the journey. + </p> + <p> + As soon as the marchioness had gone I left the “Treize Cantons” and went + to live with Marcoline, giving her four hundred and sixty louis, which, + with the hundred and forty she had won at biribi, gave her a total of six + hundred louis, or fourteen thousand four hundred francs. With this sum she + could look the future in the face fearlessly. + </p> + <p> + The day after Madame d’Urfe’s departure, the betrothed of Mdlle. Crosin + arrived at Marseilles with a letter from Rosalie, which he handed to me on + the day of his arrival. She begged me in the name of our common honour to + introduce the bearer in person to the father of the betrothed. Rosalie was + right, but as the lady was not my real niece there were some difficulties + in the way. I welcomed the young man and told him that I would first take + him to Madame Audibert, and that we could then go together to his + father-in-law in prospective. + </p> + <p> + The young Genoese had gone to the “Treize Cantons,” where he thought I was + staying. He was delighted to find himself so near the goal of his desires, + and his ecstacy received a new momentum when he saw how cordially Madame + Audibert received him. We all got into my carriage and drove to the + father’s who gave him an excellent reception, and then presented him to + his wife, who was already friendly disposed towards him. + </p> + <p> + I was pleasantly surprised when this good and sensible man introduced me + to his wife as his cousin, the Chevalier de Seingalt, who had taken such + care of their daughter. The good wife and good mother, her husband’s + worthy partner, stretched out her hand to me, and all my trouble was over. + </p> + <p> + My new cousin immediately sent an express messenger to his sister, telling + her that he and his wife, his future son-in-law, Madame Audibert, and a + cousin she had not met before, would come and dine with her on the + following day. This done he invited us, and Madame Audibert said that she + would escort us. She told him that I had another niece with me, of whom + his daughter was very fond, and would be delighted to see again. The + worthy man was overjoyed to be able to increase his daughter’s happiness. + </p> + <p> + I, too, was pleased with Madame Audibert’s tact and thoughtfulness; and as + making Marcoline happy was to make me happy also, I expressed my gratitude + to her in very warm terms. + </p> + <p> + I took the young Genoese to the play, to Marcoline’s delight, for she + would have liked the French very much if she could have understood them. + We had an excellent supper together, in the course of which I told + Marcoline of the pleasure which awaited her on the morrow. I thought she + would have gone wild with joy. + </p> + <p> + The next day we were at Madame Audibert’s as punctually as Achilles on the + field of battle. The lady spoke Italian well, and was charmed with + Marcoline, reproaching me for not having introduced her before. At eleven + we got to St. Louis, and my eyes were charmed with the dramatic situation. + My late niece had an air of dignity which became her to admiration, and + received her future husband with great graciousness; and then, after + thanking me with a pleasant smile for introducing him to her father, she + passed from dignity to gaiety, and gave her sweetheart a hundred kisses. + </p> + <p> + The dinner was delicious, and passed off merrily; but I alone preserved a + tender melancholy, though I laughed to myself when they asked me why I was + sad. I was thought to be sad because I did not talk in my usual vivacious + manner, but far from being really sad that was one of the happiest moments + of my life. My whole being was absorbed in the calm delight which follows + a good action. I was the author of the comedy which promised such a happy + ending. I was pleased with the thought that my influence in the world was + more for good than for ill, and though I was not born a king yet I + contrived to make many people happy. Everyone at table was indebted to me + for some part of their happiness, and the father, the mother, and the + betrothed pair wholly so. This thought made me feel a peaceful calm which + I could only enjoy in silence. + </p> + <p> + Mdlle. Crosin returned to Marseilles with her father, her mother, and her + future husband, whom the father wished to take up his abode with them. I + went back with Madame Audibert, who made me promise to bring the + delightful Marcoline to sup with her. + </p> + <p> + The marriage depended on the receipt of a letter from the young man’s + father, in answer to one from my niece’s father. It will be taken for + granted that we were all asked to the wedding, and Marcoline’s affection + for me increased every day. + </p> + <p> + When we went to sup with Madame Audibert we found a rich and witty young + wine merchant at her house. He sat beside Marcoline, who entertained him + with her sallies; and as the young man could speak Italian, and even the + Venetian dialect (for he had spent a year at Venice), he was much + impressed by the charms of my new niece. + </p> + <p> + I have always been jealous of my mistresses; but when a rival promises to + marry them and give them a good establishment, jealousy gives way to a + more generous feeling. For the moment I satisfied myself by asking Madame + Audibert who he was, and I was delighted to hear that he had an excellent + reputation, a hundred thousand crowns, a large business, and complete + independence. + </p> + <p> + The next day he came to see us in our box at the theatre, and Marcoline + received him very graciously. Wishing to push the matter on I asked him to + sup with us, and when he came I was well pleased with his manners and his + intelligence; to Marcoline he was tender but respectful. On his departure + I told him I hoped he would come and see us again, and when we were alone + I congratulated Marcoline on her conquest, and shewed her that she might + succeed almost as well as Mdlle. Crosin. But instead of being grateful she + was furiously angry. + </p> + <p> + “If you want to get rid of me,” said she, “send me back to Venice, but + don’t talk to me about marrying.” + </p> + <p> + “Calm yourself, my angel! I get rid of you? What an idea! Has my behaviour + led you to suppose that you are in my way? This handsome, well-educated, + and rich young man has come under my notice. I see he loves you and you + like him, and as I love you and wish to see you sheltered from the storms + of fortune, and as I think this pleasant young Frenchman would make you + happy, I have pointed out to you these advantages, but instead of being + grateful you scold me. Do not weep, sweetheart, you grieve my very soul!” + </p> + <p> + “I am weeping because you think that I can love him.” + </p> + <p> + “It might be so, dearest, and without my honour taking any hurt; but let + us say no more about it and get into bed.” + </p> + <p> + Marcoline’s tears changed to smiles and kisses, and we said no more about + the young wine merchant. The next day he came to our box again, but the + scene had changed; she was polite but reserved, and I dared not ask him to + supper as I had done the night before. When we had got home Marcoline + thanked me for not doing so, adding that she had been afraid I would. + </p> + <p> + “What you said last night is a sufficient guide for me for the future.” + </p> + <p> + In the morning Madame Audibert called on behalf of the wine merchant to + ask us to sup with him. I turned towards the fair Venetian, and guessing + my thoughts she hastened to reply that she would be happy to go anywhere + in company with Madame Audibert. That lady came for us in the evening, and + took us to the young man’s house, where we found a magnificent supper, but + no other guests awaiting us. The house was luxuriously furnished, it only + lacked a mistress. The master divided his attention between the two + ladies, and Marcoline looked ravishing. Everything convinced me that she + had kindled the ardour of the worthy young wine merchant. + </p> + <p> + The next day I received a note from Madame Audibert, asking me to call on + her. When I went I found she wanted to give my consent to the marriage of + Marcoline with her friend. + </p> + <p> + “The proposal is a very agreeable one to me,” I answered, “and I would + willingly give her thirty thousand francs as a dowry, but I can have + nothing to do with the matter personally. I will send her to you; and if + you can win her over you may count on my word, but do not say that you are + speaking on my behalf, for that might spoil everything.” + </p> + <p> + “I will come for her, and if you like she shall dine with me, and you can + take her to the play in the evening.” + </p> + <p> + Madame Audibert came the following day, and Marcoline went to dinner with + her. I called for her at five o’clock, and finding her looking pleased and + happy I did not know what to think. As Madame Audibert did not take me + aside I stifled my curiosity and went with Marcoline to the theatre, + without knowing what had passed. + </p> + <p> + On the way Marcoline sang the praises of Madame Audibert, but did not say + a word of the proposal she must have made to her. About the middle of the + piece, however, I thought I saw the explanation of the riddle, for the + young man was in the pit, and did not come to our box though there were + two empty places. + </p> + <p> + We returned home without a word about the merchant or Madame Audibert, but + as I knew in my own mind what had happened, I felt disposed to be + grateful, and I saw that Marcoline was overjoyed to find me more + affectionate than ever. At last, amidst our amorous assaults, Marcoline, + feeling how dearly I loved her, told me what had passed between her and + Madame Audibert. + </p> + <p> + “She spoke to me so kindly and so sensibly,” said she, “but I contented + myself with saying that I would never marry till you told me to do so. All + the same I thank you with all my heart for the ten thousand crowns you are + willing to give me. You have tossed the ball to me and I have sent it + back. I will go back to Venice whenever you please if you will not take me + to England with you, but I will never marry. I expect we shall see no more + of the young gentleman, though if I had never met you I might have loved + him.” + </p> + <p> + It was evidently all over, and I liked her for the part she had taken, for + a man who knows his own worth is not likely to sigh long at the feet of an + obdurate lady. + </p> + <p> + The wedding-day of my late niece came round. Marcoline was there, without + diamonds, but clad in a rich dress which set off her beauty and satisfied + my vanity. + </p> + <a name="linkE2HCH0004" id="linkE2HCH0004"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IV + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + I Leave Marseilles—Henriette at Aix—Irene at Avignon— + Treachery of Possano—Madame d’Urfe Leaves Lyon +</pre> + <p> + The wedding only interested me because of the bride. The plentiful rather + than choice repast, the numerous and noisy company, the empty compliments, + the silly conversation, the roars of laughter at very poor jokes—all + this would have driven me to despair if it had not been for Madame + Audibert, whom I did not leave for a moment. Marcoline followed the young + bride about like a shadow, and the latter, who was going to Genoa in a + week, wanted Marcoline to come in her train, promising to have her taken + to Venice by a person of trust, but my sweetheart would listen to no + proposal for separating her from me,— + </p> + <p> + “I won’t go to Venice,” she said, “till you send me there.” + </p> + <p> + The splendours of her friend’s marriage did not make her experience the + least regret at having refused the young wine merchant. The bride beamed + with happiness, and on my congratulating her she confessed her joy to be + great, adding that it was increased by the fact that she owed it all to + me. She was also very glad to be going to Genoa, where she was sure of + finding a true friend in Rosalie, who would sympathize with her, their + fortunes having been very similar. + </p> + <p> + The day after the wedding I began to make preparations for my departure. + The first thing I disposed of was the box containing the planetary + offerings. I kept the diamonds and precious stones, and took all the gold + and silver to Rousse de Cosse, who still held the sum which Greppi had + placed to my credit. I took a bill of exchange on Tourton and Bauer, for I + should not be wanting any money at Lyons as Madame d’Urfe was there, and + consequently the three hundred louis I had about me would be ample. I + acted differently where Marcoline was concerned. I added a sufficient sum + to her six hundred louis to give her a capital in round numbers of fifteen + thousand francs. I got a bill drawn on Lyons for that amount, for I + intended at the first opportunity to send her back to Venice, and with + that idea had her trunks packed separately with all the linen and dresses + which I had given her in abundance. + </p> + <p> + On the eve of our departure we took leave of the newly-married couple and + the whole family at supper, and we parted with tears, promising each other + a lifelong friendship. + </p> + <p> + The next day we set out intending to travel all night and not to stop till + we got to Avignon, but about five o’clock the chain of the carriage broke, + and we could go no further until a wheelwright had repaired the damage. We + settled ourselves down to wait patiently, and Clairmont went to get + information at a fine house on our right, which was approached by an alley + of trees. As I had only one postillion, I did not allow him to leave his + horses for a moment. Before long we saw Clairmont reappear with two + servants, one of whom invited me, on behalf of his master, to await the + arrival of the wheelwright at his house. It would have been churlish to + refuse this invitation which was in the true spirit of French politeness, + so leaving Clairmont in charge Marcoline and I began to wend our way + towards the hospitable abode. + </p> + <p> + Three ladies and two gentleman came to meet us, and one of the gentlemen + said they congratulated themselves on my small mishap, since it enabled + madam to offer me her house and hospitality. I turned towards the lady + whom the gentleman had indicated, and thanked her, saying, that I hoped + not to trouble her long, but that I was deeply grateful for her kindness. + She made me a graceful curtsy, but I could not make out her features, for + a stormy wind was blowing, and she and her two friends had drawn their + hoods almost entirely over their faces. Marcoline’s beautiful head was + uncovered and her hair streaming in the breeze. She only replied by + graceful bows and smiles to the compliments which were addressed to her on + all sides. The gentleman who had first accosted me asked me, as he gave + her his arm, if she were my daughter. Marcoline smiled and I answered that + she was my cousin, and that we were both Venetians. + </p> + <p> + A Frenchman is so bent on flattering a pretty woman that he will always do + so, even if it be at the expense of a third party. Nobody could really + think that Marcoline was my daughter, for though I was twenty years older + than she was, I looked ten years younger than my real age, and so + Marcoline smiled suggestively. + </p> + <p> + We were just going into the house when a large mastiff ran towards us, + chasing a pretty spaniel, and the lady, being afraid of getting bitten, + began to run, made a false step, and fell to the ground. We ran to help + her, but she said she had sprained her ankle, and limped into the house on + the arm of one of the gentlemen. Refreshments were brought in, and I saw + that Marcoline looked uneasy in the company of a lady who was talking to + her. I hastened to excuse her, saying that she did not speak French. As a + matter of fact, Marcoline had begun to talk a sort of French, but the most + charming language in the world will not bear being spoken badly, and I had + begged her not to speak at all till she had learned to express herself + properly. It is better to remain silent than to make strangers laugh by + odd expressions and absurd equivocations. + </p> + <p> + The less pretty, or rather the uglier, of the two ladies said that it was + astonishing that the education of young ladies was neglected in such a + shocking manner at Venice. “Fancy not teaching them French!” + </p> + <p> + “It is certainly very wrong, but in my country young ladies are neither + taught foreign languages nor round games. These important branches of + education are attended to afterwards.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you are a Venetian, too?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, madam.” + </p> + <p> + “Really, I should not have thought so.” + </p> + <p> + I made a bow in return for this compliment, which in reality was only an + insult; for if flattering to me it was insulting to the rest of my + fellow-countrymen, and Marcoline thought as much for she made a little + grimace accompanied by a knowing smile. + </p> + <p> + “I see that the young lady understands French,” said our flattering + friend, “she laughs exactly in the right place.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, she understands it, and as for her laughter it was due to the fact + that she knows me to be like all other Venetians.” + </p> + <p> + “Possibly, but it is easy to see that you have lived a long time in + France.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, madam,” said Marcoline; and these words in her pretty Venetian + accent were a pleasure to hear. + </p> + <p> + The gentleman who had taken the lady to her room said that she found her + foot to be rather swollen, and had gone to bed hoping we would all come + upstairs. + </p> + <p> + We found her lying in a splendid bed, placed in an alcove which the thick + curtains of red satin made still darker. I could not see whether she was + young or old, pretty or ugly. I said that I was very sorry to be the + indirect cause of her mishap, and she replied in good Italian that it was + a matter of no consequence, and that she did not think she could pay too + dear for the privilege of entertaining such pleasant guests. + </p> + <p> + “Your ladyship must have lived in Venice to speak the language with so + much correctness.” + </p> + <p> + “No, I have never been there, but I have associated a good deal with + Venetians.” + </p> + <p> + A servant came and told me that the wheelwright had arrived, and that he + would take four hours to mend my carriage, so I went downstairs. The man + lived at a quarter of a league’s distance, and by tying the carriage pole + with ropes, I could drive to his place, and wait there for the carriage to + be mended. I was about to do so, when the gentleman who did the honours of + the house came and asked me, on behalf of the lady, to sup and pass the + night at her house, as to go to the wheelwright’s would be out of my way; + the man would have to work by night, I should be uncomfortable, and the + work would be ill done. I assented to the countess’s proposal, and having + agreed with the man to come early the next day and bring his tools with + him, I told Clairmont to take my belongings into the room which was + assigned to me. + </p> + <p> + When I returned to the countess’s room I found everyone laughing at + Marcoline’s sallies, which the countess translated. I was not astonished + at seeing the way in which my fair Venetian caressed the countess, but I + was enraged at not being able to see her, for I knew Marcoline would not + treat any woman in that manner unless she were pretty. + </p> + <p> + The table was spread in the bedroom of the countess, whom I hoped to see + at supper-time, but I was disappointed; for she declared that she could + not take anything, and all supper-time she talked to Marcoline and myself, + shewing intelligence, education, and a great knowledge of Italian. She let + fall the expression, “my late husband,” so I knew her for a widow, but as + I did not dare to ask any questions, my knowledge ended at that point. + When Clairmont was undressing me he told me her married name, but as I + knew nothing of the family that was no addition to my information. + </p> + <p> + When we had finished supper, Marcoline took up her old position by the + countess’s bed, and they talked so volubly to one another that nobody else + could get in a word. + </p> + <p> + When politeness bade me retire, my pretended cousin said she was going to + sleep with the countess. As the latter laughingly assented, I refrained + from telling my madcap that she was too forward, and I could see by their + mutual embraces that they were agreed in the matter. I satisfied myself + with saying that I could not guarantee the sex of the countess’s + bed-fellow, but she answered, + </p> + <p> + “Never mind; if there be a mistake I shall be the gainer.” + </p> + <p> + This struck me as rather free, but I was not the man to be scandalized. I + was amused at the tastes of my fair Venetian, and at the manner in which + she contrived to gratify them as she had done at Genoa with my last niece. + As a rule the Provencal women are inclined this way, and far from + reproaching them I like them all the better for it. + </p> + <p> + The next day I rose at day-break to hurry on the wheelwright, and when the + work was done I asked if the countess were visible. Directly after + Marcoline came out with one of the gentlemen, who begged me to excuse the + countess, as she could not receive me in her present extremely scanty + attire; “but she hopes that whenever you are in these parts you will + honour her and her house by your company, whether you are alone or with + friends.” + </p> + <p> + This refusal, gilded as it was, was a bitter pill for me to swallow, but I + concealed my disgust, as I could only put it down to Marcoline’s doings; + she seemed in high spirits, and I did not like to mortify her. I thanked + the gentleman with effusion, and placing a Louis in the hands of all the + servants who were present I took my leave. + </p> + <p> + I kissed Marcoline affectionately, so that she should not notice my ill + humour, and asked how she and the countess spent the night. + </p> + <p> + “Capitally,” said she. “The countess is charming, and we amused ourselves + all night with the tricks of two amorous women.” + </p> + <p> + “Is she pretty or old?” + </p> + <p> + “She is only thirty-three, and, I assure you, she is as pretty as my + friend Mdlle. Crosin. I can speak with authority for we saw each other in + a state of nature.” + </p> + <p> + “You are a singular creature; you were unfaithful to me for a woman, and + left me to pass the night by myself.” + </p> + <p> + “You must forgive me, and I had to sleep with her as she was the first to + declare her love.” + </p> + <p> + “Really? How was that?” + </p> + <p> + “When I gave her the first of my kisses she returned it in the Florentine + manner, and our tongues met. After supper, I confess, I was the first to + begin the suggestive caresses, but she met me half-way. I could only make + her happy by spending the night with her. Look, this will shew you how + pleased she was.” + </p> + <p> + With these words Marcoline drew a superb ring, set with brilliants, from + her finger. I was astonished. + </p> + <p> + “Truly,” I said, “this woman is fond of pleasure and deserves to have it.” + </p> + <p> + I gave my Lesbian (who might have vied with Sappho) a hundred kisses, and + forgave her her infidelity. + </p> + <p> + “But,” I remarked, “I can’t think why she did not want me to see her; I + think she has treated me rather cavalierly.” + </p> + <p> + “No, I think the reason was that she was ashamed to be seen by my lover + after having made me unfaithful to him; I had to confess that we were + lovers.” + </p> + <p> + “Maybe. At all events you have been well paid; that ring is worth two + hundred louis.” + </p> + <p> + “But I may as well tell you that I was well enough paid for the pleasure I + gave by the pleasure I received.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s right; I am delighted to see you happy.” + </p> + <p> + “If you want to make me really happy, take me to England with you. My + uncle will be there, and I could go back to Venice with him.” + </p> + <p> + “What! you have an uncle in England? Do you really mean it? It sounds like + a fairy-tale. You never told me of it before.” + </p> + <p> + “I have never said anything about it up to now, because I have always + imagined that this might prevent your accomplishing your desire.” + </p> + <p> + “Is your uncle a Venetian? What is he doing in England? Are you sure that + he will welcome you?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “What is his name? And how are we to find him in a town of more than a + million inhabitants?” + </p> + <p> + “He is ready found. His name is Mattio Boisi, and he is valet de chambre + to M. Querini, the Venetian ambassador sent to England to congratulate the + new king; he is accompanied by the Procurator Morosini. My uncle is my + mother’s brother; he is very fond of me, and will forgive my fault, + especially when he finds I am rich. When he went to England he said he + would be back in Venice in July, and we shall just catch him on the point + of departure.” + </p> + <p> + As far as the embassy went I knew it was all true, from the letters I had + received from M. de Bragadin, and as for the rest Marcoline seemed to me + to be speaking the truth. I was flattered by her proposal and agreed to + take her to England so that I should possess her for five or six weeks + longer without committing myself to anything. + </p> + <p> + We reached Avignon at the close of the day, and found ourselves very + hungry. I knew that the “St. Omer” was an excellent inn, and when I got + there I ordered a choice meal and horses for five o’clock the next + morning. Marcoline, who did not like night travelling, was in high glee, + and threw her arms around my neck, saying,— + </p> + <p> + “Are we at Avignon now?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, dearest.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I conscientiously discharge the trust which the countess placed in + me when she embraced me for the last time this morning. She made me swear + not to say a word about it till we got to Avignon.” + </p> + <p> + “All this puzzles me, dearest; explain yourself.” + </p> + <p> + “She gave me a letter for you.” + </p> + <p> + “A letter?” + </p> + <p> + “Will you forgive me for not placing it in your hands sooner?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly, if you passed your word to the countess; but where is this + letter?” + </p> + <p> + “Wait a minute.” + </p> + <p> + She drew a large bundle of papers from her pocket, saying,— + </p> + <p> + “This is my certificate of baptism.” + </p> + <p> + “I see you were born in 1746.” + </p> + <p> + “This is a certificate of ‘good conduct.’” + </p> + <p> + “Keep it, it may be useful to you.” + </p> + <p> + “This is my certificate of virginity.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s no use. Did you get it from a midwife?” + </p> + <p> + “No, from the Patriarch of Venice.” + </p> + <p> + “Did he test the matter for himself?” + </p> + <p> + “No, he was too old; he trusted in me.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, well, let me see the letter.” + </p> + <p> + “I hope I haven’t lost it.” + </p> + <p> + “I hope not, to God.” + </p> + <p> + “Here is your brother’s promise of marriage; he wanted to be a + Protestant.” + </p> + <p> + “You may throw that into the fire.” + </p> + <p> + “What is a Protestant?” + </p> + <p> + “I will tell you another time. Give me the letter.” + </p> + <p> + “Praised be God, here it is!” + </p> + <p> + “That’s lucky; but it has no address.” + </p> + <p> + My heart beat fast, as I opened it, and found, instead of an address, + these words in Italian: + </p> + <p> + “To the most honest man of my acquaintance.” + </p> + <p> + Could this be meant for me? I turned down the leaf, and read one word—Henriette! + Nothing else; the rest of the paper was blank. + </p> + <p> + At the sight of that word I was for a moment annihilated. + </p> + <p> + “Io non mori, e non rimasi vivo.” + </p> + <p> + Henriette! It was her style, eloquent in its brevity. I recollected her + last letter from Pontarlier, which I had received at Geneva, and which + contained only one word—Farewell! + </p> + <p> + Henriette, whom I had loved so well, whom I seemed at that moment to love + as well as ever. “Cruel Henriette,” said I to myself, “you saw me and + would not let me see you. No doubt you thought your charms would not have + their old power, and feared lest I should discover that after all you were + but mortal. And yet I love you with all the ardour of my early passion. + Why did you not let me learn from your own mouth that you were happy? That + is the only question I should have asked you, cruel fair one. I should not + have enquired whether you loved me still, for I feel my unworthiness, who + have loved other women after loving the most perfect of her sex. Adorable + Henriette, I will fly to you to-morrow, since you told me that I should be + always welcome.” + </p> + <p> + I turned these thoughts over in my own mind, and fortified myself in this + resolve; but at last I said,— + </p> + <p> + “No, your behaviour proves that you do not wish to see me now, and your + wishes shall be respected; but I must see you once before I die.” + </p> + <p> + Marcoline scarcely dared breathe to see me thus motionless and lost in + thought, and I do not know when I should have come to myself if the + landlord had not come in saying that he remembered my tastes, and had got + me a delicious supper. This brought me to my senses, and I made my fair + Venetian happy again by embracing her in a sort of ecstacy. + </p> + <p> + “Do you know,” she said, “you quite frightened me? You were as pale and + still as a dead man, and remained for a quarter of an hour in a kind of + swoon, the like of which I have never seen. What is the reason? I knew + that the countess was acquainted with you, but I should never have thought + that her name by itself could have such an astonishing effect.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, it is strange; but how did you find out that the countess knew me?” + </p> + <p> + “She told me as much twenty times over in the night, but she made me + promise to say nothing about it till I had given you the letter.” + </p> + <p> + “What did she say to you about me?” + </p> + <p> + “She only repeated in different ways what she has written for an address.” + </p> + <p> + “What a letter it is! Her name, and nothing more.” + </p> + <p> + “It is very strange.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but the name tells all.” + </p> + <p> + “She told me that if I wanted to be happy I should always remain with you. + I said I knew that well; but that you wanted to send me back to Venice, + though you were very fond of me. I can guess now that you were lovers. How + long ago was it?” + </p> + <p> + “Sixteen or seventeen years.” + </p> + <p> + “She must have been very young, but she cannot have been prettier than she + is now.” + </p> + <p> + “Be quiet, Marcoline.” + </p> + <p> + “Did your union with her last long?” + </p> + <p> + “We lived together four months in perfect happiness.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall not be happy for so long as that.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes you will, and longer, too; but with another man, and one more + suitable to you in age. I am going to England to try to get my daughter + from her mother.” + </p> + <p> + “Your daughter? The countess asked me if you were married, and I said no.” + </p> + <p> + “You were right; she is my illegitimate daughter. She must be ten now, and + when you see her you will confess that she must belong to me.” + </p> + <p> + Just as we were sitting down to table we heard someone going downstairs to + the table d’hote in the room where I had made Madame Stuard’s + acquaintance, our door was open, and we could see the people on the + stairs; and one of them seeing us gave a cry of joy, and came running in, + exclaiming, “My dear papa!” I turned to the light and saw Irene, the same + whom I had treated so rudely at Genoa after my discussion with her father + about biribi. I embraced her effusively, and the sly little puss, + pretending to be surprised to see Marcoline, made her a profound bow, + which was returned with much grace. Marcoline listened attentively to our + conversation. + </p> + <p> + “What are you doing here, fair Irene?” + </p> + <p> + “We have been here for the last fortnight. Good heavens! how lucky I am to + find you again. I am quite weak. Will you allow me to sit down, madam?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, yes, my dear,” said I, “sit down;” and I gave her a glass of wine + which restored her. + </p> + <p> + A waiter came up, and said they were waiting for her at supper, but she + said, “I won’t take any supper;” and Marcoline, always desirous of + pleasing me, ordered a third place to be laid. I made her happy by giving + an approving nod. + </p> + <p> + We sat down to table, and ate our meal with great appetite. “When we have + done,” I said to Irene, “you must tell us what chance has brought you to + Avignon.” + </p> + <p> + Marcoline, who had not spoken a word hitherto, noticing how hungry Irene + was, said pleasantly that it would have been a mistake if she had not + taken any supper. Irene was delighted to hear Venetian spoken, and thanked + her for her kindness, and in three or four minutes they had kissed and + become friends. + </p> + <p> + It amused me to see the way in which Marcoline always fell in love with + pretty women, just as if she had been a man. + </p> + <p> + In the course of conversation I found that Irene’s father and mother were + at the table d’hote below, and from sundry exclamations, such as “you have + been brought to Avignon out of God’s goodness,” I learned that they were + in distress. In spite of that Irene’s mirthful countenance matched + Marcoline’s sallies, and the latter was delighted to hear that Irene had + only called me papa because her mother had styled her my daughter at + Milan. + </p> + <p> + We had only got half-way through our supper when Rinaldi and his wife came + in. I asked them to sit down, but if it had not been for Irene I should + have given the old rascal a very warm reception. He began to chide his + daughter for troubling me with her presence when I had such fair company + already, but Marcoline hastened to say that Irene could only have given me + pleasure, for in my capacity of her uncle I was always glad when she was + able to enjoy the society of a sweet young girl. + </p> + <p> + “I hope,” she added, “that if she doesn’t mind she will sleep with me.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, yes,” resounded on all sides, and though I should have preferred to + sleep with Marcoline by herself, I laughed and agreed; I have always been + able to accommodate myself to circumstances. + </p> + <p> + Irene shared Marcoline’s desires, for when it was settled that they should + sleep together they seemed wild with joy, and I added fuel to the fire by + plying them with punch and champagne. + </p> + <p> + Rinaldi and his wife did not leave us till they were quite drunk. When we + had got rid of them, Irene told us how a Frenchman had fallen in love with + her at Genoa, and had persuaded her father to go to Nice where high play + was going on, but meeting with no luck there she had been obliged to sell + what she had to pay the inn-keeper. Her lover had assured her that he + would make it up to her at Aix, where there was some money owing to him, + and she persuaded her father to go there; but the persons who owed the + money having gone to Avignon, there had to be another sale of goods. + </p> + <p> + “When we got here the luck was no better, and the poor young man, whom my + father reproached bitterly, would have killed himself if I had not given + him the mantle you gave me that he might pawn it and go on his quest. He + got four louis for it, and sent me the ticket with a very tender letter, + in which he assured me that he would find some money at Lyons, and that he + would then return and take us to Bordeaux, where we are to find treasures. + In the meanwhile we are penniless, and as we have nothing more to sell the + landlord threatens to turn us out naked.” + </p> + <p> + “And what does your father mean to do?” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t know. He says Providence will take care of us.” + </p> + <p> + “What does your mother say?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! she was as quiet as usual.” + </p> + <p> + “How about yourself?” + </p> + <p> + “Alas! I have to bear a thousand mortifications every day. They are + continually reproaching me with having fallen in love with this Frenchman, + and bringing them to this dreadful pass.” + </p> + <p> + “Were you really in love with him?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, really.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you must be very unhappy.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, very; but not on account of my love, for I shall get over that in + time, but because of that which will happen to-morrow.” + </p> + <p> + “Can’t you make any conquests at the table d’hote?” + </p> + <p> + “Some of the men say pretty things to me, but as they all know how poor we + are they are afraid to come to our room.” + </p> + <p> + “And yet in spite of all you keep cheerful; you don’t look sad like most + of the unhappy. I congratulate you on your good spirits.” Irene’s tale was + like the fair Stuard’s story over again, and Marcoline, though she had + taken rather too much champagne, was deeply moved at this picture of + misery. She kissed the girl, telling her that I would not forsake her, and + that in the meanwhile they would spend a pleasant night. + </p> + <p> + “Come! let us to bed!” said she; and after taking off her clothes she + helped Irene to undress. I had no wish to fight, against two, and said + that I wanted to rest. The fair Venetian burst out laughing and said,— + </p> + <p> + “Go to bed and leave us alone.” + </p> + <p> + I did so, and amused myself by watching the two Bacchantes; but Irene, who + had evidently never engaged in such a combat before, was not nearly so + adroit as Marcoline. + </p> + <p> + Before long Marcoline brought Irene in her arms to my bedside, and told me + to kiss her. + </p> + <p> + “Leave me alone, dearest,” said I, “the punch has got into your head, and + you don’t know what you are doing.” + </p> + <p> + This stung her; and urging Irene to follow her example, she took up a + position in my bed by force; and as there was not enough room for three, + Marcoline got on top of Irene, calling her her wife. + </p> + <p> + I was virtuous enough to remain a wholly passive spectator of the scene, + which was always new to me, though I had seen it so often; but at last + they flung themselves on me with such violence that I was obliged to give + way, and for the most part of the night I performed my share of the work, + till they saw that I was completely exhausted. We fell asleep, and I did + not wake up till noon, and then I saw my two beauties still asleep, with + their limbs interlaced like the branches of a tree. I thought with a sigh + of the pleasures of such a sleep, and got out of bed gently for fear of + rousing them. I ordered a good dinner to be prepared, and countermanded + the horses which had been waiting several hours. + </p> + <p> + The landlord remembering what I had done for Madame Stuard guessed I was + going to do the same for the Rinaldis, and left them in peace. + </p> + <p> + When I came back I found my two Lesbians awake, and they gave me such an + amorous welcome that I felt inclined to complete the work of the night + with a lover’s good morning; but I began to feel the need of husbanding my + forces, so I did nothing, and bore their sarcasms in silence till one + o’clock, when I told them to get up, as we ought to have done at five + o’clock, and here was two o’clock and breakfast not done. + </p> + <p> + “We have enjoyed ourselves,” said Marcoline, “and time that is given to + enjoyment is never lost.” + </p> + <p> + When they were dressed, I had coffee brought in, and I gave Irene sixteen + louis, four of which were to redeem her cloak. Her father and mother who + had just dined came in to bid us good-day, and Irene proudly gave her + father twelve Louis telling him to scold her a little less in future. He + laughed, wept, and went out, and then came back and said he found a good + way of getting to Antibes at a small cost, but they would have to go + directly, as the driver wanted to get to St. Andiol by nightfall. + </p> + <p> + “I am quite ready.” + </p> + <p> + “No, dear Irene,” said I, “you shall not go; you shall dine with your + friend, and your driver can wait. Make him do so, Count Rinaldi; my niece + will pay, will you not, Marcoline?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly. I should like to dine here, and still better to put off our + departure till the next day.” + </p> + <p> + Her wishes were my orders. We had a delicious supper at five o’clock, and + at eight we went to bed and spent the night in wantonness, but at five in + the morning all were ready to start. Irene, who wore her handsome cloak, + shed hot tears at parting from Marcoline, who also wept with all her + heart. Old Rinaldi, who proved himself no prophet, told me that I should + make a great fortune in England, and his daughter sighed to be in + Marcoline’s place. We shall hear of Rinaldi later on. + </p> + <p> + We drove on for fifteen posts without stopping, and passed the night at + Valence. The food was bad, but Marcoline forgot her discomfort in talking + of Irene. + </p> + <p> + “Do you know,” said she, “that if it had been in my power I should have + taken her from her parents. I believe she is your daughter, though she is + not like you.” + </p> + <p> + “How can she be my daughter when I have never known her mother?” + </p> + <p> + “She told me that certainly.” + </p> + <p> + “Didn’t she tell you anything else?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, she told me that you lived with her for three days and bought her + maidenhead for a thousand sequins.” + </p> + <p> + “Quite so, but did she tell you that I paid the money to her father?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, the little fool doesn’t keep anything for herself. I don’t think I + should ever be jealous of your mistresses, if you let me sleep with them. + Is not that a mark of a good disposition? Tell me.” + </p> + <p> + “You have, no doubt, a good disposition, but you could be quite as good + without your dominant passion.” + </p> + <p> + “It is not a passion. I only have desires for those I love.” + </p> + <p> + “Who gave you this taste?” + </p> + <p> + “Nature. I began at seven, and in the last ten years I have certainly had + four hundred sweethearts.” + </p> + <p> + “You begin early. But when did you begin to have male sweethearts?” + </p> + <p> + “At eleven.” + </p> + <p> + “Tell me all about it.” + </p> + <p> + “Father Molini, a monk, was my confessor, and he expressed a desire to + know the girl who was then my sweetheart. It was in the carnival time, and + he gave us a moral discourse, telling us that he would take us to the play + if we would promise to abstain for a week. We promised to do so, and at + the end of the week we went to tell him that we had kept our word + faithfully. The next day Father Molini called on my sweetheart’s aunt in a + mask, and as she knew him, and as he was a monk and a confessor, we were + allowed to go with him. Besides, we were mere children; my sweetheart was + only a year older than I. + </p> + <p> + “After the play the father took us to an inn, and gave us some supper; and + when the meal was over he spoke to us of our sin, and wanted to see our + privates. ‘It’s a great sin between two girls,’ said he, ‘but between a + man and a woman it is a venial matter. Do you know how men are made?’ We + both knew, but we said no with one consent. ‘Then would you like to know?’ + said he. We said we should like to know very much, and he added, ‘If you + will promise to keep it a secret, I may be able to satisfy your + curiosity.’ We gave our promises, and the good father proceeded to gratify + us with a sight of the riches which nature had lavished on him, and in the + course of an hour he had turned us into women. I must confess that he + understood so well how to work on our curiosity that the request came from + us. Three years later, when I was fourteen, I became the mistress of a + young jeweller. Then came your brother; but he got nothing from me, + because he began by saying that he could not ask me to give him any + favours till we were married.” + </p> + <p> + “You must have been amused at that.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, it did make me laugh, because I did not know that a priest could get + married; and he excited my curiosity by telling me that they managed it at + Geneva. Curiosity and wantonness made me escape with him; you know the + rest.” + </p> + <p> + Thus did Marcoline amuse me during the evening, and then we went to bed + and slept quietly till the morning. We started from Valence at five, and + in the evening we were set down at the “Hotel du Parc” at Lyons. + </p> + <p> + As soon as I was settled in the pleasant apartments allotted to me I went + to Madame d’Urfe, who was staying in the Place Bellecour, and said, as + usual, that she was sure I was coming on that day. She wanted to know if + she had performed the ceremonies correctly, and Paralis, of course, + informed her that she had, whereat she was much flattered. The young + Aranda was with her, and after I had kissed him affectionately I told the + marchioness that I would be with her at ten o’clock the next morning, and + so I left her. + </p> + <p> + I kept the appointment and we spent the whole of the day in close + conference, asking of the oracle concerning her being brought to bed, how + she was to make her will, and how she should contrive to escape poverty in + her regenerated shape. The oracle told her that she must go to Paris for + her lying-in, and leave all her possessions to her son, who would not be a + bastard, as Paralis promised that as soon as I got to London an English + gentleman should be sent over to marry her. Finally, the oracle ordered + her to prepare to start in three days, and to take Aranda with her. I had + to take the latter to London and return him to his mother, for his real + position in life was no longer a mystery, the little rascal having + confessed all; however, I had found a remedy for his indiscretion as for + the treachery of the Corticelli and Possano. + </p> + <p> + I longed to return him to the keeping of his mother, who constantly wrote + me impertinent letters. I also wished to take my daughter, who, according + to her mother, had become a prodigy of grace and beauty. + </p> + <p> + After the oracular business had been settled, I returned to the “Hotel du + Parc” to dine with Marcoline. It was very late, and as I could not take my + sweetheart to the play I called on M. Bono to enquire whether he had sent + my brother to Paris. He told me that he had gone the day before, and that + my great enemy, Possano, was still in Lyons, and that I would do well to + be on my guard as far as he was concerned. + </p> + <p> + “I have seen him,” said Bono; “he looks pale and undone, and seems + scarcely able to stand. ‘I shall die before long,’ said he, ‘for that + scoundrel Casanova has had me poisoned; but I will make him pay dearly for + his crime, and in this very town of Lyons, where I know he will come, + sooner or later.’ + </p> + <p> + “In fact, in the course of half an hour, he made some terrible accusations + against you, speaking as if he were in a fury. He wants all the world to + know that you are the greatest villain unhung, that you are ruining Madame + d’Urfe with your impious lies; that you are a sorcerer, a forger, an utter + of false moneys, a poisoner—in short, the worst of men. He does not + intend to publish a libellous pamphlet upon you, but to accuse you before + the courts, alleging that he wants reparation for the wrongs you have done + his person, his honour, and his life, for he says you are killing him by a + slow poison. He adds that for every article he possesses the strongest + proof. + </p> + <p> + “I will say nothing about the vague abuse he adds to these formal + accusations, but I have felt it my duty to warn you of his treacherous + designs that you may be able to defeat them. It’s no good saying he is a + miserable wretch, and that you despise him; you know how strong a thing + calumny is.” + </p> + <p> + “Where does the fellow live?” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t know in the least.” + </p> + <p> + “How can I find out?” + </p> + <p> + “I can’t say, for if he is hiding himself on purpose it would be hard to + get at him.” + </p> + <p> + “Nevertheless, Lyons is not so vast a place.” + </p> + <p> + “Lyons is a perfect maze, and there is no better hiding-place, especially + to a man with money, and Possano has money.” + </p> + <p> + “But what can he do to me?” + </p> + <p> + “He can institute proceedings against you in the criminal court, which + would cause you immense anxiety and bring down your good name to the dust, + even though you be the most innocent, the most just of men.” + </p> + <p> + “It seems to me, then, that the best thing I can do will be to be first in + the field.” + </p> + <p> + “So I think, but even then you cannot avoid publicity.” + </p> + <p> + “Tell me frankly if you feel disposed to bear witness to what the rascal + has said in a court of justice.” + </p> + <p> + “I will tell all I know with perfect truth.” + </p> + <p> + “Be kind enough to tell me of a good advocate.” + </p> + <p> + “I will give you the address of one of the best; but reflect before you do + anything. The affair will make a noise.” + </p> + <p> + “As I don’t know where he lives, I have really no choice in the matter.” + </p> + <p> + If I had known where he lived I could have had Possano expelled from Lyons + through the influence of Madame d’Urfe, whose relative, M. de la + Rochebaron, was the governor; but as it was, I had no other course than + the one I took. + </p> + <p> + Although Possano was a liar and an ungrateful, treacherous hound, yet I + could not help being uneasy. I went to my hotel, and proceeded to ask for + police protection against a man in hiding in Lyons, who had designs + against my life and honour. + </p> + <p> + The next day M. Bono came to dissuade me from the course I had taken. + </p> + <p> + “For,” said he, “the police will begin to search for him, and as soon as + he hears of it he will take proceedings against you in the criminal + courts, and then your positions will be changed. It seems to me that if + you have no important business at Lyons you had better hasten your + departure.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you think I would do such a thing for a miserable fellow like Possano? + No! I would despise myself if I did. I would die rather than hasten my + departure on account of a rascal whom I loaded with kindnesses, despite + his unworthiness! I would give a hundred louis to know where he is now.” + </p> + <p> + “I am delighted to say that I do not know anything about it, for if I did + I would tell you, and then God knows what would happen! You won’t go any + sooner; well, then, begin proceedings, and I will give my evidence by word + of mouth or writing whenever you please.” + </p> + <p> + I went to the advocate whom M. Bono had recommended to me, and told him my + business. When he heard what I wanted he said,—— + </p> + <p> + “I can do nothing for you, sir, as I have undertaken the case of your + opponent. You need not be alarmed, however, at having spoken to me, for I + assure you that I will make no use whatever of the information. Possano’s + plea or accusation will not be drawn up till the day after to-morrow, but + I will not tell him to make haste for fear of your anticipating him, as I + have only been informed of your intentions by hazard. However, you will + find plenty of advocates at Lyons as honest as I am, and more skilled.” + </p> + <p> + “Could you give me the name of one?” + </p> + <p> + “That would not be etiquette, but M. Bono, who seems to have kindly spoken + of me with some esteem, will be able to serve you.” + </p> + <p> + “Can you tell me where your client lives?” + </p> + <p> + “Since his chief aim is to remain hidden, and with good cause, you will + see that I could not think of doing such a thing.” + </p> + <p> + In bidding him farewell I put a louis on the table, and though I did it + with the utmost delicacy he ran after me and made me take it back. + </p> + <p> + “For once in a way,” I said to myself, “here’s an honest advocate.” + </p> + <p> + As I walked along I thought of putting a spy on Possano and finding out + his abode, for I felt a strong desire to have him beaten to death; but + where was I to find a spy in a town of which I knew nothing? M. Bono gave + me the name of another advocate, and advised me to make haste. + </p> + <p> + “‘Tis in criminal matters,” said he, “and in such cases the first comer + always has the advantage.” + </p> + <p> + I asked him to find me a trusty fellow to track out the rascally Possano, + but the worthy man would not hear of it. He shewed me that it would be + dishonourable to set a spy on the actions of Possano’s advocate. I knew it + myself; but what man is there who has not yielded to the voice of + vengeance, the most violent and least reasonable of all the passions. + </p> + <p> + I went to the second advocate, whom I found to be a man venerable not only + in years but in wisdom. I told him all the circumstances of the affair, + which he agreed to take up, saying he would present my plea in the course + of the day. + </p> + <p> + “That’s just what I want you to do,” said I, “for his own advocate told me + that his pleas would be presented the day after to-morrow.” + </p> + <p> + “That, sir,” said her “would not induce me to act with any greater + promptness, as I could not consent to your abusing the confidence of my + colleague.” + </p> + <p> + “But there is nothing dishonourable in making use of information which one + has acquired by chance.” + </p> + <p> + “That may be a tenable position in some cases, but in the present instance + the nature of the affair justifies prompt action. ‘Prior in tempore, + Potior in jure’. Prudence bids us attack our enemy. Be so kind, if you + please, to call here at three o’clock in the afternoon.” + </p> + <p> + “I will not fail to do so, and in the meanwhile here are six louis.” + </p> + <p> + “I will keep account of my expenditure on your behalf.” + </p> + <p> + “I want you not to spare money.” + </p> + <p> + “Sir, I shall spend only what is absolutely necessary.” + </p> + <p> + I almost believed that probity had chosen a home for herself amongst the + Lyons advocates, and here I may say, to the honour of the French bar, that + I have never known a more honest body of men than the advocates of France. + </p> + <p> + At three o’clock, having seen that the plan was properly drawn up, I went + to Madame d’Urfe’s, and for four hours I worked the oracle in a manner + that filled her with delight, and in spite of my vexation I could not help + laughing at her insane fancies on the subject of her pregnancy. She was + certain of it; she felt all the symptoms. Then she said how sorry she felt + that she would not be alive to laugh at all the hypotheses of the Paris + doctors as to her being delivered of a child, which would be thought very + extraordinary in a woman of her age. + </p> + <p> + When I got back to the inn I found Marcoline very melancholy. She said she + had been waiting for me to take her to the play, according to my promise, + and that I should not have made her wait in vain. + </p> + <p> + “You are right, dearest, but an affair of importance has kept me with the + marchioness. Don’t be put out.” + </p> + <p> + I had need of some such advice myself, for the legal affair worried me, + and I slept very ill. Early the next morning I saw my counsel, who told me + that my plea had been laid before the criminal lieutenant. + </p> + <p> + “For the present,” said he, “there is nothing more to be done, for as we + don’t know where he is we can’t cite him to appear.” + </p> + <p> + “Could I not set the police on his track?” + </p> + <p> + “You might, but I don’t advise you to do so. Let us consider what the + result would be. The accuser finding himself accused would have to defend + himself and prove the accusation he has made against you. But in the + present state of things, if he does not put in an appearance we will get + judgment against him for contempt of court and also for libel. Even his + counsel will leave him in the lurch if he persistently refuses to shew + himself.” + </p> + <p> + This quieted my fears a little, and I spent the rest of the day with + Madame d’Urfe, who was going to Paris on the morrow. I promised to be with + her as soon as I had dealt with certain matters which concerned the honour + of the Fraternity R. C.. + </p> + <p> + Her great maxim was always to respect my secrets, and never to trouble me + with her curiosity. Marcoline, who had been pining by herself all day, + breathed again when I told her that henceforth I should be all for her. + </p> + <p> + In the morning M. Bono came to me and begged me to go with him to + Possano’s counsel, who wanted to speak to me. The advocate said that his + client was a sort of madman who was ready to do anything, as he believed + himself to be dying from the effects of a slow poison. + </p> + <p> + “He says that even if you are first in the field he will have you + condemned to death. He says he doesn’t care if he is sent to prison, as he + is certain of coming out in triumph as he has the proof of all his + accusations. He shews twenty-five louis which you gave him, all of which + are clipped, and he exhibits documents dated from Genoa stating that you + clipped a number of gold pieces, which were melted by M. Grimaldi in order + that the police might not find them in your possession. He has even a + letter from your brother, the abbe, deposing against you. He is a madman, + a victim to syphilis, who wishes to send you to the other world before + himself, if he can. Now my advice to you is to give him some money and get + rid of him. He tells me that he is the father of a family, and that if M. + Bono would give him a thousand louis he would sacrifice vengeance to + necessity. He told me to speak to M. Bono about it; and now, sir what do + you say?” + </p> + <p> + “That which my just indignation inspires me to say regarding a rascal whom + I rescued from poverty, and who nevertheless pursues me with atrocious + calumnies; he shall not have one single farthing of mine.” + </p> + <p> + I then told the Genoa story, putting things in their true light, and + adding that I could call M. Grimaldi as a witness if necessary. + </p> + <p> + “I have delayed presenting the plea,” said the counsel, “to see if the + scandal could be hushed up in any way, but I warn you that I shall now + present it.” + </p> + <p> + “Do so; I shall be greatly obliged to you.” + </p> + <p> + I immediately called on my advocate, and told him of the rascal’s + proposal; and he said I was quite right to refuse to have any dealings + with such a fellow. He added that as I had M. Bono as a witness I ought to + make Possano’s advocate present his plea, and I authorized him to take + proceedings in my name. + </p> + <p> + A clerk was immediately sent to the criminal lieutenant, praying him to + command the advocate to bring before him, in three days, the plea of one + Anami, alias Pogomas, alias Possano, the said plea being against Jacques + Casanova, commonly called the Chevalier de Seingalt. This document, to + which I affixed my signature, was laid before the criminal lieutenant. + </p> + <p> + I did not care for the three days’ delay, but my counsel told me it was + always given, and that I must make up my mind to submit to all the + vexation I should be obliged to undergo, even if we were wholly + successful. + </p> + <p> + As Madame d’Urfe had taken her departure in conformity with the orders of + Paralis, I dined with Marcoline at the inn, and tried to raise my spirits + by all the means in my power. I took my mistress to the best milliners and + dressmakers in the town, and bought her everything she took a fancy to; + and then we went to the theatre, where she must have been pleased to see + all eyes fixed on her. Madame Pernon, who was in the next box to ours, + made me introduce Marcoline to her; and from the way they embraced each + other when the play was over I saw they were likely to become intimate, + the only obstacle to their friendship being that Madame Pernon did not + know a word of Italian, and that Marcoline did not dare to speak a word of + French for fear of making herself ridiculous. When we got back to the inn, + Marcoline told me that her new friend had given her the Florentine kiss: + this is the shibboleth of the sect. + </p> + <p> + The pretty nick-nacks I had given her had made her happy; her ardour was + redoubled, and the night passed joyously. + </p> + <p> + I spent the next day in going from shop to shop, making fresh purchases + for Marcoline, and we supped merrily at Madame Pernon’s. + </p> + <p> + The day after, M. Bono came to see me at an early hour with a smile of + content on his face. + </p> + <p> + “Let us go and breakfast at a coffee-house,” said he; “we will have some + discussion together.” + </p> + <p> + When we were breakfasting he shewed me a letter written by Possano, in + which the rascal said that he was ready to abandon proceedings provided + that M. de Seingalt gave him a hundred louis, on receipt of which he + promised to leave Lyons immediately. + </p> + <p> + “I should be a great fool,” said I, “if I gave the knave more money to + escape from the hands of justice. Let him go if he likes, I won’t prevent + him; but he had better not expect me to give him anything. He will have a + writ out against him to-morrow. I should like to see him branded by the + hangman. He has slandered me, his benefactor, too grievously; let him + prove what he says, or be dishonoured before all men.” + </p> + <p> + “His abandoning the proceedings,” said M. Bono, “would in my opinion + amount to the same thing as his failing to prove his charges, and you + would do well to prefer it to a trial which would do your reputation no + good, even if you were completely successful. And the hundred louis is + nothing in comparison with the costs of such a trial.” + </p> + <p> + “M. Bono, I value your advice very highly, and still more highly the + kindly feelings which prompt you, but you must allow me to follow my own + opinion in this case.” + </p> + <p> + I went to my counsel and told him of the fresh proposal that Possano had + made, and of my refusal to listen to it, begging him to take measures for + the arrest of the villain who had vowed my death. + </p> + <p> + The same evening I had Madame Pernon and M. Bono, who was her lover, to + sup with me; and as the latter had a good knowledge of Italian Marcoline + was able to take part in the merriment of the company. + </p> + <p> + The next day Bono wrote to tell me that Possano had left Lyons never to + return, and that he had signed a full and satisfactory retraction. I was + not surprised to hear of his flight, but the other circumstance I could + not understand. I therefore hastened to call on Bono, who showed me the + document, which was certainly plain enough. + </p> + <p> + “Will that do?” said he. + </p> + <p> + “So well that I forgive him, but I wonder he did not insist on the hundred + Louis.” + </p> + <p> + “My dear sir, I gave him the money with pleasure, to prevent a scandalous + affair which would have done us all harm in becoming public. If I had told + you nothing, you couldn’t have taken any steps in the matter, and I felt + myself obliged to repair the mischief I had done in this way. You would + have known nothing about it, if you had said that you were not satisfied. + I am only too glad to have been enabled to shew my friendship by this + trifling service. We will say no more about it.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good,” said I, embracing him, “we will say no more, but please to + receive the assurance of my gratitude.” + </p> + <p> + I confess I felt much relieved at being freed from this troublesome + business. + </p> + <a name="linkE2H_4_0007" id="linkE2H_4_0007"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> <a name="linkepisode22" id="linkepisode22"></a> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + EPISODE 22 — TO LONDON + </h2> + <a name="linkE2HCH0005" id="linkE2HCH0005"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER V + </h2> + <p> + I Meet the Venetian Ambassadors at Lyons, and also Marcoline’s Uncle—I + Part from Marcoline and Set Out for Paris—An Amorous Journey + </p> + <p> + Thus freed from the cares which the dreadful slanders of Possano had + caused me, I gave myself up to the enjoyment of my fair Venetian, doing + all in my power to increase her happiness, as if I had had a premonition + that we should soon be separated from one another. + </p> + <p> + The day after the supper I gave to Madame Pernon and M. Bono, we went to + the theatre together, and in the box opposite to us I saw M. Querini, the + procurator, Morosini, M. Memmo, and Count Stratico, a Professor of the + University of Padua. I knew all these gentlemen; they had been in London, + and were passing through Lyons on their return to Venice. + </p> + <p> + “Farewell, fair Marcoline!” I said to myself, feeling quite + broken-hearted, but I remained calm, and said nothing to her. She did not + notice them as she was absorbed in her conversation with M. Bono, and + besides, she did not know them by sight. I saw that M. Memmo had seen me + and was telling the procurator of my presence, and as I knew the latter + very well I felt bound to pay them my respects then and there. + </p> + <p> + Querini received me very politely for a devotee, as also did Morosini, + while Memmo seemed moved; but no doubt he remembered that it was chiefly + due to his mother that I had been imprisoned eight years ago. I + congratulated the gentlemen on their embassy to England, on their return + to their native land, and for form’s sake commended myself to their good + offices to enable me to return also. M. Morosini, noticing the richness of + my dress and my general appearance of prosperity, said that while I had to + stay away he had to return, and that he considered me the luckier man. + </p> + <p> + “Your excellency is well aware,” said I, “that nothing is sweeter than + forbidden fruit.” + </p> + <p> + He smiled, and asked me whither I went and whence I came. + </p> + <p> + “I come from Rome,” I answered, “where I had some converse with the Holy + Father, whom I knew before, and I am going through Paris on my way to + London. + </p> + <p> + “Call on me here, if you have time, I have a little commission to give + you.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall always have time to serve your excellency in. Are you stopping + here for long?” + </p> + <p> + “Three or four days.” + </p> + <p> + When I got back to my box Marcoline asked me who were the gentlemen to + whom I had been speaking. I answered coolly and indifferently, but + watching her as I spoke, that they were the Venetian ambassadors on their + way from London. The flush of her cheek died away and was replaced by + pallor; she raised her eyes to heaven, lowered them, and said not a word. + My heart was broken. A few minutes afterwards she asked me which was M. + Querini, and after I had pointed him out to her she watched him furtively + for the rest of the evening. + </p> + <p> + The curtain fell, we left our box, and at the door of the theatre we found + the ambassadors waiting for their carriage. Mine was in the same line as + theirs. The ambassador Querini said,— + </p> + <p> + “You have a very pretty young lady with you.” + </p> + <p> + Marcoline stepped forward, seized his hand, and kissed it before I could + answer. + </p> + <p> + Querini, who was greatly astonished, thanked her and said,— + </p> + <p> + “What have I done to deserve this honour?” + </p> + <p> + “Because,” said Marcoline, speaking in the Venetian dialect, “I have the + honour of knowing his excellency M. Querini.” + </p> + <p> + “What are you doing with M. Casanova?” + </p> + <p> + “He is my uncle.” + </p> + <p> + My carriage came up. I made a profound bow to the ambassadors, and called + out to the coachman, “To the ‘Hotel du Parc’.” It was the best hotel in + Lyons, and I was not sorry for the Venetians to hear where I was staying. + </p> + <p> + Marcoline was in despair, for she saw that the time for parting was near + at hand. + </p> + <p> + “We have three or four days before us,” said I, “in which we can contrive + how to communicate with your uncle Mattio. I must commend you highly for + kissing M. Querini’s hand. That was a masterstroke indeed. All will go off + well; but I hope you will be merry, for sadness I abhor.” + </p> + <p> + We were still at table when I heard the voice of M. Memmo in the + ante-chamber; he was a young man, intelligent and good-natured. I warned + Marcoline not to say a word about our private affairs, but to display a + moderate gaiety. The servant announced the young nobleman, and we rose to + welcome him; but he made us sit down again, and sat beside us, and drank a + glass of wine with the utmost cordiality. He told me how he had been + supping with the old devotee Querini, who had had his hand kissed by a + young and fair Venetian. The ambassadors were much amused at the + circumstance, and Querini himself, in spite of his scrupulous conscience, + was greatly flattered. + </p> + <p> + “May I ask you, mademoiselle,” he added, “how you came to know M. + Querini?” + </p> + <p> + “It’s a mystery, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “A mystery, is it? What fun we shall have tomorrow! I have come,” he said, + addressing himself to me, “to ask you to dine with us to-morrow, and you + must bring your charming niece.” + </p> + <p> + “Would you like to go, Marcoline?” + </p> + <p> + “‘Con grandissimo piacere’! We shall speak Venetian, shall we not?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly.” + </p> + <p> + “‘E viva’! I cannot learn French.” + </p> + <p> + “M. Querini is in the same position,” said M. Memmo. + </p> + <p> + After half an hour’s agreeable conversation he left us, and Marcoline + embraced me with delight at having made such a good impression on these + gentlemen. + </p> + <p> + “Put on your best dress to-morrow,” said I, “and do not forget your + jewels. Be agreeable to everybody, but pretend not to see your Uncle + Mattio, who will be sure to wait at table.” + </p> + <p> + “You may be sure I shall follow your advice to the letter.” + </p> + <p> + “And I mean to make the recognition a scene worthy of the drama. I intend + that you shall be taken back to Venice by M. Querini himself, while your + uncle will take care of you by his special orders.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall be delighted with this arrangement, provided it succeeds.” + </p> + <p> + “You may trust to me for that.” + </p> + <p> + At nine o’clock the next day I called on Morosini concerning the + commissions he had for me. He gave me a little box and a letter for Lady + Harrington, and another letter with the words,— + </p> + <p> + “The Procurator Morosini is very sorry not to have been able to take a + last leave of Mdlle. Charpillon.” + </p> + <p> + “Where shall I find her?” + </p> + <p> + “I really don’t know. If you find her, give her the letter; if not, it + doesn’t matter. That’s a dazzling beauty you have with you, Casanova.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, she has dazzled me.” + </p> + <p> + “But how did she know Querini?” + </p> + <p> + “She has seen him at Venice, but she has never spoken to him.” + </p> + <p> + “I thought so; we have been laughing over it, but Querini is hugely + pleased. But how did you get hold of her? She must be very young, as Memmo + says she cannot speak French.” + </p> + <p> + “It would be a long story to tell, and after all we met through a mere + chance.” + </p> + <p> + “She is not your niece.” + </p> + <p> + “Nay, she is more—she is my queen.” + </p> + <p> + “You will have to teach her French, as when you get to London—” + </p> + <p> + “I am not going to take her there; she wants to return to Venice.” + </p> + <p> + “I pity you if you are in love with her! I hope she will dine with us?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, yes! she is delighted with the honour.” + </p> + <p> + “And we are delighted to have our poor repast animated by such a charming + person.” + </p> + <p> + “You will find her worthy of your company; she is full of wit.” + </p> + <p> + When I got back to the inn I told Marcoline that if anything was said at + dinner about her return to Venice, she was to reply that no one could make + her return except M. Querini, but that if she could have his protection + she would gladly go back with him. + </p> + <p> + “I will draw you out of the difficulty,” said I; and she promised to carry + out my instructions. + </p> + <p> + Marcoline followed my advice with regard to her toilette, and looked + brilliant in all respects; and I, wishing to shine in the eyes of the + proud Venetian nobles, had dressed myself with the utmost richness. I wore + a suit of grey velvet, trimmed with gold and silver lace; my point lace + shirt was worth at least fifty louis; and my diamonds, my watches, my + chains, my sword of the finest English steel, my snuff-box set with + brilliants, my cross set with diamonds, my buckles set with the same + stones, were altogether worth more than fifty thousand crowns. This + ostentation, though puerile in itself, yet had a purpose, for I wished M. + de Bragadin to know that I did not cut a bad figure in the world; and I + wished the proud magistrates who had made me quit my native land to learn + that I had lost nothing, and could laugh at their severity. + </p> + <p> + In this gorgeous style we drove to the ambassador’s dinner at half-past + one. + </p> + <p> + All present were Venetians, and they welcomed Marcoline enthusiastically. + She who was born with the instinct of good manners behaved with the grace + of a nymph and the dignity of a French princess; and as soon as she was + seated between two grave and reverend signors, she began by saying that + she was delighted to find herself the only representative of her sex in + this distinguished company, and also that there were no Frenchmen present. + </p> + <p> + “Then you don’t like the French,” said M. Memmo. + </p> + <p> + “I like them well enough so far as I know them, but I am only acquainted + with their exterior, as I don’t speak or understand the language.” + </p> + <p> + After this everybody knew how to take her, and the gaiety became general. + </p> + <p> + She answered all questions to the point, and entertained the company with + her remarks on French manners, so different to Venetian customs. + </p> + <p> + In the course of dinner M. Querini asked how she had known him, and she + replied that she had often seen him at Divine service, whereat the devotee + seemed greatly flattered. M. Morosini, pretending not to know that she was + to return to Venice, told her that unless she made haste to acquire + French, the universal language, she would find London very tedious, as the + Italian language was very little known there. + </p> + <p> + “I hope,” she replied, “that M. de Seingalt will not bring me into the + society of people with whom I cannot exchange ideas. I know I shall never + be able to learn French.” + </p> + <p> + When we had left the table the ambassadors begged me to tell the story of + my escape from The Leads, and I was glad to oblige them. My story lasted + for two whole hours; and as it was noticed that Marcoline’s eyes became + wet with tears when I came to speak of my great danger. She was rallied + upon the circumstance, and told that nieces were not usually so emotional. + </p> + <p> + “That may be, gentlemen,” she replied, “though I do not see why a niece + should not love her uncle. But I have never loved anyone else but the hero + of the tale, and I cannot see what difference there can be between one + kind of love and another.” + </p> + <p> + “There are five kinds of love known to man,” said M. Querini. “The love of + one’s neighbour, the love of God, which is beyond compare, the highest of + all, love matrimonial, the love of house and home, and the love of self, + which ought to come last of all, though many place it in the first rank.” + </p> + <p> + The nobleman commented briefly on these diverse kinds of love, but when he + came to the love of God he began to soar, and I was greatly astonished to + see Marcoline shedding tears, which she wiped away hastily as if to hide + them from the sight of the worthy old man whom wine had made more + theological than usual. Feigning to be enthusiastic, Marcoline took his + hand and kissed it, while he in his vain exaltation drew her towards him + and kissed her on the brow, saying, “Poveretta, you are an angel!” + </p> + <p> + At this incident, in which there was more love of our neighbour than love + of God, we all bit our lips to prevent ourselves bursting out laughing, + and the sly little puss pretended to be extremely moved. + </p> + <p> + I never knew Marcoline’s capacities till then, for she confessed that her + emotion was wholly fictitious, and designed to win the old man’s good + graces; and that if she had followed her own inclinations she would have + laughed heartily. She was designed to act a part either upon the stage or + on a throne. Chance had ordained that she should be born of the people, + and her education had been neglected; but if she had been properly tutored + she would have been fit for anything. + </p> + <p> + Before returning home we were warmly invited to dinner the next day. + </p> + <p> + As we wanted to be together, we did not go to the theatre that day and + when we got home I did not wait for Marcoline to undress to cover her with + kisses. + </p> + <p> + “Dear heart,” said I, “you have not shewn me all your perfections till + now, when we are about to part; you make me regret you are going back to + Venice. Today you won all hearts.” + </p> + <p> + “Keep me then, with you, and I will ever be as I have been to-day. By the + way, did you see my uncle?” + </p> + <p> + “I think so. Was it not he who was in continual attendance?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes. I recognized him by his ring. Did he look, at me?” + </p> + <p> + “All the time, and with an air of the greatest astonishment. I avoided + catching his eye, which roved from you to me continually.” + </p> + <p> + “I should like to know what the good man thinks! You will see him again + to-morrow. I am sure he will have told M. Querini that, I am his niece, + and consequently not yours. + </p> + <p> + “I expect so, too.” + </p> + <p> + “And if M. Querini says as much to me to-morrow, I expect I shall have + to, admit the fact. What do you think?” + </p> + <p> + “You must undoubtedly tell him the truth, but frankly and openly, and so + as not to let him think that you have need of him to return to Venice. He + is not your father, and has no right over your liberty.” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly not.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good. You must also agree that I am not your uncle, and that the + bond between us is of the most tender description. Will, there be any + difficulty is that?” + </p> + <p> + “How can you ask me such a question? The link between us makes me feel + proud, and will ever do so.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, well, I say no more. I trust entirely in your tact. Remember that + Querini and no other must take you back to Venice; he must treat you as if + you were his daughter. If he will not consent, you shall not return at + all.” + </p> + <p> + “Would to God it were so!” + </p> + <p> + Early the next morning I got a note from M. Querini requesting me to call + on him, as he wanted to speak to me on a matter of importance. + </p> + <p> + “We are getting on,” said Marcoline. “I am very glad that things have + taken this turn, for when you come back you can tell me the whole story, + and I can regulate my conduct accordingly.” + </p> + <p> + I found Querini and Morosini together. They gave me their hands when I + came in, and Querini asked me to sit down, saying that there would be + nothing in our discussion which M. Morosini might not hear. + </p> + <p> + “I have a confidence to make to you, M. Casanova,” he began; “but first I + want you to do me the same favor.” + </p> + <p> + “I can have no secrets from your excellency.” + </p> + <p> + “I am obliged to you, and will try to deserve your good opinion. I beg + that you will tell me sincerely whether you know the young person who is + with you, for no one believes that she is your niece.” + </p> + <p> + “It is true that she is not my niece, but not being acquainted with + her relations or family I cannot be said to know her in the sense which + your excellency gives to the word. Nevertheless, I am proud to confess + that I love her with an affection which will not end save with my life.” + </p> + <p> + “I am delighted to hear you say so. How long have you had her?” + </p> + <p> + “Nearly two months.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good! How did she fall into your hands?” + </p> + <p> + “That is a point which only concerns her, and you will allow me not to + answer that question.” + </p> + <p> + “Good! we will go on. Though you are in love with her, it is very possible + that you have never made any enquiries respecting her family.” + </p> + <p> + “She has told me that she has a father and a mother, poor but honest, but + I confess I have never been curious enough to enquire her name. I only + know her baptismal name, which is possibly not her true one, but it does + quite well for me.” + </p> + <p> + “She has given you her true name.” + </p> + <p> + “Your excellency surprises me! You know her, then?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; I did not know her yesterday, but I do now. Two months . . . + Marcoline . . . yes, it must be she. I am now certain that my man is not + mad.” + </p> + <p> + “Your man?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, she is his niece. When we were at London he heard that she had left + the paternal roof about the middle of Lent. Marcoline’s mother, who is his + sister, wrote to him. He was afraid to speak to her yesterday, because she + looked so grand. He even thought he must be mistaken, and he would have + been afraid of offending me by speaking to a grand lady at my table. She + must have seen him, too.” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t think so, she has said nothing about it to me.” + </p> + <p> + “It is true that he was standing behind her all the time. But let us come + to the point. Is Marcoline your wife, or have you any intention of + marrying her?” + </p> + <p> + “I love her as tenderly as any man can love a woman, but I cannot make her + a wife; the reasons are known only to herself and me.” + </p> + <p> + “I respect your secret; but tell me if you would object to my begging her + to return to Venice with her uncle?” + </p> + <p> + “I think Marcoline is happy, but if she has succeeded in gaining the + favour of your excellency, she is happier still; and I feel sure that if + she were to go back to Venice under the exalted patronage of your + excellency, she would efface all stains on her reputation. As to + permitting her to go, I can put no stumbling-block in the way, for I am + not her master. As her lover I would defend her to the last drop of my + blood, but if she wants to leave me I can only assent, though with + sorrow.” + </p> + <p> + “You speak with much sense, and I hope you will not be displeased at my + undertaking this good work. Of course I shall do nothing without your + consent.” + </p> + <p> + “I respect the decrees of fate when they are promulgated by such a man as + you. If your excellency can induce Marcoline to leave me, I will make no + objection; but I warn you that she must be won mildly. She is intelligent, + she loves me, and she knows that she is independent; besides she reckons + on me, and she has cause to do so. Speak to her to-day by herself; my + presence would only be in your way. Wait till dinner is over; the + interview might last some time.” + </p> + <p> + “My dear Casanova, you are an honest man. I am delighted to have made your + acquaintance.” + </p> + <p> + “You do me too much honour. I may say that Marcoline will hear nothing of + all this.” + </p> + <p> + When I got back to the inn, I gave Marcoline an exact account of the whole + conversation, warning her that she would be supposed to know nothing about + it. + </p> + <p> + “You must execute a masterly stroke, dearest,” said I, “to persuade M. + Querini that I did not lie in saying that you had not seen your uncle. As + soon as you see him, you must give a shout of surprise, exclaim, ‘My dear + uncle!’ and rush to his arms. This would be a splendid and dramatic + situation, which would do you honour in the eyes of all the company.” + </p> + <p> + “You may be sure that I shall play the part very well, although my heart + be sad.” + </p> + <p> + At the time appointed we waited on the ambassadors, and found that all the + other guests had assembled. Marcoline, as blithe and smiling as before, + first accosted M. Querini, and then did the polite to all the company. A + few minutes before dinner Mattio brought in his master’s spectacles on a + silver tray. Marcoline, who was sitting next to M. Querini, stopped short + in something she was saying, and staring at the man, exclaimed in a + questioning voice,— + </p> + <p> + “My uncle?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, my dear niece.” + </p> + <p> + Marcoline flung herself into his arms, and there was a moving scene, which + excited the admiration of all. + </p> + <p> + “I knew you had left Venice, dear uncle, but I did not know you were in + his excellency’s service. I am so glad to see you again! You will tell my + father and mother about me? You see I am happy. Where were you yesterday?” + </p> + <p> + “Here.” + </p> + <p> + “And you didn’t see me?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; but your uncle there . . .” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” said I, laughing, “let us know each other, cousin, and be good + friends. Marcoline, I congratulate you on having such an honest man for an + uncle.” + </p> + <p> + “That is really very fine,” said M. Querini; and everybody exclaimed, + “Very affecting, very affecting indeed!” + </p> + <p> + The newly-found uncle departed, and we sat down to dinner, but in spirits + which differed from those of yesterday. Marcoline bore traces of those + mingled emotions of happiness and regret which move loyal hearts when they + call to mind ther native land. M. Querini looked at her admiringly, and + seemed to have all the confidence of success which a good action gives to + the mind. M. Morosini sat a pleased spectator. The others were attentive + and curious as to what would come next. They listened to what was said, + and hung on Marcoline’s lips. + </p> + <p> + After the first course there was greater unison in the company, and M. + Morosini told Marcoline that if she would return to Venice she would be + sure of finding a husband worthy of her. + </p> + <p> + “I must be the judge of that,” said she. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but it is a good thing to have recourse to the advice of discreet + persons who are interested in the happiness of both parties.” + </p> + <p> + “Excuse me, but I do not think so. If I ever marry, my husband will have + to please me first.” + </p> + <p> + “Who has taught you this maxim?” said Querini. + </p> + <p> + “My uncle, Casanova, who has, I verily believe, taught me everything that + can be learnt in the two months I have been happy enough to live with + him.” + </p> + <p> + “I congratulate the master and the pupil, but you are both too young to + have learnt all the range of science. Moral science cannot be learnt in + two months.” + </p> + <p> + “What his excellency has just said,” said I, turning to Marcoline, “is + perfectly correct. In affairs of marriage both parties should rely to a + great extent on the advice of friends, for mere marriages of inclination + are often unhappy.” + </p> + <p> + “That is a really philosophical remark, my dear Marcoline,” said Querini; + “but tell me the qualities which in your opinion are desirable in a + husband.” + </p> + <p> + “I should be puzzled to name them, but they would all become manifest in + the man that pleased me.” + </p> + <p> + “And supposing he were a worthless fellow?” + </p> + <p> + “He would certainly not please me, and that’s the reason why I have made + up my mind never to marry a man whom I have not studied.” + </p> + <p> + “Supposing you made a mistake?” + </p> + <p> + “Then I would weep in secret.” + </p> + <p> + “How if you were poor?” + </p> + <p> + “She need never fear poverty, my lord,” said I. “She has an income of + fifty crowns a month for the remainder of her life.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, that’s a different matter. If that is so, sweetheart, you are + privileged. You will be able to live at Venice in perfect independence.” + </p> + <p> + “I think that to live honourably there I only need the protection of a + lord like your excellency.” + </p> + <p> + “As to that, Marcoline, I give you my word that I will do all in my power + for you if you come to Venice. But let me ask you one question, how are + you sure of your income of fifty crowns a month? You are laughing.” + </p> + <p> + “I laugh because I am such a silly little thing. I don’t have any heed for + my own business. My friend there will tell you all about it.” + </p> + <p> + “You have not been joking, have you?” said the worthy old man to me. + </p> + <p> + “Marcoline,” said I, “has not only capital which will produce a larger sum + than that which I have named, but she has also valuable possessions. Your + excellency will note her wisdom in saying that she would need your + lordship’s protection at Venice, for she will require someone to look + after the investment of her capital. The whole amount is in my hands, and + if she likes Marcoline can have it all in less than two hours.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good; then you must start for Venice the day after to-morrow. Mattio + is quite ready to receive you.” + </p> + <p> + “I have the greatest respect and love for my uncle, but it is not to his + care that your excellency must commend me if I resolve to go.” + </p> + <p> + “Then to whom?” + </p> + <p> + “To your own care, my lord. Your excellency has called me dear daughter + two or three times, lead me, then, to Venice, like a good father, and I + will come willingly; otherwise I protest I will not leave the man to whom + I owe all I have. I will start for London with him the day after + to-morrow.” + </p> + <p> + At these words which delighted me silence fell on all. They waited for M. + Querini to speak, and the general opinion seemed to be that he had gone + too far to be able to draw back. Nevertheless, the old man kept silence; + perhaps in his character of devotee he was afraid of being led into + temptation, or of giving occasion to scandal, and the other guests were + silent like him, and ate to keep each other in countenance. Mattio’s hand + trembled as he waited; Marcoline alone was calm and collected. Dessert was + served, and still no one dared to say a word. All at once this wonderful + girl said, in an inspired voice, as if speaking to herself,— + </p> + <p> + “We must adore the decrees of Divine Providence, but after the issue, + since mortals are not able to discern the future, whether it be good or + whether it be evil.” + </p> + <p> + “What does that reflection relate to, my dear daughter?” said M. Querini, + “and why do you kiss my hand now?” + </p> + <p> + “I kiss your hand because you have called me your dear daughter for the + fourth time.” + </p> + <p> + This judicious remark elicited a smile of approval from all, and restored + the general gaiety; but M. Querini asked Marcoline to explain her + observation on Providence. + </p> + <p> + “It was an inspiration, and the result of self-examination. I am well; I + have learned something of life; I am only seventeen, and in the course of + two months I have become rich by honest means. I am all happy, and yet I + owe my happiness to the greatest error a maiden can commit. Thus I humble + myself before the decrees, of Providence and adore its wisdom.” + </p> + <p> + “You are right, but, none the less you ought to repent of what you have + done.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s where I am puzzled; for before I can repent; I must think of it, + and when I think of it I find nothing for which to repent. I suppose I + shall have to consult some great theologian on the point.” + </p> + <p> + “That will not be necessary; you are, intelligent, and your heart is good, + and I will give you the necessary instruction on the way. When one repents + there is no need to think of the pleasure which our sins have given us.” + </p> + <p> + In his character of apostle the good M. Querini was becoming piously + amorous of his fair proselyte. He left the table for a few moments, and + when he returned he told Marcoline that if he had a young lady to take + to Venice he should be obliged to leave her in the care of his + housekeeper, Dame Veneranda, in whom he had every confidence. + </p> + <p> + “I have just been speaking to her; and if you would like to come, all is + arranged. You shall sleep with her, and dine with us till we get to + Venice, and then I will deliver you into your mother’s keeping, in the + presence of your uncle. What do you say?” + </p> + <p> + “I will come with pleasure.” + </p> + <p> + “Come and see Dame Veneranda.” + </p> + <p> + “Willingly.” + </p> + <p> + “Come with us, Casanova.” + </p> + <p> + Dame Veneranda looked a perfect cannoness, and I did not think that + Marcoline would fall in love with her, but she seemed sensible and + trustworthy. M. Querini told her in our presence what he had just told + Marcoline, and the duenna assured him that she would take the utmost care + of the young lady. Marcoline kissed her and called her mother, thus + gaining the old lady’s, good graces. We rejoined the company, who + expressed to Marcoline their intense pleasure at having her for a + companion on their journey. + </p> + <p> + “I shall have to put my steward in another carriage,” said M. Querini, “as + the calash only holds two.” + </p> + <p> + “That will not be necessary,” I remarked, “for Marcoline has her carriage, + and Mistress Veneranda will find it a very comfortable one. It will hold + her luggage as well.” + </p> + <p> + “You want to give me your carriage,” said Marcoline. “You are too good to + me.” + </p> + <p> + I could made no reply, my emotion was so great. I turned aside and wiped + away my tears. Returning to the company, I found that Marcoline had + vanished and M. Morosini, who was also much affected told me she had + gome, to speak to Mistress Veneranda. Everybody was melancholy, and seeing + that I was the cause I began to talk about England, where I hoped to make + my fortune with a project of mine, the success of which only depended on + Lord Egremont. M. de Morosini said he would give me a letter for Lord + Egremont and another for M. Zuccata, the Venetian ambassador. + </p> + <p> + “Are you not afraid,” said M. Querini, “of getting into trouble with the + State Inquisitors for recommending M. Casanova?” + </p> + <p> + Morosini replied coldly that as the Inquisitors had not told him for what + crime I was condemned, he did not feel himself bound to share their + judgment. Old Querini, who was extremely particular, shook his head and + said nothing. + </p> + <p> + Just then Marcoline came back to the room, and everybody could see that + she had been weeping. I confess that this mark of her affection was as + pleasing to my vanity as to my love; but such is man, and such, doubtless, + is the reader who may be censuring my conduct. This charming girl, who + still, after all these years, dwells in my old heart, asked me to take her + back to the inn, as she wanted to pack up her trunks. We left directly, + after having promised to come to dinner on the following day. + </p> + <p> + I wept bitterly when I got to my room. I told Clairmont to see that the + carriage was in good order, and then, hastily undressing, I flung myself + on the bed in my dressing-gown, and wept as if some blessing was being + taken from me against my will. Marcoline, who was much more sensible, did + what she could to console me, but I liked to torment myself, and her words + did but increase my despair. + </p> + <p> + “Reflect,” said she, “that it is not I who am leaving you, but you who are + sending me away; that I long to spend the rest of my days with you, and + that you have only got to say a word to keep me.” + </p> + <p> + I knew that she was right; but still a fatal fear which has always swayed + me, the fear of being bound to anyone, and the hypocrisy of a libertine + ever longing for change, both these feelings made me persist in my + resolution and my sadness. + </p> + <p> + About six o’clock MM. Morosini and Querini came into the courtyard and + looked at the carriage, which was being inspected by the wheelwright. They + spoke to Clairmont, and then came to see us. + </p> + <p> + “Good heavens!” said M. Querini, seeing the numerous boxes which she was + going to place on her carriage; and when he had heard that her carriage + was the one he had just looked at, he seemed surprised; it was indeed a + very good vehicle. + </p> + <p> + M. Morosini told Marcoline that if she liked to sell it when she got to + Venice he would give her a thousand Venetian ducats, or three thousand + francs for it. + </p> + <p> + “You might give her double that amount,” said I, “for it is worth three + thousand ducats.” + </p> + <p> + “We will arrange all that,” said he; and Querini added,— + </p> + <p> + “It will be a considerable addition to the capital she proposes to + invest.” + </p> + <p> + After some agreeable conversation I told M. Querini that I would give him + a bill of exchange for five thousand ducats, which, with the three or four + thousand ducats the sale of her jewellery would realize, and the thousand + for the carriage, would give her a capital of nine or ten thousand ducats, + the interest of which would bring her in a handsome income. + </p> + <p> + Next morning I got M. Bono to give me a bill of exchange on M. Querini’s + order, and at dinner-time Marcoline handed it over to her new protector, + who wrote her a formal receipt. M. Morosini gave me the letters he had + promised, and their departure was fixed for eleven o’clock the next day. + The reader may imagine that our dinner-party was not over gay. Marcoline + was depressed, I as gloomy as a splenetic Englishman, and between us we + made the feast more like a funeral than a meeting of friends. + </p> + <p> + I will not attempt to describe the night I passed with my charmer. She + asked me again and again how I could be my own executioner; but I could + not answer, for I did not know. But how often have I done things which + caused me pain, but to which I was impelled by some occult force it was my + whim not to resist. + </p> + <p> + In the morning, when I had put on my boots and spurs, and told Clairmont + not to be uneasy if I did not return that night, Marcoline and I drove to + the ambassadors’ residence. We breakfasted together, silently enough, for + Marcoline had tears in her eyes, and everyone knowing my noble conduct + towards her respected her natural grief. After breakfast we set out, I + sitting in the forepart of the carriage, facing Marcoline and Dame + Veneranda, who would have made me laugh under any other circumstances, her + astonishment at finding herself in a more gorgeous carriage than the + ambassador’s was so great. She expatiated on the elegance and comfort of + the equipage, and amused us by saying that her master was quite right in + saying that the people would take her for the ambassadress. But in spite + of this piece of comedy, Marcoline and I were sad all the way. M. Querini, + who did not like night travelling, made us stop at Pont-Boivoisin, at nine + o’clock, and after a bad supper everyone went to bed to be ready to start + at daybreak. Marcoline was to sleep with Veneranda, so I accompanied her, + and the worthy old woman went to bed without any ceremony, lying so close + to the wall that there was room for two more; but after Marcoline had got + into bed I sat down on a chair, and placing my head beside hers on the + pillow we mingled our sobs and tears all night. + </p> + <p> + When Veneranda, who had slept soundly, awoke, she was much astonished to + see me still in the same position. She was a great devotee, but women’s + piety easily gives place to pity, and she had moved to the furthest + extremity of the bed with the intention of giving me another night of + love. But my melancholy prevented my profiting by her kindness. + </p> + <p> + I had ordered a saddle horse to be ready for me in the morning. We took a + hasty cup of coffee and bade each other mutual farewells. I placed + Marcoline in the carriage, gave her a last embrace, and waited for the + crack of the postillion’s whip to gallop back to Lyons. I tore along like + a madman, for I felt as if I should like to send the horse to the ground + and kill myself. But death never comes to him that desires it, save in the + fable of the worthy Lafontaine. In six hours I had accomplished the + eighteen leagues between Pont-Boivoisin and Lyons, only stopping to change + horses. I tore off my clothes and threw myself on the bed, where thirty + hours before I had enjoyed all the delights of love. I hoped that the + bliss I had lost would return to me in my dreams. However, I slept + profoundly, and did not wake till eight o’clock. I had been asleep about + nineteen hours. + </p> + <p> + I rang for Clairmont, and told him to bring up my breakfast, which I + devoured eagerly. When my stomach was restored in this manner I fell + asleep again, and did not get up till the next morning, feeling quite + well, and as if I could support life a little longer. + </p> + <p> + Three days after Marcoline’s departure I bought a comfortable two-wheeled + carriage with patent springs, and sent my trunks to Paris by the + diligence. I kept a portmanteau containing the merest necessaries, for I + meant to travel in a dressing-gown and night-cap, and keep to myself all + the way to Paris. I intended this as a sort of homage to Marcoline, but I + reckoned without my host. + </p> + <p> + I was putting my jewellery together in a casket when Clairmont announced a + tradesman and his daughter, a pretty girl whom I had remarked at dinner, + for since the departure of my fair Venetian I had dined at the + table d’hote by way of distraction. + </p> + <p> + I shut up my jewels and asked them to come in, and the father addressed me + politely, saying,— + </p> + <p> + “Sir, I have come to ask you to do me a favour which will cost you but + little, while it will be of immense service to my daughter and myself.” + </p> + <p> + “What can I do for you? I am leaving Lyons at day-break to-morrow.” + </p> + <p> + “I know it, for you said so at dinner; but we shall be ready at any hour. + Be kind enough to give my daughter a seat in your carriage. I will, of + course, pay for a third horse, and will ride post.” + </p> + <p> + “You cannot have seen the carriage.” + </p> + <p> + “Excuse me, I have done so. It is, I know, only meant for one, but she + could easily squeeze into it. I know I am troubling you, but if you were + aware of the convenience it would be to me I am sure you would not refuse. + All the places in the diligence are taken up to next week, and if I don’t + get to Paris in six days I might as well stay away altogether. If I were a + rich man I would post, but that would cost four hundred francs, and I + cannot afford to spend so much. The only course open to me is to leave by + the diligence tomorrow, and to have myself and my daughter bound to the + roof. You see, sir, the idea makes her weep, and I don’t like it much + better myself.” + </p> + <p> + I looked attentively at the girl, and found her too pretty for me to keep + within bounds if I travelled alone with her. I was sad, and the torment I + had endured in parting from Marcoline had made me resolve to avoid all + occasions which might have similar results. I thought this resolve + necessary for my peace of mind. + </p> + <p> + “This girl,” I said to myself, “may be so charming that I should fall in + love with her if I yield to the father’s request, and I do not wish for + any such result.” + </p> + <p> + I turned to the father and said,— + </p> + <p> + “I sympathize with you sincerely; but I really don’t see what I can do for + you without causing myself the greatest inconvenience.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps you think that I shall not be able to ride so many posts in + succession, but you needn’t be afraid on that score.” + </p> + <p> + “The horse might give in; you might have a fall, and I know that I should + feel obliged to stop, and I am in a hurry. If that reason does not strike + you as a cogent one, I am sorry, for to me it appears unanswerable.” + </p> + <p> + “Let us run the risk, sir, at all events.” + </p> + <p> + “There is a still greater risk of which I can tell you nothing. In brief, + sir, you ask what is impossible.” + </p> + <p> + “In Heaven’s name, sir,” said the girl, with a voice and a look that would + have pierced a heart of stone, “rescue me from that dreadful journey on + the roof of the diligence! The very idea makes me shudder; I should be + afraid of falling off all the way; besides, there is something mean in + travelling that way. Do but grant me this favour, and I will sit at your + feet so as not to discomfort you.” + </p> + <p> + “This is too much! You do not know me, mademoiselle. I am neither cruel + nor impolite, especially where your sex is concerned, though my refusal + must make you feel otherwise. If I give way you may regret it afterwards, + and I do not wish that to happen.” Then, turning to the father, I said,— + </p> + <p> + “A post-chaise costs six Louis. Here they are; take them. I will put off + my departure for a few hours, if necessary, to answer for the chaise, + supposing you are not known here, and an extra horse will cost four Louis; + take them. As to the rest, you would have spent as much in taking two + places in the diligence.” + </p> + <p> + “You are very kind, sir, but I cannot accept your gift. I am not worthy of + it, and I should be still less worthy if I accepted the money. Adele, let + us go. Forgive us, sir, if we have wasted half an hour of your time. Come, + my poor child.” + </p> + <p> + “Wait a moment, father.” + </p> + <p> + Adele begged him to wait, as her sobs almost choked her. I was furious + with everything, but having received one look from her beautiful eyes I + could not withstand her sorrow any longer, and said, + </p> + <p> + “Calm yourself, mademoiselle. It shall never be said that I remained + unmoved while beauty wept. I yield to your request, for if I did not I + should not be able to sleep all night. But I accede on one condition,” I + added, turning to her father, “and that is that you sit at the back of the + carriage.” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly; but what is to become of your servant?” + </p> + <p> + “He will ride on in front. Everything is settled. Go to bed now, and be + ready to start at six o’clock.” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly, but you will allow me to pay for the extra horse?” + </p> + <p> + “You shall pay nothing at all; it would be a shame if I received any money + from you. You have told me you are poor, and poverty is no dishonour; + well, I may tell you that I am rich, and riches are no honour save when + they are used in doing good. Therefore, as I said, I will pay for all.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good, but I will pay for the extra horse in the carriage.” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly not, and let us have no bargaining, please; it is time to go to + bed. I will put you down at Paris without the journey costing you a + farthing, and then if you like you may thank me; these are the only + conditions on which I will take you. Look! Mdlle. Adele is laughing, + that’s reward enough for me.” + </p> + <p> + “I am laughing for joy at having escaped that dreadful diligence roof.” + </p> + <p> + “I see, but I hope you will not weep in my carriage, for all sadness is an + abomination to me.” + </p> + <p> + I went, to bed, resolved to struggle against my fate no longer. I saw that + I could not withstand the tempting charms of this new beauty, and I + determined that everything should be over in a couple of days. Adele had + beautiful blue eyes, a complexion wherein were mingled the lily and the + rose, a small mouth, excellent teeth, a figure still slender but full of + promise; here, surely, were enough motives for a fresh fall. I fell + asleep, thanking my good genius for thus providing me with amusement on + the journey. + </p> + <p> + Just before we started the father came and asked if it was all the same to + me whether we went by Burgundy or the Bourbonnais. + </p> + <p> + “Certainly. Do you prefer any particular route?” + </p> + <p> + “If I went through Nevers I might be able to collect a small account.” + </p> + <p> + “Then we will go by the Bourbonnais.” + </p> + <p> + Directly after Adele, simply but neatly dressed, came down and wished me + good day, telling me that her father was going to put a small trunk + containing their belongings at the back of the carriage. Seeing me busy, + she asked if she could help me in any way. + </p> + <p> + “No,” I replied, “you had better take a seat.” + </p> + <p> + She did so, but in a timid manner, which annoyed me, because it seemed to + express that she was a dependent of mine. I told her so gently, and made + her take some coffee with me, and her shyness soon wore off. + </p> + <p> + We were just stepping into the carriage when a man came and told me that + the lamps were out of repair and would come off if something were not done + to them. He offered to put them into good repair in the course of an hour. + I was in a terrible rage, and called Clairmont and began to scold him, but + he said that the lamps were all right a short while ago, and that the man + must have put them out of order that he might have the task of repairing + them. + </p> + <p> + He had hit it off exactly. I had heard of the trick before, and I called + out to the man; and on his answering me rather impudently, I began to kick + him, with my pistol in my hand. He ran off swearing, and the noise brought + up the landlord and five or six of his people. Everybody said I was in the + right, but all the same I had to waste two hours as it would not have been + prudent to travel without lamps. + </p> + <p> + Another lamp-maker was summoned; he looked at the damage, and laughed at + the rascally trick his fellow-tradesman had played me. + </p> + <p> + “Can I imprison the rascal?” I said to the landlord. “I should like to + have the satisfaction of doing so, were it to cost me two Louis.” + </p> + <p> + “Two Louis! Your honour shall be attended to in a moment.” + </p> + <p> + I was in a dreadful rage, and did not notice Adele, who was quite afraid + of me. A police official came up to take my information, and examine + witnesses, and to draw up the case. + </p> + <p> + “How much is your time worth, sir?” he asked me. + </p> + <p> + “Five louis.” + </p> + <p> + With these words I slid two louis into his hand, and he immediately wrote + down a fine of twenty louis against the lamp-maker, and then went his way, + saying,— + </p> + <p> + “Your man will be in prison in the next ten minutes.” I breathed again at + the prospect of vengeance. I then begged Mdlle. Adele’s pardon, who asked + mine in her turn, not knowing how I had offended her. This might have led + to some affectionate passages, but her father came in saying that the + rascal was in prison, and that everyone said I was right. + </p> + <p> + “I am perfectly ready to swear that he did the damage,” said he. + </p> + <p> + “You saw him, did you?” + </p> + <p> + “No, but that’s of no consequence, as everybody is sure he did it.” + </p> + <p> + This piece of simplicity restored my good temper completely, and I began + to ask Moreau, as he called himself, several questions. He told me he was + a widower, that Adele was his only child, that he was going to set up in + business at Louviers, and so on. + </p> + <p> + In the course of an hour the farce turned into a tragedy, in the following + manner. Two women, one of them with a baby at her breast, and followed by + four brats, all of whom might have been put under a bushel measure, came + before me, and falling on their knees made me guess the reason of this + pitiful sight. They were the wife, the mother, and the children of the + delinquent. + </p> + <p> + My heart was soon moved with pity for them, for my vengeance had been + complete, and I did not harbour resentment; but the wife almost put me in + a fury again by saying that her husband was an innocent man, and that they + who had accused him were rascals. + </p> + <p> + The mother, seeing the storm ready to burst, attacked me more adroitly, + admitting that her son might be guilty, but that he must have been driven + to it by misery, as he had got no bread wherewith to feed his children. + She added: + </p> + <p> + “My good sir, take pity on us, for he is our only support. Do a good deed + and set him free, for he would stay in prison all his days unless we sold + our beds to pay you.” + </p> + <p> + “My worthy woman, I forgive him completely. Hand this document to the + police magistrate and all will be well.” + </p> + <p> + At the same time I gave her a louis and told her to go, not wishing to be + troubled with her thanks. A few moments after, the official came to get my + signature for the man’s release, and I had to pay him the legal costs. My + lamps cost twelve francs to mend, and at nine o’clock I started, having + spent four or five louis for nothing. + </p> + <p> + Adele was obliged to sit between my legs, but she was ill at ease. I told + her to sit further back, but as she would have had to lean on me, I did + not urge her; it would have been rather a dangerous situation to begin + with. Moreau sat at the back of the carriage, Clairmont went on in front, + and we were thus neck and neck, or rather neck and back, the whole way. + </p> + <p> + We got down to change horses, and as we were getting into the carriage + again Adele had to lift her leg, and shewed me a pair of black breeches. I + have always had a horror of women with breeches, but above all of black + breeches. + </p> + <p> + “Sir,” said I to her father, “your daughter has shewn me her black + breeches.” + </p> + <p> + “It’s uncommonly lucky for her that she didn’t shew you something else.” + </p> + <p> + I liked the reply, but the cursed breeches had so offended me that I + became quite sulky. It seemed to me that such clothes were a kind of + rampart or outwork, very natural, no doubt, but I thought a young girl + should know nothing of the danger, or, at all events, pretend ignorance if + she did not possess it. As I could neither scold her nor overcome my bad + temper, I contented myself with being polite, but I did not speak again + till we got to St. Simphorien, unless it was to ask her to sit more + comfortably. + </p> + <p> + When we got to St. Simphorien I told Clairmont to go on in front and order + us a good supper at Roanne, and to sleep there. When we were about + half-way Adele told me that she must be a trouble to me, as I was not so + gay as I had been. I assured her that it was not so, and that I only kept + silence that she might be able to rest. + </p> + <p> + “You are very kind,” she answered, “but it is quite a mistake for you to + think that you would disturb me by talking. Allow me to tell you that you + are concealing the real cause of your silence.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you know the real cause?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I think I do.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, what is it?” + </p> + <p> + “You have changed since you saw my breeches.” + </p> + <p> + “You are right, this black attire has clothed my soul with gloom.” + </p> + <p> + “I am very sorry, but you must allow that in the first place I was not to + suppose that you were going to see my breeches, and in the second place + that I could not be aware that the colour would be distasteful to you.” + </p> + <p> + “True again, but as I chanced to see the articles you must forgive my + disgust. This black has filled my soul with funereal images, just as white + would have cheered me. Do you always wear those dreadful breeches?” + </p> + <p> + “I am wearing them for the first time to-day.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you must allow that you have committed an unbecoming action.” + </p> + <p> + “Unbecoming?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, what would you have said if I had come down in petticoats this + morning? You would have pronounced them unbecoming. You are laughing.” + </p> + <p> + “Forgive me, but I never heard anything so amusing. But your comparison + will not stand; everyone would have seen your petticoats, whereas no one + has any business to see my breeches.” + </p> + <p> + I assented to her logic, delighted to find her capable of tearing my + sophism to pieces, but I still preserved silence. + </p> + <p> + At Roanne we had a good enough supper, and Moreau, who knew very well that + if it had not been for his daughter there would have been no free journey + and free supper for him, was delighted when I told him that she kept me + good company. I told him about our discussion on breeches, and he + pronounced his daughter to be in the wrong, laughing pleasantly. After + supper I told him that he and his daughter were to sleep in the room in + which we were sitting, while I would pass the night in a neighbouring + closet. + </p> + <p> + Just as we were starting the next morning, Clairmont told me that he would + go on in front, to see that our beds were ready, adding that as we had + lost one night it would not do much harm if we were to lose another. + </p> + <p> + This speech let me know that my faithful Clairmont began to feel the need + of rest, and his health was dear to me. I told him to stop at St. Pierre + le Mortier, and to take care that a good supper was ready for us. When we + were in the carriage again, Adele thanked me. + </p> + <p> + “Then you don’t like night travelling?” I said. + </p> + <p> + “I shouldn’t mind it if I were not afraid of going to sleep and falling on + you.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, I should like it. A pretty girl like you is an agreeable burden.” + </p> + <p> + She made no reply, but I saw that she understood; my declaration was made, + but something more was wanted before I could rely on her docility. I + relapsed into silence again till we got to Varennes, and then I said,— + </p> + <p> + “If I thought you could eat a roast fowl with as good an appetite as mine, + I would dine here.” + </p> + <p> + “Try me, I will endeavour to match you.” + </p> + <p> + We ate well and drank better, and by the time we started again we were a + little drunk. Adele, who was only accustomed to drink wine two or three + times a year, laughed at not being able to stand upright, but seemed to be + afraid that something would happen. I comforted her by saying that the + fumes of champagne soon evaporated; but though she strove with all her + might to keep awake, nature conquered, and letting her pretty head fall on + my breast she fell asleep, and did not rouse herself for two hours. I + treated her with the greatest respect, though I could not resist + ascertaining that the article of clothing which had displeased me so much + had entirely disappeared. + </p> + <p> + While she slept I enjoyed the pleasure of gazing on the swelling curves of + her budding breast, but I restrained my ardour, as the disappearance of + the black breeches assured me that I should find her perfectly submissive + whenever I chose to make the assault. I wished, however, that she should + give herself up to me of her own free will, or at any rate come half-way + to meet me, and I knew that I had only to smooth the path to make her do + so. + </p> + <p> + When she awoke and found that she had been sleeping in my arms, her + astonishment was extreme. She apologized and begged me to forgive her, + while I thought the best way to put her at ease would be to give her an + affectionate kiss. The result was satisfactory; who does not know the + effect of a kiss given at the proper time? + </p> + <p> + As her dress was in some disorder she tried to adjust it, but we were + rather pushed for space, and by an awkward movement she uncovered her + knee. I burst out laughing and she joined me, and had the presence of mind + to say: + </p> + <p> + “I hope the black colour has given you no funereal thoughts this time.” + </p> + <p> + “The hue of the rose, dear Adele, can only inspire me with delicious + fancies.” + </p> + <p> + I saw that she lowered her eyes, but in a manner that shewed she was + pleased. + </p> + <p> + With this talk—and, so to speak, casting oil on the flames—we + reached Moulin, and got down for a few moments. A crowd of women assailed + us with knives and edged tools of all sorts, and I bought the father and + daughter whatever they fancied. We went on our way, leaving the women + quarrelling and fighting because some had sold their wares and others had + not. + </p> + <p> + In the evening we reached St. Pierre; but during the four hours that had + elapsed since we left Moulin we had made way, and Adele had become quite + familiar with me. + </p> + <p> + Thanks to Clairmont, who had arrived two hours before, an excellent supper + awaited us. We supped in a large room, where two great white beds stood + ready to receive us. + </p> + <p> + I told Moreau that he and his daughter should sleep in one bed, and I in + the other; but he replied that I and Adele could each have a bed to + ourselves, as he wanted to start for Nevers directly after supper, so as + to be able to catch his debtor at daybreak, and to rejoin us when we got + there the following day. + </p> + <p> + “If you had told me before, we would have gone on to Nevers and slept + there.” + </p> + <p> + “You are too kind. I mean to ride the three and a half stages. The riding + will do me good, and I like it. I leave my daughter in your care. She will + not be so near you as in the carriage.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, we will be very discreet, you may be sure!” + </p> + <p> + After his departure I told Adele to go to bed in her clothes, if she were + afraid of me. + </p> + <p> + “I shan’t be offended,” I added. + </p> + <p> + “It would be very wrong of me,” she answered, “to give you such a proof of + my want of confidence.” + </p> + <p> + She rose, went out a moment, and when she came back she locked the door, + and as soon as she was ready to slip off her last article of clothing came + and kissed me. I happened to be writing at the time, and as she had come + up on tiptoe I was surprised, though in a very agreeable manner. She fled + to her bed, saying saucily, + </p> + <p> + “You are frightened of me, I think?” + </p> + <p> + “You are wrong, but you surprised me. Come back, I want to see you fall + asleep in my arms.” + </p> + <p> + “Come and see me sleep.” + </p> + <p> + “Will you sleep all the time?” + </p> + <p> + “Of course I shall.” + </p> + <p> + “We will see about that.” + </p> + <p> + I flung the pen down, and in a moment I held her in my arms, smiling, + ardent, submissive to my desires, and only entreating me to spare her. I + did my best, and though she helped me to the best of her ability, the + first assault was a labour of Hercules. The others were pleasanter, for it + is only the first step that is painful, and when the field had been + stained with the blood of three successive battles, we abandoned ourselves + to repose. At five o’clock in the morning Clairmont knocked, and I told + him to get us some coffee. I was obliged to get up without giving fair + Adele good day, but I promised that she should have it on the way. + </p> + <p> + When she was dressed she looked at the altar where she had offered her + first sacrifice to love, and viewed the signs of her defeat with a sigh. + She was pensive for some time, but when we were in the carriage again her + gaiety returned, and in our mutual transports we forgot to grieve over our + approaching parting. + </p> + <p> + We found Moreau at Nevers; he was in a great state because he could not + get his money before noon. He dared not ask me to wait for him, but I said + that we would have a good dinner and start when the money was paid. + </p> + <p> + While dinner was being prepared we shut ourselves up in a room to avoid + the crowd of women who pestered us to buy a thousand trifles, and at two + o’clock we started, Moreau having got his money. We got to Cosne at + twilight, and though Clairmont was waiting for us at Briane, I decided on + stopping where I was, and this night proved superior to the first. The + next day we made a breakfast of the meal which had been prepared for our + supper, and we slept at Fontainebleau, where I enjoyed Adele for the last + time. In the morning I promised to come and see her at Louviers, when I + returned from England, but I could not keep my word. + </p> + <p> + We took four hours to get from Fontainebleau to Paris, but how quickly the + time passed. I stopped the carriage near the Pont St. Michel, opposite to + a clockmaker’s shop, and after looking at several watches I gave one to + Adele, and then dropped her and her father at the corner of the Rue aux + Ours. I got down at the “Hotel de Montmorenci,” not wanting to stop with + Madame d’Urfe, but after dressing I went to dine with her. + </p> + <a name="linkE2HCH0006" id="linkE2HCH0006"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VI + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + I Drive My Brother The Abbe From Paris—Madame du Rumain + Recovers Her Voice Through My Cabala—A Bad Joke—The + Corticelli—I Take d’Aranda to London—My Arrival At Calais +</pre> + <p> + As usual, Madame d’Urfe received me with open arms, but I was surprised at + hearing her tell Aranda to fetch the sealed letter she had given him in + the morning. I opened it, found it was dated the same day, and contained + the following: + </p> + <p> + “My genius told me at day-break that Galtinardus was starting from + Fontainebleau, and that he will come and dine with me to-day.” + </p> + <p> + She chanced to be right, but I have had many similar experiences in the + course of my life—experiences which would have turned any other man’s + head. I confess they have surprised me, but they have never made me lose + my reasoning powers. Men make a guess which turns out to be correct, and + they immediately claim prophetic power; but they forgot all about the many + cases in which they have been mistaken. Six months ago I was silly enough + to bet that a bitch would have a litter of five bitch pups on a certain + day, and I won. Everyone thought it a marvel except myself, for if I had + chanced to lose I should have been the first to laugh. + </p> + <p> + I naturally expressed my admiration for Madame d’Urfe’s genius, and shared + her joy in finding herself so well during her pregnancy. The worthy + lunatic had given orders that she was not at home to her usual callers, in + expectation of my arrival, and so we spent the rest of the day together, + consulting how we could make Aranda go to London of his own free will; and + as I did not in the least know how it was to be done, the replies of the + oracle were very obscure. Madame d’Urfe had such a strong dislike to + bidding him go, that I could not presume on her obedience to that extent, + and I had to rack my brains to find out some way of making the little man + ask to be taken to London as a favour. + </p> + <p> + I went to the Comedie Italienne, where I found Madame du Rumain, who + seemed glad to see me back in Paris again. + </p> + <p> + “I want to consult the oracle on a matter of the greatest importance,” + said she, “and I hope you will come and see me tomorrow.” + </p> + <p> + I, of course, promised to do so. + </p> + <p> + I did not care for the performance, and should have left the theatre if I + had not wanted to see the ballet, though I could not guess the peculiar + interest it would have for me. What was my surprise to see the Corticelli + amongst the dancers. I thought I would like to speak to her, not for any + amorous reasons, but because I felt curious to hear her adventures. As I + came out I met the worthy Baletti, who told me he had left the stage and + was living on an annuity. I asked him about the Corticelli, and he gave me + her address, telling me that she was in a poor way. + </p> + <p> + I went to sup with my brother and his wife, who were delighted to see me, + and told me that I had come just in time to use a little gentle persuasion + on our friend the abbe, of whom they had got tired. + </p> + <p> + “Where is he?” + </p> + <p> + “You will see him before long, for it is near supper-time; and as eating + and drinking are the chief concerns of his life, he will not fail to put + in an appearance.” + </p> + <p> + “What has he done?” + </p> + <p> + “Everything that a good-for-nothing can do; but I hear him coming, and I + will tell you all about it in his presence.” + </p> + <p> + The abbe was astonished to see me, and began a polite speech, although I + did not favour him with so much as a look. Then he asked me what I had + against him. + </p> + <p> + “All that an honest man can have against a monster. I have read the letter + you wrote to Possano, in which I am styled a cheat, a spy, a coiner, and a + poisoner. What does the abbe think of that?” + </p> + <p> + He sat down to table without a word, and my brother began as follows: + </p> + <p> + “When this fine gentleman first came here, my wife and I gave him a most + cordial welcome. I allowed him a nice room, and told him to look upon my + house as his own. Possibly with the idea of interesting us in his favour, + he began by saying that you were the greatest rascal in the world. To + prove it he told us how he had carried off a girl from Venice with the + idea of marrying her, and went to you at Genoa as he was in great + necessity. He confesses that you rescued him from his misery, but he says + that you traitorously took possession of the girl, associating her with + two other mistresses you had at that time. In fine, he says that you lay + with her before his eyes, and that you drove him from Marseilles that you + might be able to enjoy her with greater freedom. + </p> + <p> + “He finished his story by saying that as he could not go back to Venice, + he needed our help till he could find some means of living on his talents + or through his profession as a priest. I asked him what his talents were, + and he said he could teach Italian; but as he speaks it vilely, and + doesn’t know a word of French, we laughed at him. We were therefore + reduced to seeing what we could do for him in his character of priest, and + the very next day my wife spoke to M. de Sauci, the ecclesiastical + commissioner, begging him to give my brother an introduction to the + Archbishop of Paris, who might give him something that might lead to his + obtaining a good benefice. He would have to go to our parish church, and I + spoke to the rector of St. Sauveur, who promised to let him say mass, for + which he would receive the usual sum of twelve sols. This was a very good + beginning, and might have led to something worth having; but when we told + the worthy abbe of our success, he got into a rage, saying that he was not + the man to say mass for twelve sols, nor to toady the archbishop in the + hope of being taken into his service. No, he was not going to be in + anyone’s service. We concealed our indignation, but for the three weeks he + has been here he has turned everything upside down. My wife’s maid left us + yesterday, to our great annoyance, because of him; and the cook says she + will go if he remains, as he is always bothering her in the kitchen. We + are therefore resolved that he shall go, for his society is intolerable to + us. I am delighted to have you here, as I think we ought to be able to + drive him away between us, and the sooner the better.” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing easier,” said I; “if he likes to stay in Paris, let him do so. + You can send off his rags to some furnished apartments, and serve him with + a police order not to put foot in your house again. On the other hand if + he wants to go away, let him say where, and I will pay his journey-money + this evening.” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing could be more generous. What do you say, abbe?” + </p> + <p> + “I say that this is the way in which he drove me from Marseilles. What + intolerable violence!” + </p> + <p> + “Give God thanks, monster, that instead of thrashing you within an inch of + your life as you deserve, I am going to give you some money! You thought + you would get me hanged at Lyons, did you?” + </p> + <p> + “Where is Marcoline?” + </p> + <p> + “What is that to you? Make haste and choose between Rome and Paris, and + remember that if you choose Paris you will have nothing to live on.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I will go to Rome.” + </p> + <p> + “Good! The journey only costs twenty louis, but I will give you + twenty-five.” + </p> + <p> + “Hand them over.” + </p> + <p> + “Patience. Give me pens, ink and paper.” + </p> + <p> + “What are you going to write?” + </p> + <p> + “Bills of exchange on Lyons, Turin, Genoa, Florence, and Rome. Your place + will be paid as far as Lyons, and there you will be able to get five + louis, and the same sum in the other towns, but as long as you stay in + Paris not one single farthing will I give you. I am staying at the ‘Hotel + Montmorenci;’ that’s all you need know about me.” + </p> + <p> + I then bade farewell to my brother and his wife, telling them that we + should meet again. Checco, as we called my brother, told me he would send + on the abbe’s trunk the day following, and I bade him do so by all means. + </p> + <p> + The next day trunk and abbe came together. I did not even look at him, but + after I had seen that a room had been assigned to him, I called out to the + landlord that I would be answerable for the abbe’s board and lodging for + three days, and not a moment more. The abbe tried to speak to me, but I + sternly declined to have anything to say to him, strictly forbidding + Clairmont to admit him to my apartments. + </p> + <p> + When I went to Madame du Rumain’s, the porter said,— + </p> + <p> + “Sir, everybody is still asleep, but who are you? I have instructions.” + </p> + <p> + “I am the Chevalier de Seingalt.” + </p> + <p> + “Kindly come into my lodge, and amuse yourself with my niece. I will soon + be with you.” + </p> + <p> + I went in, and found a neatly-dressed and charming girl. + </p> + <p> + “Mademoiselle,” said I, “your uncle has told me to come and amuse myself + with you.” + </p> + <p> + “He is a rascal, for he consulted neither of us.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but he knew well enough that there could be no doubt about my + opinion after I had seen you.” + </p> + <p> + “You are very flattering, sir, but I know the value of compliments.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I suppose that you often get them, and you well deserve them all.” + </p> + <p> + The conversation, as well as the pretty eyes of the niece, began to + interest me, but fortunately the uncle put an end to it by begging me to + follow him. He took me to the maid’s room, and I found her putting on a + petticoat, and grumbling the while. + </p> + <p> + “What is the matter, my pretty maid? You don’t seem to be in a good + humour.” + </p> + <p> + “You would have done better to come at noon; it is not nine o’clock yet, + and madame did not come home till three o’clock this morning. I am just + going to wake her, and I am sorry for her.” + </p> + <p> + I was taken into the room directly, and though her eyes were half closed + she thanked me for awaking her, while I apologized for having disturbed + her sleep. + </p> + <p> + “Raton,” said she, “give us the writing materials, and go away. Don’t come + till I call you, and if anyone asks for me, I am asleep.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good, madam, and I will go to sleep also.” + </p> + <p> + “My dear M. Casanova, how is it that the oracle has deceived us? M. du + Rumain is still alive, and he ought to have died six months ago. It is + true that he is not well, but we will not go into all that again. The + really important question is this: You know that music is my favourite + pursuit, and that my voice is famous for its strength and compass; well, I + have completely lost it. I have not sung a note for three months. The + doctors have stuffed me with remedies which have had no effect: It makes + me very unhappy, for singing was the one thing that made me cling to life. + I entreat you to ask the oracle how I can recover my voice. How delighted + I should be if I could sing by to-morrow. I have a great many people + coming here, and I should enjoy the general astonishment. If the oracle + wills it I am sure that it might be so, for I have a very strong chest. + That is my question; it is a long one, but so much the better; the answer + will be long too, and I like long answers.” + </p> + <p> + I was of the same opinion, for when the question was a long one, I had + time to think over the answer as I made the pyramid. Madame Rumain’s + complaint was evidently something trifling, but I was no physician, and + knew nothing about medicine. Besides, for the honour of the cabala, the + oracle must have nothing to do with mere empiric remedies. I soon made up + my mind that a little care in her way of living would soon restore the + throat to its normal condition, and any doctor with brains in his head + could have told her as much. In the position I was in, I had to make use + of the language of a charlatan, so I resolved on prescribing a ceremonial + worship to the sun, at an hour which would insure some regularity in her + mode of life. + </p> + <p> + The oracle declared that she would recover her voice in twenty-one days, + reckoning from the new moon, if she worshipped the rising sun every + morning, in a room which had at least one window looking to the east. + </p> + <p> + A second reply bade her sleep seven hours in succession before she + sacrificed to the sun, each hour symbolizing one of the seven planets; and + before she went to sleep she was to take a bath in honour of the moon, + placing her legs in lukewarm water up to the knees. I then pointed out the + psalms which she was to recite to the moon, and those which she was to say + in the face of the rising sun, at a closed window. + </p> + <p> + This last direction filled her with admiration, “for,” said she, “the + oracle knew that I should catch cold if the window were open. I will do + everything the oracle bids me,” added the credulous lady, “but I hope you + will get me everything necessary for the ceremonies.” + </p> + <p> + “I will not only take care that you have all the requisites, but as a + proof of my zeal for you, I will come and do the suffumigations myself + that you may learn how it is done.” + </p> + <p> + She seemed deeply moved by this offer, but I expected as much. I knew how + the most trifling services are assessed at the highest rates; and herein + lies the great secret of success in the world, above all, where ladies of + fashion are concerned. + </p> + <p> + As we had to begin the next day, being the new moon, I called on her at + nine o’clock. As she had to sleep for seven successive hours before + performing the ceremonies to the rising sun, she would have to go to bed + before ten; and the observance of all these trifles was of importance, as + anyone can understand. + </p> + <p> + I was sure that if anything could restore this lady’s voice a careful + regimen would do it. I proved to be right, and at London I received a + grateful letter announcing the success of my method. + </p> + <p> + Madame du Rumain, whose daughter married the Prince de Polignac, was a + lover of pleasure, and haunted grand supper-parties. She could not expect + to enjoy perfect health, and she had lost her voice by the way in which + she had abused it. When she had recovered her voice, as she thought, by + the influence of the genii, she laughed at anyone who told her that there + was no such thing as magic. + </p> + <p> + I found a letter from Therese at Madame d’Urfe’s, in which she informed me + that she would come to Paris and take her son back by force if I did not + bring him to London, adding that she wanted a positive reply. I did not + ask for anything more, but I thought Therese very insolent. + </p> + <p> + I told Aranda that his mother would be waiting for us at Abbeville in a + week’s time, and that she wanted to see him. + </p> + <p> + “We will both give her the pleasure of seeing us.” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly,” said he; “but as you are going on to London, how shall I come + back?” + </p> + <p> + “By yourself,” said Madame d’Urfe, “dressed as a postillion.” + </p> + <p> + “What shall I ride post? How delightful!” + </p> + <p> + “You must only cover eight or ten posts a day, for you have no need to + risk your life by riding all night.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, yes; but I am to dress like a postillion, am I not?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; I will have a handsome jacket and a pair of leather breeches made + for you, and you shall have a flag with the arms of France on it.” + </p> + <p> + “They will take me for a courier going to London.” + </p> + <p> + With the idea that to throw difficulties in the way would confirm him in + his desire to go, I said roughly that I could not hear of it, as the horse + might fall and break his neck. I had to be begged and entreated for three + days before I would give in, and I did so on the condition that he should + only ride on his way back. + </p> + <p> + As he was certain of returning to Paris, he only took linen sufficient for + a very short absence; but as I knew that once at Abbeville he could not + escape me, I sent his trunk on to Calais, where we found it on our + arrival. However, the worthy Madame d’Urfe got him a magnificent + postillion’s suit, not forgetting the top-boots. + </p> + <p> + This business which offered a good many difficulties was happily arranged + by the action of pure chance; and I am glad to confess that often in my + life has chance turned the scale in my favour. + </p> + <p> + I called on a banker and got him to give me heavy credits on several of + the most important houses in London, where I wished to make numerous + acquaintances. + </p> + <p> + While I was crossing the Place des Victoires, I passed by the house where + the Corticelli lived, and my curiosity made me enter. She was astonished + to see me, and after a long silence she burst into tears, and said,— + </p> + <p> + “I should never have been unhappy if I had never known you.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, you would, only in some other way; your misfortunes are the result + of your bad conduct. But tell me what are your misfortunes.” + </p> + <p> + “As I could not stay in Turin after you had dishonoured me . . .” + </p> + <p> + “You came to dishonour yourself here, I suppose. Drop that tone, or else I + will leave you.” + </p> + <p> + She began her wretched tale, which struck me with consternation, for I + could not help feeling that I was the first and final cause of this long + list of woes. Hence I felt it was my duty to succour her, however ill she + had treated me in the past. + </p> + <p> + “Then,” said I, “you are at present the victim of a fearful disease, + heavily in debt, likely to be turned out of doors and imprisoned by your + creditors. What do you propose to do?” + </p> + <p> + “Do! Why, throw myself in the Seine, to be sure; that’s all that is left + for me to do. I have not a farthing left.” + </p> + <p> + “And what would you do if you had some money?” + </p> + <p> + “I would put myself under the doctor’s hands, in the first place, and then + if any money was left I would go to Bologna and try to get a living + somehow. Perhaps I should have learnt a little wisdom by experience.” + </p> + <p> + “Poor girl, I pity you! and in spite of your bad treatment of me, which + has brought you to this pass, I will not abandon you. Here are four louis + for your present wants, and to-morrow I will tell you where you are to go + for your cure. When you have got well again, I will give you enough money + for the journey. Dry your tears, repent, amend your ways, and may God have + mercy on you!” + </p> + <p> + The poor girl threw herself on the ground before me, and covered one of my + hands with kisses, begging me to forgive her for the ill she had done me. + I comforted her and went my way, feeling very sad. I took a coach and + drove to the Rue de Seine, where I called on an old surgeon I knew, told + him the story, and what I wanted him to do. He told me he could cure her + in six weeks without anybody hearing about it, but that he must be paid in + advance. + </p> + <p> + “Certainly; but the girl is poor, and I am doing it out of charity.” + </p> + <p> + The worthy man took a piece of paper and gave me a note addressed to a + house in the Faubourg St. Antoine, which ran as follows: + </p> + <p> + “You will take in the person who brings you this note and three hundred + francs, and in six weeks you will send her back cured, if it please God. + The person has reasons for not wishing to be known.” + </p> + <p> + I was delighted to have managed the matter so speedily and at such a cheap + rate, and I went to bed in a calmer state of mind, deferring my interview + with my brother till the next day. + </p> + <p> + He came at eight o’clock, and, constant to his folly, told me he had a + plan to which he was sure I could have no objection. + </p> + <p> + “I don’t want to hear anything about it; make your choice, Paris or Rome.” + </p> + <p> + “Give me the journey-money, I will remain at Paris; but I will give a + written engagement not to trouble you or your brother again. That should + be sufficient.” + </p> + <p> + “It is not for you to judge of that. Begone! I have neither the time nor + the wish to listen to you. Remember, Paris without a farthing, or Rome + with twenty-five louis.” + </p> + <p> + Thereupon I called Clairmont, and told him to put the abbe out. + </p> + <p> + I was in a hurry to have done with the Corticelli affair, and went to the + house in the Faubourg St. Antoine, where I found a kindly and + intelligent-looking man and woman, and all the arrangements of the house + satisfactory and appropriate to the performance of secret cures. I saw the + room and the bath destined for the new boarder, everything was clean and + neat, and I gave them a hundred crowns, for which they handed me a + receipt. I told them that the lady would either come in the course of the + day, or on the day following. + </p> + <p> + I went to dine with Madame d’Urfe and the young Count d’Aranda. After + dinner the worthy marchioness talked to me for a long time of her + pregnancy, dwelling on her symptoms, and on the happiness that would be + hers when the babe stirred within her. I had put to a strong restrain upon + myself to avoid bursting out laughing. When I had finished with her I went + to the Corticelli, who called me her saviour and her guardian angel. I + gave her two louis to get some linen out of pawn, and promised to come and + see her before I left Paris, to give her a hundred crowns, which would + take her back to Bologna. Then I waited on Madame du Rumain who had said + farewell to society for three weeks. + </p> + <p> + This lady had an excellent heart, and was pretty as well, but she had so + curious a society-manner that she often made me laugh most heartily. She + talked of the sun and moon as if they were two Exalted Personages, to whom + she was about to be presented. She was once discussing with me the state + of the elect in heaven, and said that their greatest happiness was, no + doubt, to love God to distraction, for she had no idea of calm and + peaceful bliss. + </p> + <p> + I gave her the incense for the fumigation, and told her what psalms to + recite, and then we had a delicious supper. She told her chamber-maid to + escort me at ten o’clock to a room on the second floor which she had + furnished for me with the utmost luxury, adding,— + </p> + <p> + “Take care that the Chevalier de Seingalt is able to come into my room at + five o’clock to-morrow.” + </p> + <p> + At nine o’clock I placed her legs in a bath of lukewarm water, and taught + her how to suffumigate. Her legs were moulded by the hand of the Graces + and I wiped them amorously, laughing within myself at her expression of + gratitude, and I then laid her in bed, contenting myself with a solemn + kiss on her pretty forehead. When it was over I went up to my room where I + was waited on by the pretty maid, who performed her duties with that grace + peculiar to the French soubrette, and told me that as I had become her + mistress’s chambermaid it was only right that she should be my valet. Her + mirth was infectious, and I tried to make her sit down on my knee; but she + fled away like a deer, telling me that I ought to take care of myself if I + wanted to cut a good figure at five o’clock the next day. She was wrong, + but appearances were certainly against us, and it is well known that + servants do not give their masters and mistresses the benefit of the + doubt. + </p> + <p> + At five o’clock in the morning I found Madame du Rumain nearly dressed + when I went into her room, and we immediately went into another, from + which the rising sun might have been see if the “Hotel de Bouillon” had + not been in the way, but that, of course, was a matter of no consequence. + Madame du Rumain performed the ceremonies with all the dignity of an + ancient priestess of Baal. She then sat down to her piano, telling me that + to find some occupation for the long morning of nine hours would prove the + hardest of all the rules, for she did not dine till two, which was then + the fashionable hour. We had a meat breakfast without coffee, which I had + proscribed, and I left her, promising to call again before I left Paris. + </p> + <p> + When I got back to my inn, I found my brother there looking very uneasy at + my absence at such an early hour. When I saw him I cried,— + </p> + <p> + “Rome or Paris, which is it to be?” + </p> + <p> + “Rome,” he replied, cringingly. + </p> + <p> + “Wait in the antechamber. I will do your business for you.” + </p> + <p> + When I had finished I called him in, and found my other brother and his + wife, who said they had come to ask me to give them a dinner. + </p> + <p> + “Welcome!” said I. “You are come just in time to see me deal with the + abbe, who has resolved at last to go to Rome and to follow my directions.” + </p> + <p> + I sent Clairmont to the diligence office, and told him to book a place for + Lyons; and then I wrote out five bills of exchange, of five louis each, on + Lyons, Turin, Genoa, Florence, and Rome. + </p> + <p> + “Who is to assure me that these bills will be honoured?” + </p> + <p> + “I assure you, blockhead. If you don’t like them you can leave them.” + </p> + <p> + Clairmont brought the ticket for the diligence and I gave it to the abbe, + telling him roughly to be gone. + </p> + <p> + “But I may dine with you, surely?” said he. + </p> + <p> + “No, I have done with you. Go and dine with Possano, as you are his + accomplice in the horrible attempt he made to murder me. Clairmont, shew + this man out, and never let him set foot here again.” + </p> + <p> + No doubt more than one of my readers will pronounce my treatment of the + abbe to have been barbarous; but putting aside the fact that I owe no man + an account of my thoughts, deeds, and words, nature had implanted in me a + strong dislike to this brother of mine, and his conduct as a man and a + priest, and, above all, his connivance with Possano, had made him so + hateful to me that I should have watched him being hanged with the utmost + indifference, not to say with the greatest pleasure. Let everyone have his + own principles and his own passions, and my favourite passion has always + been vengeance. + </p> + <p> + “What did you do with the girl he eloped with?” said my sister-in-raw. + </p> + <p> + “I sent her back to Venice with the ambassadors the better by thirty + thousand francs, some fine jewels, and a perfect outfit of clothes. She + travelled in a carriage I gave her which was worth more than two hundred + louis.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s all very fine, but you must make some allowance for the abbe’s + grief and rage at seeing you sleep with her.” + </p> + <p> + “Fools, my dear sister, are made to suffer such grief, and many others + besides. Did he tell you that she would not let him have anything to do + with her, and that she used to box his ears?” + </p> + <p> + “On the the contrary, he was always talking of her love for him.” + </p> + <p> + “He made himself a fine fellow, I have no doubt, but the truth is, it was + a very ugly business.” + </p> + <p> + After several hours of pleasant conversation my brother left, and I took + my sister-in-law to the opera. As soon as we were alone this poor sister + of mine began to make the most bitter complaints of my brother. + </p> + <p> + “I am no more his wife now,” said she, “than I was the night before our + marriage.” + </p> + <p> + “What! Still a maid?” + </p> + <p> + “As much a maid as at the moment I was born. They tell me I could easily + obtain a dissolution of the marriage, but besides the scandal that would + arise, I unhappily love him, and I should not like to do anything that + would give him pain.” + </p> + <p> + “You are a wonderful woman, but why do you not provide a substitute for + him?” + </p> + <p> + “I know I might do so, without having to endure much remorse, but I prefer + to bear it.” + </p> + <p> + “You are very praiseworthy, but in the other ways you are happy?” + </p> + <p> + “He is overwhelmed with debt, and if I liked to call upon him to give me + back my dowry he would not have a shirt to his back. Why did he marry me? + He must have known his impotence. It was a dreadful thing to do.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but you must forgive him for it.” + </p> + <p> + She had cause for complaint, for marriage without enjoyment is a thorn + without roses. She was passionate, but her principles were stronger than + her passions, or else she would have sought for what she wanted elsewhere. + My impotent brother excused himself by saying that he loved her so well + that he thought cohabitation with her would restore the missing faculty; + he deceived himself and her at the same time. In time she died, and he + married another woman with the same idea, but this time passion was + stronger than virtue, and his new wife drove him away from Paris. I shall + say more of him in twenty years time. + </p> + <p> + At six o’clock the next morning the abbe went off in the diligence, and I + did not see him for six years. I spent the day with Madame d’Urfe, and I + agreed, outwardly, that young d’Aranda should return to Paris as a + postillion. I fixed our departure for the day after next. + </p> + <p> + The following day, after dining with Madame d’Urfe who continued to revel + in the joys of her regeneration, I paid a visit to the Corticelli in her + asylum. I found her sad and suffering, but content, and well pleased with + the gentleness of the surgeon and his wife, who told me they would effect + a radical cure. I gave her twelve louis, promising to send her twelve more + as soon as I had received a letter from her written at Bologna. She + promised she would write to me, but the poor unfortunate was never able to + keep her word, for she succumbed to the treatment, as the old surgeon + wrote to me, when I was at London. He asked what he should do with the + twelve louis which she had left to one Madame Laura, who was perhaps known + to me. I sent him her address, and the honest surgeon hastened to fulfil + the last wishes of the deceased. + </p> + <p> + All the persons who helped me in my magical operations with Madame d’Urfe + betrayed me, Marcoline excepted, and all save the fair Venetian died + miserably. Later on the reader will hear more of Possano and Costa. + </p> + <p> + The day before I left for London I supped with Madame du Rumain, who told + me that her voice was already beginning to return. She added a sage + reflection which pleased me highly. + </p> + <p> + “I should think,” she observed, “that the careful living prescribed by the + cabala must have a good effect on my health.” + </p> + <p> + “Most certainly,” said I, “and if you continue to observe the rules you + will keep both your health and your voice.” + </p> + <p> + I knew that it is often necessary to deceive before one can instruct; the + shadows must come before the dawn. + </p> + <p> + I took leave of my worthy Madame d’Urfe with an emotion which I had never + experienced before; it must have been a warning that I should never see + her again. I assured her that I would faithfully observe all my promises, + and she replied that her happiness was complete, and that she knew she + owed it all to me. In fine, I took d’Aranda and his top-boots, which he + was continually admiring, to my inn, whence we started in the evening, as + he had begged me to travel by night. He was ashamed to be seen in a + carriage dressed as a courier. + </p> + <p> + When we reached Abbeville he asked me where his mother was. + </p> + <p> + “We will see about it after dinner.” + </p> + <p> + “But you can find out in a moment whether she is here or not?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but there is no hurry.” + </p> + <p> + “And what will you do if she is not here?” + </p> + <p> + “We will go on till we meet her on the way. In the meanwhile let us go and + see the famous manufactory of M. Varobes before dinner.” + </p> + <p> + “Go by yourself. I am tired, and I will sleep till you come back.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good.” + </p> + <p> + I spent two hours in going over the magnificent establishment, the owner + himself shewing it me, and then I went back to dinner and called for my + young gentleman. + </p> + <p> + “He started for Paris riding post,” replied the innkeeper, who was also + the post-master, “five minutes after you left. He said he was going after + some dispatches you had left at Paris.” + </p> + <p> + “If you don’t get him back I will ruin you with law-suits; you had no + business to let him have a horse without my orders.” + </p> + <p> + “I will capture the little rascal, sir, before he has got to Amiens.” + </p> + <p> + He called a smart-looking postillion, who laughed when he heard what was + wanted. + </p> + <p> + “I would catch him up,” said he, “even if he had four hours start. You + shall have him here at six o’clock.” + </p> + <p> + “I will give you two louis.” + </p> + <p> + “I would catch him for that, though he were a very lark.” + </p> + <p> + He was in the saddle in five minutes, and by the rate at which he started + I did not doubt his success. Nevertheless I could not enjoy my dinner. I + felt so ashamed to have been taken in by a lad without any knowledge of + the world. I lay down on a bed and slept till the postillion aroused me by + coming in with the runaway, who looked half dead. I said nothing to him, + but gave orders that he should be locked up in a good room, with a good + bed to sleep on, and a good supper; and I told the landlord that I should + hold him answerable for the lad as long as I was in his inn. The + postillion had caught him up at the fifth post, just before Amiens, and as + he was already quite tired out the little man surrendered like a lamb. + </p> + <p> + At day-break I summoned him before me, and asked him if he would come to + London of his own free will or bound hand and foot. + </p> + <p> + “I will come with you, I give you my word of honour; but you must let me + ride on before you. Otherwise, with this dress of mine, I should be + ashamed to go. I don’t want it to be thought that you had to give chase to + me, as if I had robbed you.” + </p> + <p> + “I accept your word of honour, but be careful to keep it. Embrace me, and + order another saddle-horse.” + </p> + <p> + He mounted his horse in high spirits, and rode in front of the carriage + with Clairmont. He was quite astonished to find his trunk at Calais, which + he reached two hours before me. + </p> + <a name="linkE2HCH0007" id="linkE2HCH0007"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VII + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + My Arrival in London; Madame Cornelis—I Am Presented at + Court—I Rent a Furnished House—I Make a Large Circle of + Acquaintance—Manners of the English +</pre> + <a name="linkEimage-0003" id="linkEimage-0003"> + <!-- IMG --></a> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img src="images/5c07.jpg" width="100%" alt="Chapter 7 " /> + </div> + <p> + When I got to Calais I consigned my post-chaise to the care of the + landlord of the inn, and hired a packet. There was only one available for + a private party, there being another for public use at six francs apiece. + I paid six guineas in advance, taking care to get a proper receipt, for I + knew that at Calais a man finds himself in an awkward position if he is + unable to support his claim by documents. + </p> + <p> + Before the tide was out Clairmont got all my belongings on board, and I + ordered my supper. The landlord told me that louis were not current in + England, and offered to give me guineas in exchange for mine; but I was + surprised when I found he gave me the same number of guineas as I had + given him of louis. I wanted him to take the difference—four per + cent.—but he refused, saying that he did not allow anything when the + English gave him guineas for louis. I do not know whether he found his + system a profitable one on the whole, but it was certainly so for me. + </p> + <p> + The young Count d’Aranda, to whom I had restored his humble name of + Trenti, was quite resigned, but proud of having given me a specimen of his + knowingness by riding post. We were just going to sit down at table, well + pleased with one another, when I heard a loud conversation in English + going on near my door, and mine host came in to tell me what it was about. + </p> + <p> + “It’s the courier of the Duke of Bedford, the English ambassador,” said + he; “he announces the approach of his master, and is disputing with the + captain of the packet. He says he hired the boat by letter, and that the + captain had no right to let it to you. The master maintains that he has + received no such letter, and no one can prove that he is telling a lie.” + </p> + <p> + I congratulated myself on having taken the packet and paid the + earnest-money, and went to bed. At day-break the landlord said that the + ambassador had arrived at midnight, and that his man wanted to see me. + </p> + <p> + He came in and told me that the nobleman, his master, was in a great hurry + to get to London, and that I should oblige him very much by yielding the + boat to him. + </p> + <p> + I did not answer a word, but wrote a note which ran as follows: + </p> + <p> + “My lord duke may dispose of the whole of the packet, with the exception + of the space necessary for my own accommodation, that of two other + persons, and my luggage. I am delighted to have the opportunity of + obliging the English ambassador.” + </p> + <p> + The valet took the note, and returned to thank me on behalf of his master, + who stipulated, however, that he should be allowed to pay for the packet. + </p> + <p> + “Tell him that it is out of the question, as the boat is paid for + already.” + </p> + <p> + “He will give you the six guineas.” + </p> + <p> + “Tell your master that I cannot allow him to pay. I do not buy to sell + again.” + </p> + <p> + The duke called on me in the course of half an hour, and said that we were + both of us in the right. + </p> + <p> + “However,” he added, “there is a middle course, let us adopt it, and I + shall be just as much indebted to you.” + </p> + <p> + “What is that, my lord?” + </p> + <p> + “We will each pay half.” + </p> + <p> + “My desire to oblige you, my lord, will not allow me to refuse, but it is + I who will be indebted to you for the honour your lordship does me. We + will start as soon as you like, and I can make my arrangements + accordingly.” + </p> + <p> + He shook my hand and left the room, and when he had gone I found three + guineas on the table. He had placed them there without my noticing them. + An hour afterwards I returned his call, and then told the master to take + the duke and his carriages on board. + </p> + <p> + We took two hours and a half in crossing the Channel; the wind was strong, + but we made a good passage. + </p> + <p> + The stranger who sets his foot on English soil has need of a good deal of + patience. The custom-house officials made a minute, vexatious and even an + impertinent perquisition; but as the duke and ambassador had to submit, I + thought it best to follow his example; besides, resistance would be + useless. The Englishman, who prides himself on his strict adherence to the + law of the land, is curt and rude in his manner, and the English officials + cannot be compared to the French, who know how to combine politeness with + the exercise of their rights. + </p> + <p> + English is different in every respect from the rest of Europe; even the + country has a different aspect, and the water of the Thames has a taste + peculiar to itself. Everything has its own characteristics, and the fish, + cattle, horses, men, and women are of a type not found in any other land. + Their manner of living is wholly different from that of other countries, + especially their cookery. The most striking feature in their character is + their national pride; they exalt themselves above all other nations. + </p> + <p> + My attention was attracted by the universal cleanliness, the beauty of the + country, the goodness of the roads, the reasonable charges for posting, + the quickness of the horses, although they never go beyond a trot; and + lastly, the construction of the towns on the Dover road; Canterbury and + Rochester for instance, though large and populous, are like long passages; + they are all length and no breadth. + </p> + <p> + We got to London in the evening and stopped at the house of Madame + Cornelis, as Therese called herself. She was originally married to an + actor named Imer, then to the dancer Pompeati, who committed suicide at + Venice by ripping up his stomach with a razor. + </p> + <p> + In Holland she had been known as Madame Trenti, but at London she had + taken the name of her lover Cornelius Rigerboos, whom she had contrived to + ruin. + </p> + <p> + She lived in Soho Square, almost facing the house of the Venetian + ambassador. When I arrived I followed the instructions I had received in + her last letter. I left her son in the carriage, and sent up my name, + expecting she would fly to meet me; but the porter told me to wait, and in + a few minutes a servant in grand livery brought me a note in which Madame + Cornelis asked me to get down at the house to which her servant would + conduct me. I thought this rather strange behaviour, but still she might + have her reasons for acting in this manner, so I did not let my + indignation appear. When we got to the house, a fat woman named Rancour, + and two servants, welcomed us, or rather welcomed my young friend; for the + lady embraced him, told him how glad she was to see him, and did not + appear to be aware of my existence. + </p> + <p> + Our trunks were taken in, and Madame Rancour having ascertained which + belonged to Cornelis, had them placed in a fine suite of three rooms, and + said, pointing out to him the apartment and the two servants, + </p> + <p> + “This apartment and the two servants are for you, and I, too, am your most + humble servant.” + </p> + <p> + Clairmont told me that he had put my things in a room which communicated + with Cornelis’s. I went to inspect it, and saw directly that I was being + treated as if I were a person of no consequence. The storm of anger was + gathering, but wonderful to relate, I subdued myself, and did not say a + word. + </p> + <p> + “Where is your room?” I said to Clairmont. + </p> + <p> + “Near the roof, and I am to share it with one of those two louts you saw.” + </p> + <p> + The worthy Clairmont, who knew my disposition, was surprised at the calm + with which I said,— + </p> + <p> + “Take your trunk there.” + </p> + <p> + “Shall I open yours?” + </p> + <p> + “No. We will see what can be done to-morrow.” + </p> + <p> + I still kept on my mask, and returned to the room of the young gentleman + who seemed to be considered as my master. I found him listening with a + foolish stare to Madame Rancour, who was telling him of the splendid + position his mother occupied, her great enterprise, her immense credit, + the splendid house she had built, her thirty-three servants, her two + secretaries, her six horses, her country house, etc., etc. + </p> + <p> + “How is my sister Sophie?” said the young gentleman. + </p> + <p> + “Her name is Sophie, is it? She is only known as Miss Cornelis. She is a + beauty, a perfect prodigy, she plays at sight on several instruments, + dances like Terpsichore, speaks English, French, and Italian equally well—in + a word, she is really wonderful. She has a governess and a maid. + Unfortunately, she is rather short for her age; she is eight.” + </p> + <p> + She was ten, but as Madame Rancour was not speaking to me I refrained from + interrupting her. + </p> + <p> + My lord Cornelis, who felt very tired, asked at what hour they were to + sup. + </p> + <p> + “At ten o’clock and not before,” said the duenna, “for Madame Cornelis is + always engaged till then. She is always with her lawyer, on account of an + important law-suit she has against Sir Frederick Fermer.” + </p> + <p> + I could see that I should learn nothing worth learning by listening to the + woman’s gossip, so I took my hat and cane and went for a walk in the + immense city, taking care not to lose my way. + </p> + <p> + It was seven o’clock when I went out, and a quarter of an hour after, + seeing a number of people in a coffeehouse, I entered it. It was the most + notorious place in London, the resort of all the rascally Italians in + town. I had heard of it at Lyons, and had taken a firm resolve never to + set foot in it, but almighty chance made me go there unknown to myself. + But it was my only visit. + </p> + <p> + I sat down by myself and called for a glass of lemonade, and before long a + man came and sat by me to profit by the light. He had a printed paper in + his hand, and I could see that the words were Italian. He had a pencil + with which he scratched out some words and letters, writing the + corrections in the margin. Idle curiosity made me follow him in his work, + and I noticed him correcting the word ‘ancora’, putting in an ‘h’ in the + margin. I was irritated by this barbarous spelling, and told him that for + four centuries ‘ancora’ had been spelt without an ‘h’. + </p> + <p> + “Quite so,” said he, “but I am quoting from Boccaccio, and one should be + exact in quotations.” + </p> + <p> + “I apologize, sir; I see you are a man of letters.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, in a small way. My name is Martinelli.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you are in a great way indeed. I know you by repute, and if I am not + mistaken you are a relation of Calsabigi, who has spoken of you to me. I + have read some of your satires.” + </p> + <p> + “May I ask to whom I have the honour of speaking?” + </p> + <p> + “My name is Seingalt. Have you finished your edition of the Decameron?” + </p> + <p> + “I am still at work on it, and trying to increase the number of my + subscribers.” + </p> + <p> + “If you will be so kind I should be glad to be of the number.” + </p> + <p> + “You do me honour.” + </p> + <p> + He gave me a ticket, and seeing that it was only for a guinea I took four, + and telling him I hoped to see him again at the same coffee-house, the + name of which I asked him, he told it me, evidently astonished at my + ignorance; but his surprise vanished when I informed him that I had only + been in London for an hour, and that it was my first visit to the great + city. + </p> + <p> + “You will experience some trouble in finding your way back,” said he, + “allow me to accompany you.” + </p> + <p> + When we had got out he gave me to understand that chance had led me to the + “Orange Coffee House,” the most disreputable house in London. + </p> + <p> + “But you go there.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but I can say with Juvenal: + </p> + <p> + “‘Cantabit vacuus coram latrone viator.’ + </p> + <p> + “The rogues can’t hurt me; I know them and they know me; we never trouble + each other.” + </p> + <p> + “You have been a long time in London, I suppose.” + </p> + <p> + “Five years.” + </p> + <p> + “I presume you know a good many people.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but I seldom wait on anyone but Lord Spencer. I am occupied with + literary work and live all by myself. I don’t make much, but enough to + live on. I live in furnished apartments, and have twelve shirts and the + clothes you see on my back, and that is enough for my happiness. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + “‘Nec ultra deos lacesso.’” + </pre> + <p> + I was pleased with this honest man, who spoke Italian with the most + exquisite correctness. + </p> + <p> + On the way back I asked him what I had better do to get a comfortable + lodging. When he heard the style in which I wished to live and the time I + proposed to spend in London, he advised me to take a house completely + furnished. + </p> + <p> + “You will be given an inventory of the goods,” said he, “and as soon as + you get a surety your house will be your castle.” + </p> + <p> + “I like the idea,” I answered, “but how shall I find such a house?” + </p> + <p> + “That is easily done.” + </p> + <p> + He went into a shop, begged the mistress to lend him the Advertiser, noted + down several advertisements, and said,— + </p> + <p> + “That’s all we have to do.” + </p> + <p> + The nearest house was in Pall Mall and we went to see it. An old woman + opened the door to us, and shewed us the ground floor and the three floors + above. Each floor contained two rooms and a closet. Everything shone with + cleanliness; linen, furniture, carpets, mirrors, and china, and even the + bells and the bolts on the doors. The necessary linen was kept in a large + press, and in another was the silver plate and several sets of china. The + arrangements in the kitchen were excellent, and in a word, nothing was + lacking in the way of comfort. The rent was twenty guineas a week, and, + not stopping to bargain, which is never of any use in London, I told + Martinelli that I would take it on the spot. + </p> + <p> + Martinelli translated what I said to the old woman, who told me that if I + liked to keep her on as housekeeper I need not have a surety, and that it + would only be necessary for me to pay for each week in advance. I answered + that I would do so, but that she must get me a servant who could speak + French or Italian as well as English. She promised to get one in a day’s + time, and I paid her for four weeks’ rent on the spot, for which she gave + me a receipt under the name of the Chevalier de Seingalt. This was the + name by which I was known during the whole of my stay in London. + </p> + <p> + Thus in less than two hours I was comfortably settled in a town which is + sometimes described as a chaos, especially for a stranger. But in London + everything is easy to him who has money and is not afraid of spending it. + I was delighted to be able to escape so soon from a house where I was + welcomed so ill, though I had a right to the best reception; but I was + still more pleased at the chance which had made me acquainted with + Martinelli, whom I had known by repute for six years. + </p> + <p> + When I got back Madame Cornelis had not yet arrived, though ten o’clock + had struck. Young Cornelis was asleep on the sofa. I was enraged at the + way the woman treated me, but I resolved to put a good face on it. + </p> + <p> + Before long three loud knocks announced the arrival of Madame Cornelis in + a sedan-chair, and I heard her ascending the stairs. She came in and + seemed glad to see me, but did not come and give me those caresses which I + had a right to expect. She ran to her son and took him on her knee, but + the sleepy boy did not respond to her kisses with any great warmth. + </p> + <p> + “He is very tired, like myself,” said I, “and considering that we are + travellers in need of rest you have kept us waiting a long time.” + </p> + <p> + I do not know whether she would have answered at all, or, if so, what her + answer would have been, for just at that moment a servant came in and said + that supper was ready. She rose and did me the honour to take my arm, and + we went into another room which I had not seen. The table was laid for + four, and I was curious enough to enquire who was the fourth person. + </p> + <p> + “It was to have been my daughter, but I left her behind, as when I told + her that you and her brother had arrived she asked me if you were well.” + </p> + <p> + “And you have punished her for doing so?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly, for in my opinion she ought to have asked for her brother + first and then for you. Don’t you think I was right?” + </p> + <p> + “Poor Sophie! I am sorry for her. Gratitude has evidently more influence + over her than blood relationship.” + </p> + <p> + “It is not a question of sentiment, but of teaching young persons to think + with propriety.” + </p> + <p> + “Propriety is often far from proper.” + </p> + <p> + The woman told her son that she was working hard to leave him a fortune + when she died, and that she had been obliged to summon him to England as + he was old enough to help her in her business. + </p> + <p> + “And how am I to help you, my dear mother?” + </p> + <p> + “I give twelve balls and twelve suppers to the nobility, and the same + number to the middle classes in the year. I have often as many as six + hundred guests at two guineas a head. The expenses are enormous, and alone + as I am I must be robbed, for I can’t be in two places at once. Now that + you are here you can keep everything under lock and key, keep the books, + pay and receive accounts, and see that everyone is properly attended to at + the assemblies; in fine, you will perform the duties of the master.” + </p> + <p> + “And do you think that I can do all that?” + </p> + <p> + “You will easily learn it.” + </p> + <p> + “I think it will be very difficult.” + </p> + <p> + “One of my secretaries will come and live with you, and instruct you in + everything. During the first year you will only have to acquire the + English language, and to be present at my assemblies, that I may introduce + you to the most distinguished people in London. You will get quite English + before long.” + </p> + <p> + “I would rather remain French.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s mere prejudice, my dear, you will like the sound of Mister + Cornelis by-and-bye.” + </p> + <p> + “Cornelis?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; that is your name.” + </p> + <p> + “It’s a very funny one.” + </p> + <p> + “I will write it down, so that you may not forget it.” Thinking that her + dear son was joking. Madame Cornelis looked at me in some astonishment, + and told him to go to bed, which he did instantly. When we were alone she + said he struck her as badly educated, and too small for his age. + </p> + <p> + “I am very much afraid,” said she, “that we shall have to begin his + education all over again. What has he learnt in the last six years?” + </p> + <p> + “He might have learnt a great deal, for he went to the best boarding + school in Paris; but he only learnt what he liked, and what he liked was + not much. He can play the flute, ride, fence, dance a minuet, change his + shirt every day, answer politely, make a graceful bow, talk elegant + trifles, and dress well. As he never had any application, he doesn’t know + anything about literature; he can scarcely write, his spelling is + abominable, his arithmetic limited, and I doubt whether he knows in what + continent England is situated.” + </p> + <p> + “He has used the six years well, certainly.” + </p> + <p> + “Say, rather, he has wasted them; but he will waste many more.” + </p> + <p> + “My daughter will laugh at him; but then it is I who have had the care of + her education. He will be ashamed when he finds her so well instructed + though she is only eight.” + </p> + <p> + “He will never see her at eight, if I know anything of reckoning; she is + fully ten.” + </p> + <p> + “I think I ought to know the age of my own daughter. She knows geography, + history, languages, and music; she argues correctly, and behaves in a + manner which is surprising in so young a child. All the ladies are in love + with her. I keep her at a school of design all day; she shews a great + taste for drawing. She dines with me on Sundays, and if you would care to + come to dinner next Sunday you will confess that I have not exaggerated + her capacities.” + </p> + <p> + It was Monday. I said nothing, but I thought it strange that she did not + seem to consider that I was impatient to see my daughter. She should have + asked me to meet her at supper the following evening. + </p> + <p> + “You are just in time,” said she, “to witness the last assembly of the + year; for in a few weeks all the nobility will leave town in order to pass + the summer in the country. I can’t give you a ticket, as they are only + issued to the nobility, but you can come as my friend and keep close to + me. You will see everything. If I am asked who you are, I will say that + you have superintended the education of my son in Paris, and have brought + him back to me.” + </p> + <p> + “You do me too much honour.” + </p> + <p> + We continued talking till two o’clock in the morning, and she told me all + about the suit she had with Sir Frederick Fermer. He maintained that the + house she had built at a cost of ten thousand guineas belonged to him as + he had furnished the money. In equity he was right, but according to + English law wrong, for it was she who had paid the workmen, the + contractors, and the architect; it was she that had given and received + receipts, and signed all documents. The house, therefore, belonged to her, + and Fermer admitted as much; but he claimed the sum he had furnished, and + here was the kernel of the whole case, for she had defied him to produce a + single acknowledgment of money received. + </p> + <p> + “I confess,” said this honest woman, “that you have often given me a + thousand pounds at a time, but that was a friendly gift, and nothing to be + wondered at in a rich Englishman, considering that we were lovers and + lived together.” + </p> + <p> + She had won her suit four times over in two years, but Fermer took + advantage of the intricacies of English law to appeal again and again, and + now he had gone to the House of Lords, the appeal to which might last + fifteen years. + </p> + <p> + “This suit,” said the honest lady, “dishonours Fermer.” + </p> + <p> + “I should think it did, but you surely don’t think it honours you.” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly I do.” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t quite understand how you make that out.” + </p> + <p> + “I will explain it all to you.” + </p> + <p> + “We will talk it over again.” + </p> + <p> + In the three hours for which we talked together this woman did not once + ask me how I was, whether I was comfortable, how long I intended to stay + in London, or whether I had made much money. In short she made no + enquiries what ever about me, only saying with a smile, but not + heedlessly,— + </p> + <p> + “I never have a penny to spare.” + </p> + <p> + Her receipts amounted to more than twenty-four thousand pounds per annum, + but her expenses were enormous and she had debts. + </p> + <p> + I avenged myself on her indifference by not saying a word about myself. I + was dresssed simply but neatly, and had not any jewellery or diamonds about + my person. + </p> + <p> + I went to bed annoyed with her, but glad to have discovered the badness of + her heart. In spite of my longing to see my daughter I determined not to + take any steps to meet her till the ensuing Sunday, when I was invited to + dinner. + </p> + <p> + Early next morning I told Clairmont to pull all my goods and chattels in a + carriage, and when all was ready I went to take leave of young Cornelis, + telling him I was going to live in Pall Mall, and leaving him my address. + </p> + <p> + “You are not going to stay with me, then?” said he. + </p> + <p> + “No, your mother doesn’t know how to welcome or to treat me.” + </p> + <p> + “I think you are right. I shall go back to Paris.” + </p> + <p> + “Don’t do anything so silly. Remember that here you are at home, and that + in Paris you might not find a roof to shelter you. Farewell; I shall see + you on Sunday.” + </p> + <p> + I was soon settled in my new house, and I went out to call on M. Zuccato, + the Venetian ambassador. I gave him M. Morosini’s letter, and he said, + coldly, that he was glad to make my acquaintance. When I asked him to + present me at Court the insolent fool only replied with a smile, which + might fairly be described as contemptuous. It was the aristocratic pride + coming out, so I returned his smile with a cold bow, and never set foot in + his house again. + </p> + <p> + On leaving Zuccato I called on Lord Egremont, and finding him ill left my + letter with the porter. He died a few days after, so M. Morosini’s letters + were both useless through no fault of his. We shall learn presently what + was the result of the little note. + </p> + <p> + I then went to the Comte de Guerchi, the French ambassador, with a letter + from the Marquis Chauvelin, and I received a warm welcome. This nobleman + asked me to dine with him the following day, and told me that if I liked + he would present me at Court after chapel on Sunday. It was at that + ambassador’s table that I made the acquaintance of the Chevalier d’Eon, + the secretary of the embassy, who afterwards became famous. This Chevalier + d’Eon was a handsome woman who had been an advocate and a captain of + dragoons before entering the diplomatic service; she served Louis XV. as a + valiant soldier and a diplomatist of consummate skill. In spite of her + manly ways I soon recognized her as a woman; her voice was not that of a + castrato, and her shape was too rounded to be a man’s. I say nothing of + the absence of hair on her face, as that might be an accident. + </p> + <p> + In the first days of my stay in London I made the acquaintance of my + bankers; who held at least three hundred thousand francs of my money. They + all honoured my drafts and offered their services to me, but I did not + make use of their good offices. + </p> + <p> + I visited the theatres of Covent Garden and Drury Lane, but I could not + extract much enjoyment out of the performances as I did not know a word of + English. I dined at all the taverns, high and low, to get some insight + into the peculiar manners of the English. In the morning I went on + ‘Change, where I made some friends. It was there that a merchant to whom I + spoke got me a Negro servant who spoke English, French, and Italian with + equal facility; and the same individual procured me a cook who spoke + French. I also visited the bagnios where a rich man can sup, bathe, and + sleep with a fashionable courtezan, of which species there are many in + London. It makes a magnificent debauch and only costs six guineas. The + expense may be reduced to a hundred francs, but economy in pleasure is not + to my taste. + </p> + <p> + On Sunday I made an elegant toilette and went to Court about eleven, and + met the Comte de Guerchi as we had arranged. He introduced me to George + III., who spoke to me, but in such a low voice that I could not understand + him and had to reply by a bow. The queen made up for the king, however, + and I was delighted to observe that the proud ambassador from my beloved + Venice was also present. When M. de Guerchi introduced me under the name + of the Chevalier de Seingalt, Zuccato looked astonished, for Mr. Morosini + had called me Casanova in his letter. The queen asked me from what part of + France I came, and understanding from my answer that I was from Venice, + she looked at the Venetian ambassador, who bowed as if to say that he had + no objection to make. Her Majesty then asked me if I knew the ambassadors + extraordinary, who had been sent to congratulate the king, and I replied + that I had the pleasure of knowing them intimately, and that I had spent + three days in their society at Lyons, where M. Morosini gave me letters + for my Lord d’Egremont and M. Zuccato. + </p> + <p> + “M. Querini amused me extremely,” said the queen; “he called me a little + devil.” + </p> + <p> + “He meant to say that your highness is as witty as an angel.” + </p> + <p> + I longed for the queen to ask me why I had not been presented by M. + Zuccatto, for I had a reply on the tip of my tongue that would have + deprived the ambassador of his sleep for a week, while I should have slept + soundly, for vengeance is a divine pleasure, especially when it is taken + on the proud and foolish; but the whole conversation was a compound of + nothings, as is usual in courts. + </p> + <p> + After my interview was over I got into my sedan-chair and went to Soho + Square. A man in court dress cannot walk the streets of London without + being pelted with mud by the mob, while the gentleman look on and laugh. + All customs must be respected; they are all at once worthy and absurd. + </p> + <p> + When I got to the house of Madame Cornelis, I and my Negro Jarbe were + shewn upstairs, and conducted through a suite of gorgeous apartments to a + room where the lady of the house was sitting with two English ladies and + two English gentlemen. She received me with familiar politeness, made me + sit down in an armchair beside her, and then continued the conversation in + English without introducing me. When her steward told her that dinner was + ready, she gave orders for the children to be brought down. + </p> + <p> + I had long desired this meeting, and when I saw Sophie I ran to meet her; + but she, who had profited by her mother’s instructions, drew back with + profound courtesy and a compliment learnt by heart. I did not say anything + for fear I should embarrass her, but I felt grieved to the heart. + </p> + <p> + Madame Cornelis then brought forward her son, telling the company that I + had brought him to England after superintending his education for six + years. She spoke in French, so I was glad to see that her friends + understood that language. + </p> + <p> + We sat down to table; Madame Cornelis between her two children, and I + between the two Englishwomen, one of whom delighted me by her pleasant + wit. I attached myself to her as soon as I noticed that the mistress of + the house only spoke to me by chance, and that Sophie did not look at me. + She was so like me that no mistake was possible. I could see that she had + been carefully tutored by her mother to behave in this manner, and I felt + this treatment to be both absurd and impertinent. + </p> + <p> + I did not want to let anyone see that I was angry, so I began to discourse + in a pleasant strain on the peculiarities of English manners, taking care, + however, not to say anything which might wound the insular pride of the + English guests. My idea was to make them laugh and to make myself + agreeable, and I succeeded, but not a word did I speak to Madame Cornelis; + I did not so much as look at her. + </p> + <p> + The lady next to me, after admiring the beauty of my lace, asked me what + was the news at Court. + </p> + <p> + “It was all news to me,” said I, “for I went there to-day for the first + time.” + </p> + <p> + “Have you seen the king?” said Sir Joseph Cornelis. + </p> + <p> + “My dear, you should not ask such questions,” said his mother. + </p> + <p> + “Why not?” + </p> + <p> + “Because the gentleman may not wish to answer them.” + </p> + <p> + “On the contrary, madam, I like being questioned. I have been teaching + your son for the last six years to be always asking something, for that is + the way to acquire knowledge. He who asks nothing knows nothing.” + </p> + <p> + I had touched her to the quick, and she fell into a sulky silence. + </p> + <p> + “You have not told me yet,” said the lad, “whether you saw the king.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, my man, I saw the king and the queen, and both their majesties did + me the honour to speak to me.” + </p> + <p> + “Who introduced you?” + </p> + <p> + “The French ambassador.” + </p> + <p> + “I think you will agree with me,” said the mother, “that last question was + a little too much.” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly it would be if it were addressed to a stranger, but not to me + who am his friend. You will notice that the reply he extracted from me did + me honour. If I had not wished it to be known that I had been at Court, I + should not have come here in this dress.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good; but as you like to be questioned, may I ask you why you were + not presented by your own ambassador?” + </p> + <p> + “Because the Venetian ambassador would not present me, knowing that his + Government have a bone to pick with me.” + </p> + <p> + By this time we had come to the dessert, and poor Sophie had not uttered a + syllable. + </p> + <p> + “Say something to M. de Seingalt,” said her mother. + </p> + <p> + “I don’t know what to say,” she answered. “Tell M. de Seingalt to ask me + some questions, and I will answer to the best of my ability.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Sophie, tell me in what studies you are engaged at the present + time.” + </p> + <p> + “I am learning drawing; if you like I will shew you some of my work.” + </p> + <p> + “I will look at it with pleasure; but tell me how you think you have + offended me; you have a guilty air.” + </p> + <p> + “I, sir? I do not think I have done anything amiss.” + </p> + <p> + “Nor do I, my dear; but as you do not look at me when you speak I thought + you must be ashamed of something. Are you ashamed of your fine eyes? You + blush. What have you done?” + </p> + <p> + “You are embarrassing her,” said the mother. “Tell him, my dear, that you + have done nothing, but that a feeling of modesty and respect prevents you + from gazing at the persons you address.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said I; “but if modesty bids young ladies lower their eyes, + politeness should make them raise them now and again.” + </p> + <p> + No one replied to this objection, which was a sharp cut for the absurd + woman; but after an interval of silence we rose from the table, and Sophie + went to fetch her drawings. + </p> + <p> + “I won’t look at anything, Sophie, unless you will look at me.” + </p> + <p> + “Come,” said her mother, “look at the gentleman.” + </p> + <p> + She obeyed as quickly as lightning, and I saw the prettiest eyes + imaginable. + </p> + <p> + “Now,” said I, “I know you again, and perhaps you may remember having seen + me.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, although it is six years ago since we met, I recognized you + directly.” + </p> + <p> + “And yet you did not look me in the face! If you knew how impolite it was + to lower your eyes when you are addressing anyone, you would not do it. + Who can have given you such a bad lesson?” + </p> + <p> + The child glanced towards her mother, who was standing by a window, and I + saw who was her preceptress. + </p> + <p> + I felt that I had taken sufficient vengeance, and began to examine her + drawings, to praise them in detail, and to congratulate her on her + talents. I told her that she ought to be thankful to have a mother who had + given her so good an education. This indirect compliment pleased Madame + Cornelis, and Sophie, now free from all restraint, gazed at me with an + expression of child-like affection which ravished me. Her features bore + the imprint of a noble soul within, and I pitied her for having to grow up + under the authority of a foolish mother. Sophie went to the piano, played + with feeling, and then sang some Italian airs, to the accompaniment of the + guitar, too well for her age. She was too precocious, and wanted much more + discretion in her education than Madame Cornelis was able to give her. + </p> + <p> + When her singing had been applauded by the company, her mother told her to + dance a minuet with her brother, who had learnt in Paris, but danced badly + for want of a good carriage. His sister told him so with a kiss, and then + asked me to dance with her, which I did very readily. Her mother, who + thought she had danced exquisitely, as was indeed the case, told her that + she must give me a kiss. She came up to me, and drawing her on my knee I + covered her face with kisses, which she returned with the greatest + affection. Her mother laughed with all her heart, and then Sophie, + beginning to be doubtful again, went up to her and asked if she were + angry. Her mother comforted her with a kiss. + </p> + <p> + After we had taken coffee, which was served in the French fashion, Madame + Cornelis shewed me a magnificent hall which she had built, in which she + could give supper to four hundred persons seated at one table. She told + me, and I could easily believe her, that there was not such another in all + London. + </p> + <p> + The last assembly was given before the prorogation of Parliament; it was + to take place in four or five days. She had a score of pretty girls in her + service, and a dozen footmen all in full livery. + </p> + <p> + “They all rob me,” said she, “but I have to put up with it. What I want is + a sharp man to help me and watch over my interests; if I had such an one I + should make an immense fortune in a comparatively short time; for when it + is a question of pleasure, the English do not care what they spend.” + </p> + <p> + I told her I hoped she would find such man and make the fortune, and then + I left her, admiring her enterprise. + </p> + <p> + When I left Soho Square I went to St. James’s Park to see Lady Harrington + for whom I bore a letter, as I have mentioned. This lady lived in the + precincts of the Court, and received company every Sunday. It was + allowable to play in her house, as the park is under the jurisdiction of + the Crown. In any other place there is no playing cards or singing on + Sundays. The town abounds in spies, and if they have reason to suppose + that there is any gaming or music going on, they watch for their + opportunity, slip into the house, and arrest all the bad Christians, who + are diverting themselves in a manner which is thought innocent enough in + any other country. But to make up for this severity the Englishman may go + in perfect liberty to the tavern or the brothel, and sanctify the Sabbath + as he pleases. + </p> + <p> + I called on Lady Harrington, and having sent up my letter she summoned me + into her presence. I found her in the midst of about thirty persons, but + the hostess was easily distinguished by the air of welcome she had for me. + </p> + <p> + After I had made my bow she told me she had seen me at Court in the + morning, and that without knowing who I was she had been desirous of + making my acquaintance. Our conversation lasted three-quarters of an hour, + and was composed of those frivolous observations and idle questions which + are commonly addressed to a traveller. + </p> + <p> + The lady was forty, but she was still handsome. She was well known for her + gallantries and her influence at Court. She introduced me to her husband + and her four daughters, charming girls of a marriageable age. She asked me + why I had come to London when everybody was on the point of going out of + town. I told her that as I always obeyed the impulse of the moment, I + should find it difficult to answer her question; besides, I intended + staying for a year, so that the pleasure would be deferred but not lost. + </p> + <p> + My reply seemed to please her by its character of English independence, + and she offered with exquisite grace to do all in her power for me. + </p> + <p> + “In the meanwhile,” said she, “we will begin by letting you see all the + nobility at Madame Cornelis’s on Thursday next. I can give you a ticket to + admit to ball and supper. It is two guineas.” + </p> + <p> + I gave her the money, and she took the ticket again, writing on it, “Paid.—Harrington.” + </p> + <p> + “Is this formality necessary, my lady?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; or else they would ask you for the money at the doors.” + </p> + <p> + I did not think it necessary to say anything about my connection with the + lady of Soho Square. + </p> + <p> + While Lady Harrington was making up a rubber at whist, she asked me if I + had any other letters for ladies. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said I, “I have one which I intend to present to-morrow. It is a + singular letter, being merely a portrait.” + </p> + <p> + “Have you got it about you?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, my lady.” + </p> + <p> + “May I see it?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly. Here it is.” + </p> + <p> + “It is the Duchess of Northumberland. We will go and give it her.” + </p> + <p> + “With pleasure!” + </p> + <p> + “Just wait till they have marked the game.” + </p> + <p> + Lord Percy had given me this portrait as a letter of introduction to his + mother. + </p> + <p> + “My dear duchess,” said Lady Harrington, “here is a letter of introduction + which this gentleman begs to present to you.” + </p> + <p> + “I know, it is M. de Seingalt. My son has written to me about him. I am + delighted to see you, Chevalier, and I hope you will come and see me. I + receive thrice a week.” + </p> + <p> + “Will your ladyship allow me to present my valuable letter in person?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly. You are right.” + </p> + <p> + I played a rubber of whist for very small stakes, and lost fifteen + guineas, which I paid on the spot. Directly afterwards Lady Harrington + took me apart, and gave me a lesson which I deem worthy of record. + </p> + <p> + “You paid in gold,” said she; “I suppose you had no bank notes about you?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, my lady, I have notes for fifty and a hundred pounds.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you must change one of them or wait till another time to play, for + in England to pay in gold is a solecism only pardonable in a stranger. + Perhaps you noticed that the lady smiled?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; who is she?” + </p> + <p> + “Lady Coventry, sister of the Duchess of Hamilton.” + </p> + <p> + “Ought I to apologize?” + </p> + <p> + “Not at all, the offence is not one of those which require an apology. She + must have been more surprised than offended, for she made fifteen + shillings by your paying her in gold.” + </p> + <p> + I was vexed by this small mischance, for Lady Coventry was an exquisitely + beautiful brunette. I comforted myself, however, without much trouble. + </p> + <p> + The same day I made the acquaintance of Lord Hervey, the nobleman who + conquered Havana, a pleasant an intelligent person. He had married Miss + Chudleigh, but the marriage was annulled. This celebrated Miss Chudleigh + was maid of honour to the Princess Dowager of Wales, and afterwards became + Duchess of Kingston. As her history is well known I shall say something + more of her in due course. I went home well enough pleased with my day’s + work. + </p> + <p> + The next day I began dining at home, and found my cook very satisfactory; + for, besides the usual English dishes, he was acquainted with the French + system of cooking, and did fricandeaus, cutlets, ragouts, and above all, + the excellent French soup, which is one of the principal glories of + France. + </p> + <p> + My table and my house were not enough for my happiness. I was alone, and + the reader will understand by this that Nature had not meant me for a + hermit. I had neither a mistress nor a friend, and at London one may + invite a man to dinner at a tavern where he pays for himself, but not to + one’s own table. One day I was invited by a younger son of the Duke of + Bedford to eat oysters and drink a bottle of champagne. I accepted the + invitation, and he ordered the oysters and the champagne, but we drank two + bottles, and he made me pay half the price of the second bottle. Such are + manners on the other side of the Channel. People laughed in my face when I + said that I did not care to dine at a tavern as I could not get any soup. + </p> + <p> + “Are you ill?” they said, “soup is only fit for invalids.” + </p> + <p> + The Englishman is entirely carnivorous. He eats very little bread, and + calls himself economical because he spares himself the expense of soup and + dessert, which circumstance made me remark that an English dinner is like + eternity: it has no beginning and no end. Soup is considered very + extravagant, as the very servants refuse to eat the meat from which it has + been made. They say it is only fit to give to dogs. The salt beef which + they use is certainly excellent. I cannot say the same for their beer, + which was so bitter that I could not drink it. However, I could not be + expected to like beer after the excellent French wines with which the wine + merchant supplied me, certainly at a very heavy cost. + </p> + <p> + I had been a week in my new home without seeing Martinelli. He came on a + Monday morning, and I asked him to dine with me. He told me that he had to + go to the Museum, and my curiosity to see the famous collection which is + such an honour to England made me accompany him. It was there that I made + the acquaintance of Dr. Mati, of whom I shall speak in due course. + </p> + <p> + At dinner Martinelli made himself extremely pleasant. He had a profound + knowledge of the English manners and customs which it behoved me to know + if I wished to get on. I happened to speak of the impoliteness of which I + had been guilty in paying a gaming debt in gold instead of paper, and on + this text he preached me a sermon on the national prosperity, + demonstrating that the preference given to paper shews the confidence + which is felt in the Bank, which may or may not be misplaced, but which is + certainly a source of wealth. This confidence might be destroyed by a too + large issue of paper money, and if that ever took place by reason of a + protracted or unfortunate war, bankruptcy would be inevitable, and no one + could calculate the final results. + </p> + <p> + After a long discussion on politics, national manners, literature, in + which subjects Martinelli shone, we went to Drury Lane Theatre, where I + had a specimen of the rough insular manners. By some accident or other the + company could not give the piece that had been announced, and the audience + were in a tumult. Garrick, the celebrated actor who was buried twenty + years later in Westminster Abbey, came forward and tried in vain to + restore order. He was obliged to retire behind the curtain. Then the king, + the queen, and all the fashionables left the theatre, and in less than an + hour the theatre was gutted, till nothing but the bare walls were left. + </p> + <p> + After this destruction, which went on without any authority interposing, + the mad populace rushed to the taverns to consume gin and beer. In a + fortnight the theatre was refitted and the piece announced again, and when + Garrick appeared before the curtain to implore the indulgence of the + house, a voice from the pit shouted, “On your knees.” A thousand voices + took up the cry “On your knees,” and the English Roscius was obliged to + kneel down and beg forgiveness. Then came a thunder of applause, and + everything was over. Such are the English, and above all, the Londoners. + They hoot the king and the royal family when they appear in public, and + the consequence is, that they are never seen, save on great occasions, + when order is kept by hundreds of constables. + </p> + <p> + One day, as I was walking by myself, I saw Sir Augustus Hervey, whose + acquaintance I had made, speaking to a gentleman, whom he left to come to + me. I asked him whom he had been speaking to. + </p> + <p> + “That’s the brother of Earl Ferrers,” said he, “who was hanged a couple of + months ago for murdering one of his people.” + </p> + <p> + “And you speak to his brother?” + </p> + <p> + “Why shouldn’t I?” + </p> + <p> + “Is he not dishonoured by the execution of his relative?” + </p> + <p> + “Dishonoured! Certainly not; even his brother was not dishonoured. He + broke the law, but he paid for it with his life, and owed society nothing + more. He’s a man of honour, who played high and lost; that’s all. I don’t + know that there is any penalty in the statute book which dishonours the + culprit; that would be tyrannical, and we would not bear it. I may break + any law I like, so long as I am willing to pay the penalty. It is only a + dishonour when the criminal tries to escape punishment by base or cowardly + actions.” + </p> + <p> + “How do you mean?” + </p> + <p> + “To ask for the royal mercy, to beg forgiveness of the people, and the + like.” + </p> + <p> + “How about escaping from justice?” + </p> + <p> + “That is no dishonour, for to fly is an act of courage; it continues the + defiance of the law, and if the law cannot exact obedience, so much the + worse for it. It is an honour for you to have escaped from the tyranny of + your magistrates; your flight from The Leads was a virtuous action. In + such cases man fights with death and flees from it. ‘Vir fugiens denuo + pugnabit’.” + </p> + <p> + “What do you think of highway robbers, then?” + </p> + <p> + “I detest them as wretches dangerous to society, but I pity them when I + reflect that they are always riding towards the gallows. You go out in a + coach to pay a visit to a friend three or four miles out of London. A + determined and agile-looking fellow springs upon you with his pistol in + his hand, and says, ‘Your money or your life.’ What would you do in such a + case?” + </p> + <p> + “If I had a pistol handy I would blow out his brains, and if not I would + give him my purse and call him a scoundrelly assassin.” + </p> + <p> + “You would be wrong in both cases. If you killed him, you would be hanged, + for you have no right to take the law into your own hands; and if you + called him an assassin, he would tell you that he was no assassin as he + attacked you openly and gave you a free choice. Nay, he is generous, for + he might kill you and take your money as well. You might, indeed, tell him + he has an evil trade, and he would tell you that you were right, and that + he would try to avoid the gallows as long as possible. He would then thank + you and advise you never to drive out of London without being accompanied + by a mounted servant, as then no robber would dare to attack you. We + English always carry two purses on our journeys; a small one for the + robbers and a large one for ourselves.” + </p> + <p> + What answer could I make to such arguments, based as they were on the + national manners? England is a rich sea, but strewn with reefs, and those + who voyage there would do well to take precautions. Sir Augustus Hervey’s + discourse gave me great pleasure. + </p> + <p> + Going from one topic to another, as is always the way with a desultory + conversation, Sir Augustus deplored the fate of an unhappy Englishman who + had absconded to France with seventy thousand pounds, and had been brought + back to London, and was to be hanged. + </p> + <p> + “How could that be?” I asked. + </p> + <p> + “The Crown asked the Duc de Nivernois to extradite him, and Louis XV. + granted the request to make England assent to some articles of the peace. + It was an act unworthy of a king, for it violates the right of nations. It + is true that the man is a wretch, but that has nothing to do with the + principle of the thing.” + </p> + <p> + “Of course they have got back the seventy thousand pounds?” + </p> + <p> + “Not a shilling of it.” + </p> + <p> + “How was that?” + </p> + <p> + “Because no money was found on him. He has most likely left his little + fortune to his wife, who can marry again as she is still young and + pretty.” + </p> + <p> + “I wonder the police have not been after her.” + </p> + <p> + “Such a thing is never thought of. What could they do? It’s not likely + that she would confess that her husband left her the stolen money. The law + says robbers shall be hanged, but it says nothing about what they have + stolen, as they are supposed to have made away with it. Then if we had to + take into account the thieves who had kept their theft and thieves who had + spent it, we should have to make two sets of laws, and make all manner of + allowances; the end of it would be inextricable confusion. It seems to us + Englishmen that it would not be just to ordain two punishments for theft. + The robber becomes the owner of what he has stolen; true, he got it by + violence, but it is none the less his, for he can do what he likes with + it. That being the case, everyone should be careful to keep what he has, + since he knows that once stolen he will never see it again. I have taken + Havana from Spain: this was robbery on a large scale.” + </p> + <p> + He talked at once like a philosopher and a faithful subject of his king. + </p> + <p> + Engaged in this discussion we walked towards the Duchess of + Northumberland’s, where I made the acquaintance of Lady Rochefort, whose + husband had just been appointed Spanish ambassador. This lady’s + gallantries were innumerable, and furnished a fresh topic of conversation + every day. + </p> + <p> + The day before the assembly at Soho Square Martinelli dined with me, and + told me that Madame Cornelis was heavily in debt, and dared not go out + except on Sundays, when debtors are privileged. + </p> + <p> + “The enormous and unnecessary expense which she puts herself to,” said he, + “will soon bring her to ruin. She owes four times the amount of her + assets, even counting in the house, which is a doubtful item, as it is the + subject of litigation.” + </p> + <p> + This news only distressed me for her children’s sake, for I thought that + she herself well deserved such a fate. + </p> + <a name="linkE2HCH0008" id="linkE2HCH0008"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VIII + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + The Assembly—Adventure at Ranelagh—The English Courtezans— + Pauline +</pre> + <a name="linkEimage-0004" id="linkEimage-0004"> + <!-- IMG --></a> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img src="images/5c08.jpg" width="100%" alt="Chapter 8 " /> + </div> + <p> + I went in due time to the assembly, and the secretary at the door wrote + down my name as I handed in my ticket. When Madame Cornelis saw me she + said she was delighted I had come in by ticket, and that she had had some + doubts as to whether I would come. + </p> + <p> + “You might have spared yourself the trouble of doubting,” said I, “for + after hearing that I had been to Court you might have guessed that a + matter of two guineas would not have kept me away. I am sorry for our old + friendship’s sake that I did not pay the money to you; for you might have + known that I would not condescend to be present in the modest manner you + indicated.” + </p> + <p> + This address, delivered with an ironical accent, embarrassed Madame + Cornelis, but Lady Harrington, a great supporter of hers, came to her + rescue. + </p> + <p> + “I have a number of guineas to hand over to you, my dear Cornelis, and + amongst others two from M. de Seingalt, who, I fancy, is an old friend of + yours. Nevertheless, I did not dare to tell him so,” she added, with a sly + glance in my direction. + </p> + <p> + “Why not, my lady? I have known Madame Cornelis for many years.” + </p> + <p> + “I should think you have,” she answered, laughing, “and I congratulate you + both. I suppose you know the delightful Miss Sophie too, Chevalier?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly, my lady, who so knows the mother knows the daughter.” + </p> + <p> + “Quite so, quite so.” + </p> + <p> + Sophie was standing by, and after kissing her fondly Lady Harrington said,— + </p> + <p> + “If you love yourself, you ought to love her, for she is the image of + you.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, it is a freak of nature.” + </p> + <p> + “I think there is something more than a freak in this instance.” + </p> + <p> + With these words the lady took Sophie’s hand, and leaning on my arm she + led us through the crowd, and I had to bear in silence the remarks of + everyone. + </p> + <p> + “There is Madame Cornelis’s husband.” + </p> + <p> + “That must be M. Cornelis.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh! there can be no doubt about it.” + </p> + <p> + “No, no,” said Lady Harrington, “you are all quite wrong.” + </p> + <p> + I got tired of these remarks, which were all founded on the remarkable + likeness between myself and Sophie. I wanted Lady Harrington to let the + child go, but she was too much amused to do so. + </p> + <p> + “Stay by me,” she said, “if you want to know the names of the guests.” She + sat down, making me sit on one side and Sophie on the other. + </p> + <p> + Madame Cornelis then made her appearance, and everyone asked her the same + questions, and made the same remarks about me. She said bravely that I was + her best and her oldest friend, and that the likeness between me and her + daughter might possibly be capable of explanation. Everyone laughed and + said it was very natural that it should be so. To change the subject, + Madame Cornelis remarked that Sophie had learnt the minuet and danced it + admirably. + </p> + <p> + “Then fetch a violin player,” said Lady Harrington, “that we may have the + pleasure of witnessing the young artist’s performance.” + </p> + <p> + The ball had not yet begun, and as soon as the violinist appeared, I + stepped forward and danced with Sophie, to the delight of the select + circle of spectators. + </p> + <p> + The ball lasted all night without ceasing, as the company ate by relays, + and at all times and hours; the waste and prodigality were worthy of a + prince’s palace. I made the acquaintance of all the nobility and the Royal + Family, for they were all there, with the exception of the king and queen, + and the Prince of Wales. Madame Cornelis must have received more than + twelve hundred guineas, but the outlay was enormous, without any control + or safeguard against the thefts, which must have been perpetrated on all + sides. She tried to introduce her son to everybody, but the poor lad + looked like a victim, and did nothing but make profound bows. I pitied him + from my heart. + </p> + <p> + As soon as I got home I went to bed and spent the whole of the next day + there. The day after I went to the “Staven Tavern,” as I had been told + that the prettiest girls in London resorted to it. Lord Pembroke gave me + this piece of information; he went there very frequently himself. When I + got to the tavern I asked for a private room, and the landlord, perceiving + that I did not know English, accosted me in French, and came to keep me + company. I was astonished at his grave and reverend manner of speaking, + and did not like to tell him that I wanted to dine with a pretty + Englishwoman. At last, however, I summoned up courage to say, with a great + deal of circumlocution, that I did not know whether Lord Pembroke had + deceived me in informing me that I should find the prettiest girls in + London at his house. + </p> + <p> + “No, sir,” said he, “my lord has not deceived you, and you can have as + many as you like.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s what I came for.” + </p> + <p> + He called out some name, and a tidy-looking lad making his appearance, he + told him to get me a wench just as though he were ordering a bottle of + champagne. The lad went out, and presently a girl of herculean proportions + entered. + </p> + <p> + “Sir,” said I, “I don’t like the looks of this girl.” + </p> + <p> + “Give her a shilling and send her away. We don’t trouble ourselves about + ceremonies in London.” + </p> + <p> + This put me at my ease, so I paid my shilling and called for a prettier + wench. The second was worse than the first, and I sent her away, and ten + others after her, while I could see that my fastidiousness amused the + landlord immensely. + </p> + <p> + “I’ll see no more girls,” said I at last, “let me have a good dinner. I + think the procurer must have been making game of me for the sake of the + shillings.” + </p> + <p> + “It’s very likely; indeed it often happens so when a gentleman does not + give the name and address of the wench he wants.” + </p> + <p> + In the evening as I was walking in St. James’s Park, I remembered it was a + Ranelagh evening, and wishing to see the place I took a coach and drove + there, intending to amuse myself till midnight, and to find a beauty to my + taste. + </p> + <p> + I was pleased with the rotunda. I had some tea, I danced some minuets, but + I made no acquaintances; and although I saw several pretty women, I did + not dare to attack any of them. I got tired, and as it was near midnight I + went out thinking to find my coach, for which I had not paid, still there, + but it was gone, and I did not know what to do. An extremely pretty woman + who was waiting for her carriage in the doorway, noticed my distress, and + said that if I lived anywhere near Whitehall, she could take me home. I + thanked her gratefully, and told her where I lived. Her carriage came up, + her man opened the door, and she stepped in on my arm, telling me to sit + beside her, and to stop the carriage when it got to my house. + </p> + <p> + As soon as we were in the carriage, I burst out into expressions of + gratitude; and after telling her my name I expressed my regret at not + having seen her at Soho Square. + </p> + <p> + “I was not in London,” she replied, “I returned from Bath to-day.” + </p> + <p> + I apostrophised my happiness in having met her. I covered her hands with + kisses, and dared to kiss her on the cheek; and finding that she smiled + graciously, I fastened my lips on hers, and before long had given her an + unequivocal mark of the ardour with which she had inspired me. + </p> + <p> + She took my attentions so easily that I flattered myself I had not + displeased her, and I begged her to tell me where I could call on her and + pay my court while I remained in London, but she replied,— + </p> + <p> + “We shall see each other again; we must be careful.” + </p> + <p> + I swore secrecy, and urged her no more. Directly after the carriage + stopped, I kissed her hand and was set down at my door, well pleased with + the ride home. + </p> + <p> + For a fortnight I saw nothing of her, but I met her again in a house where + Lady Harrington had told me to present myself, giving her name. It was + Lady Betty German’s, and I found her out, but was asked to sit down and + wait as she would be in soon. I was pleasantly surprised to find my fair + friend of Ranelagh in the room, reading a newspaper. I conceived the idea + of asking her to introduce me to Lady Betty, so I went up to her and + proffered my request, but she replied politely that she could not do so + not having the honour to know my name. + </p> + <p> + “I have told you my name, madam. Do you not remember me?” + </p> + <p> + “I remember you perfectly, but a piece of folly is not a title of + acquaintance.” + </p> + <p> + I was dumbfounded at the extraordinary reply, while the lady calmly + returned to her newspaper, and did not speak another word till the arrival + of Lady Betty. + </p> + <p> + The fair philosopher talked for two hours without giving the least sign of + knowing who I was, although she answered me with great politeness whenever + I ventured to address her. She turned out to be a lady of high birth and + of great reputation. + </p> + <p> + Happening to call on Martinelli, I asked him who was the pretty girl who + was kissing her hands to me from the house opposite. I was pleasantly + surprised to hear that she was a dancer named Binetti. Four years ago she + had done me a great service at Stuttgart, but I did not know she was in + London. I took leave of Martinelli to go and see her, and did so all the + more eagerly when I heard that she had parted from her husband, though + they were obliged to dance together at the Haymarket. + </p> + <p> + She received me with open arms, telling me that she had recognized me + directly. + </p> + <p> + “I am surprised, my dear elder,” said she, “to see you in London.” + </p> + <p> + She called me “elder” because I was the oldest of her friends. + </p> + <p> + “Nor did I know that you were here. I came to town after the close of the + opera. How is it that you are not living with your husband?” + </p> + <p> + “Because he games, loses, and despoils me of all I possess. Besides, a + woman of my condition, if she be married, cannot hope that a rich lover + will come and see her, while if she be alone she can receive visits + without any constraint.” + </p> + <p> + “I shouldn’t have thought they would be afraid of Binetti; he used to be + far from jealous.” + </p> + <p> + “Nor is he jealous now; but you must know that there is an English law + which allows the husband to arrest his wife and her lover if he finds them + in ‘flagrante delicto’. He only wants two witnesses, and it is enough that + they are sitting together on a bed. The lover is forced to pay to the + husband the half of all he possesses. Several rich Englishmen have been + caught in this way, and now they are very shy of visiting married women, + especially Italians.” + </p> + <p> + “So you have much to be thankful for. You enjoy perfect liberty, can + receive any visitors you like, and are in a fair way to make a fortune.” + </p> + <p> + “Alas! my dear friend, you do not know all. When he has information from + his spies that I have had a visitor, he comes to me in a sedan-chair at + night, and threatens to turn me out into the street if I do not give him + all the money I have. He is a terrible rascal!” + </p> + <p> + I left the poor woman, after giving her my address, and telling her to + come and dine with me whenever she liked. She had given me a lesson on the + subject of visiting ladies. England has very good laws, but most of them + are capable of abuse. The oath which jurymen have to take to execute them + to the letter has caused several to be interpreted in a manner absolutely + contrary to the intention of the legislators, thus placing the judges in a + difficult predicament. Thus new laws have constantly to be made, and new + glosses to explain the old ones. + </p> + <p> + My Lord Pembroke, seeing me at my window, came in, and after examining my + house, including the kitchen, where the cook was at work, told me that + there was not a nobleman in town who had such a well-furnished and + comfortable house. He made a calculation, and told me that if I wanted to + entertain my friends I should require three hundred pounds a month. “You + can’t live here,” said he, “without a pretty girl, and those who know that + you keep bachelor’s hall are of opinion that you are very wise, and will + save a great deal of useless expense.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you keep a girl, my lord?” + </p> + <p> + “No, for I am unfortunate enough to be disgusted with a woman after I have + had her for a day.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you require a fresh one every day?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, and without being as comfortable as you I spend four times as much. + You must know that I live in London like a stranger. I never dine at my + own house. I wonder at your dining alone.” + </p> + <p> + “I can’t speak English. I like soup and good wine, and that is enough to + keep me from your taverns.” + </p> + <p> + “I expect so, with your French tastes.” + </p> + <p> + “You will confess that they are not bad tastes.” + </p> + <p> + “You are right, for, good Englishman as I am, I get on very well in + Paris.” + </p> + <p> + He burst out laughing when I told him how I had dispatched a score of + wenches at the “Staven Tavern,” and that my disappointment was due to him. + </p> + <p> + “I did not tell you what names to send for, and I was wrong.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, you ought to have told me.” + </p> + <p> + “But even if I did they wouldn’t have come, for they are not at the orders + of the procurers. If you will promise to pay them as I do, I will give you + some tickets which will make them come.” + </p> + <p> + “Can I have them here?” + </p> + <p> + “Just as you like.” + </p> + <p> + “That will be most convenient for me. Write out the tickets and let them + know French if you can.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s the difficulty; the prettiest only speak English.” + </p> + <p> + “Never mind, we shall understand each other well enough for the purpose I + dare say.” + </p> + <p> + He wrote several tickets for four and six guineas each; but one was marked + twelve guineas. + </p> + <p> + “She is doubly pretty, is she?” said I. + </p> + <p> + “Not exactly, but she has cuckolded a duke of Great Britain who keeps her, + and only uses her once or twice a month.” + </p> + <p> + “Would you do me the honour of testing the skill of my cook?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly, but I can’t make an appointment.” + </p> + <p> + “And supposing I am out.” + </p> + <p> + “I’ll go to the tavern.” + </p> + <p> + Having nothing better to do I sent Jarbe to one of the four-guinea + wenches, telling him to advise her that she would dine with me. She came. + She did not attract me sufficiently to make me attempt more than some + slight toying. She went away well pleased with her four guineas, which she + had done nothing to earn. Another wench, also at four guineas, supped with + me the following evening. She had been very pretty, and, indeed, was so + still, but she was too melancholy and quiet for my taste, and I could not + makeup my mind to tell her to undress. + </p> + <p> + The third day, not feeling inclined to try another ticket, I went to + Covent Garden, and on meeting an attractive young person I accosted her in + French, and asked her if she would sup with me. + </p> + <p> + “How much will you give me at dessert?” + </p> + <p> + “Three guineas.” + </p> + <p> + “Come along.” + </p> + <p> + After the play I ordered a good supper for two, and she displayed an + appetite after mine own heart. When we had supped I asked for her name and + address, and I was astonished to find that she was one of the girls whom + Lord Pembroke had assessed at six guineas. I concluded that it was best to + do one’s own business, or, at any rate, not to employ noblemen as agents. + As to the other tickets, they procured me but little pleasure. The + twelve-guinea one, which I had reserved for the last, as a choice morsel, + pleased me the least of all, and I did not care to cuckold the noble duke + who kept her. + </p> + <p> + Lord Pembroke was young, handsome, rich, and full of wit. I went to see + him one day, and found him just getting out of bed. He said he would walk + with me and told his valet to shave him. + </p> + <p> + “But,” said I, “there’s not a trace of beard on your face.” + </p> + <p> + “There never is,” said he, “I get myself shaved three times a day.” + </p> + <p> + “Three times?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, when I change my shirt I wash my hands; when I wash my hands I have + to wash my face, and the proper way to wash a man’s face is with a razor.” + </p> + <p> + “When do you make these three ablutions?” + </p> + <p> + “When I get up, when I dress for dinner, and when I go to bed, for I + should not like the woman who is sleeping with me to feel my beard.” + </p> + <p> + We had a short walk together, and then I left him as I had some writing to + do. As we parted, he asked me if I dined at home. I replied in the + affirmative, and foreseeing that he intended dining with me I warned my + cook to serve us well, though I did not let him know that I expected a + nobleman to dinner. Vanity has more than one string to its bow. + </p> + <p> + I had scarcely got home when Madame Binetti came in, and said that if she + were not in the way, she would be glad to dine with me. I gave her a warm + welcome, and she said I was really doing her a great service, as her + husband would suffer the torments of hell in trying to find out with whom + she had dined. + </p> + <p> + This woman still pleased me; and though she was thirty-five, nobody would + have taken her for more than twenty-five. Her appearance was in every way + pleasing. Her lips were of the hue of the rose, disclosing two exquisite + rows of teeth. A fine complexion, splendid eyes, and a forehead where + Innocence might have been well enthroned, all this made an exquisite + picture. If you add to this, that her breast was of the rarest + proportions, you will understand that more fastidious tastes than mine + would have been satisfied with her. + </p> + <p> + She had not been in my house for half an hour when Lord Pembroke came in. + They both uttered an exclamation, and the nobleman told me that he had + been in love with her for the last six months; that he had written ardent + letters to her of which she had taken no notice. + </p> + <p> + “I never would have anything to do with him,” said she, “because he is the + greatest profligate in all England; and it’s a pity,” she added, “because + he is a kindhearted nobleman.” + </p> + <p> + This explanation was followed by a score of kisses, and I saw that they + were agreed. + </p> + <p> + We had a choice dinner in the French style, and Lord Pembroke swore he had + not eaten so good a dinner for the last year. + </p> + <p> + “I am sorry for you,” he said, “when I think of you being alone every + day.” + </p> + <p> + Madame Binetti was as much a gourmet as the Englishman, and when we rose + from table we felt inclined to pass from the worship of Comus to that of + Venus; but the lady was too experienced to give the Englishman anything + more than a few trifling kisses. + </p> + <p> + I busied myself in turning over the leaves of some books I had bought the + day before, and left them to talk together to their heart’s content; but + to prevent their asking me to give them another dinner I said that I hoped + chance would bring about such another meeting on another occasion. + </p> + <p> + At six o’clock, after my guests had left me, I dressed and went to + Vauxhaull, where I met a French officer named Malingan, to whom I had + given some money at Aix-la-Chapelle. He said he would like to speak to me, + so I gave him my name and address. I also met a well-known character, the + Chevalier Goudar, who talked to me about gaming and women. Malingan + introduced me to an individual who he said might be very useful to me in + London. He was a man of forty, and styled himself son of the late + Theodore, the pretender to the throne of Corsica, who had died miserably + in London fourteen years before, after having been imprisoned for debt for + seven years. I should have done better if I had never gone to Vauxhall + that evening. + </p> + <p> + The entrance-fee at Vauxhall was half the sum charged at Ranelagh, but in + spite of that the amusements were of the most varied kinds. There was good + fare, music, walks in solitary alleys, thousands of lamps, and a crowd of + London beauties, both high and low. + </p> + <p> + In the midst of all these pleasures I was dull, because I had no girl to + share my abode or my good table, and make it dear to me. I had been in + London for six weeks; and in no other place had I been alone for so long. + </p> + <p> + My house seemed intended for keeping a mistress with all decency, and as I + had the virtue of constancy a mistress was all I wanted to make me happy. + But how was I to find a woman who should be the equal of those women I had + loved before? I had already seen half a hundred of girls, whom the town + pronounced to be pretty, and who did not strike me as even passable. I + thought the matter over continually, and at last an odd idea struck me. + </p> + <p> + I called the old housekeeper, and told her by the servant, who acted as my + interpreter, that I wanted to let the second or third floor for the sake + of company; and although I was at perfect liberty to do what I liked with + the house, I would give her half-a-guinea a week extra. Forthwith I + ordered her to affix the following bill to the window: + </p> + <p> + Second or third floor to be let, furnished, to a young lady speaking + English and French, who receives no visitors, either by day or night. + </p> + <p> + The old Englishwoman, who had seen something of the world, began to laugh + so violently when the document was translated to her that I thought she + would have choked. + </p> + <p> + “What are you laughing at, my worthy woman?” + </p> + <p> + “Because this notice is a laughing matter.” + </p> + <p> + “I suppose you think I shall have no applications?” + </p> + <p> + “Not at all, the doorstep will be crowded from morn to night, but I shall + leave it all to Fanny. Only tell me how much to ask.” + </p> + <p> + “I will arrange about the rent in my interview with the young lady. I + don’t think I shall have so many enquiries, for the young lady is to speak + French and English, and also to be respectable. She must not receive any + visits, not even from her father and mother, if she has them.” + </p> + <p> + “But there will be a mob in front of the house reading the notice.” + </p> + <p> + “All the better. Nothing is the worse for being a little odd.” + </p> + <p> + It happened just as the old woman had foretold; as soon as the notice was + up, everybody stopped to read it, made various comments, and passed on. On + the second day after it was up, my Negro told me that my notice was + printed in full in the St. James’s Chronicle, with some amusing remarks. I + had the paper brought up to me, and Fanny translated it. It ran as + follows: + </p> + <p> + “The landlord of the second and third floors probably occupies the first + floor himself. He must be a man of the world and of good taste, for he + wants a young and pretty lodger; and as he forbids her to receive visits, + he will have to keep her company himself.” + </p> + <p> + He added,— + </p> + <p> + “The landlord should take care lest he become his own dupe, for it is very + likely that the pretty lodger would only take the room to sleep in, and + possibly only to sleep in now and then; and if she chose she would have a + perfect right to refuse to receive the proprietor’s visits.” + </p> + <p> + These sensible remarks delighted me, for after reading them I felt + forewarned. + </p> + <p> + Such matters as these give their chief interest to the English newspapers. + They are allowed to gossip about everything, and the writers have the + knack of making the merest trifles seem amusing. Happy is the nation where + anything may be written and anything said! + </p> + <p> + Lord Pembroke was the first to come and congratulate me on my idea, and he + was succeeded by Martinelli; but he expressed some fears as to the + possible consequences, “for,” said he, “there are plenty of women in + London who would come and lodge with you to be your ruin.” + </p> + <p> + “In that case,” I answered, “it would be a case of Greek meeting Greek; + however, we shall see. If I am taken in, people will have the fullest + right to laugh at me, for I have been warned.” + </p> + <p> + I will not trouble my readers with an account of the hundred women who + came in the first ten days, when I refused on one pretext or another, + though some of them were not wanting in grace and beauty. But one day, + when I was at dinner, I received a visit from a girl of from twenty to + twenty-four years, simply but elegantly dressed; her features were sweet + and gracious, though somewhat grave, her complexion pale, and her hair + black. She gave me a bow which I had to rise to return, and as I remained + standing she politely begged me not to put myself out, but to continue my + dinner. I begged her to be seated and to take dessert, but she refused + with an air of modesty which delighted me. + </p> + <p> + This fair lady said, not in French, but in Italian worthy of a Sinnese, + its purity was so perfect, that she hoped I would let her have a room on + the third floor, and that she would gladly submit to all my conditions. + </p> + <p> + “You may only make use of one room if you like, but all the floor will + belong to you.” + </p> + <p> + “Although the notice says the rooms will be let cheaply, I shall not be + able to afford more than one room. Two shillings a week is all I can + spend.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s exactly what I want for the whole suite of rooms; so you see you + can use them all. My maid will wait on you, get you whatever food you may + require, and wash your linen as well. You can also employ her to do your + commissions, so that you need not go out for trifles.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I will dismiss my maid,” she said; “she robs me of little, it is + true, but still too much for my small means. I will tell your maid what + food to buy for me every day, and she shall have six sols a week for her + pains.” + </p> + <p> + “That will be ample. I should advise you to apply to my cook’s wife, who + will get your dinner and supper for you as cheaply as you could buy it.” + </p> + <p> + “I hardly think so, for I am ashamed to tell you how little I spend.” + </p> + <p> + “Even if you only spend two sols a day, she will give you two sols’ worth. + All the same I advise you to be content with what you get from the + kitchen, without troubling about the price, for I usually have provision + made for four, though I dine alone, and the rest is the cook’s perquisite. + I merely advise you to the best of my ability, and I hope you will not be + offended at my interest in your welfare.” + </p> + <p> + “Really, sir, you are too generous.” + </p> + <p> + “Wait a moment, and you will see how everything will be settled + comfortably.” + </p> + <p> + I told Clairmont to order up the maid and the cook’s wife, and I said to + the latter: + </p> + <p> + “For how much could you provide dinner and supper for this young lady who + is not rich, and only wants to eat to live?” + </p> + <p> + “I can do it very cheaply; for you usually eat alone, and have enough for + four.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good; then I hope you will treat her very well for the sum she gives + you.” + </p> + <p> + “I can only afford five sols a day.” + </p> + <p> + “That will do nicely.” + </p> + <p> + I gave orders that the bill should be taken down directly, and that the + young lady’s room should be made comfortable. When the maid and the cook’s + wife had left the room, the young lady told me that she should only go out + on Sundays to hear mass at the Bavarian ambassador’s chapel, and once a + month to a person who gave her three guineas to support her. + </p> + <p> + “You can go out when you like,” said I, “and without rendering an account + to anybody of your movements.” + </p> + <p> + She begged me not to introduce anyone to her, and to tell the porter to + deny her to anyone who might come to the door to make enquiries. I + promised that her wishes should be respected, and she went away saying + that she was going for her trunk. + </p> + <p> + I immediately ordered my household to treat her with the utmost respect. + The old housekeeper told me that she had paid the first week in advance, + taking a receipt, and had gone, as she had come, in a sedan-chair. Then + the worthy old woman made free to tell me to be on my guard. + </p> + <p> + “Against what? If I fall in love with her, so much the better; that is + just what I want. What name did she give you?” + </p> + <p> + “Mistress Pauline. She was quite pale when she came, and she went away + covered with blushes.” + </p> + <p> + I was delighted to hear it. I did not want a woman merely to satisfy my + natural desires, for such can be found easily enough; I wished for some + one whom I could love. I expected beauty, both of the body and the soul; + and my love increased with the difficulties and obstacles I saw before me. + As to failure, I confess I did not give it a moment’s thought, for there + is not a woman in the world who can resist constant and loving attentions, + especially when her lover is ready to make great sacrifices. + </p> + <p> + When I got back from the theatre in the evening the maid told me that the + lady had chosen a modest closet at the back, which was only suitable for a + servant. She had had a moderate supper, only drinking water, and had + begged the cook’s wife only to send her up soup and one dish, to which the + woman had replied that she must take what was served, and what she did not + eat would do for the servant. + </p> + <p> + “When she finished she shut herself up to write, and wished me good + evening with much politeness.” + </p> + <p> + “What is she going to take in the morning?” + </p> + <p> + “I asked her, and she said she would only take a little bread.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you had better tell her that it is the custom of the house for the + cook to serve everybody with coffee, chocolate, or tea, according to + taste, in the morning, and that I shall be pained if she refuses to fare + like the rest of us. But don’t tell her I said so. Here’s a crown for you, + and you shall have one every week if you will wait upon and care for her + properly.” + </p> + <p> + Before going to bed I wrote her a polite note, begging her to leave the + closet. She did so, but she went into another back room, and consented to + take coffee for her breakfast. Wishing to make her dine and sup with me, I + was dressing myself, and preparing to proffer my request in such a way as + to make a refusal impossible, when young Cornelis was announced. I + received him smilingly, and thanked him for the first visit he had paid me + in the course of six weeks. + </p> + <p> + “Mamma hasn’t allowed me to come. I have tried to do so a score of times + without her leave. Read this letter, and you will find something which + will surprise you.” + </p> + <p> + I opened the letter and read as follows: + </p> + <p> + “Yesterday a bailiff waited for my door to be opened and slipped in and + arrested me. I was obliged to go with him, and I am now in the + sponging-house, and if I can’t get bail by to-day he will take me to Kings + Bench Prison. The bail I require is to the amount of two hundred pounds, + to pay a bill which has fallen due. Dear friend, come and succour me or + else my other creditors will get wind of my imprisonment and I shall be + ruined. You surely will not allow that to happen, if not for my sake at + least for the sake of my innocent children. You cannot bail me yourself, + but you can easily get a householder to do so. If you have the time come + and call on me, and I will shew you that I could not help doing the bill, + otherwise I could not have given my last ball, as the whole of my plate + and china was pledged.” + </p> + <p> + I felt angry with the impudent woman who had hitherto paid me so little + attention, and I wrote that I could only pity her, and that I had no time + to go and see her, and that I should be ashamed to ask anyone to bail her + out. + </p> + <p> + When young Cornelis had gone away in a melancholy mood, I told Clairmont + to ask Pauline if she would allow me to bid her a good day. She sent word + that I was at liberty to do so, and on going upstairs to her room I found + her sitting at a table on which were several books. + </p> + <p> + Some linen on a chest of drawers did not give me the idea that she was + very poor. + </p> + <p> + “I am immensely obliged,” said she, “for all your goodness to me.” + </p> + <p> + “Say nothing of that, madam; it is I who have need of your goodness.” + </p> + <p> + “What can I do to shew my gratitude?” + </p> + <p> + “Could you trouble yourself to take your meals with me? When I am alone I + eat like an ogre, and my health suffers. If you do not feel inclined to + grant me that favour, do not hesitate to refuse, and I assure you you + shall fare just as well as if you had acceded to my request.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall be delighted to dine and sup with you; sir, whenever you are + alone and you like to send for me. Nevertheless, I am not sure that my + society will amuse you.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good, I am grateful to you, and I promise you you shall never repent + of your kindness. I will do my best to amuse you, and I hope I shall + succeed, for you have inspired me with the liveliest interest. We will + dine at one to-day.” + </p> + <p> + I did not sit down or look at her books, or even ask her if she had spent + a good night. The only thing I noted was that she had looked pale and + careworn when I came in, and when I went out her cheeks were the colour of + the rose. + </p> + <p> + I went for a walk in the park, feeling quite taken with this charming + woman, and resolved to make her love me, for I did not want to owe + anything to gratitude. I felt curious to know where she came from, and + suspected she was an Italian; but I determined to ask her no questions for + fear of offending her. + </p> + <p> + When I got home Pauline came down of her own free will, and I was + delighted with this, which I took for a good omen. As we had half an hour + before us, I asked her how she found her health. + </p> + <p> + “Nature,” she replied, “has favoured me with such a good constitution that + I have never had the least sickness in my life, except on the sea.” + </p> + <p> + “You have made a voyage, then.” + </p> + <p> + “I must have done so to come to England.” + </p> + <p> + “You might be an Englishwoman.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, for the English language has been familiar to me from my childhood.” + </p> + <p> + We were seated on a sofa, and on the table in front of us was a + chess-board. Pauline toyed with the pawns, and I asked her if she could + play chess. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, and pretty well too from what they tell me.” + </p> + <p> + “Then we will have a game together; my blunders will amuse you.” + </p> + <p> + We began, and in four moves I was checkmated. She laughed, and I admired + her play. We began again, and I was checkmated in five moves. My agreeable + guest laughed heartily, and while she laughed I became intoxicated with + love, watching the play of her features, her exquisite teeth, and her + happy expression. We began another game, Pauline played carelessly, and I + placed her in a difficult position. + </p> + <p> + “I think you may conquer me,” said she. + </p> + <p> + “What happiness for me!” + </p> + <p> + The servant came in to tell us that dinner was ready. + </p> + <p> + “Interruptions are often extremely inconvenient,” said I, as I offered her + my arm, feeling quite sure that she had not lost the significance of my + last words, for women find a meaning for everything. + </p> + <p> + We were just sitting down to table when Clairmont announced my daughter + and Madame Rancour. + </p> + <p> + “Tell them that I am at dinner, and that I shall not be disengaged till + three o’clock.” + </p> + <p> + Just as my man was leaving the room to carry back my answer, Sophie rushed + in and knelt before me, choking with sobs. + </p> + <p> + This was too much for me, and raising her I took her on my knees, saying I + knew what she had come for, and that for love of her I would do it. + </p> + <p> + Passing from grief to joy the dear child kissed me, calling me her father, + and at last made me weep myself. + </p> + <p> + “Dine with us, dear Sophie,” said I, “I shall be the more likely to do + what you wish.” + </p> + <p> + She ran from my arms to embrace Pauline, who was weeping out of sympathy, + and we all dined happily together. Sophie begged me to give Madame Rancour + some dinner. + </p> + <p> + “It shall be so if you please, but only for your sake, for that woman + Rancour deserves that I should leave her standing at the door to punish + her for her impertinence to me when I came to London.” + </p> + <p> + The child amused us in an astonishing way all dinnertime, Pauline keeping + her ears open and not saying a word, so surprised was she to hear a child + of her age talk in a way that would have excited attention in a woman of + twenty. Although perfectly respectful she condemned her mother’s conduct, + and said that she was unfortunate in being obliged to give her a blind + obedience. + </p> + <p> + “I would wager that you don’t love her much.” + </p> + <p> + “I respect, but I cannot love her, for I am always afraid. I never see her + without fearing her.” + </p> + <p> + “Why do you weep, then, at her fate?” + </p> + <p> + “I pity her, and her family still more, and the expressions she used in + sending me to you were very affecting.” + </p> + <p> + “What were these expressions?” + </p> + <p> + “‘Go,’ said she, ‘kneel before him, for you and you alone can soften his + heart.’” + </p> + <p> + “Then you knelt before me because your mother told you to do so.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, for if I had followed my own inclination I should have rushed to + your arms.” + </p> + <p> + “You answer well. But are you sure of persuading me?” + </p> + <p> + “No, for one can never be sure of anything; but I have good hopes of + success, remembering what you told me at the Hague. My mother told me that + I was only three then, but I know I was five. She it was who told me not + to look at you when I spoke to you, but fortunately you made her remove + her prohibition. Everybody says that you are my father, and at the Hague + she told me so herself; but here she is always dinning it into my ears + that I am the daughter of M. de Monpernis.” + </p> + <p> + “But, Sophie dear, your mother does wrong in making you a bastard when you + are the legitimate daughter of the dancer Pompeati, who killed himself at + Vienna.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I am not your daughter?” + </p> + <p> + “Clearly, for you cannot have two fathers, can you?” + </p> + <p> + “But how is it that I am your image?” + </p> + <p> + “It’s a mere chance.” + </p> + <p> + “You deprive me of a dream which has made me happy.” + </p> + <p> + Pauline said nothing, but covered her with kisses, which Sophie returned + effusively. She asked me if the lady was my wife, and on my replying in + the affirmative she called Pauline her “dear mamma,” which made “dear + mamma” laugh merrily. + </p> + <p> + When the dessert was served I drew four fifty-pound notes out of my + pocket-book, and giving them to Sophie told her that she might hand them + over to her mother if she liked, but that the present was for her and not + for her mother. + </p> + <p> + “If you give her the money,” I said, “she will be able to sleep to-night + in the fine house where she gave me such a poor reception.” + </p> + <p> + “It makes me unhappy to think of it, but you must forgive her.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, Sophie; but out of love for you.” + </p> + <p> + “Write to her to the effect that it is to me you give the money, not to + her; I dare not tell her so myself.” + </p> + <p> + “I could not do that, my dear; it would be insulting her in her + affliction. Do you understand that?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, quite well.” + </p> + <p> + “You may tell her that whenever she sends you to dine or sup with me, she + will please me very much.” + </p> + <p> + “But you can write that down without wounding her, can you not? Do so, I + entreat you. Dear mamma,” said she, addressing Pauline, “ask papa to do + so, and then I will come and dine with you sometimes.” + </p> + <p> + Pauline laughed with all her heart as she addressed me as husband, and + begged me to write the desired epistle. The effect on the mother could + only let her know how much I loved her daughter, and would consequently + increase her love for her child. I gave in, saying that I could not refuse + anything to the adorable woman who had honoured me with the name of + husband. Sophie kissed us, and went away in a happy mood. + </p> + <p> + “It’s a long time since I have laughed so much,” said Pauline, “and I + don’t think I have ever had such an agreeable meal. That child is a + perfect treasure. She is unhappy, poor little girl, but she would not be + so if I were her mother.” + </p> + <p> + I then told her of the true relationship between Sophie and myself, and + the reasons I had for despising her mother. + </p> + <p> + “I wonder what she will say when Sophie tells her that she found you at + table with your wife.” + </p> + <p> + “She won’t believe it, as she knows my horror for the sacrament of + matrimony.” + </p> + <p> + “How is that?” + </p> + <p> + “I hate it because it is the grave of love.” + </p> + <p> + “Not always.” + </p> + <p> + As she said this Pauline sighed, and lowering her eyes changed the + conversation. She asked me how long I intended to stay in London and when + I had replied, “Nine or ten months,” I felt myself entitled to ask her the + same question. + </p> + <p> + “I really can’t say,” she answered, “my return to my country depends on my + getting a letter.” + </p> + <p> + “May I ask you what country you come from?” + </p> + <p> + “I see I shall soon have no secrets from you, but let me have a little + time. I have only made your acquaintance to-day, and in a manner which + makes me have a very high opinion of you.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall try my best to deserve the good opinions you have conceived of my + character.” + </p> + <p> + “You have shewn yourself to me in a thoroughly estimable light.” + </p> + <p> + “Give me your esteem, I desire it earnestly, but don’t say anything of + respect, for that seems to shut out friendship; I aspire to yours, and I + warn you that I shall do my best to gain it.” + </p> + <p> + “I have no doubt you are very clever in that way, but you are generous + too, and I hope you will spare me. If the friendship between us became too + ardent, a parting would be dreadful, and we may be parted at any moment, + indeed I ought to be looking forward to it.” + </p> + <p> + Our dialogue was getting rather sentimental, and with that ease which is + only acquired in the best society, Pauline turned it to other topics, and + soon asked me to allow her to go upstairs. I would have gladly spent the + whole day with her, for I have never met a woman whose manners were so + distinguished and at the same time so pleasant. + </p> + <p> + When she left me I felt a sort of void, and went to see Madame Binetti, + who asked me for news of Pembroke. She was in a rage with him. + </p> + <p> + “He is a detestable fellow,” said she; “he would like to have a fresh wife + every day! What do you think of such conduct?” + </p> + <p> + “I envy him his happiness.” + </p> + <p> + “He enjoys it because all women are such fools. He caught me through + meeting me at your house; he would never have done so otherwise. What are + you laughing at?” + </p> + <p> + “Because if he has caught you, you have also caught him; you are therefore + quits.” + </p> + <p> + “You don’t know what you are talking about.” + </p> + <p> + I came home at eight o’clock, and as soon as Fanny had told Pauline that I + had returned she came downstairs. I fancied she was trying to captivate me + by her attentions, and as the prospect was quite agreeable to me I thought + we should come to an understanding before very long. + </p> + <p> + Supper was brought in and we stayed at table till midnight, talking about + trifles, but so pleasantly that the time passed away very quickly. When + she left me she wished me good night, and said my conversation had made + her forget her sorrows. + </p> + <p> + Pembroke came next morning to ask me to give him breakfast, and + congratulated me on the disappearance of the bill from my window. + </p> + <p> + “I should very much like to see your boarder,” said he. + </p> + <p> + “I daresay, my lord, but I can’t gratify your curiosity just now, for the + lady likes to be alone, and only puts up with my company because she can’t + help it.” + </p> + <p> + He did not insist, and to turn the conversation I told him that Madame + Binetti was furious with him for his inconstancy, which was a testimony to + his merits. That made him laugh, and without giving me any answer he asked + me if I dined at home that day. + </p> + <p> + “No, my lord, not to-day.” + </p> + <p> + “I understand. Well, it’s very natural; bring the affair to a happy + conclusion.” + </p> + <p> + “I will do my best.” + </p> + <p> + Martinelli had found two or three parodies of my notice in the Advertiser, + and came and read them to me. I was much amused with them; they were + mostly indecent, for the liberty of the press is much abused in London. As + for Martinelli he was too discreet and delicate a man to ask me about my + new boarder. As it was Sunday, I begged him to take me to mass at the + Bavarian ambassador’s chapel; and here I must confess that I was not moved + by any feelings of devotion, but by the hope of seeing Pauline. I had my + trouble for nothing, for, as I heard afterwards, she sat in a dark corner + where no one could see her. The chapel was full, and Martinelli pointed + out several lords and ladies who were Catholics, and did not conceal their + religion. + </p> + <p> + When I got home I received a note from Madame Cornelis, saying that as it + was Sunday and she could go out freely, she hoped I would let her come to + dinner. I shewed the letter to Pauline, not knowing whether she would + object to dining with her, and she said she would be happy to do so, + provided there were no men. I wrote in answer to Madame Cornelis that I + should be glad to see her and her charming daughter at dinner. She came, + and Sophie did not leave my side for a moment. Madame Cornelis, who was + constrained in Pauline’s presence, took me aside to express her gratitude + and to communicate to me some chimerical schemes of hers which were soon + to make her rich. + </p> + <p> + Sophie was the life and soul of the party, but as I happened to tell her + mother that Pauline was a lady who was lodging in my house, she said, + </p> + <p> + “Then she is not your wife?” + </p> + <p> + “No; such happiness is not for me. It was a joke of mine, and the lady + amused herself at the expense of your credulity.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I should like to sleep with her.” + </p> + <p> + “Really? When?” + </p> + <p> + “Whenever mamma will let me.” + </p> + <p> + “We must first ascertain,” said the mother, “what the lady thinks of the + arrangement.” + </p> + <p> + “She needn’t fear a refusal,” said Pauline, giving the child a kiss. + </p> + <p> + “Then you shall have her with pleasure, madam. I will get her governess to + fetch her away to-morrow.” + </p> + <p> + “At three o’clock,” said I, “for she must dine with us.” + </p> + <p> + Sophie, taking her mother’s silence for consent, went up to her and kissed + her, but these attentions were but coldly received. She unfortunately did + not know how to inspire love. + </p> + <p> + After Madame Cornelis had gone, I asked Pauline if she would like to take + a walk with Sophie and myself in the suburbs, where nobody would know her. + </p> + <p> + “In prudence,” said she, “I cannot go out unless I am alone.” + </p> + <p> + “Then shall we stay here?” + </p> + <p> + “We could not do better.” + </p> + <p> + Pauline and Sophie sang Italian, French, and English duets, and the + concert of their voices seemed to me ravishing. We supped gaily, and at + midnight I escorted them to the third floor, telling Sophie that I would + come and breakfast with her in the morning, but that I should expect to + find her in bed. I wanted to see if her body was as beautiful as her face. + I would gladly have asked Pauline to grant me the same favour, but I did + not think things had advanced far enough for that. In the morning I found + Pauline up and dressed. + </p> + <p> + When Sophie saw me she laughed and hid her head under the sheets, but as + soon as she felt me near her she soon let me see her pretty little face, + which I covered with kisses. + </p> + <p> + When she had got up we breakfasted together, and the time went by as + pleasantly as possible till Madame Rancour came for her little charge, who + went away with a sad heart. Thus I was left alone with my Pauline who + began to inspire me with such ardent desires that I dreaded an explosion + every moment. And yet I had not so much as kissed her hand. + </p> + <p> + When Sophie had gone I made her sit beside me, and taking her hand I + kissed it rapturously, saying, + </p> + <p> + “Are you married, Pauline?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you know what it is to be a mother?” + </p> + <p> + “No, but I can partly imagine what happiness it must be.” + </p> + <p> + “Are you separated from your husband?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, by circumstances and against our will. We were separated before we + had cohabited together.” + </p> + <p> + “Is he at London?” + </p> + <p> + “No, he is far away, but please don’t say anything more about it.” + </p> + <p> + “Only tell me whether my loss will be his gain.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, and I promise not to leave you till I have to leave England—that + is, unless you dismiss me—and I shall leave this happy island to be + happy with the husband of my choice.” + </p> + <p> + “But I, dear Pauline, will be left unhappy, for I love you with all my + heart, and am afraid to give you any proof of my love.” + </p> + <p> + “Be generous and spare me, for I am not my own mistress, and have no right + to give myself to you; and perhaps, if you were so ungenerous as to attack + me, I should not have the strength to resist.” + </p> + <p> + “I will obey, but I shall still languish. I cannot be unhappy unless I + forfeit your favour.” + </p> + <p> + “I have duties to perform, my dear friend, and I cannot neglect them + without becoming contemptible in my own eyes and yours too.” + </p> + <p> + “I should deem myself the most miserable of men if I despised a woman for + making me happy.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I like you too well to think you capable of such conduct, but let + us be moderate, for we may have to part to-morrow. You must confess that + if we yielded to desire, this parting would be all the more bitter. If you + are of another opinion, that only shews that your ideas of love and mine + are different.” + </p> + <p> + “Then tell me of what sort of love is that with which I am happy enough to + have inspired you?” + </p> + <p> + “It is of such a kind that enjoyment would only increase it, and yet + enjoyment seems to me a mere accident.” + </p> + <p> + “Then what is its essence?” + </p> + <p> + “To live together in perfect unity.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s a blessing we can enjoy from morning to eve, but why should we not + add the harmless accident which would take so short a time, and give us + such peace and tranquillity. You must confess, Pauline, that the essence + cannot exist long without the accident.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but you in your turn, you will agree that the food often proves in + time to be deadly.” + </p> + <p> + “No, not when one loves truly, as I do. Do you think that you will not + love me so well after having possessed me?” + </p> + <p> + “No, it’s because I think quite otherwise, that I dread to make the moment + of parting so bitter.” + </p> + <p> + “I see I must yield to your logic. I should like to see the food on which + you feed your brain, otherwise your books. Will you let me come upstairs?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly, but you will be caught.” + </p> + <p> + “How?” + </p> + <p> + “Come and see.” + </p> + <p> + We went to her room, and I found that all her books were Portuguese, with + the exception of Milton, in English, Ariosto, in Italian, and Labruyere’s + “Characters,” in French. + </p> + <p> + “Your selection gives me a high idea of your mental qualities,” said I, + “but tell me, why do you give such a preference to Camoens and all these + Portuguese authors?” + </p> + <p> + “For a very good reason, I am Portuguese myself.” + </p> + <p> + “You Portuguese? I thought you were Italian. And so you already know five + languages, for you doubtless know Spanish.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, although Spanish is not absolutely necessary.” + </p> + <p> + “What an education you have had!” + </p> + <p> + “I am twenty-two now, but I knew all these languages at eighteen.” + </p> + <p> + “Tell me who you are, tell me all about yourself. I am worthy of your + confidence.” + </p> + <p> + “I think so too, and to give you a proof of my trust in you I am going to + tell you my history, for since you love me you can only wish to do me + good.” + </p> + <p> + “What are all these manuscripts?” + </p> + <p> + “My history, which I have written down myself. Let us sit down.” + </p> + <a name="linkE2HCH0009" id="linkE2HCH0009"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IX + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Pauline’s Story—I Am Happy—Pauline Leaves Me +</pre> + <p> + I am the only daughter of the unfortunate Count X—— o, whom + Carvailho Oeiras killed in prison on suspicion of being concerned in the + attempt on the king’s life, in which the Jesuits were supposed to have had + a hand. I do not know whether my father was innocent or guilty, but I do + know that the tyrannical minister did not dare to have him tried, or to + confiscate the estates, which remain in my possession, though I can only + enjoy them by returning to my native land. + </p> + <p> + “My mother had me brought up in a convent where her sister was abbess. I + had all kinds of masters, especially an Italian from Leghorn, who in six + years taught me all that he thought proper for me to know. He would answer + any questions I chose to put him, save on religious matters, but I must + confess that his reserve made me all the fonder of him, for in leaving me + to reflect on certain subjects by myself he did a great deal to form my + judgment. + </p> + <p> + “I was eighteen when my grandfather removed me from the convent, although + I protested that I would gladly stay there till I got married. I was + fondly attached to my aunt, who did all in her power after my mother’s + death to make me forget the double loss I had sustained. My leaving the + convent altered the whole course of my existence, and as it was not a + voluntary action I have nothing to repent of. + </p> + <p> + “My grandfather placed me with his sister-in-law, the Marchioness X——o, + who gave me up half her house. I had a governess, a companion, maids, + pages, and footmen, all of whom, though in my service, were under the + orders of my governess, a well-born lady, who was happily honest and + trustworthy. + </p> + <p> + “A year after I had left the convent my grandfather came and told me in + the presence of my governess that Count Fl—— had asked my hand + for his son, who was coming from Madrid end would arrive that day. + </p> + <p> + “‘What answer did you give him, dear grandfather?’ + </p> + <p> + “‘That the marriage would be acceptable to the whole of the nobility, and + also to the king and royal family.’ + </p> + <p> + “‘But are you quite sure that the young count will like me and that I + shall like the count?’ + </p> + <p> + “‘That, my dear daughter, is a matter of course, and there need be no + discussion on the subject.’ + </p> + <p> + “‘But it is a question in which I am strongly interested, and I should + like to consider it very carefully. We shall see how matters arrange + themselves.’ + </p> + <p> + “‘You can see each other before deciding, but you must decide all the + same.’ + </p> + <p> + “‘I hope so, but let us not be too certain. We shall see.’ + </p> + <p> + “As soon as my grandfather had gone I told my governess that I had made up + my mind never to give my hand save where I had given my heart, and that I + should only marry a man whose character and tastes I had carefully + studied. My governess gave me no answer, and on my pressing her to give me + her opinion, she replied that she thought her best course would be to keep + silence on such a delicate question. This was as much as to tell me that + she thought I was right; at least I persuaded myself that it was so. + </p> + <p> + “The next day I went to the convent, and told the story to my aunt, the + abbess, who listened to me kindly and said it was to be hoped that I + should fall in love with him and he with me, but that even if it were + otherwise she was of opinion that the marriage would take place, as she + had reasons for believing that the scheme came from the Princess of + Brazil, who favoured Count Fl——. + </p> + <p> + “Though this information grieved me, I was still glad to hear it, and my + resolution never to marry save for love was all the more strongly + confirmed. + </p> + <p> + “In the course of a fortnight the count arrived, and my grandfather + presented him to me, several ladies being in the company. Nothing was said + about marrying, but there was a deal of talk about the strange lands and + peoples the new arrival had seen. I listened with the greatest attention, + not opening my mouth the whole time. I had very little knowledge of the + world, so I could not make any comparisons between my suitor and other + men, but my conclusion was that he could never hope to please any woman, + and that he would certainly never be mine. He had an unpleasant sneering + manner, joked in bad taste, was stupid, and a devotee, or rather a + fanatic. Furthermore he was ugly and ill-shapen, and so great a fop that + he was not ashamed to relate the story of his conquests in France and + Italy. + </p> + <p> + “I went home hoping with all my heart that he had taken a dislike to me, + and a week which passed away without my hearing anything on the subject + confirmed me in this belief, but I was doomed to be disappointed. My + great-aunt asked me to dinner, and when I went I found the foolish young + man and his father present, together with my grandfather, who formally + introduced him to me as my future husband, and begged me to fix the + wedding day. I made up my mind that I would rather die than marry him, and + answered politely but coldly that I would name the day when I had decided + on marrying, but I should require time to think it over. The dinner went + off silently, and I only opened my mouth to utter monosyllables in reply + to questions which I could not avoid. After the coffee had been served I + left the house, taking no notice of anyone besides my aunt and my + grandfather. + </p> + <p> + “Some time elapsed; and I again began to hope that I had effectually + disgusted my suitor, but one morning my governess told me that Father + Freire was waiting to speak to me in the ante-chamber. I ordered him to be + sent in. He was the confessor of the Princess of Brazil, and after some + desultory conversation he said the princess had sent him to congratulate + me on my approaching marriage with Count Fl——. + </p> + <p> + “I did not evince any surprise, merely replying that I was sensible of her + highness’s kindness, but that nothing had been decided so far, as I was + not thinking of getting married. + </p> + <p> + “The priest, who was a perfect courtier, smiled in a manner, half kindly, + half sardonic, and said that I was at that happy age when I had no need to + think of anything, as my kind friends and relations did all my thinking + for me. + </p> + <p> + “I only answered by an incredulous smile, which, for all his monastic + subtlety, struck him as the expression of a young girl’s coyness. + </p> + <p> + “Foreseeing the persecution to which I should be subjected, I went the + next day to my aunt the abbess, who could not refuse me her advice. I + began by stating my firm resolve to die rather than wed a being I + detested. + </p> + <p> + “The worthy nun replied that the count had been introduced to her, and + that to tell the truth she thought him insufferable; all the same, she + said she was afraid I should be made to marry him. + </p> + <p> + “These words were such a shock to me that I turned the conversation, and + spoke of other subjects for the remainder of my visit. But when I got back + to my house I pursued an extraordinary course. I shut myself up in my + closet and wrote a letter to the executioner of my unhappy father, the + pitiless Oeiras, telling him the whole story, and imploring him to protect + me and to speak to the king in my favour; ‘for,’ said I, ‘as you have made + me an orphan it is your duty before God to care for me.’ I begged him to + shelter me from the anger of the Princess of Brazil, and to leave me at + liberty to dispose of my hand according to my pleasure. + </p> + <p> + “Though I did not imagine Oeiras to be a humane man, yet I thought he must + have some sort of a heart; besides, by this extraordinary step and the + firmness of my language, I hoped to appeal to his pride and to interest + him in my favour. I felt sure that he would do me justice, if only to + prove that he had not been unjust to my father. I was right, as will be + seen, and although I was but an inexperienced girl my instinct served me + well. + </p> + <p> + “Two days elapsed before I was waited on by a messenger from Oeiras, who + begged the honour of a private interview with me. The messenger told me + that the minister wished me to reply to all who pressed me to marry that I + should not decide until I was assured that the princess desired the match. + The minister begged me to excuse his not answering my letter, but he had + good reasons for not doing so. The messenger assured me that I could count + on his master’s support. + </p> + <p> + “His message delivered, the gentleman took leave with a profound bow, and + went back without waiting for an answer. I must confess that the young + man’s looks had made a great impression on me. I cannot describe my + feelings, but they have exerted great influence on my conduct, and will no + doubt continue to do so for the rest of my life. + </p> + <p> + “This message put me quite at ease, for he would never have given me the + instructions he did without being perfectly sure that the princess would + not interfere any farther with my marriage; and so I gave myself up + entirely to the new sentiments which possessed my heart. Though strong, + the flame would no doubt soon have died down if it had not received fresh + fuel every day, for when I saw the young messenger a week later in church + I scarcely recognized him. From that moment, however, I met him + everywhere; out walking, in the theatre, in the houses where I called, and + especially when I was getting in or out of my carriage he was ever beside + me, ready to offer his hand; and I got so used to his presence that when I + missed his face I felt a void at my heart that made me unhappy. + </p> + <p> + “Almost every day I saw the two Counts Fl—— at my + great-aunt’s, but as there was no longer any engagement between us their + presence neither joyed me nor grieved me. I had forgiven them but I was + not happy. The image of the young messenger, of whom I knew nothing, was + ever before me, and I blushed at my thoughts though I would not ask myself + the reasons. + </p> + <p> + “Such was my state of mind, when one day I heard a voice, which was + unknown to me, in my maid’s room. I saw a quantity of lace on a table and + proceeded to examine it without paying any attention to a girl who was + standing near the table and curtsying to me. I did not like any of the + lace, so the girl said that she would bring me some more to choose from + the next day, and as I raised my eyes I was astonished to see that she had + the face of the young man who was always in my thoughts. My only resource + was to doubt their identity and to make myself believe that I had been + deceived by a mere chance likeness. I was reassured on second thoughts; + the girl seemed to me to be taller than the young man, whom I hesitated to + believe capable of such a piece of daring. The girl gathered up her lace + and went her way without raising her eyes to mine, and this made me feel + suspicious again. + </p> + <p> + “‘Do you know that girl?’ I said, coldly, to my maid, and she replied that + she had never seen her before. I went away without another word, not + knowing what to think. + </p> + <p> + “I thought it over and resolved to examine the girl when she came on the + following day, and to unmask her if my suspicions proved to be well + founded. I told myself that she might be the young man’s sister, and that + if it were otherwise it would be all the more easy to cure myself of my + passion. A young girl who reasons on love falls into love, especially if + she have no one in whom to confide. + </p> + <p> + “The pretended lace-seller duly came the next day with a box of lace. I + told her to come into my room, and then speaking to her to force her to + raise her eyes I saw before me the being who exerted such a powerful + influence over me. It was such a shock that I had no strength to ask her + any of the questions I had premeditated. Besides, my maid was in the room, + and the fear of exposing myself operated, I think, almost as strongly as + emotion. I set about choosing some pieces of lace in a mechanical way, and + told my maid to go and fetch my purse. No sooner had she left the room + than the lace-seller fell at my feet and exclaimed passionately, + </p> + <p> + “‘Give me life or death, madam, for I see you know who I am.’ + </p> + <p> + “‘Yes, I do know you, and I think you must have gone mad.’ + </p> + <p> + “‘Yes, that may be; but I am mad with love. I adore you.’ + </p> + <p> + “‘Rise, for my maid will come back directly.’ + </p> + <p> + “‘She is in my secret.’ + </p> + <p> + “‘What! you have dared—’ + </p> + <p> + “He got up, and the maid came in and gave him his money with the utmost + coolness. He picked up his lace, made me a profound bow, and departed. + </p> + <p> + “It would have been natural for me to speak to my maid, and still more + natural if I had dismissed her on the spot. I had no courage to do so, and + my weakness will only astonish those rigorous moralists who know nothing + of a young girl’s heart, and do not consider my painful position, + passionately in love and with no one but myself to rely on. + </p> + <p> + “I did not follow at once the severe dictates of duty; afterwards it was + too late, and I easily consoled myself with the thought that I could + pretend not to be aware that the maid was in the secret. I determined to + dissemble, hoping that I should never see the adventurous lover again, and + that thus all would be as if it had never happened. + </p> + <p> + “This resolve was really the effect of anger, for a fortnight passed by + without my seeing the young man in the theatre, the public walks, or in + any of the public places he used to frequent, and I became sad and dreamy, + feeling all the time ashamed of my own wanton fancies. I longed to know + his name, which I could only learn from my maid, and it was out of the + question for me to ask Oeiras. I hated my maid, and I blushed when I saw + her, imagining that she knew all. I was afraid that she would suspect my + honour, and at another time I feared lest she might think I did not love + him; and this thought nearly drove me mad. As for the young adventurer I + thought him more to be pitied than to be blamed, for I did not believe + that he knew I loved him, and it seemed to me that the idea of my + despising him was enough vengeance for his audacity. But my thoughts were + different when my vanity was stronger than love, for then despair avenged + itself on pride, and I fancied he would think no more of me, and perhaps + had already forgotten me. + </p> + <p> + “Such a state cannot last long, for if nothing comes to put an end to the + storm which tosses the soul to and fro, it ends at last by making an + effort of itself to sail into the calm waters of peace. + </p> + <p> + “One day I put on a lace kerchief I had bought from him, and asked my + maid, + </p> + <p> + “‘What has become of the girl who sold me this kerchief?’ + </p> + <p> + “I asked this question without premeditation; it was, as it were, an + inspiration from my good or my evil genius. + </p> + <p> + “As crafty as I was simple, the woman answered that to be sure he had not + dared to come again, fearing that I had found out his disguise. + </p> + <p> + “‘Certainly,’ I replied, ‘I found it out directly, but I was astonished to + hear that you knew this lace-seller was a young man.’ + </p> + <p> + “‘I did not think I should offend you, madam, I know him well.’ + </p> + <p> + “‘Who is he? + </p> + <p> + “‘Count d’Al——; you ought to know him, for he paid you a visit + about four months ago.’ + </p> + <p> + “‘True, and it is possible that I did not know him, but why did you tell a + lie when I asked you, “Do you know that girl?”’ + </p> + <p> + “‘I lied to spare your feelings, madam, and I was afraid you would be + angry at the part I had taken.’ + </p> + <p> + “‘You would have honoured me more by supposing the contrary. When you went + out, and I told him he was mad, and that you would find him on his knees + when you returned, he told me you were in the secret.’ + </p> + <p> + “‘If it be a secret, but it seems to me a mere joke.’ + </p> + <p> + “‘I wished to think so too, but nevertheless it seemed of such weight to + me, that I resolved to be silent that I might not be obliged to send you + away.’ + </p> + <p> + “‘My idea was that you would have been amused, but as you take it + seriously I am sorry that I have failed in my strict duty.’ + </p> + <p> + “So weak is a woman in love that in this explanation which should have + shewn me the servant’s fault in all its enormity I only saw a full + justification. In fact she had given peace to my heart, but my mind was + still uneasy. I knew that there was a young Count d’Al—— + belonging to a noble family, but almost penniless. All he had was the + minister’s patronage, and the prospect of good State employments. The + notion that Heaven meant me to remedy the deficiencies in his fortune made + me fall into a sweet reverie, and at last I found myself deciding that my + maid who put it all down as a jest had more wit than I. I blamed myself + for my scrupulous behaviour, which seemed no better than prudery. My love + was stronger than I thought, and this is my best excuse, besides I had no + one to guide or counsel me. + </p> + <p> + “But after sunshine comes shadow. My soul was like the ebb and tide of the + sea, now in the heights and now in the depths. The resolve, which the + count seemed to have taken, to see me no more, either shewed him to be a + man of little enterprise or little love, and this supposition humiliated + me. ‘If,’ I said to myself, ‘the count is offended with me for calling him + a madman, he can have no delicacy and no discretion; he is unworthy of my + love.’ + </p> + <p> + “I was in this dreadful state of uncertainty when my maid took upon + herself to write to the count that he could come and see me under the same + disguise. He followed her advice, and one fine morning the crafty maid + came into my chamber laughing, and told me that the lace-seller was in the + next room. I was moved exceedingly, but restraining myself I began to + laugh also, though the affair was no laughing matter for me. + </p> + <p> + “‘Shall I shew her in?’ said the maid. + </p> + <p> + “‘Are you crazy?’ + </p> + <p> + “Shall I send her away?’ + </p> + <p> + “‘No, I will go and speak to him myself.’ + </p> + <p> + “This day was a memorable one. My maid left the room now and again, and we + had plenty of time to disclose our feelings to one another. I frankly + confessed that I loved him, but added that it were best that I should + forget him, as it was not likely that my relations would consent to our + marriage. In his turn he told me that the minister having resolved to send + him to England, he would die of despair unless he carried with him the + hope of one day possessing me, for he said he loved me too well to live + without me. He begged me to allow him to come and see me under the same + disguise, and though I could not refuse him anything I said that we might + be discovered. + </p> + <p> + “‘It is enough for me,’ he replied, tenderly, ‘that you will incur no + danger, my visits will be set down to the account of your maid.’ + </p> + <p> + “‘But I am afraid for you,’ I replied, ‘your disguise is a crime in + itself; your reputation will suffer, and that will not tend to bring the + wish of your heart nearer.’ + </p> + <p> + “In spite of my objections, my heart spoke in his favour, and he pleaded + so well and promised to be so discreet that at last I said I would see him + gladly whenever he liked to come. + </p> + <p> + “Count Al—— is twenty-two, and is shorter than I; he is + small-boned, and in his disguise as a lace-seller it was hard to recognize + him, even by his voice, which is very soft. He imitated the gestures and + ways of women to perfection, and not a few women would be only too glad to + be like him. + </p> + <p> + “Thus for nearly three months the disguised count came to see me three or + four times a week, always in my maid’s room, and mostly in her presence. + But even if we had been perfectly alone his fear of my displeasure was too + great to allow him to take the slightest liberties. I think now that this + mutual restraint added fuel to our flames, for when we thought of the + moment of parting it was with dumb sadness and with no idea of taking the + opportunity of rendering one another happy. We flattered ourselves that + Heaven would work some miracle in our favour, and that the day would never + come wherein we should be parted. + </p> + <p> + “But one morning the count came earlier than usual, and, bursting into + tears, told me that the minister had given him a letter for M. de Saa, the + Portuguese ambassador at London, and another letter open for the captain + of a ship which was shortly to sail for London. In this letter the + minister ordered the captain to embark Count Al——, to take him + to London, and to treat him with distinction. + </p> + <p> + “My poor lover was overwhelmed, he was nearly choked with sobs, and his + brain was all confusion. For his sake, and taking pity on his grief and my + love, I conceived the plan of accompanying him as his servant, or rather + to avoid disguising my sex, as his wife. When I told him, he was at once + stupefied and dazzled. He was beyond reasoning, and left everything in my + hands. We agreed to discuss the matter at greater length on the following + day, and parted. + </p> + <p> + “Foreseeing that it would be difficult for me to leave the house in + woman’s dress, I resolved to disguise myself as a man. But if I kept to my + man’s dress I should be obliged to occupy the position of my lover’s + valet, and have to undertake tasks beyond my strength. This thought made + me resolve to impersonate the master myself, but thinking that I should + not care to see my lover degraded to the rank of a servant, I determined + that he should be my wife, supposing that the captain of the ship did not + know him by sight. + </p> + <p> + “‘As soon as we get to England,’ I thought, ‘we will get married, and can + resume our several dresses. This marriage will efface whatever shame may + be attached to our flight; they will say, perhaps, that the count carried + me off; but a girl is not carried off against her will, and Oeiras surely + will not persecute me for having made the fortune of his favourite. As to + our means of subsistence, till I get my rents, I can sell my diamonds, and + they will realize an ample sum.’ + </p> + <p> + “The next day, when I told my lover of this strange plan, he made no + objections. The only obstacle which he thought of was the circumstance + that the sea-captain might know him by sight, and this would have been + fatal; but as he did not think it likely we determined to run the risk, + and it was agreed that he should get me the clothes for the new part I was + to play. + </p> + <p> + “I saw my lover again after an interval of three days; it was nightfall + when he came. He told me that the Admiralty had informed him that the ship + was riding at the mouth of the Tagus, and that the captain would put out + to sea as soon as he had delivered his dispatches and had received fresh + instructions. Count Al—— was consequently requested to be at a certain spot + at midnight, and a boat would be in waiting to take him on board. + </p> + <p> + “I had made up my mind, and this was enough for me; and after having fixed + the time and place of meeting, I shut myself up, pretending to be unwell. + I put a few necessaries into a bag, not forgetting the precious + jewel-casket, and I dressed myself up as a man and left the house by a + stair only used by the servants. Even the porter did not see me as I made + my escape. + </p> + <p> + “Fearing lest I should go astray the count was waiting for me at a short + distance, and I was pleasantly surprised when he took me by the arm, + saying, ‘’Tis I.’ From this careful action, simple though it was, I saw + that he had intelligence; he was afraid to catch hold of me without making + himself known. We went to a house where he had his trunk, and in half an + hour his disguise was made. When all was ready a man came for our slight + baggage, and we walked to the river where the count was waiting for us. It + was eleven o’clock when we left land, and thinking my jewels would be + safer in his pocket than in my bag, I gave them to him, and we anxiously + awaited the arrival of the captain. He came aboard with his officers at + midnight, and accosted me politely, saying he had received orders to treat + me with distinction. I thanked him cordially, and introduced my wife to + him, whom he greeted respectfully, saying he was delighted to have such a + charming passenger, who would doubtless give us a fortunate voyage. He was + too polite to be astonished that the minister had made no mention of the + count’s wife in his letter. + </p> + <p> + “We got to the frigate in less than an hour; she was three leagues from + land, and as soon as we got on board the captain ordered the men to set + sail. He took us to a room which was extremely comfortable, considering it + was only a cabin, and after doing the honours left us to ourselves. + </p> + <p> + “When we were alone we thanked Heaven that everything had gone off so + well, and far from going to sleep we spent the night in discussing the + bold step we had taken, or rather, only just begun to take; however, we + hoped it would have as fortunate an ending as beginning. When the day + dawned our hearts were gladdened because Lisbon was no longer in sight, + and as we were in need of rest I laid down on a seat, while the count got + into a hammock, neither of us troubling to undress. + </p> + <p> + “We were just falling asleep, when we began to feel the approach of + sea-sickness, and for three days we knew no peace. + </p> + <p> + “On the fourth day, scarcely being able to stand upright for weakness, we + began to be hungry, and had to exercise a careful moderation, so as not to + become seriously ill. Happily for us the captain had a store of good food, + and our meals were delicate and well-served. + </p> + <p> + “My lover, whose sickness has been more severe than mine, used this as a + pretext for not leaving his room. The captain only came to see us once; + this must have been out of extreme politeness, for in Portugal one may be + jealous and yet not ridiculous. As for me, I stood upon the bridge nearly + all day; the fresh air did me good, and I amused myself by scanning the + horizon with my telescope. + </p> + <p> + “The seventh day of the voyage my heart trembled as with a presentiment of + misfortune, when the sailors said that a vessel which could be seen in the + distance was a corvette which was due to sail a day after us, but being a + swift sailor would probably reach England two or three days before us. + </p> + <p> + “Though the voyage from Lisbon to England is a long one we had a fair wind + all the way, and in fourteen days we dropped anchor at day-break in the + port of Plymouth. + </p> + <p> + “The officer sent ashore by the captain to ask leave to disembark + passengers came on board in the evening with several letters. One the + captain read with peculiar attention, and then called me to one side and + said, + </p> + <p> + “‘This letter comes from Count Oeiras, and enjoins me, on my life, not to + let any Portuguese young lady land, unless she be known to me. I am to + take her back to Lisbon after having executed my various commissions. + There is neither wife nor maid on my frigate, except the countess your + wife. If you can prove that she is really your wife she may land with you; + otherwise, you see, I cannot disobey the minister’s orders.’ + </p> + <p> + “‘She is my wife,’ I said, coolly; ‘but as I could not foresee this + accident I have no papers to prove the fact.’ + </p> + <p> + “‘I am sorry to hear it, as in that case she must go back to Lisbon. You + may be sure I will treat her with all possible respect.’ + </p> + <p> + “‘But a wife may not be parted from her husband.’ + </p> + <p> + “‘Quite so, but I cannot disobey orders. If you like you can return to + Lisbon in the corvette; you will be there before us.’ + </p> + <p> + “‘Why cannot I return in this frigate? + </p> + <p> + “‘Because I have distinct orders to put you on land. And now I come to + think of it, how was it that there was not a word about your wife in the + letter you gave me when we started? If the lady is not the person meant by + the minister, you may be sure she will be sent back to join you in + London.’ + </p> + <p> + “‘You will allow me to go and speak to her? + </p> + <p> + “‘Certainly, but in my presence.’ + </p> + <p> + “My heart was broken; nevertheless, I had to put a good face on the losing + game I was playing. I went to the count, and addressing him as my dear + wife communicated the order which was to part us. + </p> + <p> + “I was afraid he would betray himself, but he was strong-minded enough to + restrain his emotion, and only replied that we must needs submit, and that + we should see each other again in a couple of months. + </p> + <p> + “As the captain stood beside us, I could only utter common-places. I + warned him, however, that I should write to the abbess directly I got to + London, who was the first person he must go and see at Lisbon, as she + would have my address. I took care not to ask for my jewel-case, as the + captain might have thought that my false wife was some rich young lady + whom I had seduced. + </p> + <p> + “We had to abandon ourselves to our destiny. We embraced each other and + mingled our ears, and the captain wept, too, when he heard me say, + </p> + <p> + “‘Trust in all things to the worthy captain, and let us not fear at all.’ + </p> + <p> + “The count’s trunk was lowered into the boat, and as I did not dare to + take my bag I found myself loaded with nothing but a man’s clothes, which + would not have fitted me, even if I had intended to keep up my disguise. + </p> + <p> + “When I came to the custom-house I saw my possessions. There were books, + letters, linen, some suits of clothes, a sword and two pairs of pistols, + one pair of which I put in my pockets, and then I went to an inn where the + host said that if I wanted to travel to London the next morning I should + only have to pay for one horse. + </p> + <p> + “‘Who are the people,’ said I, ‘who desire a companion?’ + </p> + <p> + “‘You shall sup with them if you like,’ said he. + </p> + <p> + “I accepted the offer, and found the party consisted of a minister of + religion and two ladies whose faces pleased me. I was fortunate enough to + win their good graces, and early the next day we got to London and + alighted in the Strand at an inn where I only dined, going out to seek a + lodging appropriate to my means and the kind of life I wished to lead. + Fifty Lisbon pieces and a ring of about the same value was all that I + possessed in the world. + </p> + <p> + “I took a room on the third floor, being attracted by the honest and + kindly expression of the landlady. I could only trust in God and confide + my position to her. I agreed to pay her ten shillings a week, and begged + her to get me some woman’s clothes, for I was afraid to go out in my man’s + dress any longer. + </p> + <p> + “The next day I was clothed like a poor girl who desires to escape notice. + I spoke English well enough to seem a native of the country, and I knew + how I must behave if I wished to be let alone. Although the landlady was a + worthy woman, her house was not exactly suitable for me; my stay in + England might be protracted, and if I came to destitution I should be + wretched indeed; so I resolved to leave the house. I received no visitors, + but I could not prevent the inquisitive from hovering round my door, and + the more it became known that I saw no one, the more their curiosity + increased. The house was not quiet enough. It was near the Exchange, and + the neighborhood swarmed with young men who came to dine on the first + floor of the house, and did their best to cure me of my sadness, as they + called it, though I had not shewn any signs of wishing to be cured. + </p> + <p> + “I made up my mind not to spend more than a guinea a week, and resolved to + sell my ring if I could have the money paid to me at intervals. An old + jeweler who lodged next door, and for whose honesty my landlady answered, + told me it was worth a hundred and fifty guineas, and asked me to let him + have it if I had no better offer. I had not thought it to be so valuable, + and I sold it to him on condition that he would pay me four guineas a + month, and that I should be at liberty to buy it back if I could do so + before all the payments had been made. + </p> + <p> + “I wanted to keep my ready money, which I still have by me, so as to be + able to go back to Lisbon by land when I can do so in safety, for I could + not face the horrors of a sea voyage a second time. + </p> + <p> + “I told my case to my worthy landlady who still befriends me, and she + helped me to get another lodging, but I had to procure a servant to fetch + me my food; I could not summon up courage to have my meals in a + coffee-house. However, all my servants turned out ill; they robbed me + continually, and levied a tax on all their purchases. + </p> + <p> + “The temperance I observed—for I almost lived on bread and water—made + me get thinner every day, still I saw no way of mending my existence till + chance made me see your singular announcement. I laughed at it; and then + drawn by some irresistible power, or perhaps by the curiosity that falls + to the lot of most of us women, I could not resist going in and speaking + to you. Instinct thus pointed out the way to improve my lot without + increasing my expenditure. + </p> + <p> + “When I got back I found a copy of the Advertiser on my landlady’s table; + it contained some editorial fun on the notice I had just read. The writer + said that the master of the house was an Italian, and had therefore + nothing to fear from feminine violence. On my side I determined to hazard + everything, but I feel I have been too hasty, and that there are certain + attacks which it is pleasant not to resist. I was brought up by an + Italian, a clever and good man, and I have always had a great respect for + your fellow-countrymen.” + </p> + <p> + My fair Portuguese had finished her story, and I observed,— + </p> + <p> + “Really, your history has amused me very much; it has all the air of a + romance.” + </p> + <p> + “Quite so,” said she; “but it is a strictly historical romance. But the + most amusing thing to me is that you have listened to it without + weariness.” + </p> + <p> + “That is your modesty, madam; not only, has your tale interested me, but + now that I know you are a Portuguese I am at peace with the nation.” + </p> + <p> + “Were you at war with us, then?” + </p> + <p> + “I have never forgiven you for letting your Portuguese Virgil die + miserably two hundred years ago.” + </p> + <p> + “You mean Camoens. But the Greeks treated Homer in the same way.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but the faults of others are no excuse for our own.” + </p> + <p> + “You are right; but how can you like Camoens so much if you do not know + Portuguese?” + </p> + <p> + “I have read a translation in Latin hexameters so well done that I fancied + I was reading Virgil.” + </p> + <p> + “Is that truly so?” + </p> + <p> + “I would never lie to you.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I make a vow to learn Latin.” + </p> + <p> + “That is worthy of you, but it is of me that you must learn the language. + I will go to Portugal and live and die there, if you will give me your + heart.’ + </p> + <p> + “My heart! I have only one, and that is given already. Since I have known + you I have despised myself, for I am afraid I have an inconstant nature.” + </p> + <p> + “It will be enough for me if you will love me as your father, provided I + may sometimes take my daughter to my arms. But go on with your story, the + chief part is yet untold. What became of your lover, and what did your + relations do when they found out your flight?” + </p> + <p> + “Three days after I arrived in this vast city I wrote to the abbess, my + aunt, and told her the whole story, begging her to protect my lover, and + to confirm me in my resolution never to return to Lisbon till I could do + so in security, and have no obstacles placed in the way of my marriage. I + also begged her to write and inform me of all that happened, addressing + her letters to ‘Miss Pauline,’ under cover of my landlady. + </p> + <p> + “I sent my letter by Paris and Madrid, and I had to wait three months + before I got an answer. My aunt told me that the frigate had only returned + a short time, and that the captain immediately on his arrival wrote to the + minister informing him that the only lady who was in his ship when he + sailed was still on board, for he had brought her back with him, despite + the opposition of Count Al——, who declared she was his wife. + The captain ended by asking his excellency for further orders with respect + to the lady aforesaid. + </p> + <p> + “Oeiras, feeling sure that the lady was myself, told the captain to take + her to the convent of which my aunt was abbess, with a letter he had + written. In this letter he told my aunt that he sent her her niece, and + begged her to keep the girl securely till further orders. My aunt was + extremely surprised, but she would have been still more surprised if she + had not got my letter a few days before. She thanked the captain for his + care, and took the false niece to a room and locked her up. She then wrote + to Oeiras, telling him that she had received into her convent a person + supposed to be his niece, but as this person was really a man in woman’s + dress she begged his excellency to remove him as soon as possible. + </p> + <p> + “When the abbess had written this curious letter she paid a visit to the + count, who fell on his knees before her. My good aunt raised him, and + shewed him my letter. She said that she had been obliged to write to the + minister, and that she had no doubt he would be removed from the convent + in the course of a few hours. The count burst into tears, and begging the + abbess to protect us both gave her my jewel-casket, which the worthy woman + received with great pleasure. She left him, promising to write to me of + all that happened. + </p> + <p> + “The minister was at one of his country estates, and did not receive the + abbess’s letter till the next day, but hastened to reply in person. My + aunt easily convinced his excellency of the need for keeping the matter + secret, for a man had been sent into the convent, which would be to her + dishonour. She shewed the proud minister the letter she had had from me, + and told him how the honest young man had given her my jewel-casket. He + thanked her for her open dealing, and begged her pardon with a smile for + sending a fine young man to her nunnery. + </p> + <p> + “‘The secret,’ said he, ‘is of the greatest importance; we must see that + it goes no farther. I will relieve you of your false niece, and take her + away in my carriage.’ + </p> + <p> + “My aunt took him at his word and brought out the young recluse, who drove + away with the minister. The abbess tells me that from that day she has + heard nothing about him, but that all Lisbon is talking over the affair, + but in a wholly distorted manner. They say that the minister first of all + put me under the care of my aunt, but soon after took me away, and has + kept me in some secret place ever since. Count Al—— is + supposed to be in London, and I in the minister’s power, and probably we + are supposed to have entered into a tender relationship. No doubt his + excellency is perfectly well informed of my doings here, for he knows my + address and has spies everywhere. + </p> + <p> + “On the advice of my aunt I wrote to Oeiras a couple of months ago, + telling him that I am ready to return to Lisbon, if I may marry Count Al—— + and live in perfect liberty. Otherwise, I declared, I would stay in + London, where the laws guaranteed my freedom. I am waiting for his answer + every day, and I expect it will be a favourable one, for no one can + deprive me of my estates, and Oeiras will probably be only too glad to + protect me to lessen the odium which attaches to his name as the murderer + of my father.” + </p> + <p> + Pauline made no mystery of the names of the characters, but she may be + still alive, and I respect her too well to run the risk of wounding her, + though these Memoirs will not see the light of day during my lifetime. It + is sufficient to say that the story is known to all the inhabitants of + Lisbon, and that the persons who figure in it are public characters in + Portugal. + </p> + <p> + I lived with dear Pauline in perfect harmony, feeling my love for her + increase daily, and daily inspiring her with tenderer feelings towards + myself. But as my love increased in strength, I grew thin and feeble; I + could not sleep nor eat. I should have languished away if I had not + succeeded in gratifying my passion. On the other hand, Pauline grew + plumper and prettier every day. + </p> + <p> + “If my sufferings serve to increase your charms,” said I, “you ought not + to let me die, for a dead man has no suffering.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you think that your sufferings are due to your love for me?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly.” + </p> + <p> + “There may be something in it, but, believe me, the tender passion does + not destroy the appetite nor take away the power of sleep. Your + indisposition is undoubtedly due to the sedentary life you have been + leading of late. If you love me, give me a proof of it; go out for a + ride.” + </p> + <p> + “I cannot refuse you anything, dearest Pauline, but what then?” + </p> + <p> + “Then you shall find me grateful to you, you will have a good appetite, + and will sleep well.” + </p> + <p> + “A horse, a horse! Quick! My boots!” I kissed her hand—for I had not + got any farther than that—and began to ride towards Kingston. I did + not care for the motion of trotting, so I put my horse at a gallop, when + all of a sudden he stumbled, and in an instant I was lying on the ground + in front of the Duke of Kingston’s house. Miss Chudleigh happened to be at + the window, and seeing me thrown to the ground uttered a shriek. I raised + my head and she recognized me, and hastened to send some of her people to + help me. As soon as I was on my feet I wanted to go and thank her, but I + could not stir, and a valet who knew something of surgery examined me, and + declared that I had put out my collar-bone and would require a week’s + rest. + </p> + <p> + The young lady told me that if I liked to stay in her house the greatest + care should be taken of me. I thanked her warmly, but begged her to have + me taken home, as I should not like to give her so much trouble. She + immediately gave the necessary orders, and I was driven home in a + comfortable carriage. The servants in charge would not accept any money, + and I saw in the incident a proof of that hospitality for which the + English are famed, although they are at the same time profoundly + egotistic. + </p> + <p> + When I got home I went to bed, and sent for a surgeon, who laughed when I + told him that I had put out a bone. + </p> + <p> + “I’ll wager it is nothing more than a sprain. I only wish it was put out + that I might have some chance of shewing my skill.” + </p> + <p> + “I am delighted,” I said, “not to be in a position to call for that amount + of talent, but I shall have a high opinion of you if you set me up in a + short time.” + </p> + <p> + I did not see Pauline, much to my astonishment. I was told she had gone + out in a sedan-chair, and I almost felt jealous. In two hours she came in + looking quite frightened, the old house-keeper having told her that I had + broken my leg, and that the doctor had been with me already. + </p> + <p> + “Unhappy wretch that I am!” she exclaimed as she came to my bedside, “‘tis + I that have brought you to this.” + </p> + <p> + With these words she turned pale and almost fell in a swoon beside me. + </p> + <p> + “Divine being!” I cried, as I pressed her to my breast, “it is nothing; + only a sprain.” + </p> + <p> + “What pain that foolish old woman has given me! + </p> + <p> + “God be praised that it is no worse! Feel my heart.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, yes! I felt it with delight. It was a happy fall for me.” + </p> + <p> + Fastening my lips on hers, I felt with delight that our transports were + mutual, and I blessed the sprain that had brought me such bliss. + </p> + <p> + After these ecstasies I felt that Pauline was laughing. + </p> + <p> + “What are you laughing at, sweetheart?” + </p> + <p> + “At the craft of love, which always triumphs at last.” + </p> + <p> + “Where have you been?” + </p> + <p> + “I went to my old jeweler’s to redeem my ring, that you might have a + souvenir of me; here it is.” + </p> + <p> + “Pauline! Pauline! a little love would have been much more precious to me + than this beautiful ring.” + </p> + <p> + “You shall have both. Till the time of my departure, which will come only + too soon, we will live together like man and wife; and to-night shall be + our wedding night, and the bed the table for the feast.” + </p> + <p> + “What sweet news you give me, Pauline! I cannot believe it till my + happiness is actually accomplished.” + </p> + <p> + “You may doubt, if you like; but let it be a slight doubt, or else you + will do me wrong. I am tired of living with you as a lover and only making + you wretched, and the moment I saw you on horseback I determined to belong + to you. Consequently I went to redeem the ring directly you left, and I do + not intend to leave you until I receive the fatal message from Lisbon. I + have dreaded its arrival every day for the last week.” + </p> + <p> + “May the messenger that brings it be robbed on the way.” + </p> + <p> + “No such luck, I am afraid.” + </p> + <p> + As Pauline was standing, I asked her to come to my arms, for I longed to + give her some palpable signs of my love. + </p> + <p> + “No, dearest, one can love and yet be wise; the door is open.” + </p> + <p> + She got down Ariosto and began to read to me the adventure of Ricciardetto + with Fiordespina, an episode which gives its beauty to the twenty-ninth + canto of that beautiful poem which I knew by heart. She imagined that she + was the princess, and I Ricciardetto. She liked to fancy, + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + ‘Che il ciel L’abbia concesso, + Bradamante cangiata in miglior sesso.’ +</pre> + <p> + When she came to the lines; + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + ‘Le belle braccia al collo indi mi getta, + E dolcemente stringe, a baccia in bocca: + Tu puoi pensar se allora la saetta + Dirizza Amor, se in mezzo al cor mi tocca.’ +</pre> + <p> + She wanted some explanations on the expression ‘baccia in bocca’, and on + the love which made Ricciardetto’s arrow so stiff, and I, only too ready + to comment on the text, made her touch an arrow as stiff as + Ricciardetto’s. Of course, she was angry at that, but her wrath did not + last long. She burst out laughing when she came to the lines, + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + ‘Io il veggo, io il sento, e a pena vero parmi: + Sento in maschio in femina matarsi.’ +</pre> + <p> + And then, + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + ‘Cosi le dissi, e feci ch’ella stessa + Trovo con man la veritade expressa. +</pre> + <p> + She expressed her, wonder that this poem abounding in obscenities had not + been put on the “Index” at Rome. + </p> + <p> + “What you call obscenity is mere license, and there is plenty of that at + Rome.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s a joke which should bring the censures of the Church upon you. But + what do you call obscenities, if Ariosto is not obscene?” + </p> + <p> + “Obscenity disgusts, and never gives pleasure.” + </p> + <p> + “Your logic is all your own, but situated as I am I cannot reargue your + proposition. I am amused at Ariosto’s choosing a Spanish woman above all + others to conceive that strange passion for Bradamante.” + </p> + <p> + “The heat of the Spanish climate made him conclude that the Spanish + temperament was also ardent, and consequently whimsical in its tastes.” + </p> + <p> + “Poets are a kind of madmen who allow themselves to give utterance to all + their fancies.” + </p> + <p> + The reading was continued, and I thought my time had come when she read + the verses: + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Io senza scale in su la rooca salto, + E to stendardo piantovi di botto, + E la nemica mia mi caccio sotto** +</pre> + <p> + **I scaled the rock without a ladder, I planted my standard suddenly, and + held my enemy beneath me. + </p> + <p> + I wanted to give her a practical illustration of the lines, but with that + sensibility so natural to women, and which they can use so well as a goad + to passion, she said,— + </p> + <p> + “Dearest, you might make yourself worse; let us wait till your sprain is + cured.” + </p> + <p> + “Are we to wait till I am cured for the consummation of our marriage?” + </p> + <p> + “I suppose so, for if I am not mistaken the thing can’t be done without a + certain movement.” + </p> + <p> + “You are wrong, dear Pauline, but it would make no difference to me even + if it were so. You may be sure I would not put it off till to-morrow, even + if it cost me my leg. Besides, you shall see that there are ways and means + of satisfying our passions without doing me any harm. Is that enough for + you?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, well, as it is written that a wife should obey her husband, you + will find me docile.” + </p> + <p> + “When?” + </p> + <p> + “After supper.” + </p> + <p> + “Then we will have no supper. We shall dine with all the better appetite + to-morrow. Let us begin now.” + </p> + <p> + “No, for the suspicions of the servants might be aroused. Love has its + rules of decency like everything else.” + </p> + <p> + “You talk as wisely as Cato, and I am obliged to confess that you are + right in all you say.” + </p> + <p> + Supper was served as usual; it was delicate enough, but the thought of + approaching bliss had taken away our appetites, and we ate only for form’s + sake. At ten o’clock we were at liberty, and could indulge our passion + without any fear of being disturbed. + </p> + <p> + But this delightful woman, who had so plainly told me a few hours before + that when I was cured we would live together as man and wife, was now + ashamed to undress before me. She could not make up her mind, and told me + so, laughing at herself. From this circumstance I gathered that the + decency of the body is more tenacious in its grasp than the purity of the + soul. + </p> + <p> + “But, sweetheart,” said I, “you dressed and undressed for a fortnight + before your betrothed.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but he was always lying in his hammock with his back towards me at + night, and in the morning he never turned round and wished me good day + till he knew I was dressed.” + </p> + <p> + “What, he never turned?” + </p> + <p> + “I never let him take any liberties.” + </p> + <p> + “Such virtue is incomprehensible to me.” + </p> + <p> + “You see the count was to be my husband, and I was to be his wife, and in + such cases a young woman is careful. Besides, I believe that if one will + but refrain from taking the first step, continence is easy. Then the count + was naturally timid, and would never have taken any liberties without my + encouraging him, which I took care not to do. For this once, you will + allow me to sleep with you in my clothes.” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly, if you wish me to be dressed also, otherwise it would be + unbearable for both of us.” + </p> + <p> + “You are very cruel.” + </p> + <p> + “But, dearest, are you not ashamed of these foolish scruples?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, well, put out the candles, and in a minute I will be beside you.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good; though the want of light will deprive me of a great pleasure. + Quick, out with them!” + </p> + <p> + My charming Portuguese did not reflect that the moon shone full into the + room, and that the muslin curtains would not prevent my seeing her + exquisite figure, which shewed to greater advantage in the position she + happened to take. If Pauline had been a coquette I should have considered + her scruples as mere artifice calculated to increase my ardour; but she + had no need to use such stratagems. At last she was within my arms, and we + clasped each other closely and in silence that was only broken by the + murmur of our kisses. Soon our union became closer, and her sighs and the + ardour of her surrender shewed me that her passion was more in need of + relief than mine. I was sufficiently master of myself to remember that I + must have a care for her honour, greatly to her astonishment, for she + confessed she had never thought of such a thing, and had given herself up + freely, resolved to brave the consequences which she believed to be + inevitable. I explained the mystery and made her happy. + </p> + <p> + Till this moment love alone had swayed me, but now that the bloody + sacrifice was over I felt full of respect and gratitude. I told her + effusively that I knew how great was my happiness, and that I was ready to + sacrifice my life to her to prove my love. + </p> + <p> + The thought that our embraces would have no dangerous result had put + Pauline at her ease, and she gave reins to her ardent temperament, while I + did valiant service, till at last we were exhausted and the last sacrifice + was not entirely consummated. We abandoned ourselves to a profound and + peaceful sleep. I was the first to awake; the sun was shining in through + the window, and I gazed on Pauline. As I looked at this woman, the first + beauty in Portugal, the only child of an illustrious family, who had given + herself to me all for love, and whom I should possess for so short a time, + I could not restrain a profound sigh. + </p> + <p> + Pauline awoke, and her gaze, as bright as the rising sun in springtime, + fixed itself on me truthfully and lovingly. + </p> + <p> + “What are you thinking of, dearest?” + </p> + <p> + “I am trying to convince myself that my happiness is not a dream, and if + it be real I want it to last for ever. I am the happy mortal to whom you + have given up your great treasure, of which I am unworthy, though I love + you tenderly.” + </p> + <p> + “Sweetheart, you are worthy of all my devotion and affection, if you have + not ceased to respect me.” + </p> + <p> + “Can you doubt it, Pauline?” + </p> + <p> + “No, dearest, I think you love me, and that I shall never repent having + trusted in you.” + </p> + <p> + The sweet sacrifice was offered again, and Pauline rose and laughed to + find that she was no longer ashamed of her nakedness before me. Then, + passing from jest to earnest, she said,— + </p> + <p> + “If the loss of shame is the result of knowledge, how was it that our + first parents were not ashamed till they had acquired knowledge?” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t know, dearest, but tell me, did you ever ask your learned Italian + master that same question?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I did.” + </p> + <p> + “What did he say?” + </p> + <p> + “That their shame arose not from their enjoyment, but from disobedience; + and that in covering the parts which had seduced them, they discovered, as + it were, the sin they had committed. Whatever may be said on the subject, + I shall always think that Adam was much more to blame than Eve.” + </p> + <p> + “How is that?” + </p> + <p> + “Because Adam had received the prohibition from God, while Eve had only + received it from Adam.” + </p> + <p> + “I thought that both of them received the prohibition directly from God.” + </p> + <p> + “You have not read Genesis, then.” + </p> + <p> + “You are laughing at me.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you have read it carelessly, because it is distinctly stated that + God made Eve after he had forbidden Adam to eat of the fruit.” + </p> + <p> + “I wonder that point has not been remarked by our commentators; it seems a + very important one to me.” + </p> + <p> + “They are a pack of knaves, all sworn enemies of women.” + </p> + <p> + “No, no, they give proofs of quite another feeling only too often.” + </p> + <p> + “We won’t say anything more about it. My teacher was an honest man.” + </p> + <p> + “Was he a Jesuit?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but of the short robe.” + </p> + <p> + “What do you mean?” + </p> + <p> + “We will discuss the question another time.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good; I should like to have it proved to me that a man can be a + Jesuit and honest at the same time.” + </p> + <p> + “There are exceptions to all rules.” + </p> + <p> + My Pauline was a profound thinker, and strongly attached to her religion. + I should never have discovered that she possessed this merit if I had not + slept with her. I have known several women of the same stamp; if you wish + to know the elevation of their souls, you must begin by damning them. When + this is done, one enjoys their confidence, for they have no secrets for + the happy victor. This is the reason why the charming though feeble sex + loves the brave and despises the cowardly. Sometimes they appear to love + cowards, but always for their physical beauty. Women amuse themselves with + such fellows, but are the first to laugh if they get caned. + </p> + <p> + After the most delicious night I had ever passed, I resolved not to leave + my house till Pauline had to return to Portugal. She did not leave me for + a moment, save to hear mass on Sundays. I shut my door to everybody, even + to the doctor, for my sprain disappeared of itself. I did not fail to + inform Miss Chudleigh of my rapid cure; she had sent twice a day ever + since the accident to learn how I was. + </p> + <p> + Pauline went to her room after our amorous conflict, and I did not see her + again till dinner-time; but when I did see her I thought her an angel. Her + face had caught the hues of the lily and the rose, and had an air of + happiness I could not help admiring. + </p> + <p> + As we both wanted to have our portraits taken, I asked Martinelli to send + me the best miniature-painter in London. He sent a Jew, who succeeded + admirably. I had my miniature mounted in a ring and gave it to Pauline; + and this was the only present she would accept from me, who would have + thought myself all the richer if she had accepted all I had. + </p> + <p> + We spent three weeks in a happy dream which no pen can describe. I was + quite well again, and we tasted all the sweets of love together. All day + and all night we were together, our desires were satisfied only to be + renewed; we enjoyed the extremest bliss. In a word, it is difficult to + form a just idea of the state of two individuals who enjoy all the range + of physical and mental pleasures together, whose life is for the present + without thought of the future; whose joys are mutual and continual; such, + nevertheless, was the position of myself and my divine Pauline. + </p> + <p> + Every day I discovered in her some fresh perfection which made me love her + more; her nature was inexhaustible in its treasures, for her mental + qualities even surpassed her physical beauties, and an excellent education + had wonderfully increased the powers of her intelligence. With all the + beauty and grace of a woman she had that exalted character which is the + lot of the best of men. She began to flatter herself that the fatal letter + would never come, and the count was little more than a dream of the past. + Sometimes she would say that she could not understand how a pretty face + could exercise such a strong influence over us in spite of our reason. + </p> + <p> + “I have found out too late,” she added, “that chance alone can make a + marriage, contracted for such physical reasons, happy.” + </p> + <p> + The 1st of August was a fatal day for both of us. Pauline received a + letter from Lisbon, which summoned her home without delay, and I had a + letter from Paris announcing the death of Madame d’Urfe. Madame du Rumain + told me that on the evidence of her maid the doctors had pronounced her + death to be due to an overdose of the liquid she called “The Panacea.” She + added that a will had been found which savoured of a lunatic asylum, for + she had left all her wealth to the son or daughter that should be born of + her, declaring that she was with child. I was to be the governor of the + infant; this vexed me exceedingly, as I knew I should be the + laughing-stock of Paris for a week at least. Her daughter, the Comtesse de + Chatelet, had taken possession of all her real estate and of her + pocket-book, which contained, to my surprise, four hundred thousand + francs. It was a great shock for me, but the contents of the two letters + Pauline had received was a greater blow. One was from her aunt, and the + other from Oeiras, who begged her to return to Lisbon as soon as possible, + and assured her that she should be put in possession of her property on + her arrival, and would be at liberty to marry Count Al—— in + the sight of all the world. He sent her a cheque for twenty million reis. + I was not aware of the small value of the coin, and was in an ecstasy; but + Pauline laughed, and said it only came to two thousand pounds, which was a + sufficient sum, however, to allow her to travel in the style of a duchess. + The minister wanted her to come by sea, and all she had to do was to + communicate with the Portuguese ambassador, who had orders to give her a + passage on a Portuguese frigate which happened to be riding in an English + port. Pauline would not hear of the voyage, or of applying to the + ambassador, for she did not want anyone to think that she had been obliged + to return. She was angry with the minister for having sent her a cheque, + thinking that he must be aware that she had been in need, but I soon + brought her to see reason on this point, telling her that it was a very + thoughtful and delicate proceeding on the part of Oeiras, and that he had + merely lent her the money, and not given it to her. + </p> + <p> + Pauline was rich, and she was a high-minded woman. Her generosity may be + estimated by her giving me her ring when she was in want, and she + certainly never counted on my purse, though she may have felt sure that I + would not abandon her. I am sure she believed me to be very rich, and my + conduct was certainly calculated to favour that idea. + </p> + <p> + The day and even the night passed sadly. The next day Pauline addressed me + as follows: + </p> + <p> + “We must part, dear friend, and try to forget one another, for my honour + obliges me to become the wife of the count as soon as I arrive in Lisbon. + The first fancy of my heart, which you have almost effaced, will regain + all its old force when I see you no longer, and I am sure I shall love my + husband, for he is a goodhearted, honest, and pleasant young man; that + much I know from the few days we lived together. + </p> + <p> + “Now I have a favour to ask of you, which I am sure you will grant. + Promise me never to come to Lisbon without my permission. I hope you will + not seek to know my reasons; you would not, I am sure, come to trouble my + peace, for if I sinned I should be unhappy, and you would not desire that + for me. I have dreamed we have lived together as man and wife, and now we + are parted I shall fancy myself a widow about to undertake another + marriage.” + </p> + <p> + I burst into tears, and pressing her to my breast promised I would do as + she wished. + </p> + <p> + Pauline wrote to her aunt and Oeiras that she would be in Lisbon in + October, and that they should have further news of her when she reached + Spain. She had plenty of money, and bought a carriage and engaged a maid, + and these arrangements took up her time during the last week she spent + with me. I made her promise me to let Clairmont accompany her as far as + Madrid. She was to send me back my faithful servant when she reached the + Spanish capital, but fate had decreed that I should see his face no more. + </p> + <p> + The last few days were spent partly in sorrow and partly in delight. We + looked at each other without speaking, and spoke without knowing what we + said. We forgot to eat, and went to bed hoping that love and anguish would + keep us awake, but our exhausted bodies fell into a heavy sleep, and when + we awoke we could only sigh and kiss again. + </p> + <p> + Pauline allowed me to escort her as far as Calais, and we started on the + 10th of August, only stopping at Dover to embark the carriage on the + packet, and four hours afterwards we disembarked at Calais, and Pauline, + considering her widowhood had begun, begged me to sleep in another room. + She started on the 12th of August, preceded by my poor Clairmont, and + resolved only to travel by daytime. + </p> + <p> + The analogy between my parting with Pauline and my parting with Henriette + fifteen years before, was exceedingly striking; the two women were of very + similar character, and both were equally beautiful, though their beauty + was of a different kind. Thus I fell as madly in love with the second as + with the first, both being equally intelligent. The fact that one had more + talent and less prejudices than the other must have been an effect of + their different educations. Pauline had the fine pride of her nation, her + mind was a serious cast, and her religion was more an affair of the heart + than the understanding. She was also a far more ardent mistress than + Henriette. I was successful with both of them because I was rich; if I had + been a poor man I should never have known either of them. I have half + forgotten them, as everything is forgotten in time, but when I recall them + to my memory I find that Henriette made the profounder impression on me, + no doubt because I was twenty-five when I knew her, while I was + thirty-seven in London. + </p> + <p> + The older I get the more I feel the destructive effects of old age; and I + regret bitterly that I could not discover the secret of remaining young + and happy for ever. Vain regrets! we must finish as we began, helpless and + devoid of sense. + </p> + <p> + I went back to England the same day, and had a troublesome passage. + Nevertheless, I did not rest at Dover; and as soon as I got to London I + shut myself up with a truly English attack of the spleen, while I thought + of Pauline and strove to forget her. Jarbe put me to bed, and in the + morning, when he came into my room, he made me shudder with a speech at + which I laughed afterwards. + </p> + <p> + “Sir,” said he, “the old woman wants to know whether she is to put up the + notice again.” + </p> + <p> + “The old hag! Does she want me to choke her?” + </p> + <p> + “Good heavens-no, sir! She is very fond of you, seeing you seemed so sad, + she thought . . . .” + </p> + <p> + “Go and tell her never to think such things again, and as for you . . . .” + </p> + <p> + “I will do as you wish, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Then leave me.” + </p> + <a name="linkE2H_4_0013" id="linkE2H_4_0013"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> <a name="linkepisode23" id="linkepisode23"></a> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + EPISODE 23—THE ENGLISH + </h2> + <a name="linkE2HCH0010" id="linkE2HCH0010"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER X + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Eccentricity of the English—Castelbajac Count Schwerin— + Sophie at School—My Reception at the Betting Club— + The Charpillon +</pre> + <p> + I passed a night which seemed like a never-ending nightmare, and I got up + sad and savage, feeling as if I could kill a man on the smallest + provocation. It seemed as if the house, which I had hitherto thought so + beautiful, was like a millstone about my neck. I went out in my travelling + clothes, and walked into a coffee-house, where I saw a score of people + reading the papers. + </p> + <p> + I sat down, and, not understanding English, passed my time in gazing at + the goers and comers. I had been there some time when my attention was + attracted by the voice of a man speaking as follows in French: + </p> + <p> + “Tommy has committed suicide, and he was wise, for he was in such a state + that he could only expect unhappiness for the rest of his life.” + </p> + <p> + “You are quite mistaken,” said the other, with the greatest composure. “I + was one of his creditors myself, and on making an inventory of his effects + I feel satisfied that he has done a very foolish and a very childish + thing; he might have lived on comfortably, and not killed himself for + fully six months.” + </p> + <p> + At any other time this calculation would have made me laugh, and, as it + was, I felt as if the incident had done me good. + </p> + <p> + I left the coffee-house without having said a word or spent a penny, and I + went towards the Exchange to get some money. Bosanquet gave me what I + wanted directly, and as I walked out with him I noticed a curious-looking + individual, whose name I asked. + </p> + <p> + “He’s worth a hundred thousand,” said the banker. + </p> + <p> + “And who is that other man over there?” + </p> + <p> + “He’s not worth a ten-pound note.” + </p> + <p> + “But I don’t want to hear what they are worth; it’s their names I want.” + </p> + <p> + “I really don’t know.” + </p> + <p> + “How can you tell how much they are worth, not knowing their names?” + </p> + <p> + “Names don’t go for anything here. What we want to know about a man is how + much he has got? Besides; what’s in a name? Ask me for a thousand pounds + and give me a proper receipt, and you can do it under the name of Socrates + or Attila, for all I care. You will pay me back my money as Socrates or + Attila, and not as Seingalt; that is all.” + </p> + <p> + “But how about signing bills of exchange?” + </p> + <p> + “That’s another thing; I must use the name which the drawer gives me.” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t understand that.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, you see, you are not English, nor are you a business man.” + </p> + <p> + On leaving him I walked towards the park, but wishing to change a + twenty-pound note before going in I went to a fat merchant, an epicure + whose acquaintance I had made at the tavern, and put down the note on his + counter, begging him to cash it for me. + </p> + <p> + “Come again in an hour,” said he, “I have no money by me just now.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good; I will call again when I come from the park.” + </p> + <p> + “Take back your note; you shall give it to me when I hand you the money.” + </p> + <p> + “Never mind; keep it. I don’t doubt your honesty.” + </p> + <p> + “Don’t be so foolish. If you left me the note I should certainly decline + to hand over the money, if only for the sake of giving you a lesson.” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t believe you are capable of such dishonesty.” + </p> + <p> + “Nor am I, but when it comes to such a simple thing as putting a bank note + in your pocket, the most honest man in the world would never dream of + having such a thing in his possession without having paid the money for + it, and the least slip of memory might lead to a dispute in which you + would infallibly come off second best.” + </p> + <p> + “I feel the force of your arguments, especially in a town where so much + business is carried on.” + </p> + <p> + When I got into the park I met Martinelli and thanked him for sending me a + copy of the Decameron, while he congratulated me on my re-appearance in + society, and on the young lady of whom I had been the happy possessor and + no doubt the slave. + </p> + <p> + “My Lord Pembroke has seen her,” said he, “and thought her charming.” + </p> + <p> + “What? Where could he have seen her?” + </p> + <p> + “In a carriage with you driving fast along the Rochester road. It is three + or four days ago.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I may tell you that I was taking her to Calais; I shall never see + her face again.” + </p> + <p> + “Will you let the room again in the same way?” + </p> + <p> + “No, never again, though the god of love has been propitious to me. I + shall be glad to see you at my house whenever you like to come.” + </p> + <p> + “Shall I send you a note to warn you?” + </p> + <p> + “Not at all.” + </p> + <p> + We walked on talking about literature, manners, and so forth, in an + aimless way. All at once, as we approached Buckingham House, I saw five or + six persons, relieving nature amidst the bushes, with their hinder parts + facing the passers-by. I thought this a disgusting piece of indecency, and + said as much to Martinelli, adding that the impudent rascals might at + least turn their faces towards the path. + </p> + <p> + “Not at all,” he exclaimed, “for then they might be recognized; whereas in + exposing their posteriors they run no such risk; besides the sight makes + squeamish persons turn away.” + </p> + <p> + “You are right, but you will confess that the whole thing strikes a + stranger as very revolting.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, there is nothing so ineradicable as national prejudice. You may have + noticed that when an Englishman wants to ease his sluices in the street, + he doesn’t run up an alley or turn to the wall like we do.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I have noticed them turning towards the middle of the street, but if + they thus escape the notice of the people in the shops and on the pavement + they are seen by everybody who is driving in a carriage, and that is as + bad.” + </p> + <p> + “The people in the carriages need not look.” + </p> + <p> + “That is true.” + </p> + <p> + We walked on to the Green Park, and met Lord Pembroke on horseback. He + stopped and burst into exclamations on seeing me. As I guessed the cause + of his surprise, I hastened to tell him that I was a free man once more, + to my sorrow, and felt lonely amidst my splendour. + </p> + <p> + “I feel rather curious about it, and perhaps I may come and keep you + company to-day.” + </p> + <p> + We parted, and reckoning on seeing him at dinner I, went back to tell my + cook that dinner was to be served in the large room. Martinelli had an + engagement and could not come to dinner, but he led me out of the park by + a door with which I was not acquainted, and sent me on my way. + </p> + <p> + As we were going along we saw a crowd of people who seemed to be staring + at something. Martinelli went up to the crowd, and then returned to me, + saying,— + </p> + <p> + “That’s a curious sight for you; you can enter it amidst your remarks on + English manners.” + </p> + <p> + “What is it?” + </p> + <p> + “A man at the point of death from a blow he has received in boxing with + another sturdy fellow.” + </p> + <p> + “Cannot anything be done?” + </p> + <p> + “There is a surgeon there who would bleed him, if he were allowed.” + </p> + <p> + “Who could prevent him?” + </p> + <p> + “That’s the curious part of it. Two men have betted on his death or + recovery. One says, ‘I’ll bet twenty guineas he dies,’ and the other says, + ‘Done.’ Number one will not allow the surgeon to bleed him, for if the man + recovered his twenty guineas would be gone.” + </p> + <p> + “Poor man! what pitiless betters!” + </p> + <p> + “The English are very strange in their betting proclivities; they bet + about everything. There is a Betting Club to which I will introduce you, + if you like.” + </p> + <p> + “Do they speak French there?” + </p> + <p> + “Most certainly, for it is composed of men of wit and mark.” + </p> + <p> + “What do they do?” + </p> + <p> + “They talk and argue, and if one man brings forward a proposition which + another denies, and one backs his opinion, the other has to bet too, on + pain of a fine which goes to the common fund.” + </p> + <p> + “Introduce me to this delightful club, by all means; it will make my + fortune, for I shall always take care to be on the right side.” + </p> + <p> + “You had better be careful; they are wary birds.” + </p> + <p> + “But to return to the dying man; what will be done to his antagonist?” + </p> + <p> + “His hand will be examined, and if it is found to be just the same as + yours or mine it will be marked, and he will be let go.” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t understand that, so kindly explain. How do they recognize a + dangerous hand?” + </p> + <p> + “If it is found to be marked already, it is a proof that he has killed his + man before and has been marked for it, with the warning, ‘Take care not to + kill anyone else, for if you do you will be hanged.’” + </p> + <p> + “But supposing such a man is attacked?” + </p> + <p> + “He ought to shew his hand, and then his adversary would let him alone.” + </p> + <p> + “But if not?” + </p> + <p> + “Then he is defending himself; and if he kills his man he is acquitted, + provided he can bring witnesses to swear that he was obliged to fight.” + </p> + <p> + “Since fighting with the fist may cause death, I wonder it is allowed.” + </p> + <p> + “It is only allowed for a wager. If the combatants do not put one or more + pieces of money on the ground before the fight, and there is a death, the + man is hanged.” + </p> + <p> + “What laws! What manners!” + </p> + <p> + In such ways I learnt much concerning the manner and customs of this proud + nation, at once so great and so little. + </p> + <p> + The noble lord came to dinner, and I treated him in a manner to make him + wish to come again. Although there were only the two of us, the meal + lasted a long time, as I was anxious for additional information on what I + had heard in the morning, especially on the Betting Club. The worthy + Pembroke advised me not to have anything to do with it, unless I made up + my mind to keep perfect silence for four or five weeks. + </p> + <p> + “But supposing they ask me a question?” + </p> + <p> + “Evade it.” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly, if I am not in a position to give my opinion; but if I have an + opinion, the powers of Satan could not shut my mouth.” + </p> + <p> + “All the worse for you.” + </p> + <p> + “Are the members knaves?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly not. They are noblemen, philosophers, and epicures; but they + are pitiless where a bet is concerned.” + </p> + <p> + “Is the club treasury rich?” + </p> + <p> + “Far from it; they are all ashamed to pay a fine, and prefer to bet. Who + will introduce you?” + </p> + <p> + “Martinelli.” + </p> + <p> + “Quite so; through Lord Spencer, who is a member. I would not become one.” + </p> + <p> + “Why not?” + </p> + <p> + “Because I don’t like argument.” + </p> + <p> + “My taste runs the other way, so I shall try to get in.” + </p> + <p> + “By the way, M. de Seingalt, do you know that you are a very extraordinary + man?” + </p> + <p> + “For what reason, my lord?” + </p> + <p> + “You shut yourself up for a whole month with a woman who spent fourteen + months in London without anybody making her acquaintance or even + discovering her nationality. All the amateurs have taken a lively interest + in the affair.” + </p> + <p> + “How did you find out that she spent fourteen months in London?” + </p> + <p> + “Because several persons saw her in the house of a worthy widow where she + spent the first month. She would never have anything to say to any + advances, but the bill in your window worked wonders.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, and all the worse for me, for I feel as if I could never love + another woman.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, that’s childish indeed! You will love another woman in a week—nay, + perhaps to-morrow, if you will come and dine with me at my country house. + A perfect French beauty has asked me to dine with her. I have told some of + my friends who are fond of gaming.” + </p> + <p> + “Does the charming Frenchwoman like gaming?” + </p> + <p> + “No, but her husband does.” + </p> + <p> + “What’s his name?” + </p> + <p> + “He calls himself Count de Castelbajac.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! Castelbajac?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “He is a Gascon?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “Tall, thin, and dark, and marked with the smallpox? + </p> + <p> + “Exactly! I am delighted to find you know him. You will agree with me that + his wife is very pretty?” + </p> + <p> + “I really can’t say. I knew Castelbajac, as he calls himself, six years + ago, and I never heard he was married. I shall be delighted to join you, + however. I must warn you not to say anything if he seems not to know me; + he may possibly have good reasons for acting in that manner. Before long I + will tell you a story which does not represent him in a very advantageous + manner. I did not know he played. I shall take care to be on my guard at + the Betting Club, and I advise you, my lord, to be on your guard in the + society of Castelbajac.” + </p> + <p> + “I will not forget the warning.” + </p> + <p> + When Pembroke had left me I went to see Madame Cornelis, who had written a + week before to tell me my daughter was ill, and explained that she had + been turned from my doors on two occasions though she felt certain I was + in. To this I replied that I was in love, and so happy within my own house + that I had excluded all strangers, and with that she had to be contented, + but the state in which I found little Sophie frightened me. She was lying + in bed with high fever, she had grown much thinner, and her eyes seemed to + say that she was dying of grief. Her mother was in despair, for she was + passionately fond of the child, and I thought she would have torn my eyes + out when I told her that if Sophie died she would only have herself to + reproach. Sophie, who was very good-hearted, cried out, “No, no! papa + dear;” and quieted her mother by her caresses. + </p> + <p> + Nevertheless, I took the mother aside, and told her that the disease was + solely caused by Sophie’s dread of her severity. + </p> + <p> + “In spite of your affection,” said I, “you treat her with insufferable + tyranny. Send her to a boarding-school for a couple of years, and let her + associate with girls of good family. Tell her this evening that she is to + go to school, and see if she does not get better.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said she, “but a good boarding-school costs a hundred guineas a + year, including masters.” + </p> + <p> + “If I approve of the school you select I will pay a year in advance.” + </p> + <p> + On my making this offer the woman, who seemed to be living so luxuriously, + but was in reality poverty-stricken, embraced me with the utmost + gratitude. + </p> + <p> + “Come and tell the news to your daughter now,” said she, “I should like to + watch her face when she hears it.” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly.” + </p> + <p> + “My dear Sophie,” I said, “your mother agrees with me that if you had a + change of air you would get better, and if you would like to spend a year + or two in a good school I will pay the first year in advance.” + </p> + <p> + “Of course, I will obey my dear mother,” said Sophie. + </p> + <p> + “There is no question of obedience. Would you like to go to school? Tell + me truly.” + </p> + <p> + “But would my mother like me to go?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, my child, if it would please you.” + </p> + <p> + “Then, mamma, I should like to go very much.” + </p> + <p> + Her face flushed as she spoke, and I knew that my diagnosis had been + correct. I left her saying I should hope to hear from her soon. + </p> + <p> + At ten o’clock the next day Jarbe came to ask if I had forgotten my + engagement. + </p> + <p> + “No,” said I, “but it is only ten o’clock.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but we have twenty miles to go.” + </p> + <p> + “Twenty miles?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly, the house is at St. Albans.” + </p> + <p> + “It’s very strange Pembroke never told me; how did you find out the + address?” + </p> + <p> + “He left it when he went away.” + </p> + <p> + “Just like an Englishman.” + </p> + <p> + I took a post-chaise, and in three hours I had reached my destination. The + English roads are excellent, and the country offers a smiling prospect on + every side. The vine is lacking, for though the English soil is fertile it + will not bear grapes. + </p> + <p> + Lord Pembroke’s house was not a particularly large one, but twenty masters + and their servants could easily be accommodated in it. + </p> + <p> + The lady had not yet arrived, so my lord shewed me his gardens, his + fountains, and his magnificent hot-houses; also a cock chained by the leg, + and of a truly ferocious aspect. + </p> + <p> + “What have we here, my lord?” + </p> + <p> + “A cock.” + </p> + <p> + “I see it is, but why do you chain it?” + </p> + <p> + “Because it is savage. It is very amorous, and if it were loose it would + go after the hens, and kill all the cocks on the country-side.” + </p> + <p> + “But why do you condemn him to celibacy?” + </p> + <p> + “To make him fiercer. Here, this is the list of his conquests.” + </p> + <p> + He gave me a list of his cock’s victories, in which he had killed the + other bird; this had happened more than thirty times. He then shewed me + the steel spurs, at the sight of which the cock began to ruffle and crow. + I could not help laughing to see such a martial spirit in so small an + animal. He seemed possessed by the demon of strife, and lifted now one + foot and now the other, as if to beg that his arms might be put on. + </p> + <p> + Pembroke then exhibited the helmet, also of steel. + </p> + <p> + “But with such arms,” said I, “he is sure of conquest.” + </p> + <p> + “No; for when he is armed cap-a-pie he will not fight with a defenceless + cock.” + </p> + <p> + “I can’t believe it, my lord.” + </p> + <p> + “It’s a well-known fact. Here, read this.” + </p> + <p> + He then gave me a piece of paper with this remarkable biped’s pedigree. He + could prove his thirty-two quarters more easily than a good many noblemen, + on the father’s side, be it understood, for if he could have proved pure + blood on the mother’s side as well, Lord Pembroke would have decorated him + with the Order of the Golden Fleece at least. + </p> + <p> + “The bird cost me a hundred guineas,” said he, “but I would not sell him + for a thousand.” + </p> + <p> + “Has he any offspring?” + </p> + <p> + “He tries his best, but there are difficulties.” + </p> + <p> + I do not remember whether Lord Pembroke explained what these difficulties + were. Certainly the English offer more peculiarities to the attentive + observer than any other nation. + </p> + <p> + At last a carriage containing a lady and two gentlemen drove up to the + door. One of the gentlemen was the rascally Castelbajac and the other was + introduced as Count Schwerin, nephew of the famous marshal of that name + who fell on what is commonly called the field of glory. General Bekw—— + an Englishman who was in the service of the King of Prussia, and was one + of Pembroke’s guests, received Schwerin politely, saying that he had seen + his uncle die; at this the modest nephew drew the Order of the Black Eagle + from his breast, and shewed it to us all covered with blood. + </p> + <p> + “My uncle wore it on the day of his death, and the King of Prussia allowed + me to keep it as a noble memorial of my kinsman.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said an Englishman who was present, “but the coat-pocket is not the + place for a thing like that.” + </p> + <p> + Schwerin made as if he did not understand, and this enabled me to take his + measure. + </p> + <p> + Lord Pembroke took possession of the lady, whom I did not think worthy of + being compared to Pauline. She was paler and shorter, and utterly + deficient in Pauline’s noble air; besides, when she smiled it spoiled her + face, and this is a defect in a woman, to whom laughter should always be + becoming. + </p> + <p> + Lord Pembroke introduced us all to each other, and when he came to me + Castelbajac said he was delighted to see me again, although he might + easily have pretended not to know me under my name of Seingalt. + </p> + <p> + We had a good English dinner, and afterwards the lady proposed a game of + faro. My lord never played, so the general consented to amuse the company + by holding the bank, and placed a hundred guineas and several bank notes + on the table. There might be a thousand guineas in all. He then gave + twenty counters to each punter, saying that every counter was worth ten + shillings. As I only staked gold against gold I would not accept them. By + the third deal Schwerin had lost his twenty counters and asked for twenty + more; but the banker told him he must pay for them, and the self-styled + field-marshal’s nephew lapsed into silence and played no more. + </p> + <p> + At the following deal Castelbajac was in the same position as his friend, + and being on my side he begged to be allowed to take ten pieces. + </p> + <p> + “You will bring me ill-luck,” I said, coldly, warding off his hand; and he + went out to the garden, no doubt to swallow the affront he had received. + The lady said her husband had forgotten his pocketbook. An hour afterwards + the game came to an end, and I took my leave, after inviting Lord Pembroke + and the rest of the company to dine with me the next day. + </p> + <p> + I got home at eleven o’clock without meeting any highwaymen as I had + expected, indeed I had put up six guineas in a small purse for their + special use and benefit. I woke up my cook to tell him that the next day I + should have twelve people to dinner, and that I hoped he would do me + honour. I found a letter from Madame Cornelis on my table telling me that + she and her daughter would drive with me on the following Sunday, and that + we could go and see the boarding-school she had selected. + </p> + <p> + Next day Lord Pembroke and the fair Frenchwoman were the first to arrive. + They drove in a carriage with two rather uncomfortable seats, but this + discomfort is favourable to love. The Gascon and the Prussian were the + last to come. + </p> + <p> + We sat down to table at two and left it at four, all of us well pleased + with the cook, and still more so with the wine merchant; for though we had + emptied forty bottles of wine, not one of us was at all intoxicated. + </p> + <p> + After coffee had been served the general invited us all to sup with him, + and Madame Castelbajac begged me to hold a bank. I did not wait to be + pressed but placed a thousand guineas on the table, and as I had no + counters of any kind I warned the company that I would only play gold + against gold, and that I should stop playing whenever I thought fit. + </p> + <p> + Before the game began the two counts paid their losses of the day before + to the general in bank notes, which he begged me to change. I also changed + two other notes presented to me by the same gentleman, and put them all + under my snuff-box. Play began. I had no croupier, so I was obliged to + deal slowly and keep an eye on the two counts, whose method of play was + very questionable. At last both of them were dried up, and Castelbajac + gave me a bill of exchange for two hundred guineas, begging me to discount + it for him. + </p> + <p> + “I know nothing about business,” I replied. + </p> + <p> + An Englishman took the bill, and after a careful examination said he + neither knew the drawer, the accepter, nor the backer. + </p> + <p> + “I am the backer,” said Castelbajac, “and that ought to be enough, I + think.” + </p> + <p> + Everybody laughed, besides myself, and I gave it him back courteously, + saying politely that he could get it discounted on ‘Change the next day. + He got up in a bad temper, and left the room, murmuring some insolent + expressions. Schwering followed him. + </p> + <p> + After these two worthy gentlemen had left us, I went on dealing till the + night was far advanced, and then left off, though I was at a loss. + However, the general had a run of luck, and I thought it best to stop. + Before leaving he took me and Lord Pembroke aside, and begged me to + contrive that the two knaves should not come to his house the following + day. “For,” said he, “if that Gascon were to be half as insolent to me as + he was to you, I should shew him out by the window.” + </p> + <p> + Pembroke said he would tell the lady of the general’s wishes. + </p> + <p> + “Do you think,” said I, “that those four notes of theirs can be + forgeries?” + </p> + <p> + “It’s very possible.” + </p> + <p> + “What would you advise my doing to clear the matter up?” + </p> + <p> + “I would send them to the bank.” + </p> + <p> + “And if they should be forgeries?” + </p> + <p> + “I would have patience, or I would arrest the rascals.” + </p> + <p> + The next day I went to the bank myself, and the person to whom I gave the + notes gave me them back, saying, coldly,— + </p> + <p> + “These notes are bad, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Be kind enough to examine them closely.” + </p> + <p> + “It’s no good, they are evident forgeries. Return them to the person from + whom you got them, and he will be only too glad to cash them.” + </p> + <p> + I was perfectly aware that I could put the two knaves under lock and key, + but I did not want to do so. I went to Lord Pembroke to find out their + address, but he was still in bed, and one of his servants took me to them. + They were surprised to see me. I told them coolly enough that the four + notes were forged, and that I should feel much obliged if they would give + me forty guineas and take their notes back. + </p> + <p> + “I haven’t got any money,” said Castelbajac, “and what you say astonishes + me very much. I can only return them to the persons who gave them to me, + if the are really the same notes that we gave you yesterday.” + </p> + <p> + At this suggestion the blood rushed to my face, and with a withering + glance and an indignant apostrophe I left them. Lord Pembroke’s servant + took me to a magistrate who, having heard my statement on oath, gave me a + paper authorizing me to arrest two counts. I gave the document to an + alderman, who said he would see it was carried out, and I went home ill + pleased with the whole business. + </p> + <p> + Martinelli was waiting for me; he had come to ask me to give him a dinner. + I told him my story, without adding that the knaves were to be arrested, + and his advice delivered with philosophic calm was to make an auto-da-fe + of the four notes. It was very good advice, but I did not take it. + </p> + <p> + The worthy Martinelli, thinking to oblige me, told me that he had arranged + with Lord Spencer the day on which I was to be introduced to the club, but + I answered that my fancy for going there was over. I ought to have treated + this learned and distinguished man with more politeness, but who can sound + human weakness to its depths? One often goes to a wise man for advice + which one has not the courage to follow. + </p> + <p> + In the evening I went to the general’s, and found the self-styled Countess + Castelbajac seated on Lord Pembroke’s knees. The supper was a good one, + and passed off pleasantly; the two rascals were not there, and their + absence was not remarked. When we left the table we went into another + room, and played till day-break. I left the board with a loss of two or + three hundred guineas. + </p> + <p> + I did not wake till late the next morning, and when I did my man told me + that a person wanted to speak to me. I had him shewn in, and as he only + spoke English the negro had to be our interpreter. He was the chief of the + police, and told me that if I would pay for the journey he would arrest + Castelbajac at Dover, for which town he had started at noon. As to the + other he was sure of having him in the course of the night. I gave him a + guinea, and told him it would be enough to catch the one, and that the + other could go where he liked. + </p> + <p> + The next day was Sunday, the only day on which Madame Cornelis could go + abroad without fear of the bailiff. She came to dine with me, and brought + her daughter, whom the prospect of leaving her mother had quite cured. The + school which Madame Cornelis had chosen was at Harwich, and we went there + after dinner. + </p> + <p> + The head-mistress was a Catholic, and though she must have been sixty, she + looked keen, witty, and as if she knew the ways of the world. She had + received an introduction from Lady Harrington, and so welcomed the young + lady in the most cordial manner. She had about fifteen young boarders of + thirteen or fourteen years of age. When she presented Sophie to them as a + new companion, they crowded round her and covered her with caresses. Five + or six were perfect angels of beauty, and two or three were hideously + ugly; and such extremes are more common in England than anywhere else. My + daughter was the smallest of them all, but as far as beauty went she had + nothing to fear by comparison, and her talents placed her on a par with + the eldest, while she responded to their caresses with that ease which + later in life is only acquired with great difficulty. + </p> + <p> + We went over the house, and all the girls followed us, and those who could + speak French or Italian spoke to me, saying how much they would love my + daughter, while those who could not speak sufficiently well held off as if + ashamed of their ignorance. We saw the bedrooms, the dining-room, the + drawing-room, the harps and the pianos—in fact, everything, and I + decided that Sophie could not be better placed. We went into the + head-mistress’s private room, and Madame Cornelis paid her a hundred + guineas in advance, and obtained a receipt. We then agreed that Sophie + should be received as a boarder as soon as she liked to come, that she was + to bring her bed with her, and all the necessary linen. Madame Cornelis + made the final arrangements on the ensuing Sunday. + </p> + <p> + Next day the alderman told me that Count Schwerin was a prisoner, and + wanted to speak to me. I declined at first, but as the alderman’s + messenger told me, through Jarbe, that the poor devil had not a farthing + in his pocket, I was moved with compassion. As he was charged with + uttering forged notes he had been taken to Newgate, and was in danger of + being hanged. + </p> + <p> + I followed the magistrate’s messenger, and cannot say how the woeful + aspect, the tears and supplications for mercy of the poor wretch, moved my + heart. He swore that Castelbajac had given him the notes, but he added + that he knew where they came from originally, and would tell me if I would + release him. + </p> + <p> + A little bitterness still remained in my breast, so I told him that if he + knew who forged the notes he could certainly escape the gallows, but that + I should keep him prisoner till I got my money back. At this threat his + tears and supplications began over again and with renewed force, and + telling me that he was in utter poverty he emptied his pockets one after + the other to shew me that he had no money, and at last offered me the + bloodstained badge of his uncle. I was delighted to be able to relieve him + without any appearance of weakness, and accepted the bauble as a pledge, + telling him that he should have it back on payment of forty pounds. + </p> + <p> + I wrote out a formal release, and in his presence and in that of the + alderman I burnt the four notes and set him free. + </p> + <p> + Two days afterwards the so-called countess came to my house, saying that + now Castelbajac and Schewirin were gone, she knew not where to lay her + head. She complained bitterly of Lord Pembroke, who deserted her after + making her give him the clearest proofs of her affection. By way of + consolation I told her that it would be very foolish of him to have + abandoned her before instead of after. + </p> + <p> + To get rid of her I was obliged to give her the money to pay her journey + to Calais. She told me she did not want to rejoin the Gascon, who was not + really her husband. We shall hear more of these persons in the course of + three years. + </p> + <p> + Two or three days later an Italian called on me, and gave me a letter from + my friend Baletti, which recommended the bearer, Constantini, a native of + Vicenza, to my good offices. He had come to London on a matter of + importance in which I could help him. + </p> + <p> + I assured M. Constantini that I was only too happy to do anything to + justify the confidence placed in my by one of my best friends, and he said + that the long journey had almost exhausted his purse; but he added,— + </p> + <p> + “I know that my wife lives here, and that she is rich. I shall easily find + out where she lives, and you know that as I am her husband all that is + hers is mine.” + </p> + <p> + “I was not aware of that.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you don’t know the laws of this country?” + </p> + <p> + “Not at all.” + </p> + <p> + “I am sorry to hear it, but such is the case. I am going to her house, and + I shall turn her out of doors with nothing else than the dress on her + back, for the furniture, clothes, jewels, linen—in fact, all her + possessions, belong to me. May I ask you to be with me when I perform this + exploit?” + </p> + <p> + I was astonished. I asked him if he had told Baletti what he intended to + do. + </p> + <p> + “You are the first person to whom I have disclosed my intentions.” + </p> + <p> + I could not treat him as a madman, for he did not look like one, and, + concluding that there really might be the law he had alleged, I replied + that I did not feel inclined to join him in his enterprise, of which I + disapproved very strongly, unless his wife had actually robbed him of what + she possessed. + </p> + <p> + “She has only robbed me of my honour, sir, and she left me, taking her + talents with her. She must have made a great fortune here, and have I not + a right to take it from her, were it only for vengeance sake?” + </p> + <p> + “That may be, but I ask you what you would think of me if I agreed to join + you in an undertaking which seems a cruel one to me, however good your + reasons may be. Besides I may know your wife, she may even be a friend of + mine.” + </p> + <p> + “I will tell you her name.” + </p> + <p> + “No, I beg of you not to do so, although I do not know any Madame + Constantini.” + </p> + <p> + “She has changed her name to Calori, and she sings at the ‘Haymarket.’” + </p> + <p> + “I know who she is now. I am sorry you have told me.” + </p> + <p> + “I have no doubt you will keep my secret, and I am now going to find out + where she lives; for that is the principal thing.” + </p> + <p> + He left me weeping, and I pitied him, but at the same time I was sorry + that he had made me the depositary of his secret. A few hours after I + called on Madame Binetti, and she told me the histories of all the + artistes in London. When she came to the Calori she told me that she had + had several lovers out of whom she had made a great deal, but at present + she had no lover, unless it were the violinist Giardini, with whom she was + in love in earnest. + </p> + <p> + “Where does she come from?” + </p> + <p> + “From Vicenza.” + </p> + <p> + “Is she married?” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t think so.” + </p> + <p> + I thought no more of this wretched business, but three or four days later + I had a letter from King’s Bench Prison. It was from Constantini. The poor + wretch said I was the only friend he had in London, and that he hoped I + would come and see him, were it only to give him some advice. + </p> + <p> + I thought it my duty to accede to his request, and I went to the prison, + where I found the poor man in a wretched state, with an old English + attorney, who spoke a little bad Italian, and was known to me. + </p> + <p> + Constantini had been arrested the day before on account of several bills + drawn by his wife which had not been taken up. By these bills she appeared + in debt to the amount of a thousand guineas. The attorney had got the five + bills, and he was trying to make some arrangements with the husband. + </p> + <p> + I saw at once that the whole thing was a scandalous swindle, for Madame + Binetti had told me that the Calori was very rich. I begged the attorney + to leave me alone with the prisoner, as I wanted to have some private + conversation with him. + </p> + <p> + “They have arrested me for my wife’s debts,” said he, “and they tell me I + must pay them because I am her husband.” + </p> + <p> + “It’s a trick your wife has played on you; she must have found out you + were in London.” + </p> + <p> + “She saw me through the window.” + </p> + <p> + “Why did you delay putting your project into execution?” + </p> + <p> + “I meant to carry it out this morning, but how was I to know that she had + debts?” + </p> + <p> + “Nor has she any debts; these bills are shams. They must have been + ante-dated, for they were really executed yesterday. It’s a bad business, + and she may have to pay dearly for it.” + </p> + <p> + “But in the meanwhile I am in prison.” + </p> + <p> + “Never mind, trust to me, I will see you again tomorrow.” + </p> + <p> + This scurvy trick had made me angry, and I made up my mind to take up the + poor man’s cause. I went to Bosanquet, who told me that the device was a + very common one in London, but that people had found out the way to defeat + it. Finally, he said that if the prisoner interested me he would put the + case into the hands of a barrister who would extricate him from his + difficulty, and make the wife and the lover, who had probably helped her, + repent of their day’s work. I begged him to act as if my interests were at + stake, and promised to guarantee all expenses. + </p> + <p> + “That’s enough,” said he; “don’t trouble yourself any more about it.” + </p> + <p> + Same days after Mr. Bosanquet came to tell me that Constantini had left + the prison and England as well, according to what the barrister who had + charge of the case told him. + </p> + <p> + “Impossible!” + </p> + <p> + “Not at all. The lover of his wife, foreseeing the storm that was about to + burst over their heads, got round the fellow, and made him leave the + country by means of a sum more or less large.” + </p> + <p> + The affair was over, but it was soon in all the newspapers, garnished with + all the wit imaginable, and Giardini was warmly praised for the action he + had taken. + </p> + <p> + As for me I was glad enough to have the matter over, but I felt vexed with + Constantini for having fled without giving the lovers a lesson. I wrote an + account of the circumstances to Baletti, and I heard from Madame Binetti + that the Calori had given her husband a hundred guineas to leave the + country. Some years later I saw the Calori at Prague. + </p> + <p> + A Flemish officer, the man whom I had helped at Aix-la-Chapelle, had + called on me several times, and had even dined three or four times with + me. I reproached myself for not having been polite enough to return his + call, and when we met in the street, and he reproached me for not having + been to see him, I was obliged to blush. He had his wife and daughter with + him, and some feeling of shame and a good deal of curiosity made me call + on him. + </p> + <p> + When he saw me he threw his arms about my neck, calling me his preserver. + I was obliged to receive all the compliments which knaves make to honest + men when they hope to take them in. A few moments after, an old woman and + a girl came in, and I was introduced as the Chevalier de Seingalt, of whom + he had spoken so often. The girl, affecting surprise, said she had known a + M. Casanova, who was very like me. I answered that Casanova was my name as + well as Seingalt, but that I had not the happiness of recollecting her. + </p> + <p> + “My name was Anspergher when I saw you,” she replied, “but now it is + Charpillon; and considering that we only met once, and that I was only + thirteen at the time, I do not wonder at your not recollecting me. I have + been in London with my mother and aunts for the last four years.” + </p> + <p> + “But where had I the pleasure of speaking to you?” + </p> + <p> + “At Paris.” + </p> + <p> + “In what part of Paris?” + </p> + <p> + “In the Bazaar. You were with a charming lady, and you gave me these + buckles” (she shewed me them on her shoes), “and you also did me the + honour to kiss me.” + </p> + <p> + I recollected the circumstance, and the reader will remember that I was + with Madame Baret, the fair stocking-seller. + </p> + <p> + “Now I remember you,” said I; “but I do not recognize your aunt.” + </p> + <p> + “This is the sister of the one you saw, but if you will take tea with us + you will see her.” + </p> + <p> + “Where do you live?” + </p> + <p> + “In Denmark Street, Soho.” + </p> + <a name="linkE2HCH0011" id="linkE2HCH0011"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XI + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + The Charpillon—Dreadful Consequences of My Acquaintance + With Her +</pre> + <p> + The name Charpillon reminded me that I was the bearer of a letter for her, + and drawing it from my pocket-book I gave it her, saying that the document + ought to cement our acquaintance. + </p> + <p> + “What!” she exclaimed, “a letter from the dear ambassador Morosini. How + delighted I am to have it! And you have actually been all these months in + London without giving it me?” + </p> + <p> + “I confess I am to blame, but, as you see, the note has no address on it. + I am grateful for the chance which has enabled me to discharge my + commission to-day.” + </p> + <p> + “Come and dine with us to-morrow.” + </p> + <p> + “I cannot do so, as I am expecting Lord Pembroke to dinner.” + </p> + <p> + “Will you be alone?” + </p> + <p> + “I expect so.” + </p> + <p> + “I am glad to hear it; you will see my aunt and myself appearing on the + scene.” + </p> + <p> + “Here is my address; and I shall be delighted if you will come and see + me.” + </p> + <p> + She took the address, and I was surprised to see her smile as she read it. + </p> + <p> + “Then you are the Italian,” she said, “who put up that notice that amused + all the town?” + </p> + <p> + “I am.” + </p> + <p> + “They say the joke cost you dear.” + </p> + <p> + “Quite the reverse; it resulted in the greatest happiness.” + </p> + <p> + “But now that the beloved object has left you, I suppose you are unhappy?” + </p> + <p> + “I am; but there are sorrows so sweet that they are almost joys.” + </p> + <p> + “Nobody knows who she was, but I suppose you do?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you make a mystery of it?” + </p> + <p> + “Surely, and I would rather die than reveal it.” + </p> + <p> + “Ask my aunt if I may take some rooms in your house; but I am afraid my + mother would not let me.” + </p> + <p> + “Why do you want to lodge cheaply?” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t want to lodge cheaply, but I should like to punish the audacious + author of that notice.” + </p> + <p> + “How would you punish me?” + </p> + <p> + “By making you fall in love with me, and then tormenting you. It would + have amused me immensely.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you think that you can inspire me with love, and at the same time + form the dreadful plan of tyrannising over the victim of your charms. Such + a project is monstrous, and unhappily for us poor men, you do not look a + monster. Nevertheless, I am obliged to you for your frankness, and I shall + be on my guard.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you must take care never to see me, or else all your efforts will be + in vain.” + </p> + <p> + As the Charpillon had laughed merrily through the whole of this dialogue, + I took it all as a jest, but I could not help admiring her manner, which + seemed made for the subjugation of men. But though I knew it not, the day + I made that woman’s acquaintance was a luckless one for me, as my readers + will see. + </p> + <p> + It was towards the end of the month of September, 1763, when I met the + Charpillon, and from that day I began to die. If the lines of ascent and + declination are equal, now, on the first day of November, 1797, I have + about four more years of life to reckon on, which will pass by swiftly, + according to the axiom ‘Motus in fine velocior’. + </p> + <p> + The Charpillon, who was well known in London, and I believe is still + alive, was one of those beauties in whom it is difficult to find any + positive fault. Her hair was chestnut coloured, and astonishingly long and + thick, her blue eyes were at once languorous and brilliant, her skin, + faintly tinged with a rosy hue, was of a dazzling whiteness; she was tall + for her age, and seemed likely to become as tall as Pauline. Her breast + was perhaps a little small, but perfectly shaped, her hands were white and + plump, her feet small, and her gait had something noble and gracious. Her + features were of that exquisite sensibility which gives so much charm to + the fair sex, but nature had given her a beautiful body and a deformed + soul. This siren had formed a design to wreck my happiness even before she + knew me, and as if to add to her triumph she told me as much. + </p> + <p> + I left Malingan’s house not like a man who, fond of the fair sex, is glad + to have made the acquaintance of a beautiful woman, but in a state of + stupefaction that the image of Pauline, which was always before me, was + not strong enough to overcome the influence of a creature like the + Charpillon, whom in my heart I could not help despising. + </p> + <p> + I calmed myself by saying that this strong impression was due to novelty, + and by hoping that I should soon be disenchanted. + </p> + <p> + “She will have no charm,” said I, “when I have once possessed her, and + that will not be long in coming.” Perhaps the reader will think that I was + too presumptuous, but why should I suppose that there would be any + difficulty? She had asked me to dinner herself, she had surrendered + herself entirely to Morosini, who was not the man to sigh for long at any + woman’s feet, and must have paid her, for he was not young enough nor + handsome enough to inspire her with a fancy for him. Without counting my + physical attractions, I had plenty of money, and I was not afraid of + spending it; and so I thought I could count on an easy victory. + </p> + <p> + Pembroke had become an intimate friend of mine since my proceedings with + regard to Schwerin. He admired my conduct in not making any claim on the + general for half my loss. He had said we would make a pleasant day of it + together, and when he saw that my table was laid for four he asked who the + other guests were to be. He was extremely surprised when he heard that + they were the Charpillon and her aunt, and that the girl had invited + herself when she heard he was to dine with me. + </p> + <p> + “I once took a violent fancy for the little hussy,” said he. “It was one + evening when I was at Vauxhall, and I offered her twenty guineas if she + would come and take a little walk with me in a dark alley. She said she + would come if I gave her the money in advance, which I was fool enough to + do. She went with me, but as soon as we were alone she ran away, and I + could not catch her again, though I looked for her all the evening.” + </p> + <p> + “You ought to have boxed her ears before everybody.” + </p> + <p> + “I should have got into trouble, and people would have laughed at me + besides. I preferred to despise her and the money too. Are you in love + with her?” + </p> + <p> + “No; but I am curious, as you were.” + </p> + <p> + “Take care! she will do all in her power to entrap you.” + </p> + <p> + She came in and went up to my lord with the most perfect coolness, and + began to chatter away to him without taking any notice of me. She laughed, + joked, and reproached him for not having pursued her at Vauxhall. Her + stratagem, she said, was only meant to excite him the more. + </p> + <p> + “Another time,” she added, “I shall not escape you.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps not, my dear, for another time I shall take care not to pay in + advance.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, fie! you degrade yourself by talking about paying.” + </p> + <p> + “I suppose I honour you.” + </p> + <p> + “We never talk of such things.” + </p> + <p> + Lord Pembroke laughed at her impertinences, while she made a vigorous + assault on him, for his coolness and indifference piqued her. + </p> + <p> + She left us soon after dinner, making me promise to dine with her the day + after next. + </p> + <p> + I passed the next day with the amiable nobleman who initiated me into the + mysteries of the English bagnio, an entertainment which I shall not + describe, for it is well known to all who care to spend six guineas. + </p> + <p> + On the day appointed, my evil destiny made me go to the Charpillon’s; the + girl introduced me to her mother, whom I at once recollected, although she + had aged and altered since I had seen her. + </p> + <p> + In the year 1759 a Genevan named Bolome had persuaded me to sell her + jewels to the extent of six thousand francs, and she had paid me in bills + drawn by her and her two sisters on this Bolome, but they were then known + as Anspergher. The Genevan became bankrupt before the bills were due, and + the three sisters disappeared. As may be imagined, I was surprised to find + them in England, and especially to be introduced to them by the + Charpillon, who, knowing nothing of the affair of the jewels, had not told + them that Seingalt was the same as Casanova, whom they had cheated of six + thousand francs. + </p> + <p> + “I am delighted to see you again,” were the first words I addressed to + her. + </p> + <p> + “I recollect you, sir; that rascal Bolome . . . .” + </p> + <p> + “We will discuss that subject another time. I see you are ill.” + </p> + <p> + “I have been at death’s door, but I am better now. My daughter did not + tell me your proper name.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, she did. My name is Seingalt as well as Casanova. I was known by the + latter name at Paris when I made your daughter’s acquaintance, though I + did not know then that she was your daughter.” + </p> + <p> + Just then the grandmother, whose name was also Anspergher, came in with + the two aunts, and a quarter of an hour later three men arrived, one of + whom was the Chevalier Goudar, whom I had met at Paris. I did not know the + others who were introduced to me under the names of Rostaing and Caumon. + They were three friends of the household, whose business it was to bring + in dupes. + </p> + <p> + Such was the infamous company in which I found myself, and though I took + its measure directly, yet I did not make my escape, nor did I resolve + never to go to the house again. I was fascinated; I thought I would be on + my guard and be safe, and as I only wanted the daughter I looked on all + else as of little moment. + </p> + <p> + At table I led the conversation, and thought that my prey would soon be + within my grasp. The only thing which annoyed me was that the Charpillon, + after apologizing for having made me sit down to such a poor dinner, + invited herself and all the company to sup with me on any day I liked to + mention. I could make no opposition, so I begged her to name the day + herself, and she did so, after a consultation with her worthy friends. + </p> + <p> + After coffee had been served we played four rubbers of whist, at which I + lost, and at midnight I went away ill pleased with myself, but with no + purpose of amendment, for this sorceress had got me in her toils. + </p> + <p> + All the same I had the strength of mind to refrain from seeing her for two + days, and on the third, which was the day appointed for the cursed supper, + she and her aunt paid me a call at nine o’clock in the morning. + </p> + <p> + “I have come to breakfast with you, and to discuss a certain question,” + said she, in the most engaging manner. + </p> + <p> + “Will you tell me your business now, or after breakfast?” + </p> + <p> + “After breakfast; for we must be alone.” + </p> + <p> + We had our breakfast, and then the aunt went into another room, and the + Charpillon, after describing the monetary situation of the family, told me + that it would be much relieved if her aunt could obtain a hundred guineas. + </p> + <p> + “What would she do with the money?” + </p> + <p> + “She would make the Balm of Life, of which she possesses the secret, and + no doubt she would make her fortune, too.” + </p> + <p> + She then began to dilate on the marvellous properties of the balm, on its + probable success in a town like London, and on the benefits which would + accrue to myself, for of course I should share in the profits. She added + that her mother and aunt would give me a written promise to repay the + money in the course of six years. + </p> + <p> + “I will give you a decided answer after supper.” + </p> + <p> + I then began to caress her, and to make assaults in the style of an + amorous man, but it was all in vain, though I succeeded in stretching her + on a large sofa. She made her escape, however, and ran to her aunt, while + I followed her, feeling obliged to laugh as she did. She gave me her hand, + and said,— + </p> + <p> + “Farewell, till this evening.” + </p> + <p> + When they were gone, I reflected over what had passed and thought this + first scene of no bad augury. I saw that I should get nothing out of her + without spending a hundred guineas, and I determined not to attempt to + bargain, but I would let her understand that she must make up her mind not + to play prude. The game was in my hands, and all I had to do was to take + care not to be duped. + </p> + <p> + In the evening the company arrived, and the girl asked me to hold a bank + till supper was ready; but I declined, with a burst of laughter that + seemed to puzzle her. + </p> + <p> + “At least, let us have a game of whist,” said she. + </p> + <p> + “It seems to me,” I answered, “that you don’t feel very anxious to hear my + reply.” + </p> + <p> + “You have made up your mind, I suppose?” + </p> + <p> + “I have, follow me.” + </p> + <p> + She followed me into an adjoining room, and after she had seated herself + on a sofa, I told her that the hundred guineas were at her disposal. + </p> + <p> + “Then please to give the money to my aunt, otherwise these gentlemen might + think I got it from you by some improper means.” + </p> + <p> + “I will do so.” + </p> + <p> + I tried to get possession of her, but in vain; and I ceased my endeavours + when she said,— + </p> + <p> + “You will get nothing from me either by money or violence; but you can + hope for all when I find you really nice and quiet.” + </p> + <p> + I re-entered the drawing-room, and feeling my blood boiling I began to + play to quiet myself. She was as gay as ever, but her gaiety tired me. At + supper I had her on my right hand, but the hundred impertinences which, + under other circumstances, would have amused me, only wearied me, after + the two rebuffs I had received from her. + </p> + <p> + After supper, just as they were going, she took me aside, and told me that + if I wanted to hand over the hundred guineas she would tell her aunt to go + with me into the next room. + </p> + <p> + “As documents have to be executed,” I replied, “it will take some time; we + will talk of it again. + </p> + <p> + “Won’t you fix the time?” + </p> + <p> + I drew out my purse full of gold, and shewed it her, saying,— + </p> + <p> + “The time depends entirely on you.” + </p> + <p> + When my hateful guests were gone, I began to reflect, and came to the + conclusion that this young adventuress had determined to plunder me + without giving me anything in return. I determined to have nothing more to + do with her, but I could not get her beauty out of my mind. + </p> + <p> + I felt I wanted some distraction, something that would give me new aims + and make me forget her. With this idea I went to see my daughter, taking + with me an immense bag of sweets. + </p> + <p> + As soon as I was in the midst of the little flock, the delight became + general, Sophie distributing the sweetmeats to her friends, who received + them gratefully. + </p> + <p> + I spent a happy day, and for a week or two I paid several visits to + Harwich. The mistress treated me with the utmost politeness and my + daughter with boundless affection, always calling me “dear papa.” + </p> + <p> + In less than three weeks I congratulated myself on having forgotten the + Charpillon, and on having replaced her by innocent amours, though one of + my daughter’s schoolmates pleased me rather too much for my peace of mind. + </p> + <p> + Such was my condition when one morning the favourite aunt of the + Charpillon paid me a call, and said that they were all mystified at not + having seen me since the supper I had given them, especially herself, as + her niece had given her to understand that I would furnish her with the + means of making the Balm of Life. + </p> + <p> + “Certainly; I would have given you the hundred guineas if your niece had + treated me as a friend, but she refused me favours a vestal might have + granted, and you must be aware that she is by no means a vestal.” + </p> + <p> + “Don’t mind my laughing. My niece is an innocent, giddy girl; she loves + you, but she is afraid you have only a passing whim for her. She is in bed + now with a bad cold, and if you will come and see her I am sure you will + be satisfied.” + </p> + <p> + These artful remarks, which had no doubt been prepared in advance, ought + to have aroused all my scorn, but instead of that they awakened the most + violent desires. I laughed in chorus with the old woman, and asked what + would be the best time to call. + </p> + <p> + “Come now, and give one knock.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good, then you may expect me shortly.” + </p> + <p> + I congratulated myself on being on the verge of success, for after the + explanation I had had with the aunt, and having, as I thought, a friend in + her, I did not doubt that I should succeed. + </p> + <p> + I put on my great coat, and in less than a quarter of an hour I knocked at + their door. The aunt opened to me, and said,— + </p> + <p> + “Come back in a quarter of an hour; she has been ordered a bath, and is + just going to take it.” + </p> + <p> + “This is another imposture. You’re as bad a liar as she is.” + </p> + <p> + “You are cruel and unjust, and if you will promise to be discreet, I will + take you up to the third floor where she is bathing.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good; take me.” She went upstairs, I following on tiptoe, and pushed + me into a room, and shut the door upon me. The Charpillon was in a huge + bath, with her head towards the door, and the infernal coquette, + pretending to think it was her aunt, did not move, and said,— + </p> + <p> + “Give me the towels, aunt.” + </p> + <p> + She was in the most seductive posture, and I had the pleasure of gazing on + her exquisite proportions, hardly veiled by the water. + </p> + <p> + When she caught sight of me, or rather pretended to do so, she gave a + shriek, huddled her limbs together, and said, with affected anger,— + </p> + <p> + “Begone!” + </p> + <p> + “You needn’t exert your voice, for I am not going to be duped.” + </p> + <p> + “Begone!” + </p> + <p> + “Not so, give me a little time to collect myself.” + </p> + <p> + “I tell you, go!” + </p> + <p> + “Calm yourself, and don’t be afraid of my shewing you any violence; that + would suit your game too well.” + </p> + <p> + “My aunt shall pay dearly for this.” + </p> + <p> + “She will find me her friend. I won’t touch you, so shew me a little more + of your charms.” + </p> + <p> + “More of my charms?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; put yourself as you were when I came in.” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly not. Leave the room.” + </p> + <p> + “I have told you I am not going, and that you need not fear for your . . . + . well, for your virginity, we will say.” + </p> + <p> + She then shewed me a picture more seductive than the first, and pretending + kindliness, said,— + </p> + <p> + “Please, leave me; I will not fail to shew my gratitude.” + </p> + <p> + Seeing that she got nothing, that I refrained from touching her, and that + the fire she had kindled was in a fair way to be put out, she turned her + back to me to give me to understand that it was no pleasure to her to look + at me. However, my passions were running high, and I had to have recourse + to self-abuse to calm my senses, and was glad to find myself relieved, as + this proved to me that the desire went no deeper than the senses. + </p> + <p> + The aunt came in just as I had finished, and I went out without a word, + well pleased to find myself despising a character wherein profit and loss + usurped the place of feeling. + </p> + <p> + The aunt came to me as I was going out of the house, and after enquiring + if I were satisfied begged me to come into the parlour. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said I, “I am perfectly satisfied to know you and your niece. Here + is the reward.” + </p> + <p> + With these words I drew a bank-note for a hundred pounds from my + pocket-book, and was foolish enough to give it her, telling her that she + could make her balm, and need not trouble to give me any document as I + knew if would be of no value. I had not the strength to go away without + giving her anything, and the procuress was sharp enough to know it. + </p> + <p> + When I got home I reflected on what had happened, and pronounced myself + the conqueror with great triumph. I felt well at ease, and felt sure that + I should never set foot in that house again. There were seven of them + altogether, including servants, and the need of subsisting made them do + anything for a living; and when they found themselves obliged to make use + of men, they summoned the three rascals I have named, who were equally + dependent on them. + </p> + <p> + Five or six days afterwards, I met the little hussy at Vauxhall in company + with Goudar. I avoided her at first, but she came up to me reproaching me + for my rudeness. I replied coolly enough, but affecting not to notice my + manner, she asked me to come into an arbour with her and take a cup of + tea. + </p> + <p> + “No, thank you,” I replied, “I prefer supper.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I will take some too, and you will give it me, won’t you, just to + shew that you bear no malice?” + </p> + <p> + I ordered supper for four and we sat down together as if we had been + intimate friends. + </p> + <p> + Her charming conversation combined with her beauty gradually drew me under + her charm, and as the drink began to exercise its influence over me, I + proposed a turn in one of the dark walks, expressing a hope that I should + fare better than Lord Pembroke. She said gently, and with an appearance of + sincerity that deceived me, that she wanted to be mine, but by day and on + the condition that I would come and see her every day. + </p> + <p> + “I will do so, but first give me one little proof of your love.” + </p> + <p> + “Most certainly not.” + </p> + <p> + I got up to pay the bill, and then I left without a word, refusing to take + her home. I went home by myself and went to bed. + </p> + <p> + The first thought when I awoke was that I was glad she had not taken me at + my word; I felt very strongly that it was to my interest to break off all + connection between that creature and myself. I felt the strength of her + influence over me, and that my only way was to keep away from her, or to + renounce all pretension to the possession of her charms. + </p> + <p> + The latter plan seemed to me impossible, so I determined to adhere to the + first; but the wretched woman had resolved to defeat all my plans. The + manner in which she succeeded must have been the result of a council of + the whole society. + </p> + <p> + A few days after the Vauxhall supper Goudar called on me, and began by + congratulating me on my resolution not to visit the Ansperghers any more, + “for,” said he, “the girl would have made you more and more in love with + her, and in the end she would have seduced you to beggary.” + </p> + <p> + “You must think me a great fool. If I had found her kind I should have + been grateful, but without squandering all my money; and if she had been + cruel, instead of ridiculous, I might have given her what I have already + given her every day, without reducing myself to beggary.” + </p> + <p> + “I congratulate you; it shews that you are well off. But have you made up + your mind not to see her again?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you are not in love with her?” + </p> + <p> + “I have been in love, but I am so no longer; and in a few days she will + have passed completely out of my memory. I had almost forgotten her when I + met her with you at Vauxhall.” + </p> + <p> + “You are not cured. The way to be cured of an amour does not lie in + flight, when the two parties live in the same town. Meetings will happen, + and all the trouble has to be taken over again.” + </p> + <p> + “Then do you know a better way?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly; you should satiate yourself. It is quite possible that the + creature is not in love with you, but you are rich and she has nothing. + You might have had her for so much, and you could have left her when you + found her to be unworthy of your constancy. You must know what kind of a + woman she is.” + </p> + <p> + “I should have tried this method gladly, but I found her out.” + </p> + <p> + “You could have got the best of her, though, if you had gone to work in + the proper way. You should never have paid in advance. I know everything.” + </p> + <p> + “What do you mean?” + </p> + <p> + “I know she has cost you a hundred guineas, and that you have not won so + much as a kiss from her. Why, my dear sir, you might have had her + comfortably in your own bed for as much! She boasts that she took you in, + though you pride yourself on your craft.” + </p> + <p> + “It was an act of charity towards her aunt.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, to make her Balm of Life; but you know if it had not been for the + niece the aunt would never have had the money.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps not, but how come you who are of their party to be talking to me + in this fashion?” + </p> + <p> + “I swear to you I only speak out of friendship for you, and I will tell + you how I came to make the acquaintance of the girl, her mother, her + grandmother and her two aunts, and then you will no longer consider me as + of their party. + </p> + <p> + “Sixteen months ago I saw M. Morosini walking about Vauxhall by himself. + He had just come to England to congratulate the king on his accession to + the throne, on behalf of the Republic of Venice. I saw how enchanted he + was with the London beauties, and I went up to him and told him that all + these beauties were at his service. This made him laugh, and on my + repeating that it was not a jest he pointed out one of the girls, and + asked if she would be at his service. I did not know her, so I asked him + to wait awhile, and I would bring him the information he required. There + was no time to be lost, and I could see that the girl was not a vestal + virgin, so I went up to her and told her that the Venetian ambassador was + amorous of her, and that I would take her to him if she would receive his + visits. The aunt said that a nobleman of such an exalted rank could only + bring honour to her niece. I took their address, and on my way back to the + ambassador I met a friend of mine who is learned in such commodities, and + after I had shewed him the address he told me it was the Charpillon.” + </p> + <p> + “And it was she?” + </p> + <p> + “It was. My friend told me she was a young Swiss girl who was not yet in + the general market, but who would soon be there, as she was not rich, and + had a numerous train to support. + </p> + <p> + “I rejoined the Venetian, and told him that his business was done, and + asked him at what time I should introduce him the next day, warning him + that as she had a mother and aunts she would not be alone. + </p> + <p> + “‘I am glad to hear it,’ said he, ‘and also that she is not a common + woman.’ He gave me an appointment for the next day, and we parted. + </p> + <p> + “I told the ladies at what hour I should have the pleasure of introducing + the great man to them, and after warning them that they must appear not to + know him I went home. + </p> + <p> + “The following day I called on M. de Morosini, and took him to Denmark + Street incognito. We spent an hour in conversation, and then went away + without anything being settled. On the way back the ambassador told me + that he should like to have the girl on conditions which he would give me + in writing at his residence. + </p> + <p> + “These conditions were that she should live in a furnished house free of + rent, without any companion, and without receiving any visitors. His + excellency would give her fifty guineas a month, and pay for supper + whenever he came and spent the night with her. He told me to get the house + if his conditions were received. The mother was to sign the agreement. + </p> + <p> + “The ambassador was in a hurry, and in three days the agreement was + signed; but I obtained a document from the mother promising to let me have + the girl for one night as soon as the Venetian had gone; it was known he + was only stopping in London for a year.” + </p> + <p> + Goudar extracted the document in question from his pocket, and gave it to + me. I read it and re-read it with as much surprise as pleasure, and he + then proceeded with his story. + </p> + <p> + “When the ambassador had gone, the Charpillon, finding herself at liberty + once more, had Lord Baltimore, Lord Grosvenor, and M. de Saa, the + Portuguese ambassador, in turn, but no titular lover. I insisted on having + my night with her according to agreement, but both mother and daughter + laughed at me when I spoke of it. I cannot arrest her, because she is a + minor, but I will have the mother imprisoned on the first opportunity, and + you will see how the town will laugh. Now you know why I go to their + house; and I assure you you are wrong if you think I have any part in + their councils. Nevertheless, I know they are discussing how they may + catch you, and they will do so if you do not take care.” + </p> + <p> + “Tell the mother that I have another hundred guineas at her service if she + will let me have her daughter for a single night.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you mean that?” + </p> + <p> + “Assuredly, but I am not going to pay in advance.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s the only way not to be duped. I shall be glad to execute your + commission.” + </p> + <p> + I kept the rogue to dinner, thinking he might be useful to me. He knew + everything and everybody, and told me a number of amusing anecdotes. + Although a good-for-nothing fellow, he had his merits. He had written + several works, which, though badly constructed, shewed he was a man of + some wit. He was then writing his “Chinese Spy,” and every day he wrote + five or six news-letters from the various coffee-houses he frequented. I + wrote one or two letters for him, with which he was much pleased. The + reader will see how I met him again at Naples some years later. + </p> + <p> + The next morning, what was my surprise to see the Charpillon, who said + with an air that I should have taken for modesty in any other woman,— + </p> + <p> + “I don’t want you to give me any breakfast, I want an explanation, and to + introduce Miss Lorenzi to you.” + </p> + <p> + I bowed to her and to her companion, and then said,— + </p> + <p> + “What explanation do you require?” + </p> + <p> + At this, Miss Lorenzi, whom I had never seen before, thought proper to + leave us, and I told my man that I was not at home to anybody. I ordered + breakfast to be served to the companion of the nymph, that she might not + find the waiting tedious. + </p> + <p> + “Sir,” said the Charpillon, “is it a fact that you charged the Chevalier + Goudar to tell my mother that you would give a hundred guineas to spend + the night with me?” + </p> + <p> + “No, not to spend a night with you, but after I had passed it. Isn’t the + price enough?” + </p> + <p> + “No jesting, sir, if you please. There is no question of bargaining; all I + want to know is whether you think you have a right to insult me, and that + I am going to bear it?” + </p> + <p> + “If you think yourself insulted, I may, perhaps, confess I was wrong; but + I confess I did not think I should have to listen to any reproaches from + you. Goudar is one of your intimate friends, and this is not the first + proposal he has taken to you. I could not address you directly, as I know + your arts only too well.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall not pay any attention to your abuse of my self; I will only + remind you of what I said ‘that neither money nor violence were of any + use,’ and that your only way was to make me in love with you by gentle + means. Shew me where I have broken my word! It is you that have foresworn + yourself in coming into my bath-room, and in sending such a brutal message + to my mother. No one but a rascal like Goudar would have dared to take + such a message.” + </p> + <p> + “Goudar a rascal, is he? Well, he is your best friend. You know he is in + love with you, and that he only got you for the ambassador in the hope of + enjoying you himself. The document in his possession proves that you have + behaved badly towards him. You are in his debt, discharge it, and then + call him a rascal if you have the conscience to do so. You need not + trouble to weep, for I knew the source of those tears; it is defiled.” + </p> + <p> + “You know nothing of it. I love you, and it is hard to have you treat me + so.” + </p> + <p> + “You love me? You have not taken the best way to prove it!” + </p> + <p> + “As good a way as yours. You have behaved to me as if I were the vilest of + prostitutes, and yesterday you seemed to think I was a brute beast, the + slave of my mother. You should have written to me in person, and without + the intervention of so vile an agent; I should have replied in the same + way, and you need not have been afraid that you would be deceived.” + </p> + <p> + “Supposing I had written, what would your answer have been?” + </p> + <p> + “I should have put all money matters out of question. I should have + promised to content you on the condition that you would come and court me + for a fortnight without demanding the slightest favour. We should have + lived a pleasant life; we should have gone to the theatre and to the + parks. I should have become madly in love with you. Then I should have + given myself up to you for love, and nothing but love. I am ashamed to say + that hitherto I have only given myself out of mere complaisance. Unhappy + woman that I am! but I think nature meant me to love, and I thought when I + saw you that my happy star had sent you to England that I might know the + bliss of true affection. Instead of this you have only made me unhappy. + You are the first man that has seen me weep; you have troubled my peace at + home, for my mother shall never have the sum you promised her were it for + nothing but a kiss.” + </p> + <p> + “I am sorry to have injured you, though I did not intend to do so; but I + really don’t know what I can do.” + </p> + <p> + “Come and see us, and keep your money, which I despise. If you love me, + come and conquer me like a reasonable and not a brutal lover; and I will + help you, for now you cannot doubt that I love you.” + </p> + <p> + All this seemed so natural to me that I never dreamed it contained a trap. + I was caught, and I promised to do what she wished, but only for a + fortnight. She confirmed her promise, and her countenance became once more + serene and calm. The Charpillon was a born actress. + </p> + <p> + She got up to go, and on my begging a kiss as a pledge of our + reconciliation she replied, with a smile, the charm of which she well + knew, that it would not do to begin by breaking the term of our agreement, + and she left me more in love than ever, and full of repentance for my + conduct. + </p> + <a name="linkE2HCH0012" id="linkE2HCH0012"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XII + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Goudar’s Chair +</pre> + <p> + If she had written all this to me instead of coming and delivering it viva + voce, it would probably have produced no effect; there would have been no + tears, no ravishing features. She probably calculated all this, for women + have a wonderful instinct in these matters. + </p> + <p> + That very evening I began my visits, and judged from my welcome that my + triumph was nigh at hand. But love fills our minds with idle visions, and + draws a veil over the truth. + </p> + <p> + The fortnight went by without my even kissing her hand, and every time I + came I brought some expensive gift, which seemed cheap to me when I + obtained such smiles of gratitude in exchange. Besides these presents, not + a day passed without some excursion to the country or party at the + theatre; that fortnight must have cost me four hundred guineas at the + least. + </p> + <p> + At last it came to an end, and I asked her in the presence of her mother + where she would spend the night with me, there or at my house. The mother + said that we would settle it after supper, and I made no objection, not + liking to tell her that in my house the supper would be more succulent, + and a better prelude for the kind of exercise I expected to enjoy. + </p> + <p> + When we had supped the mother took me aside, and asked me to leave with + the company and then to come back. I obeyed, laughing to myself at this + foolish mystery, and when I came back I found the mother and the daughter + in the parlour, in which a bed had been laid on the floor. + </p> + <p> + Though I did not much care for this arrangement, I was too amorous to + raise any objection at a moment when I thought my triumph was at hand; but + I was astonished when the mother asked me if I would like to pay the + hundred guineas in advance. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, fie!” exclaimed the girl; and her mother left the room, and we locked + the door. + </p> + <p> + My amorous feelings, so long pent up within my breast, would soon find + relief. I approached her with open arms; but she avoided my caress, and + gently begged me to get into bed while she prepared to follow me. I + watched her undress with delight, but when she had finished she put out + the candles. I complained of this act of hers, but she said she could not + sleep with the light shining on her. I began to suspect that I might have + some difficulties thrown in my way to sharpen the pleasure, but I + determined to be resigned and to overcome them all. + </p> + <p> + When I felt her in the bed I tried to clasp her in my arms, but found that + she had wrapped herself up in her long night-gown; her arms were crossed, + and her head buried in her chest. I entreated, scolded, cursed, but all in + vain; she let me go on, and answered not a word. + </p> + <p> + At first I thought it was a joke, but I soon found out my mistake; the + veil fell from my eyes and I saw myself in my true colours, the degraded + dupe of a vile prostitute. + </p> + <p> + Love easily becomes fury. I began to handle her roughly, but she resisted + and did not speak. I tore her night-gown to rags, but I could not tear it + entirely off her. My rage grew terrible, my hands became talons, and I + treated her with the utmost cruelty; but all for nothing. At last, with my + hand on her throat, I felt tempted to strangle her; and then I knew it was + time for me to go. + </p> + <p> + It was a dreadful night. I spoke to this monster of a woman in every + manner and tone—with gentleness, with argument, rage, remonstrance, + prayers, tears, and abuse, but she resisted me for three hours without + abandoning her painful position, in spite of the torments I made her + endure. + </p> + <p> + At three o’clock in the morning, feeling my mind and body in a state of + exhaustion, I got up and dressed myself by my sense of touch. I opened the + parlour door, and finding the street door locked I shook it till a servant + came and let me out. I went home and got into bed, but excited nature + refused me the sleep I needed so. I took a cup of chocolate, but it would + not stay on my stomach, and soon after a shivering fit warned me that I + was feverish. I continued to be ill till the next day, and then the fever + left me in a state of complete exhaustion. + </p> + <p> + As I was obliged to keep to my bed for a few days, I knew that I should + soon get my health again; but my chief consolation was that at last I was + cured. My shame had made me hate myself. + </p> + <p> + When I felt the fever coming on I told my man not to let anybody come to + see me, and to place all my letters in my desk; for I wanted to be + perfectly well before I troubled myself with anything. + </p> + <p> + On the fourth day I was better, and I told Jarbe to give me my letters. I + found one from Pauline, dated from Madrid, in which she informed me that + Clairmont had saved her life while they were fording a river, and she had + determined to keep him till she got to Lisbon, and would then send him + back by sea. I congratulated myself at the time on her resolve; but it was + a fatal one for Clairmont, and indirectly for me also. Four months after, + I heard that the ship in which he had sailed had been wrecked, and as I + never heard from him again I could only conclude that my faithful servant + had perished amidst the waves. + </p> + <p> + Amongst my London letters I found two from the infamous mother of the + infamous Charpillon, and one from the girl herself. The first of the + mother’s letters, written before I was ill, told me that her daughter was + ill in bed, covered with bruises from the blows I had given her, so that + she would be obliged to institute legal proceedings against me. In the + second letter she said she had heard I too was ill, and that she was sorry + to hear it, her daughter having informed her that I had some reason for my + anger; however, she would not fail to justify herself on the first + opportunity. The Charpillon said in her letter that she knew she had done + wrong, and that she wondered I had not killed her when I took her by the + throat. She added that no doubt I had made up my mind to visit her no + more, but she hoped I would allow her one interview as she had an + important communication to make to me. There was also a note from Goudar, + saying that he wanted to speak to me, and that he would come at noon. I + gave orders that he should be admitted. + </p> + <p> + This curious individual began by astonishing me; he told me the whole + story of what had taken place, the mother having been his informant. + </p> + <p> + “The Charpillon,” he added, “has not got a fever, but is covered with + bruises. What grieves the old woman most is that she has not got the + hundred guineas.” + </p> + <p> + “She would have had them the next morning,” I said, “if her daughter had + been tractable.” + </p> + <p> + “Her mother had made her swear that she would not be tractable, and you + need not hope to possess her without the mother’s consent.” + </p> + <p> + “Why won’t she consent?” + </p> + <p> + “Because she thinks that you will abandon the girl as soon as you have + enjoyed her.” + </p> + <p> + “Possibly, but she would have received many valuable presents, and now she + is abandoned and has nothing.” + </p> + <p> + “Have you made up your mind not to have anything more to do with her?” + </p> + <p> + “Quite.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s your wisest plan, and I advise you to keep to it, nevertheless I + want to shew you something which will surprise you. I will be back in a + moment.” + </p> + <p> + He returned, followed by a porter, who carried up an arm-chair covered + with a cloth. As soon as we were alone, Goudar took off the covering and + asked me if I would buy it. + </p> + <p> + “What should I do with it? It is not a very attractive piece of + furniture.” + </p> + <p> + “Nevertheless, the price of it is a hundred guineas.” + </p> + <p> + “I would not give three.” + </p> + <p> + “This arm-chair has five springs, which come into play all at once as soon + as anyone sits down in it. Two springs catch the two arms and hold them + tightly, two others separate the legs, and the fifth lifts up the seat.” + </p> + <p> + After this description Goudar sat down quite naturally in the chair and + the springs came into play and forced him into the position of a woman in + labour. + </p> + <p> + “Get the fair Charpillon to sit in this chair,” said he, “and your + business is done.” + </p> + <p> + I could not help laughing at the contrivance, which struck me as at once + ingenious and diabolical, but I could not make up my mind to avail myself + of it. + </p> + <p> + “I won’t buy it,” said I, “but I shall be obliged if you will leave it + here till to-morrow.” + </p> + <p> + “I can’t leave it here an hour unless you will buy it; the owner is + waiting close by to hear your answer.” + </p> + <p> + “Then take it away and come back to dinner.” + </p> + <p> + He shewed me how I was to release him from his ridiculous position, and + then after covering it up again he called the porter and went away. + </p> + <p> + There could be no doubt as to the action of the machinery, and it was no + feeling of avarice which hindered me from buying the chair. As I have + said, it seemed rather a diabolical idea, and besides it might easily have + sent me to the gallows. Furthermore, I should never have had the strength + of mind to enjoy the Charpillon forcibly, especially by means of the + wonderful chair, the mechanism of which would have frightened her out of + her wits. + </p> + <p> + At dinner I told Goudar that the Charpillon had demanded an interview, and + that I had wished to keep the chair so as to shew her that I could have + her if I liked. I shewed him the letter, and he advised me to accede to + her request, if only for curiosity’s sake. + </p> + <p> + I was in no hurry to see the creature while the marks on her face and neck + were still fresh, so I spent seven or eight days without making up my mind + to receive her. Goudar came every day, and told me of the confabulations + of these women who had made up their minds not to live save by trickery. + </p> + <p> + He told me that the grandmother had taken the name of Anspergher without + having any right to it, as she was merely the mistress of a worthy citizen + of Berne, by whom she had four daughters; the mother of the Charpillon was + the youngest of the family, and, as she was pretty and loose in her + morals, the Government had exiled her with her mother and sisters. They + had then betaken themselves to Franche-Comte, where they lived for some + time on the Balm of Life. Here it was that the Charpillon came into the + world, her mother attributing her to a Count de Boulainvilliers. The child + grew up pretty, and the family removed to Paris under the impression that + it would be the best market for such a commodity, but in the course of + four years the income from the Balm having dwindled greatly, the + Charpillon being still too young to be profitable, and debtors closing + round them on every side, they resolved to come to London. + </p> + <p> + He then proceeded to tell me of the various tricks and cheats which kept + them all alive. I found his narrative interesting enough then, but the + reader would find it dull, and I expect will be grateful for my passing it + over. + </p> + <p> + I felt that it was fortunate for me that I had Goudar, who introduced me + to all the most famous courtezans in London, above all to the illustrious + Kitty Fisher, who was just beginning to be fashionable. He also introduced + me to a girl of sixteen, a veritable prodigy of beauty, who served at the + bar of a tavern at which we took a bottle of strong beer. She was an + Irishwoman and a Catholic, and was named Sarah. I should have liked to get + possession of her, but Goudar had views of his own on the subject, and + carried her off in the course of the next year. He ended by marrying her, + and she was the Sara Goudar who shone at Naples, Florence, Venice, and + elsewhere. We shall hear of her in four or five years, still with her + husband. Goudar had conceived the plan of making her take the place of + Dubarry, mistress of Louis XV., but a lettre de cachet compelled him to + try elsewhere. Ah! happy days of lettres de cachet, you have gone never to + return! + </p> + <p> + The Charpillon waited a fortnight for me to reply, and then resolved to + return to the charge in person. This was no doubt the result of a + conference of the most secret kind, for I heard nothing of it from Goudar. + </p> + <p> + She came to see my by herself in a sedan-chair, and I decided on seeing + her. I was taking my chocolate and I let her come in without rising or + offering her any breakfast. She asked me to give her some with great + modesty, and put up her face for me to give her a kiss, but I turned my + head away. However, she was not in the least disconcerted. + </p> + <p> + “I suppose the marks of the blows you gave me make my face so repulsive?” + </p> + <p> + “You lie; I never struck you.” + </p> + <p> + “No, but your tiger-like claws have left bruises all over me. Look here. + No, you needn’t be afraid that what you see may prove too seductive; + besides, it will have no novelty for you.” + </p> + <p> + So saying the wretched creature let me see her body, on which some livid + marks were still visible. + </p> + <p> + Coward that I was! Why did I not look another way? I will tell you: it was + because she was so beautiful, and because a woman’s charms are unworthy of + the name if they cannot silence reason. I affected only to look at the + bruises, but it was an empty farce. I blush for myself; here was I + conquered by a simple girl, ignorant of well nigh everything. But she knew + well enough that I was inhaling the poison at every pore. All at once she + dropped her clothes and came and sat beside me, feeling sure that I should + have relished a continuance of the spectacle. + </p> + <p> + However, I made an effort and said, coldly, that it was all her own fault. + </p> + <p> + “I know it is,” said she, “for if I had been tractable as I ought to have + been, you would have been loving instead of cruel. But repentance effaces + sin, and I am come to beg pardon. May I hope to obtain it?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly; I am angry with you no longer, but I cannot forgive myself. + Now go, and trouble me no more.” + </p> + <p> + “I will if you like, but there is something you have not heard, and I beg + you will listen to me a moment.” + </p> + <p> + “As I have nothing to do you can say what you have got to say, I will + listen to you.” + </p> + <p> + In spite of the coldness of my words, I was really profoundly touched, and + the worst of it was that I began to believe in the genuineness of her + motives. + </p> + <p> + She might have relieved herself of what she had to say in a quarter of an + hour, but by dint of tears, sighs, groans, digressions, and so forth, she + took two hours to tell me that her mother had made her swear to pass the + night as she had done. She ended by saying that she would like to be mine + as she had been M. Morosini’s, to live with me, and only to go out under + my escort, while I might allow her a monthly sum which she would hand over + to her mother, who would, in that case, leave her alone. + </p> + <p> + She dined with me, and it was in the evening that she made this + proposition. I suppose because she thought me ripe for another cheat. I + told her that it might be arranged, but that I should prefer to settle + with her mother, and that she would see me at their house the following + day, and this seemed to surprise her. + </p> + <p> + It is possible that the Charpillon would have granted me any favour on + that day, and then there would have been no question of deception or + resistance for the future. Why did I not press her? Because sometimes love + stupefies instead of quickens, and because I had been in a way her judge, + and I thought it would be base of me to revenge myself on her by + satisfying my amorous desires, and possibly because I was a fool, as I + have often been in the course of my existence. She must have left me in a + state of irritation, and no doubt she registered a vow to revenge herself + on me for the half-contemptuous way in which I had treated her. + </p> + <p> + Goudar was astonished when he heard of her visit, and of the way in which + I had spent the day. I begged him to get me a small furnished house, and + in the evening I went to see the infamous woman in her own house. + </p> + <p> + She was with her mother, and I laid my proposal before them. + </p> + <p> + “Your daughter will have a house at Chelsea,” said I to the mother, “where + I can go and see her whenever I like, and also fifty guineas a month to do + what she likes with.” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t care what you give her a month,” she replied, “but before I let + her leave my house she must give me the hundred guineas she was to have + had when she slept with you.” + </p> + <p> + “It is your fault that she didn’t have them; however, to cut the matter + short, she shall give them to you.” + </p> + <p> + “And in the meanwhile, till you have found the house, I hope you will come + and see me.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + The next day Goudar shewed me a pretty house at Chelsea, and I took it, + paying ten guineas, a month’s rent, in advance, for which I received a + receipt. In the afternoon I concluded the bargain with the mother, the + Charpillon being present. The mother asked me to give her the hundred + guineas, and I did so, not fearing any treachery, as nearly the whole of + the girl’s clothing was already at Chelsea. + </p> + <p> + In due course we went to our country house. The Charpillon liked the house + immensely, and after a short talk we supped merrily together. After supper + we went to bed, and she granted me some slight preliminary favours, but + when I would have attained my end I found an obstacle which I had not + expected. She gave me some physiological reasons for the circumstances, + but not being a man to stop for so little, I would have gone on, but she + resisted, and yet with such gentleness that I left her alone and went to + sleep. I awoke sooner than she did, and determined to see whether she had + imposed on me; so I raised her night-gown carefully, and took off her + linen only to find that I had been duped once more. This roused her, and + she tried to stop me, but it was too late. However, I gently chid her for + the trick, and feeling disposed to forgive it set about making up for lost + time, but she got on the high horse, and pretended to be hurt at my taking + her by surprise. I tried to calm her by renewed tenderness, but the + wretched creature only got more furious, and would give me nothing. I left + her alone, but I expressed my opinion of her in pretty strong terms. The + impudent slut honoured me with a smile of disdain, and then beginning to + dress herself she proceeded to indulge in impertinent repartees. This made + me angry, and I gave her a box on the ears which stretched her at full + length on the floor. She shrieked, stamped her feet, and made a hideous + uproar; the landlord came up, and she began to speak to him in English, + while the blood gushed from her nose. + </p> + <p> + The man fortunately spoke Italian, and told me that she wanted to go away, + and advised me to let her do so, or she might make it awkward for me, and + he himself would be obliged to witness against me. + </p> + <p> + “Tell her to begone as fast as she likes,” said I, “and to keep out of my + sight for ever.” + </p> + <p> + She finished dressing, staunched the blood, and went off in a sedan-chair, + while I remained petrified, feeling that I did not deserve to live, and + finding her conduct utterly outrageous and incomprehensible. + </p> + <p> + After an hour’s consideration I decided on sending her back her trunk, and + then I went home and to bed, telling my servants I was not at home to + anyone. + </p> + <p> + I spent twenty-four hours in pondering over my wrongs, and at last my + reason told me that the fault was mine; I despised myself. I was on the + brink of suicide, but happily I escaped that fate. + </p> + <p> + I was just going out when Goudar came up and made me go in with him, as he + said he wanted to speak to me. After telling me that the Charpillon had + come home with a swollen cheek which prevented her shewing herself, he + advised me to abandon all claims on her or her mother, or the latter would + bring a false accusation against me which might cost me my life. Those who + know England, and especially London will not need to be informed as to the + nature of this accusation, which is so easily brought in England; it will + suffice to say that through it Sodom was overwhelmed. + </p> + <p> + “The mother has engaged me to mediate,” said Goudar, “and if you will + leave her alone, she will do you no harm.” + </p> + <p> + I spent the day with him, foolishly complaining, and telling him that he + could assure the mother that I would take no proceedings against her, but + that I should like to know if she had the courage to receive this + assurance from my own lips. + </p> + <p> + “I will carry your message,” said he, “but I pity you; for you are going + into their nets again, and will end in utter ruin.” + </p> + <p> + I fancied they would be ashamed to see me; but I was very much mistaken, + for Goudar came back laughing, and said the mother expressed a hope that I + should always be the friend of the family. I ought to have refused to have + anything more to do with them, but I had not the strength to play the man. + I called at Denmark Street the same evening, and spent an hour without + uttering a syllable. The Charpillon sat opposite to me, with eyes lowered + to a piece of embroidery, while from time to time she pretended to wipe + away a tear as she let me see the ravages I had worked on her cheek. + </p> + <p> + I saw her every day and always in silence till the fatal mark had + disappeared, but during these mad visits the poison of desire was so + instilled into my veins that if she had known my state of mind she might + have despoiled me of all I possessed for a single favour. + </p> + <p> + When she was once more as beautiful as ever I felt as if I must die if I + did not hold her in my arms again, and I bought a magnificent pier-glass + and a splendid breakfast service in Dresden china, and sent them to her + with an amorous epistle which must have made her think me either the most + extravagant or the most cowardly of men. She wrote in answer that she + would expect me to sup with her in her room, that she might give me the + tenderest proofs of her gratitude. + </p> + <p> + This letter sent me completely mad with joy, and in a paroxysm of delight + I resolved to surrender to her keeping the two bills of exchange which + Bolomee had given me, and which gave me power to send her mother and aunts + to prison. + </p> + <p> + Full of the happiness that awaited me, and enchanted with my own idiotic + heroism, I went to her in the evening. She received me in the parlour with + her mother, and I was delighted to see the pier-glass over the mantel, and + the china displayed on a little table. After a hundred words of love and + tenderness she asked me to come up to her room, and her mother wished us + good night. I was overwhelmed with joy. After a delicate little supper I + took out the bills of exchange, and after telling her their history gave + them up to her, to shew that I had no intention of avenging myself on her + mother and aunts. I made her promise that she would never part with them, + and she said she would never do so, and with many expressions of gratitude + and wonder at my generosity she locked them up with great care. + </p> + <p> + Then I thought it was time to give her some marks of my passion, and I + found her kind; but when I would have plucked the fruit, she clasped me to + her arms, crossed her legs, and began to weep bitterly. + </p> + <p> + I made an effort, and asked her if she would be the same when we were in + bed. She sighed, and after a moment’s pause, replied, “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + For a quarter of an hour I remained silent and motionless, as if + petrified. At last I rose with apparent coolness, and took my cloak and + sword. + </p> + <p> + “What!” said she, “are you not going to spend the night with me?” + </p> + <p> + “No.” + </p> + <p> + “But we shall see each other to-morrow?” + </p> + <p> + “I hope so. Good night.” + </p> + <p> + I left that infernal abode, and went home to bed. + </p> + <a name="linkE2HCH0013" id="linkE2HCH0013"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIII + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + The End of the Story Stranger Than the Beginning +</pre> + <p> + At eight o’clock the next morning Jarbe told me that the Charpillon wanted + to see me, and that she had sent away her chairmen. + </p> + <p> + “Tell her that I can’t see her.” + </p> + <p> + But I had hardly spoken when she came in, and Jarbe went out. I addressed + her with the utmost calmness, and begged her to give me back the two bills + of exchange I had placed in her hands the night before. + </p> + <p> + “I haven’t got them about me; but why do you want me to return them to + you?” + </p> + <p> + At this question I could contain myself no longer, and launched a storm of + abuse at her. It was an explosion which relieved nature, and ended with an + involuntary shower of tears. My infamous seductress stood as calmly as + Innocence itself; and when I was so choked with sobs that I could not + utter a word, she said she had only been cruel because her mother had made + her swear an oath never to give herself to anyone in her own house, and + that she had only come now to convince me of her love, to give herself to + me without reserve, and never to leave me any more if I wished it. + </p> + <p> + The reader who imagines that at these words rage gave place to love, and + that I hastened to obtain the prize, does not know the nature of the + passion so well as the vile woman whose plaything I was. From hot love to + hot anger is a short journey, but the return is slow and difficult. If + there be only anger in a man’s breast it may be subdued by tenderness, by + submission, and affection; but when to anger is added a feeling of + indignation at having been shamefully deceived, it is impossible to pass + suddenly to thoughts of love and voluptuous enjoyment. With me mere anger + has never been of long duration, but when I am indignant the only cure is + forgetfulness. + </p> + <p> + The Charpillon knew perfectly well that I would not take her at her word, + and this kind of science was inborn in her. The instinct of women teaches + them greater secrets than all the philosophy and the research of men. + </p> + <p> + In the evening this monster left me, feigning to be disappointed and + disconsolate, and saying,— + </p> + <p> + “I hope you will come and see me again when you are once more yourself.” + </p> + <p> + She had spent eight hours with me, during which time she had only spoken + to deny my suppositions, which were perfectly true, but which she could + not afford to let pass. I had not taken anything all day, in order that I + might not be obliged to offer her anything or to eat with her. + </p> + <p> + After she had left me I took some soup and then enjoyed a quiet sleep, for + which I felt all the better. When I came to consider what had passed the + day before I concluded that the Charpillon was repentant, but I seemed no + longer to care anything about her. + </p> + <p> + Here I may as well confess, in all humility, what a change love worked on + me in London, though I had attained the age of thirty-eight. Here closed + the first act of my life; the second closed when I left Venice in 1783, + and probably the third will close here, as I amuse myself by writing these + memoirs. Thus, the three-act comedy will finish, and if it be hissed, as + may possibly be the case, I shall not hear the sounds of disapproval. But + as yet the reader has not seen the last and I think the most interesting + scene of the first act. + </p> + <p> + I went for a walk in the Green Park and met Goudar. I was glad to see him, + as the rogue was useful to me. + </p> + <p> + “I have just been at the Charpillons,” he began; “they were all in high + spirits. I tried in vain to turn the conversation on you, but not a word + would they utter.” + </p> + <p> + “I despise them entirely,” I rejoined, “I don’t want to have anything more + to do with them.” + </p> + <p> + He told me I was quite right, and advised me to persevere in my plan. I + made him dine with me, and then we went to see the well-known procuress, + Mrs. Wells, and saw the celebrated courtezan, Kitty Fisher, who was + waiting for the Duke of—— to take her to a ball. She was + magnificently dressed, and it is no exaggeration to say that she had on + diamonds worth five hundred thousand francs. Goudar told me that if I + liked I might have her then and there for ten guineas. I did not care to + do so, however, for, though charming, she could only speak English, and I + liked to have all my senses, including that of hearing, gratified. When + she had gone, Mrs. Wells told us that Kitty had eaten a bank-note for a + thousand guineas, on a slice of bread and butter, that very day. The note + was a present from Sir Akins, brother of the fair Mrs. Pitt. I do not know + whether the bank thanked Kitty for the present she had made it. + </p> + <p> + I spent an hour with a girl named Kennedy, a fair Irishwoman, who could + speak a sort of French, and behaved most extravagantly under the influence + of champagne; but the image of the Charpillon was still before me, though + I knew it not, and I could not enjoy anything. I went home feeling sad and + ill pleased with myself. Common sense told me to drive all thoughts of + that wretched woman out of my head, but something I called honour bade me + not leave her the triumph of having won the two bills of exchange from me + for nothing, and made me determine to get them back by fair means or foul. + </p> + <p> + M. Malingan, at whose house I had made the acquaintance of this creature, + come and asked me to dinner. He had asked me to dine with him several + times before, and I had always refused, and now I would not accept until I + had heard what guests he had invited. The names were all strange to me, so + I agreed to come. + </p> + <p> + When I arrived I found two young ladies from Liege, in one of whom I got + interested directly. She introduced me to her husband, and to another + young man who seemed to be the cavalier of the other lady, her cousin. + </p> + <p> + The company pleased me, and I was in hopes that I should spend a happy + day, but my evil genius brought the Charpillon to mar the feast. She came + into the room in high glee, and said to Malingan,— + </p> + <p> + “I should not have come to beg you to give me a dinner if I had known that + you would have so many guests, and if I am at all in the way I will go.” + </p> + <p> + Everybody welcomed her, myself excepted, for I was on the rack. To make + matters worse, she was placed at my left hand. If she had come in before + we sat down to dinner I should have made some excuse and gone away, but as + we had begun the soup a sudden flight would have covered me with ridicule. + I adopted the plan of not looking at her, reserving all my politeness for + the lady on my right. When the meal was over Malingan took me apart, and + swore to me that he had not invited the Charpillon, but I was not + convinced, though I pretended to be for politeness’ sake. + </p> + <p> + The two ladies from Liege and their cavaliers were embarking for Ostend in + a few days, and in speaking of their departure the one to whom I had taken + a fancy said that she was sorry to be leaving England without having seen + Richmond. I begged her to give me the pleasure of shewing it her, and + without waiting for an answer I asked her husband and all the company to + be present, excepting the Charpillon, whom I pretended not to see. + </p> + <p> + The invitation was accepted. + </p> + <p> + “Two carriages,” I said, “holding four each, shall be ready at eight + o’clock, and we shall be exactly eight.” + </p> + <p> + “No, nine, for I am coming,” said the Charpillon, giving me an impudent + stare, “and I hope you will not drive me away.” + </p> + <p> + “No, that would be impolite, I will ride in front on horseback.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, not at all! Emilie shall sit on my lap.” + </p> + <p> + Emilie was Malingan’s daughter, and as everybody seemed to think the + arrangement an extremely pleasant one I had not the courage to resist. A + few moments after, I was obliged to leave the room for a few moments, and + when I came back I met her on the landing. She told me I had insulted her + grievously, and that unless I made amends I should feel her vengeance. + </p> + <p> + “You can begin your vengeance,” I said, “by returning my bills of + exchange.” + </p> + <p> + “You shall have them to-morrow, but you had better try and make me forget + the insult you have put on me.” + </p> + <p> + I left the company in the evening, having arranged that we should all + breakfast together the next day. + </p> + <p> + At eight o’clock the two carriages were ready, and Malingan, his wife, his + daughter, and the two gentlemen got into the first vehicle, and I had to + get into the second with the ladies from Liege and the Charpillon, who + seemed to have become very intimate with them. This made me ill-tempered, + and I sulked the whole way. We were an hour and a quarter on the journey, + and when we arrived I ordered a good dinner, and then we proceeded to view + the gardens; the day was a beautiful one, though it was autumn. + </p> + <p> + Whilst we were walking the Charpillon came up to me and said she wanted to + return the bills in the same place in which I had given her them. As we + were at some distance from the others I pelted her with abuse, telling her + of her perfidy and of her corruption at an age when she should have + retained some vestiges of innocence calling her by the name she deserved, + as I reminded her how often she had already prostituted herself; in short + I threatened her with my vengeance if she pushed me to extremities. But + she was as cold as ice, and opposed a calm front to the storm of invective + I rained in her ears. However, as the other guests were at no great + distance, she begged me to speak more softly, but they heard me and I was + very glad of it. + </p> + <p> + At last we sat down to dinner, and the wretched woman contrived to get a + place beside me, and behaved all the while as if I were her lover, or at + any rate as if she loved me. She did not seem to care what people thought + of my coldness, while I was in a rage, for the company must either have + thought me a fool or else that she was making game of me. + </p> + <p> + After dinner we returned to the garden, and the Charpillon, determined to + gain the victory, clung to my arm and after several turns led me towards + the maze where she wished to try her power. She made me sit down on the + grass beside her and attacked me with passionate words and tender + caresses, and by displaying the most interesting of her charms she + succeeded in seducing me, but still I do not know whether I were impelled + by love or vengeance, and I am inclined to think that my feelings were a + compound of both passions. + </p> + <p> + But at the moment she looked the picture of voluptuous abandon. Her ardent + eyes, her fiery cheeks, her wanton kisses, her swelling breast, and her + quick sighs, all made me think that she stood as much in need of defeat as + I of victory; certainly I should not have judged that she was already + calculating on resistance. + </p> + <p> + Thus I once more became tender and affectionate; I begged pardon for what + I had said and done. Her fiery kisses replied to mine, and I thought her + glance and the soft pressure of her body were inviting me to gather the + delicious fruit; but just as my hand opened the door of the sanctuary, she + gave a sudden movement, and the chance was lost. + </p> + <p> + “What! you would deceive me again.” + </p> + <p> + “No, no but we have done enough now. I promise to spend the night in your + arms in your own house.” + </p> + <p> + For a moment I lost my senses. I only saw the deceitful wretch who had + profited by my foolish credulity so many times, and I resolved to enjoy or + take vengeance. I held her down with my left arm, and drawing a small + knife from my pocket I opened it with my teeth and pricked her neck, + threatening to kill her if she resisted me. + </p> + <p> + “Do as you like,” she said with perfect calm, “I only ask you to leave me + my life, but after you have satisfied yourself I will not leave the spot; + I will not enter your carriage unless you carry me by force, and everybody + shall know the reason.” + </p> + <p> + This threat had no effect, for I had already got back my senses, and I + pitied myself for being degraded by a creature for whom I had the greatest + contempt, in spite of the almost magical influence she had over me, and + the furious desires she knew how to kindle in my breast. I rose without a + word, and taking my hat and cane I hastened to leave a place where + unbridled passion had brought me to the brink of ruin. + </p> + <p> + My readers will scarcely believe me (but it is nevertheless the exact + truth) when I say that the impudent creature hastened to rejoin me, and + took my arm again as if nothing had happened. A girl of her age could not + have played the part so well unless she had been already tried in a + hundred battles. When we rejoined the company I was asked if I were ill, + while nobody noticed the slightest alteration in her. + </p> + <p> + When we got back to London I excused myself under the plea of a bad + headache, and returned home. + </p> + <p> + The adventure had made a terrible impression on me, and I saw that if I + did not avoid all intercourse with this girl I should be brought to ruin. + There was something about her I could not resist. I therefore resolved to + see her no more, but feeling ashamed of my weakness in giving her the + bills of exchange I wrote her mother a note requesting her to make her + daughter return them, or else I should be compelled to take harsh + measures. + </p> + <p> + In the afternoon I received the following reply: + </p> + <p> + “Sir,—I am exceedingly surprised at your addressing yourself to me + about the bills you handed to my daughter. She tells me she will give you + them back in person when you shew more discretion, and have learnt to + respect her.” + </p> + <p> + This impudent letter so enraged me that I forgot my vow of the morning. I + put two pistols in my pocket and proceeded to the wretched woman’s abode + to compel her to return me my bills if she did not wish to be soundly + caned. + </p> + <p> + I only took the pistols to overawe the two male rascals who supped with + them every evening. I was furious when I arrived, but I passed by the door + when I saw a handsome young hairdresser, who did the Charpillon’s hair + every Saturday evening, going into the house. + </p> + <p> + I did not want a stranger to be present at the scene I meant to make, so I + waited at the corner of the street for the hairdresser to go. After I had + waited half an hour Rostaing and Couman, the two supports of the house, + came out and went away, much to my delight. I waited on; eleven struck, + and the handsome barber had not yet gone. A little before midnight a + servant came out with a lamp, I suppose to look for something that had + fallen out of the window. I approached noiselessly, stepped in and opened + the parlour-door, which was close to the street, and saw . . . the + Charpillon and the barber stretched on the sofa and doing the beast with + two backs, as Shakespeare calls it. + </p> + <p> + When the slut saw me she gave a shriek and unhorsed her gallant, whom I + caned soundly until he escaped in the confusion consequent on the + servants, mother, and aunts all rushing into the room. While this was + going on the Charpillon, half-naked, remained crouched behind the sofa, + trembling lest the blows should begin to descend on her. Then the three + hags set upon me like furies; but their abuse only irritated me, and I + broke the pier-glass, the china, and the furniture, and as they still + howled and shrieked I roared out that if they did not cease I would break + their heads. At this they began to calm. + </p> + <p> + I threw myself upon the fatal sofa, and bade the mother to return me the + bills of exchange; but just then the watchman came in. + </p> + <p> + There is only one watchman to a district, which he perambulates all night + with a lantern in one hand and a staff in the other. On these men the + peace of the great city depends. I put three or four crowns into his hand + and said “Go away,” and so saying shut the door upon him. Then I sat down + once more and asked again for the bills of exchange: + </p> + <p> + “I have not got them; my daughter keeps them.” + </p> + <p> + “Call her.” + </p> + <p> + The two maids said that whilst I was breaking the china she had escaped by + the street door, and that they did not know what had become of her. Then + the mother and aunts began to shriek, weep, and exclaim,— + </p> + <p> + “My poor daughter alone in the streets of London at midnight! My dear + niece, alas! alas! she is lost. Cursed be the hour when you came to + England to make us all unhappy!” + </p> + <p> + My rage had evaporated, and I trembled at the thought of this young + frightened girl running about the streets at such an hour. + </p> + <p> + “Go and look for her at the neighbours’ houses,” I said to the servants, + “no doubt you will find her. When you tell me she is safe, you shall have + a guinea apiece.” + </p> + <p> + When the three Gorgons saw I was interested, their tears, complaints, and + invectives began again with renewed vigor, while I kept silence as much as + to say that they were in the right. I awaited the return of the servants + with impatience, and at last at one o’clock they came back with looks of + despair. + </p> + <p> + “We have looked for her everywhere,” said they, “but we can’t find her.” + </p> + <p> + I gave them the two guineas as if they had succeeded, whilst I sat + motionless reflecting on the terrible consequences of my anger. How + foolish is man when he is in love! + </p> + <p> + I was idiot enough to express my repentance to the three old cheats. I + begged them to seek for her everywhere when dawn appeared, and to let me + know of her return that I might fall at her feet to beg pardon, and never + see her face again. I also promised to pay for all the damage I had done, + and to give them a full receipt for the bills of exchange. After these + acts, done to the everlasting shame of my good sense, after this apology + made to procuresses who laughed at me and my honour, I went home, + promising two guineas to the servant who should bring me tidings that her + young mistress had come home. On leaving the house I found the watchman at + the door; he had been waiting to see me home. It was two o’clock. I threw + myself on my bed, and the six hours of sleep I obtained, though troubled + by fearful dreams, probably saved me from madness. + </p> + <p> + At eight o’clock I heard a knock at the door, and on opening the window + found it was one of the servants from the house of my foes. I cried out to + let her in, and I breathed again on hearing that Miss Charpillon had just + arrived in a sedan-chair in a pitiable condition, and that she had been + put to bed. + </p> + <p> + “I made haste to come and tell you,” said the cunning maid, “not for the + sake of your two guineas, but because I saw you were so unhappy.” This + duped me directly. I gave her the two guineas, and made her sit down on my + bed, begging her to tell me all about her mistress’s return. I did not + dream that she had been schooled by my enemies; but during the whole of + this period I was deprived of the right use of my reason. + </p> + <p> + The slut began by saying that her young mistress loved me, and had only + deceived me in accordance with her mother’s orders. + </p> + <p> + “I know that,” I said, “but where did she pass the night?” + </p> + <p> + “At a shop which she found open, and where she was known from having + bought various articles there. She is in bed with a fever, and I am afraid + it may have serious consequences as she is in her monthly period.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s impossible, for I caught her in the act with her hairdresser.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, that proves nothing! the poor young man does not look into things + very closely.” + </p> + <p> + “But she is in love with him.” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t think so, though she has spent several hours in his company.” + </p> + <p> + “And you say that she loves me!” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, that has nothing to do with it! It is only a whim of hers with the + hairdresser.” + </p> + <p> + “Tell her that I am coming to pass the day beside her bed, and bring me + her reply.” + </p> + <p> + “I will send the other girl if you like.” + </p> + <p> + “No, she only speaks English.” + </p> + <p> + She went away, and as she had not returned by three o’clock I decided on + calling to hear how she was. I knocked at the door, and one of the aunts + appeared and begged me not to enter as the two friends of the house were + there in a fury against me, and her niece lay in a delirium, crying out + “There’s Seingalt, there’s Seingalt! He’s going to kill me. Help! help!” + “For God’s sake, sir, go away!” + </p> + <p> + I went home desperate, without the slightest suspicion that it was all a + lie. I spent the whole day without eating anything; I could not swallow a + mouthful. All night I kept awake, and though I took several glasses of + strong waters I could obtain no rest. + </p> + <p> + At nine o’clock the next morning I knocked at the Charpillon’s door, and + the old aunt came and held it half open as before. She forbade me to + enter, saying that her niece was still delirious, continually calling on + me in her transports, and that the doctor had declared that if the disease + continued its course she had not twenty-four hours to live. “The fright + you gave her has arrested her periods; she is in a terrible state.” + </p> + <p> + “O, fatal hairdresser!” I exclaimed. + </p> + <p> + “That was a mere youthful folly; you should have pretended not to have + seen anything.” + </p> + <p> + “You think that possible, you old witch, do you? Do not let her lack for + anything; take that.” + </p> + <p> + With these words I gave her a bank note for ten guineas and went away, + like the fool I was. On my way back I met Goudar, who was quite frightened + at my aspect. I begged him to go and see how the Charpillon really was, + and then to come and pass the rest of the day with me. An hour after he + came back and said he had found them all in tears and that the girl was in + extremis. + </p> + <p> + “Did you see her?” + </p> + <p> + “No, they said she could see no one.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you think it is all true?” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t know what to think; but one of the maids, who tells me the truth + as a rule, assured me that she had become mad through her courses being + stopped, while she has also a fever and violent convulsions. It is all + credible enough, for these are the usual results of a shock when a woman + is in such a situation. The girl told me it was all your fault.” + </p> + <p> + I then told him the whole story. He could only pity me, but when he heard + that I had neither eaten nor slept for the last forty-eight hours he said + very wisely that if I did not take care I should lose my reason or my + life. I knew it, but I could find no remedy. He spent the day with me and + did me good. As I could not eat I drank a good deal, and not being able to + sleep I spent the night in striding up and down my room like a man beside + himself. + </p> + <p> + On the third day, having heard nothing positive about the Charpillon, I + went out at seven o’clock in the morning to call on her. After I had + waited a quarter of an hour in the street, the door was partly opened, and + I saw the mother all in tears, but she would not let me come in. She said + her daughter was in the last agony. At the same instant a pale and thin + old man came out, telling the mother that we must resign ourselves to the + will of God. I asked the infamous creature if it were the doctor. + </p> + <p> + “The doctor is no good now,” said the old hypocrite, weeping anew, “he is + a minister of the Gospel, and there is another of them upstairs. My poor + daughter! In another hour she will be no more.” + </p> + <p> + I felt as if an icy hand had closed upon my heart. I burst into tears and + left the woman, saying,— + </p> + <p> + “It is true that my hand dealt the blow, but her death lies at your door.” + </p> + <p> + As I walked away my knees seemed to bend under me, and I entered my house + determined to commit suicide,— + </p> + <p> + With this fearful idea, I gave orders that I was not at home to anyone. As + soon as I got to my room I put my watches, rings, snuff-boxes, purse and + pocket-book in my casket, and shut it up in my escritoire. I then wrote a + letter to the Venetian ambassador, informing him that all my property was + to go to M. de Bragadin after my death. I sealed the letter and put it + with the casket, and took the key with me, and also silver to the amount + of a few guineas. I took my pistols and went out with the firm intention + of drowning myself in the Thames, near the Tower of London. + </p> + <p> + Pondering over my plan with the utmost coolness, I went and bought some + balls of lead as large as my pockets would hold, and as heavy as I could + bear, to carry to the Tower, where I intended to go on foot. On my way I + was strengthened in my purpose by the reflection, that if I continued to + live I should be tormented for the remainder of my days by the pale shade + of the Charpillon reproaching me as her murderer. I even congratulated + myself on being able to carry out my purpose without any effort, and I + also felt a secret pride in my courage. + </p> + <p> + I walked slowly on account of the enormous weight I bore, which would + assure me a speedy passage to the bottom of the river. + </p> + <p> + By Westminster Bridge my good fortune made me meet Sir Edgar, a rich young + Englishman, who lived a careless and joyous life. I had made his + acquaintance at Lord Pembroke’s, and he had dined with me several times. + We suited one another, his conversation was agreeable, and we had passed + many pleasant hours together. I tried to avoid him, but he saw me, and + came up and took me by the arm in a friendly manner. + </p> + <p> + “Where are you going? Come with me, unless you are going to deliver some + captive. Come along, we shall have a pleasant party.” + </p> + <p> + “I can’t come, my dear fellow, let me go.” + </p> + <p> + “What’s the matter? I hardly recognized you, you looked so solemn.” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing is the matter.” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing? You should look at your face in the glass. Now I feel quite sure + that you are going to commit a foolish action.” + </p> + <p> + “Not at all.” + </p> + <p> + “It’s no good denying it.” + </p> + <p> + “I tell you there’s nothing the matter with me. Good bye, I shall see you + again.” + </p> + <p> + “It’s no good, I won’t leave you. Come along, we will walk together.” + </p> + <p> + His eyes happening to fall on my breeches pocket, he noticed my pistol, + and putting his hand on the other pocket he felt the other pistol, and + said,— + </p> + <p> + “You are going to fight a duel; I should like to see it. I won’t interfere + with the affair, but neither will I leave you.” + </p> + <p> + I tried to put on a smile, and assured him that he was mistaken, and that + I was only going for a walk to pass the time. + </p> + <p> + “Very good,” said Edgar, “then I hope my society is as pleasant to you as + yours is to me; I won’t leave you. After we have taken a walk we will go + and dine at the ‘Canon.’ I will get two girls to come and join us, and we + shall have a gay little party of four.” + </p> + <p> + “My dear friend, you must excuse me; I am in a melancholy mood, and I want + to be alone to get over it.” + </p> + <p> + “You can be alone to-morrow, if you like, but I am sure you will be all + right in the next three hours, and if not, why I will share your madness. + Where did you think of dining?” + </p> + <p> + “Nowhere; I have no appetite. I have been fasting for the last three days, + and I can only drink.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! I begin to see daylight. Something has crossed you, and you are going + to let it kill you as it killed one of my brothers. I must see what can be + done.” + </p> + <p> + Edgar argued, insisted, and joked till at last I said to myself, “A day + longer will not matter, I can do the deed when he leaves me, and I shall + only have to bear with life a few hours longer.” + </p> + <p> + When Edgar heard that I had no particular object in crossing the bridge he + said that we had better turn back, and I let myself be persuaded; but in + half an hour I begged him to take me somewhere where I could wait for him, + as I could not bear the weight of the lead any longer. I gave him my word + of honour that I would meet him at the “Canon.” + </p> + <p> + As soon as I was alone I emptied my pockets, and put the leaden balls into + a cupboard. Then I lay down and began to consider whether the good-natured + young man would prevent me committing suicide, as he had already made me + postpone it. + </p> + <p> + I reasoned, not as one that hopes, but rather as one that foresaw that + Edgar would hinder me from shortening my days. Thus I waited in the tavern + for the young Englishman, doubtful whether he was doing me a service or an + injury. + </p> + <p> + He came back before long, and was pleased to find me. + </p> + <p> + “I reckoned on your keeping your word,” said he. + </p> + <p> + “You did not think that I would break my word of honour.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s all right; I see you are on the way to recovery.” + </p> + <p> + The sensible and cheerful talk of the young man did me good, and I began + to feel better, when the two young wantons, one of whom was a Frenchwoman, + arrived in high spirits. They seemed intended for pleasure, and Nature had + dowered them with great attractions. I appreciated their charms, but I + could not welcome them in the manner to which they were accustomed. They + began to think me some poor valetudinarian; but though I was in torments, + a feeling of vanity made me endeavour to behave sensibly. I gave them some + cold kisses and begged Edgar to tell his fellow-countrywoman that if I + were not three parts dead I would prove how lovely and charming I thought + her. They pitied me. A man who has spent three days without eating or + sleeping is almost incapable of any voluptuous excitement, but mere words + would not have convinced these priestesses of Venus if Edgar had not given + them my name. I had a reputation, and I saw that when they heard who I was + they were full of respect. They all hoped that Bacchus and Comus would + plead the cause of Love, and I let them talk, knowing that their hopes + were vain. + </p> + <p> + We had an English dinner; that is, a dinner without the essential course + of soup, so I only took a few oysters and a draught of delicious wine, but + I felt better, and was pleased to see Edgar amusing himself with the two + nymphs. + </p> + <p> + The young madcap suddenly proposed that the girls should dance a hornpipe + in the costume of Mother Eve, and they consented on the condition that we + would adopt the dress of Father Adam, and that blind musicians were + summoned. I told them that I would take off my clothes to oblige them, but + that I had no hopes of being able to imitate the seductive serpent. I was + allowed to retain my dress, on the condition that if I felt the prick of + the flesh I should immediately undress. I agreed to do so, and the blind + musicians were sent for, and while they tuned their instruments toilettes + were made, and the orgy began. + </p> + <p> + It taught me same useful lessons. I learnt from it that amorous pleasures + are the effect and not the cause of gaiety. I sat gazing at three naked + bodies of perfect grace and beauty, the dance and the music were ravishing + and seductive, but nothing made any impression on me. After the dance was + over the male dancer treated the two females, one after the other, until + he was forced to rest. The French girl came up to ascertain whether I + shewed any signs of life, but feeling my hopeless condition she pronounced + me useless. + </p> + <p> + When it was all over I begged Edgar to give the French girl four guineas, + and to pay my share, as I had very little money about me. + </p> + <p> + What should I have said if I had been told in the morning that instead of + drowning myself I should take part in so pleasant an entertainment? + </p> + <p> + The debt I had contracted with the young Englishman made me resolve to put + off my suicide to another day. After the nymphs had gone I tried to get + rid of Edgar, but in vain; he told me I was getting better, that the + oysters I had taken shewed my stomach was improving, and that if I came + with him to Ranelagh I should be able to make a good dinner the next day. + I was weak and indifferent and let myself be persuaded, and got into a + coach with Edgar in obedience to the Stoic maxim I had learnt in the happy + days of my youth: ‘Sequere Deum’. + </p> + <p> + We entered the fine rotunda with our hats off, and began to walk round and + round, our arms behind our backs—a common custom in England, at + least in those days. + </p> + <p> + A minuet was being danced, and I was so attracted by a lady who danced + extremely well that I waited for her to turn round. What made me notice + her more particularly was that her dress and hat were exactly like those I + had given to the Charpillon a few days before, but as I believed the poor + wretch to be dead or dying the likeness did not inspire me with any + suspicion. But the lady turned round, lifted her face, and I saw—the + Charpillon herself! + </p> + <p> + Edgar told me afterwards that at that moment he thought to see me fall to + the ground in an epileptic fit; I trembled and shuddered so terribly. + </p> + <p> + However, I felt so sure she was ill that I could not believe my own eyes, + and the doubt brought me to my senses. + </p> + <p> + “She can’t be the Charpillon,” I said to myself, “she is some other girl + like her, and my enfeebled senses have led me astray.” In the meanwhile + the lady, intent on her dancing, did not glance in my direction, but I + could afford to wait. At last she lifted her arms to make the curtsy at + the end of the minuet, I went up instinctively as if I were about to dance + with her; she looked me in the face, and fled. + </p> + <p> + I constrained myself; but now that there could be no doubt my shuddering + fit returned, and I made haste to sit down. A cold sweat bedewed my face + and my whole body. Edgar advised me to take a cup of tea but I begged him + to leave me alone for a few moments. + </p> + <p> + I was afraid that I was on the point of death; I trembled all over, and my + heart beat so rapidly that I could not have stood up had I wished. + </p> + <p> + At last, instead of dying, I got new life. What a wonderful change I + experienced! Little by little my peace of mind returned, and I could enjoy + the glitter of the multitudinous wax lights. By slow degrees I passed + through all the shades of feeling between despair and an ecstasy of joy. + My soul and mind were so astonished by the shock that I began to think I + should never see Edgar again. + </p> + <p> + “This young man,” I said to myself, “is my good genius, my guardian angel, + my familiar spirit, who has taken the form of Edgar to restore me to my + senses again.” + </p> + <p> + I should certainly have persisted in this idea if my friend had not + reappeared before very long. + </p> + <p> + Chance might have thrown him in the way of one of those seductive + creatures who make one forget everything else; he might have left Ranelagh + without having time to tell me he was going, and I should have gone back + to London feeling perfectly certain that I had only seen his earthly + shape. Should I have been disabused if I had seen him a few days after? + Possibly; but I am not sure of it. I have always had a hankering after + superstition, of which I do not boast; but I confess the fact, and leave + the reader to judge me. + </p> + <p> + However, he came back in high spirits, but anxious about me. He was + surprised to find me full of animation, and to hear me talking in a + pleasant strain on the surrounding objects and persons. + </p> + <p> + “Why, you are laughing!” said he, “your sadness has departed, then?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, good genius, but I am hungry, and I want you to do me a favour, if + you have no other pressing engagements.” + </p> + <p> + “I am free till the day after to-morrow, and till then you can do what you + like with me.” + </p> + <p> + “I owe my life to you, but to make your gift complete I want you to spend + this night and the whole of the next day with me.” + </p> + <p> + “Done.” + </p> + <p> + “Then let us go home.” + </p> + <p> + “With all my heart; come along.” + </p> + <p> + I did not tell him anything as we were in the coach, and when we got home + I found nothing fresh, except a note from Goudar, which I put in my + pocket, intending to reserve all business for the next day. + </p> + <p> + It was an hour after midnight. A good supper was served to us, and we fell + to; for my part I devoured my food like a wild beast. Edgar congratulated + me, and we went to bed, and I slept profoundly till noon. When I awoke I + breakfasted with Edgar, and told him the whole story, which would have + ended with my life if he had not met me on Westminster Bridge, and he had + not been keen enough to mark my condition. I took him to my room, and + shewed him my escritoire, my casket, and my will. I then opened Goudar’s + letter, and read: + </p> + <p> + “I am quite sure that the girl you know of is very far from dying, as she + has gone to Ranelagh with Lord Grosvenor.” + </p> + <p> + Although Edgar was a profligate, he was a sensible man, and my story made + him furious. He threw his arms around my neck, and told me he should + always think the day on which he rescued me from death for so unworthy an + object the happiest in his life. He could scarcely credit the infamy of + the Charpillon and her mother. He told me I could have the mother + arrested, though I had not got the bills of exchange, as her mother’s + letter acknowledging her daughter’s possession of the bills was sufficient + evidence. + </p> + <p> + Without informing him of my intention, I resolved that moment to have her + arrested. Before we parted we swore eternal friendship, but the reader + will see before long what a penance the kind Englishman had to do for + befriending me. + </p> + <p> + The next day I went to the attorney I had employed against Count Schwerin. + After hearing my story he said that I had an undoubted claim, and that I + could arrest the mother and the two aunts. + </p> + <p> + Without losing time I went before a magistrate, who took my sworn + information and granted me a warrant. The same official who had arrested + Schwerin took charge of the affair; but as he did not know the women by + sight it was necessary that someone who did should go with him, for though + he was certain of surprising them there might be several other women + present, and he might not arrest the right ones. + </p> + <p> + As Goudar would not have undertaken the delicate task of pointing them + out, I resolved on accompanying him myself. + </p> + <p> + I made an appointment with him at an hour when I knew they would be all in + the parlour. He was to enter directly the door was opened, and I would + come in at the same instant and point out the women he had to arrest. In + England all judicial proceedings are conducted with the utmost + punctuality, and everything went off as I had arranged. The bailiff and + his subaltern stepped into the parlour and I followed in their footsteps. + I pointed out the mother and the two sisters and then made haste to + escape, for the sight of the Charpillon, dressed in black, standing by the + hearth, made me shudder. I felt cured, certainly; but the wounds she had + given me were not yet healed, and I cannot say what might have happened if + the Circe had had the presence of mind to throw her arms about my neck and + beg for mercy. + </p> + <p> + As soon as I had seen these women in the hands of justice I fled, tasting + the sweets of vengeance, which are very great, but yet a sign of + unhappiness. The rage in which I had arrested the three procuresses, and + my terror in seeing the woman who had well-nigh killed me, shewed that I + was not really cured. To be so I must fly from them and forget them + altogether. + </p> + <p> + The next morning Goudar came and congratulated me on the bold step I had + taken, which proved, he said, that I was either cured or more in love than + ever. “I have just come from Denmark Street,” he added, “and I only saw + the grandmother, who was weeping bitterly, and an attorney, whom no doubt + she was consulting.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you have heard what has happened?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I came up a minute after you had gone and I stayed till the three + old sluts made up their minds to go with the constable. They resisted and + said he ought to leave them till the next day, when they would be able to + find someone to bail them. The two bravos drew their swords to resist the + law, but the other constable disarmed them one after the other, and the + three women were led off. The Charpillon wanted to accompany them, but it + was judged best that she should remain at liberty, in order to try and set + them free.” + </p> + <p> + Goudar concluded by saying that he should go and see them in prison, and + if I felt disposed to come to an arrangement he would mediate between us. + I told him that the only arrangement I would accept was the payment of the + six thousand francs, and that they might think themselves very lucky that + I did not insist on having my interest, and thus repaying myself in part + for the sums they had cheated out of me. + </p> + <p> + A fortnight elapsed without my hearing any more of the matter. The + Charpillon dined with them every day, and in fact, kept them. It must have + cost her a good deal, for they had two rooms, and their landlord would not + allow them to have their meals prepared outside the prison. Goudar told me + that the Charpillon said she would never beg me to listen to her mother, + though she knew she had only to call on me to obtain anything she wanted. + She thought me the most abominable of men. If I feel obliged to maintain + that she was equally abominable, I must confess that on this occasion she + shewed more strength of mind than I; but whereas I had acted out of + passion, her misdeeds were calculated, and tended solely to her own + interests. + </p> + <p> + For the whole of this fortnight I had sought for Edgar in vain, but one + morning he came to see me, looking in high spirits. + </p> + <p> + “Where have you been hiding all this time?” said I, “I have been looking + for you everywhere.” + </p> + <p> + “Love has been keeping me a prisoner,” said he, “I have got some money for + you.” + </p> + <p> + “For me? From what quarter?” + </p> + <p> + “On behalf of the Ansperghers. Give me a receipt and the necessary + declaration, for I am going to restore them myself to the poor Charpillon, + who has been weeping for the last fortnight.” + </p> + <p> + “I daresay she has, I have seen her weep myself; but I like the way in + which she has chosen the being who delivered me from her chains as a + protector. Does she know that I owe my life to you?” + </p> + <p> + “She only knew that I was with you at Ranelagh when you saw her dancing + instead of dying, but I have told her the whole story since.” + </p> + <p> + “No doubt she wants you to plead with me in her favour.” + </p> + <p> + “By no means. She has just been telling me that you are a monster of + ingratitude, for she loved you and gave you several proofs of her + affection, but now she hates you.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank Heaven for that! The wretched woman! It’s curious she should have + selected you as her lover by way of taking vengeance on me, but take care! + she will punish you.” + </p> + <p> + “It may be so, but at all events it’s a pleasant kind of punishment.” + </p> + <p> + “I hope you may be happy, but look to yourself; she is a mistress in all + sorts of deceit.” + </p> + <p> + Edgar counted me out two hundred and fifty guineas, for which I gave him a + receipt and the declaration he required, and with these documents he went + off in high spirits. + </p> + <p> + After this I might surely flatter myself that all was at an end between + us, but I was mistaken. + </p> + <p> + Just about this time the Crown Prince of Brunswick, now the reigning duke, + married the King of England’s sister. The Common Council presented him + with the freedom of the City, and the Goldsmith’s Company admitted him + into their society, and gave him a splendid box containing the documents + which made him a London citizen. The prince was the first gentleman in + Europe, and yet he did not disdain to add this new honour to a family + illustrious for fourteen hundred years. + </p> + <p> + On this occasion Lady Harrington was the means of getting Madame Cornelis + two hundred guineas. She lent her room in Soho Square to a confectioner + who gave a ball and supper to a thousand persons at three guineas each. I + paid my three guineas, and had the honour of standing up all the evening + with six hundred others, for the table only seated four hundred, and there + were several ladies who were unable to procure seats. That evening I saw + Lady Grafton seated beside the Duke of Cumberland. She wore her hair + without any powder, and all the other ladies were exclaiming about it, and + saying how very unbecoming it was. They could not anathematize the + innovator too much, but in less than six months Lady Grafton’s style of + doing the hair became common, crossed the Channel, and spread all over + Europe, though it has been given another name. It is still in fashion, and + is the only method that can boast the age of thirty years, though it was + so unmercifully ridiculed at first. + </p> + <p> + The supper for which the giver of the feast had received three thousand + guineas, or sixty-five thousand francs, contained a most varied assortment + of delicacies, but as I had not been dancing, and did not feel taken with + any of the ladies present, I left at one in the morning. It was Sunday, a + day on which all persons, save criminals, are exempt from arrest; but, + nevertheless, the following adventure befell me: + </p> + <p> + I was dressed magnificently, and was driving home in my carriage, with my + negro and another servant seated behind me; and just as we entered Pall + Mall I heard a voice crying, “Good night, Seingalt.” I put my head out of + the window to reply, and in an instant the carriage was surrounded by men + armed with pistols, and one of them said,— + </p> + <p> + “In the king’s name!” + </p> + <p> + My servant asked what they wanted, and they answered,— + </p> + <p> + “To take him to Newgate, for Sunday makes no difference to criminals.” + </p> + <p> + “And what crime have I committed?” + </p> + <p> + “You will hear that in prison.” + </p> + <p> + “My master has a right to know his crime before he goes to prison,” said + the negro. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but the magistrate’s abed.” + </p> + <p> + The negro stuck to his position, however, and the people who had come up + declared with one consent that he was in the right. + </p> + <p> + The head-constable gave in, and said he would take me to a house in the + city. + </p> + <p> + “Then drive to that city,” said I, “and have done with it.” + </p> + <p> + We stopped before the house, and I was placed in a large room on the + ground floor, furnished solely with benches and long tables. My servant + sent back the carriage, and came to keep me company. The six constables + said they could not leave me, and told me I should send out for some meat + and drink for them. I told my negro to give them what they wanted, and to + be as amicable with them as was possible. + </p> + <p> + As I had not committed any crime, I was quite at ease; I knew that my + arrest must be the effect of a slander, and as I was aware that London + justice was speedy and equitable, I thought I should soon be free. But I + blamed myself for having transgressed the excellent maxim, never to answer + anyone in the night time; for if I had not done so I should have been in + my house, and not in prison. The mistake, however, had been committed, and + there was nothing to be done but to wait patiently. I amused myself by + reflecting on my rapid passage from a numerous and exalted assemblage to + the vile place I now occupied, though I was still dressed like a prince. + </p> + <p> + At last the day dawned, and the keeper of the tavern came to see who the + prisoner was. I could not helping laughing at him when he saw me, for he + immediately began to abuse the constables for not awaking him when I came; + he had lost the guinea I should have paid for a private room. At last news + was brought that the magistrate was sitting, and that I must be brought + up. + </p> + <p> + A coach was summoned, and I got into it, for if I had dared to walk along + the streets in my magnificent attire the mob would have pelted me. + </p> + <p> + I went into the hall of justice, and all eyes were at once attracted + towards me; my silks and satins appeared to them the height of + impertinence. + </p> + <p> + At the end of the room I saw a gentleman sitting in an arm-chair, and + concluded him to be my judge. I was right, and the judge was blind. He + wore a broad band round his head, passing over his eyes. A man beside me, + guessing I was a foreigner, said in French,— + </p> + <p> + “Be of good courage, Mr. Fielding is a just and equitable magistrate.” + </p> + <p> + I thanked the kindly unknown, and was delighted to see before me this + famous and estimable writer, whose works are an honour to the English + nation. + </p> + <p> + When my turn came, the clerk of the court told Mr. Fielding my name, at + least, so I presume. + </p> + <p> + “Signor Casanova,” said he, in excellent Italian, “be kind enough to step + forward. I wish to speak to you.” + </p> + <p> + I was delighted to hear the accents of my native tongue, and making my way + through the press I came up to the bar of the court, and said,— + </p> + <p> + “Eccomi, Signore.” + </p> + <p> + He continued to speak Italian, and said,— + </p> + <p> + “Signor de Casanova, of Venice, you are condemned to perpetual confinement + in the prisons of His Majesty the King of Great Britain.” + </p> + <p> + “I should like to know, sir, for what crime I am condemned. Would you be + kind enough to inform me as to its nature?” + </p> + <p> + “Your demand is a reasonable one, for with us no one is condemned without + knowing the cause of his condemnation. You must know, then, that the + accusation (which is supported by two witnesses) charges you with + intending to do grievous bodily harm to the person of a pretty girl; and + as this pretty girl aforesaid goes in dread of you, the law decrees that + you must be kept in prison for the rest of your days.” + </p> + <p> + “Sir, this accusation is a groundless calumny; to that I will take my + oath! It is very possible indeed that the girl may fear my vengeance when + she comes to consider her own conduct, but I can assure you that I have + had no such designs hitherto, and I don’t think I ever shall.” + </p> + <p> + “She has two witnesses.” + </p> + <p> + “Then they are false ones. But may I ask your worship the name of my + accuser?” + </p> + <p> + “Miss Charpillon.” + </p> + <p> + “I thought as much; but I have never given her aught but proofs of my + affection.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you have no wish to do her any bodily harm?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly not.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I congratulate you. You can dine at home; but you must find two + sureties. I must have an assurance from the mouths of two householders + that you will never commit such a crime.” + </p> + <p> + “Whom shall I find to do so?” + </p> + <p> + “Two well-known Englishmen, whose friendship you have gained, and who know + that you are incapable of such an action. Send for them, and if they + arrive before I go to dinner I will set you at liberty.” + </p> + <p> + The constable took me back to prison, where I had passed the night, and I + gave my servants the addresses of all the householders I recollected, + bidding them explain my situation, and to be as quick as possible. They + ought to have come before noon, but London is such a large place! They did + not arrive, and the magistrate went to dinner. I comforted myself by the + thought that he would sit in the afternoon, but I had to put up with a + disagreeable experience. + </p> + <p> + The chief constable, accompanied by an interpreter, came to say that I + must go to Newgate. This is a prison where the most wretched and abject + criminals are kept. + </p> + <p> + I signified to him that I was awaiting bail, and that he could take me to + Newgate in the evening if it did not come, but he only turned a deaf ear + to my petition. The interpreter told me in a whisper that the fellow was + certainly paid by the other side to put me to trouble, but that if I liked + to bribe him I could stay where I was. + </p> + <p> + “How much will he want?” + </p> + <p> + The interpreter took the constable aside, and then told me that I could + stay where I was for ten guineas. + </p> + <p> + “Then say that I should like to see Newgate.” + </p> + <p> + A coach was summoned, and I was taken away. + </p> + <p> + When I got to this abode of misery and despair, a hell, such as Dante + might have conceived, a crowd of wretches, some of whom were to be hanged + in the course of the week, greeted me by deriding my elegant attire. I did + not answer them, and they began to get angry and to abuse me. The gaoler + quieted them by saying that I was a foreigner and did not understand + English, and then took me to a cell, informing me how much it would cost + me, and of the prison rules, as if he felt certain that I should make a + long stay. But in the course of half an hour, the constable who had tried + to get ten guineas out of me told me that bail had arrived and that my + carriage was at the door. + </p> + <p> + I thanked God from the bottom of my heart, and soon found myself in the + presence of the blind magistrate. My bail consisted of Pegu, my tailor, + and Maisonneuve, my wine merchant, who said they were happy to be able to + render me this slight service. In another part of the court I noticed the + infamous Charpillon, Rostaing, Goudar, and an attorney. They made no + impression on me, and I contented myself with giving them a look of + profound contempt. + </p> + <p> + My two sureties were informed of the amount in which they were to bail me, + and signed with a light heart, and then the magistrate said, politely,— + </p> + <p> + “Signor Casanova, please to sign your name for double the amount, and you + will then be a free man again.” + </p> + <p> + I went towards the clerk’s table, and on asking the sum I was to answer + for was informed that it was forty guineas, each of my sureties signing + for twenty. I signed my name, telling Goudar that if the magistrate could + have seen the Charpillon he would have valued her beauty at ten thousand + guineas. I asked the names of the two witnesses, and was told that they + were Rostaing and Bottarelli. I looked contemptuously at Rostaing, who was + as pale as death, and averting my face from the Charpillon out of pity, I + said,— + </p> + <p> + “The witnesses are worthy of the charge.” + </p> + <p> + I saluted the judge with respect, although he could not see me, and asked + the clerk if I had anything to pay. He replied in the negative, and a + dispute ensued between him and the attorney of my fair enemy, who was + disgusted on hearing that she could not leave the court without paying the + costs of my arrest. + </p> + <p> + Just as I was going, five or six well-known Englishmen appeared to bail me + out, and were mortified to hear that they had come too late. They begged + me to forgive the laws of the land, which are only too often converted + into a means for the annoyance of foreigners. + </p> + <p> + At last, after one of the most tedious days I have ever spent, I returned + home and went to bed, laughing at the experience I had undergone. + </p> + <a name="linkE2H_4_0018" id="linkE2H_4_0018"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> <a name="linkepisode24" id="linkepisode24"></a> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + EPISODE 24 — FLIGHT FROM LONDON TO BERLIN + </h2> + <a name="linkE2HCH0014" id="linkE2HCH0014"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIV + </h2> + <p> + Bottarelli—A Letter from Pauline—The Avenging Parrot—Pocchini—Guerra, + the Venetian—I Meet Sara Again; My Idea of Marrying Her and Settling + in Switzerland—The Hanoverians + </p> + <p> + Thus ended the first act of the comedy; the second began the next morning. + I was just getting up, when I heard a noise at the street door, and on + putting my head out of the window I saw Pocchini, the scoundrel who had + robbed me at Stuttgart trying to get into my house. I cried out wrathfully + that I would have nothing to do with him, and slammed down my window. + </p> + <p> + A little later Goudar put in an appearance. He had got a copy of the St. + James’s Chronicle, containing a brief report of my arrest, and of my being + set a liberty under a bail of eighty guineas. My name and the lady’s were + disguised, but Rostaing and Bottarelli were set down plainly, and the + editor praised their conduct. I felt as if I should like to know + Bottarelli, and begged Goudar to take me to him, and Martinelli, happening + to call just then, said he would come with us. + </p> + <p> + We entered a wretched room on the third floor of a wretched house, and + there we beheld a picture of the greatest misery. A woman and five + children clothed in rags formed the foreground, and in the background was + Bottarelli, in an old dressing-gown, writing at a table worthy of Philemon + and Baucis. He rose as we came in, and the sight of him moved me to + compassion. I said,— + </p> + <p> + “Do you know me, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir, I do not.” + </p> + <p> + “I am Casanova, against whom you bore false witness; whom you tried to + cast into Newgate.” + </p> + <p> + “I am very sorry, but look around you and say what choice have I? I have + no bread to give my children. I will do as much in your favour another + time for nothing.” + </p> + <p> + “Are you not afraid of the gallows?” + </p> + <p> + “No, for perjury is not punished with death; besides it is very difficult + to prove.” + </p> + <p> + “I have heard you are a poet.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes. I have lengthened the Didone and abridged the Demetrio.” + </p> + <p> + “You are a great poet, indeed!” + </p> + <p> + I felt more contempt than hatred for the rascal, and gave his wife a + guinea, for which she presented me with a wretched pamphlet by her + husband: “The Secrets of the Freemasons Displayed.” Bottarelli had been a + monk in his native city, Pisa, and had fled to England with his wife, who + had been a nun. + </p> + <p> + About this time M. de Saa surprised me by giving me a letter from my fair + Portuguese, which confirmed the sad fate of poor Clairmont. Pauline said + she was married to Count Al——. I was astonished to hear M. de + Saa observe that he had known all about Pauline from the moment she + arrived in London. That is the hobby of all diplomatists; they like people + to believe that they are omniscient. However, M. de Saa was a man of worth + and talent, and one could excuse this weakness as an incident inseparable + from his profession; while most diplomatists only make themselves + ridiculous by their assumption of universal knowledge. + </p> + <p> + M. de Saa had been almost as badly treated by the Charpillon as myself, + and we might have condoled with one another, but the subject was not + mentioned. + </p> + <p> + A few days afterwards, as I was walking idly about, I passed a place + called the Parrot Market. As I was amusing myself by looking at these + curious birds, I saw a fine young one in a cage, and asked what language + it spoke. They told me that it was quite young and did not speak at all + yet, so I bought it for ten guineas. I thought I would teach the bird a + pretty speech, so I had the cage hung by my bed, and repeated dozens of + times every day the following sentence: “The Charpillon is a bigger wh—e + than her mother.” + </p> + <p> + The only end I had in view was my private amusement, and in a fortnight + the bird had learnt the phrase with the utmost exactness; and every time + it uttered the words it accompanied them with a shriek of laughter which I + had not taught it, but which made me laugh myself. + </p> + <p> + One day Goudar heard the bird, and told me that if I sent it to the + Exchange I should certainly get fifty guineas for it. I welcomed the idea, + and resolved to make the parrot the instrument of my vengeance against the + woman who had treated me so badly. I secured myself from fear of the law, + which is severe in such cases, by entrusting the bird to my negro, to whom + such merchandise was very suitable. + </p> + <p> + For the first two or three days my parrot did not attract much attention, + its observations being in French; but as soon as those who knew the + subject of them had heard it, its audience increased and bids were made. + Fifty guineas seemed rather too much, and my negro wanted me to lower the + price, but I would not agree, having fallen in love with this odd revenge. + </p> + <p> + In the course of a week Goudar came to inform me of the effect the + parrot’s criticism had produced in the Charpillon family. As the vendor + was my negro, there could be no doubt as to whom it belonged, and who had + been its master of languages. Goudar said that the Charpillon thought my + vengeance very ingenious, but that the mother and aunts were furious. They + had consulted several counsel, who agreed in saying that a parrot could + not be indicted for libel, but that they could make me pay dearly for my + jest if they could prove that I had been the bird’s instructor. Goudar + warned me to be careful of owning to the fact, as two witnesses would + suffice to undo me. + </p> + <p> + The facility with which false witnesses may be produced in London is + something dreadful. I have myself seen the word evidence written in large + characters in a window; this is as much as to say that false witnesses may + be procured within. + </p> + <p> + The St. James’s Chronicle contained an article on my parrot, in which the + writer remarked that the ladies whom the bird insulted must be very poor + and friendless, or they would have bought it at once, and have thus + prevented the thing from becoming the talk of the town. He added,— + </p> + <p> + “The teacher of the parrot has no doubt made the bird an instrument of his + vengeance, and has displayed his wit in doing so; he ought to be an + Englishman.” + </p> + <p> + I met my good friend Edgar, and asked him why he had not bought the little + slanderer. + </p> + <p> + “Because it delights all who know anything about the object of the + slander,” said he. + </p> + <p> + At last Jarbe found a purchaser for fifty guineas, and I heard afterwards + that Lord Grosvenor had bought it to please the Charpillon, with whom he + occasionally diverted himself. + </p> + <p> + Thus my relations with that girl came to an end. I have seen her since + with the greatest indifference, and without any renewal of the old pain. + </p> + <p> + One day, as I was going into St. James’s Park, I saw two girls drinking + milk in a room on the ground floor of a house. They called out to me, but + not knowing them I passed on my way. However, a young officer of my + acquaintance came after me and said they were Italians, and being curious + to see them I retracted my steps. + </p> + <p> + When I entered the room I was accosted by the scoundrelly Pocchini, + dressed in a military uniform, who said he had the honour of introducing + me to his daughters. + </p> + <p> + “Indeed,” said I, “I remember two other daughters of yours robbing me of a + snuff-box and two watches at Stuttgart.” + </p> + <p> + “You lie!” said the impudent rascal. + </p> + <p> + I gave him no verbal answer, but took up a glass of milk and flung it in + his face, and then left the room without more ado. + </p> + <p> + I was without my sword. The young officer who had brought me into the + place followed me and told me I must not go without giving his friend some + satisfaction. + </p> + <p> + “Tell him to come out, and do you escort him to the Green Park, and I + shall have the pleasure of giving him a caning in your presence, unless + you would like to fight for him; if so, you must let me go home and get my + sword. But do you know this man whom you call your friend?” + </p> + <p> + “No, but he is an officer, and it is I that brought him here.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good, I will fight to the last drop of my blood; but I warn you your + friend is a thief. But go; I will await you.” + </p> + <p> + In the course of a quarter of an hour they all came out, but the + Englishman and Pocchini followed me alone. There were a good many people + about, and I went before them till we reached Hyde Park. Pocchini + attempted to speak to me, but I replied, lifting my cane,— + </p> + <p> + “Scoundrel, draw your sword, unless you want me to give you a thrashing!” + </p> + <p> + “I will never draw upon a defenceless man.” + </p> + <p> + I gave him a blow with my cane by way of answer, and the coward, instead + of drawing his sword, began to cry out that I wished to draw him into a + fight. The Englishman burst out laughing and begged me to pardon his + interference, and then, taking me by the arm, said,— + </p> + <p> + “Come along, sir, I see you know the gentleman.” + </p> + <p> + The coward went off in another direction, grumbling as he went. + </p> + <p> + On the way I informed the officer of the very good reasons I had for + treating Pocchini as a rogue, and he agreed that I had been perfectly + right. “Unfortunately,” he added, “I am in love with one of his + daughters.” + </p> + <p> + When we were in the midst of St. James’s Park we saw them, and I could not + help laughing when I noticed Goudar with one of them on each side. + </p> + <p> + “How did you come to know these ladies?” said I. + </p> + <p> + “Their father the captain,” he answered, “has sold me jewels; he + introduced me to them.” + </p> + <p> + “Where did you leave our father?” asked one. + </p> + <p> + “In Hyde Park, after giving him a caning.” + </p> + <p> + “You served him quite right.” + </p> + <p> + The young Englishman was indignant to hear them approving my ill-treatment + of their father, and shook my hand and went away, swearing to me that he + would never be seen in their company again. + </p> + <p> + A whim of Goudar’s, to which I was weak enough to consent, made me dine + with these miserable women in a tavern on the borders of London. The + rascally Goudar made them drunk, and in this state they told some terrible + truths about their pretended father. He did not live with them, but paid + them nocturnal visits in which he robbed them of all the money they had + earned. He was their pander, and made them rob their visitors instructing + them to pass it off as a joke if the theft was discovered. They gave him + the stolen articles, but he never said what he did with them. I could not + help laughing at this involuntary confession, remembering what Goudar had + said about Pocchini selling him jewels. + </p> + <p> + After this wretched meal I went away leaving the duty of escorting them + back to Goudar. He came and saw me the next day, and informed me that the + girls had been arrested and taken to prison just as they were entering + their house. + </p> + <p> + “I have just been to Pocchini’s,” said he, “but the landlord tells me he + has not been in since yesterday.” + </p> + <p> + The worthy and conscientious Goudar added that he did not care if he never + saw him again, as he owed the fellow ten guineas for a watch, which his + daughters had probably stolen, and which was well worth double. + </p> + <p> + Four days later I saw him again, and he informed me that the rascal had + left London with a servant-maid, whom he had engaged at a registry office + where any number of servants are always ready to take service with the + first comer. The keeper of the office answers for their fidelity. + </p> + <p> + “The girl he has gone with is a pretty one, from what the man tells me, + and they have taken ship from London. I am sorry he went away before I + could pay him for the watch; I am dreading every moment to meet the + individual from whom it was stolen.” + </p> + <p> + I never heard what became of the girls, but Pocchini will re-appear on the + scene in due course. + </p> + <p> + I led a tranquil and orderly life, which I should have been pleased to + continue for the remainder of my days; but circumstances and my destiny + ordered it otherwise, and against these it is not becoming in a Christian + philosopher to complain. I went several times to see my daughter at her + school, and I also frequented the British Museum, where I met Dr. Mati. + One day I found an Anglican minister with him, and I asked the clergyman + how many different sects there were in England. + </p> + <p> + “Sir,” he replied in very tolerable Italian, “no one can give a positive + answer to that question, for every week some sect dies and some new one is + brought into being. All that is necessary is for a man of good faith, or + some rogue desirous of money or notoriety, to stand in some frequented + place and begin preaching. He explains some texts of the Bible in his own + fashion, and if he pleases the gapers around him they invite him to + expound next Sunday, often in a tavern. He keeps the appointment and + explains his new doctrines in a spirited manner. Then people begin to talk + of him; he disputes with ministers of other sects; he and his followers + give themselves a name, and the thing is done. Thus, or almost thus, are + all the numerous English sects produced.” + </p> + <p> + About this time M. Steffano Guerra, a noble Venetian who was travelling + with the leave of his Government, lost a case against an English painter + who had executed a miniature painting of one of the prettiest ladies in + London, Guerra having given a written promise to pay twenty-five guineas. + When it was finished Guerra did not like it, and would not take it or pay + the price. The Englishman, in accordance with the English custom, began by + arresting his debtor; but Guerra was released on bail, and brought the + matter before the courts, which condemned him to pay the twenty-five + guineas. He appealed, lost again, and was in the end obliged to pay. + Guerra contented that he had ordered a portrait, that a picture bearing no + likeness to the lady in question was not a portrait, and that he had + therefore a right to refuse payment. The painter replied that it was a + portrait as it had been painted from life. The judgment was that the + painter must live by his trade, and that as Guerra had given him painting + to do he must therefore provide him with the wherewithal to live, seeing + that the artist swore he had done his best to catch the likeness. + Everybody thought this sentence just, and so did I; but I confess it also + seemed rather hard, especially to Guerra, who with costs had to pay a + hundred guineas for the miniature. + </p> + <p> + Malingan’s daughter died just as her father received a public box on the + ear from a nobleman who liked piquet, but did not like players who + corrected the caprices of fortune. I gave the poor wretch the wherewithal + to bury his daughter and to leave England. He died soon after at Liege, + and his wife told me of the circumstance, saying that he had expired + regretting his inability to pay his debts. + </p> + <p> + M. M—— F—— came to London as the representative of + the canton of Berne, and I called, but was not received. I suspected that + he had got wind of the liberties I had taken with pretty Sara, and did not + want me to have an opportunity for renewing them. He was a somewhat + eccentric man, so I did not take offence, and had almost forgotten all + about it when chance led me to the Marylebone Theatre one evening. The + spectators sat at little tables, and the charge for admittance was only a + shilling, but everyone was expected to order something, were it only a pot + of ale. + </p> + <p> + On going into the theatre I chanced to sit down beside a girl whom I did + not notice at first, but soon after I came in she turned towards me, and I + beheld a ravishing profile which somehow seemed familiar; but I attributed + that to the idea of perfect beauty that was graven on my soul. The more I + looked at her the surer I felt that I had never seen her before, though a + smile of inexpressible slyness had begun to play about her lips. One of + her gloves fell, and I hastened to restore it to her, whereupon she + thanked me in a few well-chosen French sentences. + </p> + <p> + “Madam is not English, then?” said I, respectfully. + </p> + <p> + “No, sir, I am a Swiss, and a friend of yours.” + </p> + <p> + At this I looked round, and on my right hand sat Madame M—— F——, + then her eldest daughter, then her husband. I got up, and after bowing to + the lady, for whom I had a great esteem, I saluted her husband, who only + replied by a slight movement of the head. I asked Madame M—— F—— + what her husband had against me, and she said that Possano had written to + him telling some dreadful stories about me. + </p> + <p> + There was not time for me to explain and justify myself, so I devoted all + my energies to the task of winning the daughter’s good graces. In three + years she had grown into a perfect beauty: she knew it, and by her blushes + as she spoke to me I knew she was thinking of what had passed between us + in the presence of my housekeeper. I was anxious to find out whether she + would acknowledge the fact, or deny it altogether. If she had done so I + should have despised her. When I had seen her before, the blossom of her + beauty was still in the bud, now it had opened out in all its splendour. + </p> + <p> + “Charming Sara,” I said, “you have so enchanted me that I cannot help + asking you a couple of questions, which if you value my peace of mind you + will answer. Do you remember what happened at Berne?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “And do you repent of what you did?” + </p> + <p> + “No.” + </p> + <p> + No man of any delicacy could ask the third question, which may be + understood. I felt sure that Sara would make me happy—nay, that she was + even longing for the moment, and gave reins to my passions, determined to + convince her that I was deserving of her love. The waiter came to enquire + if we had any orders, and I begged Madame M—— F—— + to allow me to offer her some oysters. After the usual polite refusals she + gave in, and I profited by her acceptance to order all the delicacies of + the season, including a hare (a great delicacy in London), champagne, + choice liqueurs, larks, ortolans, truffles, sweetmeats—everything, + in fact, that money could buy, and I was not at all surprised when the + bill proved to amount to ten guineas. But I was very much surprised when + M. M—— F——, who had eaten like a Turk and drunk + like a Swiss, said calmly that it was too dear. + </p> + <p> + I begged him politely not to trouble himself about the cost; and by way of + proving that I did not share his opinion, I gave the waiter half-a-guinea; + the worthy man looked as if he wished that such customers came more often. + The Swiss, who had been pale and gloomy enough a short while before, was + rubicund and affable. Sara glanced at me and squeezed my hand; I had + conquered. + </p> + <p> + When the play was over, M—— F—— asked me if I + would allow him to call on me. I embraced him in reply. His servant came + in, and said that he could not find a coach; and I, feeling rather + surprised that he had not brought his carriage, offered him the use of + mine, telling my man to get me a sedan-chair. + </p> + <p> + “I accept your kind offer,” said he, “on the condition that you allow me + to occupy the chair.” + </p> + <p> + I consented to this arrangement, and took the mother and the two daughters + with me in the carriage. + </p> + <p> + On the way, Madame M—— F—— was very polite, gently + blaming her husband for the rudeness of which I had to complain. I said + that I would avenge myself by paying an assiduous court to him in the + future; but she pierced me to the heart by saying that they were on the + point of departing. “We wanted to go on the day after next,” she said, + “and to-morrow we shall have to leave our present rooms to their new + occupants. A matter of business which my husband was not able to conclude + will oblige us to stay for another week, and to-morrow we shall have the + double task of moving and finding new apartments.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you have not yet got new rooms?” + </p> + <p> + “No, but my husband says he is certain to find some to-morrow morning.” + </p> + <p> + “Furnished, I suppose, for as you intend to leave you will be selling + your furniture.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, and we shall have to pay the expenses of carriage to the buyer.” + </p> + <p> + On hearing that M. M—— F—— was sure of finding + lodgings, I was precluded from offering to accommodate them in my own + house, as the lady might think that I only made the offer because I was + sure it would not be accepted. + </p> + <p> + When we got to the door of their house we alighted, and the mother begged + me to come in. She and her husband slept on the second floor, and the two + girls on the third. Everything was upside down, and as Madame M—— + F—— had something to say to the landlady she asked me to go up + with her daughters. It was cold, and the room we entered had no fire in + it. The sister went into the room adjoining and I stayed with Sara, and + all of a sudden I clasped her to my breast, and feeling that her desires + were as ardent as mine I fell with her on to a sofa where we mingled our + beings in all the delights of voluptuous ardours. But this happiness was + short lived; scarcely was the work achieved when we heard a footstep on + the stair. It was the father. + </p> + <p> + If M—— F—— had had any eyes he must have found us + out, for my face bore the marks of agitation, the nature of which it was + easy to divine. We exchanged a few brief compliments; I shook his hand and + disappeared. I was in such a state of excitement when I got home that I + made up my mind to leave England and to follow Sara to Switzerland. In the + night I formed my plans, and resolved to offer the family my house during + the time they stayed in England, and if necessary to force them to accept + my offer. + </p> + <p> + In the morning I hastened to call on M—— F——, and + found him on his doorstep. + </p> + <p> + “I am going to try and get a couple of rooms,” said he. + </p> + <p> + “They are already found,” I replied. “My house is at your service, and you + must give me the preference. Let us come upstairs.” + </p> + <p> + “Everybody is in bed.” + </p> + <p> + “Never mind,” said I, and we proceeded to go upstairs. + </p> + <p> + Madame M—— F—— apologized for being in bed. Her + husband told her that I wanted to let them some rooms, but I laughed and + said I desired they would accept my hospitality as that of a friend. After + some polite denials my offer was accepted, and it was agreed that the + whole family should take up their quarters with me in the evening. + </p> + <p> + I went home, and was giving the necessary orders when I was told that two + young ladies wished to see me. I went down in person, and I was agreeably + surprised to see Sara and her sister. I asked them to come in, and Sara + told me that the landlady would not let their belongings out of the house + before her father paid a debt of forty guineas, although a city merchant + had assured her it should be settled in a week. The long and short of it + was that Sara’s father had sent me a bill and begged me to discount it. + </p> + <p> + I took the bill and gave her a bank note for fifty pounds in exchange, + telling her that she could give me the change another time. She thanked me + with great simplicity and went her way, leaving me delighted with the + confidence she had placed in me. + </p> + <p> + The fact of M. M—— F——‘s wanting forty guineas did + not make me divine that he was in some straits, for I looked at everything + through rose-coloured glasses, and was only too happy to be of service to + him. + </p> + <p> + I made a slight dinner in order to have a better appetite for supper, and + spent the afternoon in writing letters. In the evening M. M—— + F——‘s man came with three great trunks and innumerable + card-board boxes, telling me that the family would soon follow; but I + awaited them in vain till nine o’clock. I began to get alarmed and went to + the house, where I found them all in a state of consternation. Two + ill-looking fellows who were in the room enlightened me; and assuming a + jovial and unconcerned air, I said,— + </p> + <p> + “I’ll wager, now, that this is the work of some fierce creditor.” + </p> + <p> + “You are right,” answered the father, “but I am sure of discharging the + debt in five or six days, and that’s why I put off my departure.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you were arrested after you had sent on your trunks.” + </p> + <p> + “Just after.” + </p> + <p> + “And what have you done?” + </p> + <p> + “I have sent for bail.” + </p> + <p> + “Why did you not send to me?” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you, I am grateful for your kindness, but you are a foreigner, and + sureties have to be householders.” + </p> + <p> + “But you ought to have told me what had happened, for I have got you an + excellent supper, and I am dying of hunger.” + </p> + <p> + It was possible that this debt might exceed my means, so I did not dare to + offer to pay it. I took Sara aside, and on hearing that all his trouble + was on account of a debt of a hundred and fifty pounds, I asked the + bailiff whether we could go away if the debt was paid. + </p> + <p> + “Certainly,” said he, shewing me the bill of exchange. + </p> + <p> + I took out three bank notes of fifty pounds each, and gave them to the + man, and taking the bill I said to the poor Swiss,— + </p> + <p> + “You shall pay me the money before you leave England.” + </p> + <p> + The whole family wept with joy, and after embracing them all I summoned + them to come and sup with me and forget the troubles of life. + </p> + <p> + We drove off to my house and had a merry supper, though the worthy mother + could not quite forget her sadness. After supper I took them to the rooms + which had been prepared for them, and with which they were delighted, and + so I wished them good night, telling them that they should be well + entertained till their departure, and that I hoped to follow them into + Switzerland. + </p> + <p> + When I awoke the next day I was in a happy frame of mind. On examining my + desires I found that they had grown too strong to be overcome, but I did + not wish to overcome them. I loved Sara, and I felt so certain of + possessing her that I put all desires out of my mind; desires are born + only of doubt, and doubt torments the soul. Sara was mine; she had given + herself to me out of pure passion, without any shadow of self-interest. + </p> + <p> + I went to the father’s room, and found him engaged in opening his trunks. + His wife looked sad, so I asked her if she were not well. She replied that + her health was perfect, but that the thought of the sea voyage troubled + her sorely. The father begged me to excuse him at breakfast as he had + business to attend to. The two young ladies came down, and after we had + breakfast I asked the mother why they were unpacking their trunks so short + a time before starting. She smiled and said that one trunk would be ample + for all their possessions, as they had resolved to sell all superfluities. + As I had seen some beautiful dresses, fine linen, and exquisite lace, I + could not refrain from saying that it would be a great pity to sell + cheaply what would have to be replaced dearly. + </p> + <p> + “You are right,” she said, “but, nevertheless, there is no pleasure so + great as the consciousness of having paid one’s debts.” + </p> + <p> + “You must not sell anything,” I replied, in a lively manner, “for as I am + going to Switzerland with you I can pay your debts, and you shall repay me + when you can.” + </p> + <p> + At these words astonishment was depicted on her face. + </p> + <p> + “I did not think you were speaking seriously,” said she. + </p> + <p> + “Perfectly seriously, and here is the object of my vows.” + </p> + <p> + With these words I seized Sara’s hand and covered it with kisses. + </p> + <p> + Sara blushed, said nothing, and the mother looked kindly at us; but after + a moment’s silence she spoke at some length, and with the utmost candour + and wisdom. She gave me circumstantial information as to the position of + the family and her husband’s restricted means, saying that under the + circumstances he could not have avoided running into debt, but that he had + done wrong to bring them all with him to London. + </p> + <p> + “If he had been by himself,” she said, “he could have lived here + comfortably enough with only one servant, but with a family to provide for + the two thousand crowns per annum provided by the Government are quite + insufficient. My old father has succeeded in persuading the State to + discharge my husband’s debts, but to make up the extra expense they will + not employ a Charge d’affaires; a banker with the title of agent will + collect the interest on their English securities.” + </p> + <p> + She ended by saying that she thought Sara was fortunate to have pleased + me, but that she was not sure whether her husband would consent to the + marriage. + </p> + <p> + The word “marriage” made Sara blush, and I was pleased, though it was + evident there would be difficulties in the way. + </p> + <p> + M—— F—— came back and told his wife that two + clothes dealers would come to purchase their superfluous clothes in the + afternoon; but after explaining my ideas I had not much trouble in + convincing him that it would be better not to sell them, and that he could + become my debtor to the amount of two hundred pounds, on which he could + pay interest till he was able to return me my capital. The agreement was + written out the same day, but I did not mention the marriage question, as + his wife had told me she would discuss it with him in private. + </p> + <p> + On the third day he came down by himself to talk with me. + </p> + <p> + “My wife,” he began, “has told me of your intentions, and I take it as a + great honour, I assure you; but I cannot give you my Sara, as she is + promised to M. de W——, and family reasons prevent me from + going back from my word. Besides my old father, a strict Calvinist, would + object to the difference in religion. He would never believe that his dear + little grandchild would be happy with a Roman Catholic.” + </p> + <p> + As a matter of fact I was not at all displeased at what he said. I was + certainly very fond of Sara, but the word “marriage” had a disagreeable + sound to me. I answered that circumstances might change in time, and that + in the meanwhile I should be quite content if he would allow me to be the + friend of the family and to take upon myself all the responsibility of the + journey. He promised everything, and assured me that he was delighted at + his daughter having won my affection. + </p> + <p> + After this explanation I gave Sara as warm marks of my love as decency + would allow in the presence of her father and mother, and I could see that + all the girl thought of was love. + </p> + <p> + The fifth day I went up to her room, and finding her in bed all the fires + of passion flamed up in my breast, for since my first visit to their house + I had not been alone with her. I threw myself upon her, covering her with + kisses, and she shewed herself affectionate but reserved. In vain I + endeavoured to succeed; she opposed a gentle resistance to my efforts, and + though she caressed me, she would not let me attain my end. + </p> + <p> + “Why, divine Sara,” said I, “do you oppose my loving ecstasy?” + </p> + <p> + “Dearest, I entreat of you not to ask for any more than I am willing to + give.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you no longer love me?” + </p> + <p> + “Cruel man, I adore you!” + </p> + <p> + “Then why do you treat me to a refusal, after having once surrendered + unreservedly?” + </p> + <p> + “I have given myself to you, and we have both been happy, and I think that + should be enough for us.” + </p> + <p> + “There must be some reason for this change. If you love me, dearest Sara, + this renunciation must be hard for you to bear.” + </p> + <p> + “I confess it, but nevertheless I feel it is my duty. I have made up my + mind to subdue my passion from no weak motive, but from a sense of what I + owe to myself. I am under obligations to you, and if I were to repay the + debt I have contracted with my body I should be degraded in my own eyes. + When we enjoyed each other before only love was between us—there was + no question of debit and credit. My heart is now the thrall of what I owe + you, and to these debts it will not give what it gave so readily to love.” + </p> + <p> + “This is a strange philosophy, Sara; believe me it is fallacious, and the + enemy of your happiness as well as mine. These sophisms lead you astray + and wound me to the heart. Give me some credit for delicacy of feeling, + and believe me you owe me nothing.” + </p> + <p> + “You must confess that if you had not loved me you would have done nothing + for my father.” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly I will confess nothing of the kind; I would readily do as much, + and maybe more, out of regard for your worthy mother. It is quite + possible, indeed, that in doing this small service for your father I had + no thoughts of you at all.” + </p> + <p> + “It might be so; but I do not believe it was so. Forgive me, dearest, but + I cannot make up my mind to pay my debts in the way you wish.” + </p> + <p> + “It seems to me that if you are grateful to me your love ought to be still + more ardent.” + </p> + <p> + “It cannot be more ardent than it is already.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you know how grievously you make me suffer?” + </p> + <p> + “Alas! I suffer too; but do not reproach me; let us love each other + still.” + </p> + <p> + This dialogue is not the hundredth part of what actually passed between us + till dinner-time. The mother came in, and finding me seated at the foot of + the daughter’s bed, laughed, and asked me why I kept her in bed. I + answered with perfect coolness that we had been so interested in our + conversation that we had not noticed the flight of time. + </p> + <p> + I went to dress, and as I thought over the extraordinary change which had + taken place in Sara I resolved that it should not last for long. We dined + together gaily, and Sara and I behaved in all respects like two lovers. In + the evening I took them to the Italian Opera, coming home to an excellent + supper. + </p> + <p> + The next morning I passed in the city, having accounts to settle with my + bankers. I got some letters of exchange on Geneva, and said farewell to + the worthy Mr. Bosanquet. In the afternoon I got a coach for Madame M—— + F—— to pay some farewells calls, and I went to say good-bye to + my daughter at school. The dear little girl burst into tears, saying that + she would be lost without me, and begging me not to forget her. I was + deeply moved. Sophie begged me to go and see her mother before I left + England, and I decided on doing so. + </p> + <p> + At supper we talked over our journey, and M. M—— F—— + agreed with me that it would be better to go by Dunkirk than Ostend. He + had very little more business to attend to. His debts were paid, and he + said he thought he would have a matter of fifty guineas in his pocket at + the journey’s end, after paying a third share of all the travelling + expenses. I had to agree to this, though I made up my mind at the same + time not to let him see any of the accounts. I hoped to win Sara, in one + way or another, when we got to Berne. + </p> + <p> + The next day, after breakfast, I took her hand in presence of her mother, + and asked her if she would give me her heart if I could obtain her + father’s consent at Berne. + </p> + <p> + “Your mother,” I added, “has promised me that hers shall not be wanting.” + </p> + <p> + At this the mother got up, and saying that we had no doubt a good deal to + talk over, she and her eldest daughter went out to pay some calls. + </p> + <p> + As soon as we were alone Sara said that she could not understand how I + could have the smallest doubt as to whether her consent would be given. + </p> + <p> + “I have shewn you how well I love you,” said she, tenderly; “and I am sure + I should be very happy as your wife. You may be sure that your wishes will + be mine, and that, however far you lead me, Switzerland shall claim no + thought of mine.” + </p> + <p> + I pressed the amorous Sara to my bosom in a transport of delight, which + was shared by her; but as she saw me grow more ardent she begged me to be + moderate. Clasping me in her arms she adjured me not to ask her for that + which she was determined not to grant till she was mine by lawful wedlock. + </p> + <p> + “You will drive me to despair! Have you reflected that this resistance may + cost me my life? Can you love, and yet entertain this fatal prejudice? And + yet I am sure you love me, and pleasure too.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, dearest one, I do love you, and amorous pleasure with you; but you + must respect my delicacy.” + </p> + <p> + My eyes were wet with tears, and she was so affected that she fell + fainting to the ground. I lifted her up and gently laid her on the bed. + Her pallor alarmed me. I brought smelling-salts, I rubbed her forehead + with Savoy-water, and she soon opened her eyes, and seemed delighted to + find me calm again. + </p> + <p> + The thought of taking advantage of her helplessness would have horrified + me. She sat up on the bed, and said,— + </p> + <p> + “You have just given a true proof of the sincerity of your affection.” + </p> + <p> + “Did you think, sweetheart, that I was vile enough to abuse your weakness? + Could I enjoy a pleasure in which you had no share?” + </p> + <p> + “I did not think you would do such a thing, but I should not have + resisted, though it is possible that I should not have loved you + afterwards.” + </p> + <p> + “Sara, though you do not know, you charm my soul out of my body.” + </p> + <p> + After this I sat down sadly on the bed, and abandoned myself to the most + melancholy reflections, from which Sara did not endeavour to rouse me. + </p> + <p> + Her mother came in and asked why she was on the bed, but not at all + suspiciously. Sara told her the truth. + </p> + <p> + M. M—— F—— came in soon after, and we dined + together, but silently. What I had heard from the girl’s lips had + completely overwhelmed me. I saw I had nothing to hope for, and that it + was time for me to look to myself. Six weeks before, God had delivered me + from my bondage to an infamous woman, and now I was in danger of becoming + the slave of an angel. Such were my reflections whilst Sara was fainting, + but it was necessary for me to consider the matter at my leisure. + </p> + <p> + There was a sale of valuable articles in the city, the means taken for + disposing of them being a lottery. Sara had read the announcement, and I + asked her with her mother and sister to come with me and take part in it. + I had not much trouble in obtaining their consent, and we found ourselves + in distinguished company, among the persons present being the Countess of + Harrington, Lady Stanhope, and Emilie and her daughters. Emilie had a + strange case before the courts. She had given information to the police + that her husband had been robbed of six thousand pounds, though everyone + said that she herself was the thief. + </p> + <p> + Madame M—— F—— did not take a ticket, but she + allowed me to take tickets for her daughters, who were in high glee, since + for ten or twelve guineas they got articles worth sixty. + </p> + <p> + Every day I was more taken with Sara; but feeling sure that I should only + obtain slight favours from her, I thought it was time to come to an + explanation. So after supper I said that as it was not certain that Sara + could become my wife I had determined not to accompany them to Berne. The + father told me I was very wise, and that I could still correspond with his + daughter, Sara said nothing, but I could see she was much grieved. + </p> + <p> + I passed a dreadful night; such an experience was altogether new to me. I + weighed Sara’s reasons, and they seemed to me to be merely frivolous, + which drove me to conclude that my caresses had displeased her. + </p> + <p> + For the last three days I found myself more than once alone with her; but + I was studiously moderate, and she caressed me in a manner that would have + made my bliss if I had not already obtained the one great favour. It was + at this time I learnt the truth of the maxim that if abstinence is + sometimes the spur of love, it has also the contrary effect. Sara had + brought my feeling to a pitch of gentle friendship, while an infamous + prostitute like the Charpillon, who knew how to renew hope and yet grant + nothing, ended by inspiring me with contempt, and finally with hatred. + </p> + <p> + The family sailed for Ostend, and I accompanied them to the mouth of the + Thames. I gave Sara a letter for Madame de W——. This was the + name of the learned Hedvig whom she did not know. They afterwards became + sisters-in-law, as Sara married a brother of M. de W——, and + was happy with him. + </p> + <p> + Even now I am glad to hear tidings of my old friends and their doings, but + the interest I take in such matters is not to be compared to my interest + in some obscure story of ancient history. For our contemporaries, the + companions, of our youthful follies, we have a kind of contempt, somewhat + similar to that which we entertain for ourselves. Four years ago I wrote + to Madame G—— at Hamburg, and my letter began: + </p> + <p> + “After a silence of twenty-one years . . .” + </p> + <p> + She did not deign to reply, and I was by no means displeased. We cared no + longer for one another, and it is quite natural that it should be so. + </p> + <p> + When I tell my reader who Madame G—— is, he will be amused. + Two years ago I set out for Hamburg, but my good genius made me turn back + to Dux; what had I to do at Hamburg? + </p> + <p> + After my guests were gone I went to the Italian Opera at Covent Garden, + and met Goudar, who asked me if I would come to the Sartori’s concert. He + told me I should see a beautiful young English woman there who spoke + Italian. As I had just lost Sara I did not much care about making new + acquaintances, but still I was curious to see the young marvel. I indulged + my curiosity, and I am glad to say that instead of being amused I was + wearied, though the young English woman was pretty enough. A young + Livonian, who called himself Baron of Stenau, seemed extremely interested + in her. After supper she offered us tickets for the next concert, and I + took one for myself and one for Goudar, giving her two guineas, but the + Livonian baron took fifty tickets, and gave her a bank note for fifty + guineas. I saw by this that he wanted to take the place by storm, and I + liked his way of doing it. I supposed him to be rich, without caring to + enquire into his means. He made advances to me and we became friends, and + the reader will see in due time what a fatal acquaintance he was. + </p> + <p> + One day as I was walking with Goudar in Hyde Park he left me to speak to + two ladies who seemed pretty. + </p> + <p> + He was not long absent, and said, when he rejoined me,— + </p> + <p> + “A Hanoverian lady, a widow and the mother of five daughters, came to + England two months ago with her whole family. She lives close by, and is + occupied in soliciting compensation from the Government for any injury + that was done her by the passage of the Duke of Cumberland’s army. The + mother herself is sick and and never leaves her bed; she sends her two + eldest daughters to petition the Government, and they are the two young + ladies you have just seen. They have not met with any success. The eldest + daughter is twenty-two, and the youngest fourteen; they are all pretty and + can speak English, French, and German equally well, and are always glad to + see visitors. I had been to visit them myself, but as I gave them nothing + I do not care to go there alone a second time. If you like, however, I can + introduce you.” + </p> + <p> + “You irritate my curiosity. Come along, but if the one that pleases me is + not complaisant she shall have nothing.” + </p> + <p> + “They will not even allow one to take them by the hand.” + </p> + <p> + “They are Charpillons, I suppose.” + </p> + <p> + “It looks like it. But you won’t see any men there.” + </p> + <p> + We were shewn into a large room where I noticed three pretty girls and an + evil-looking man. I began with the usual compliments, to which the girls + replied politely, but with an air of great sadness. + </p> + <p> + Goudar spoke to the man, and then came to me shrugging his shoulders, and + saying,— + </p> + <p> + “We have come at a sad time. That man is a bailiff who has come to take + the mother to prison if she can’t pay her landlord the twenty guineas’ + rent she owes him, and they haven’t got a farthing. When the mother has + been sent to prison the landlord will no doubt turn the girls out of + doors.” + </p> + <p> + “They can live with their mother for nothing.” + </p> + <p> + “Not at all. If they have got the money they can have their meals in + prison, but no one is allowed to live in a prison except the prisoners.” + </p> + <p> + I asked one of them where her sisters were. + </p> + <p> + “They have gone out, to look for money, for the landlord won’t accept any + surety, and we have nothing to sell.” + </p> + <p> + “All this is very sad; what does your mother say?” + </p> + <p> + “She only weeps, and yet, though she is ill and cannot leave her bed, they + are going to take her to prison. By way of consolation the landlord says + he will have her carried.” + </p> + <p> + “It is very hard. But your looks please me, mademoiselle, and if you will + be kind I may be able to extricate you from the difficulty.” + </p> + <p> + “I do not know what you mean by ‘kind.’” + </p> + <p> + “Your mother will understand; go and ask her.” + </p> + <p> + “Sir, you do not know us; we are honest girls, and ladies of position + besides.” + </p> + <p> + With these words the young woman turned her back on me, and began to weep + again. The two others, who were quite as pretty, stood straight up and + said not a word. Goudar whispered to me in Italian that unless we did + something for them we should cut but a sorry figure there; and I was cruel + enough to go away without saying a word. + </p> + <a name="linkE2HCH0015" id="linkE2HCH0015"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XV + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + The Hanoverians +</pre> + <a name="linkEimage-0005" id="linkEimage-0005"> + <!-- IMG --></a> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img src="images/5c15.jpg" width="100%" alt="Chapter 15 " /> + </div> + <p> + As we were leaving the house we met the two eldest sisters, who came home + looking very sad. I was struck by their beauty, and extremely surprised to + hear myself greeted by one of them, who said,— + </p> + <p> + “It is M. the Chevalier de Seingalt.” + </p> + <p> + “Himself, mademoiselle, and sorely grieved at your misfortune.” + </p> + <p> + “Be kind enough to come in again for a moment.” + </p> + <p> + “I am sorry to say that I have an important engagement.” + </p> + <p> + “I will not keep you for longer than a quarter of an hour.” + </p> + <p> + I could not refuse so small a favour, and she employed the time in telling + me how unfortunate they had been in Hanover, how they had come to London + to obtain compensation, of their failure, their debts, the cruelty of the + landlord, their mother’s illness, the prison that awaited her, the + likelihood of their being cast into the street, and the cruelty of all + their acquaintances. + </p> + <p> + “We have nothing to sell, and all our resources consist of two shillings, + which we shall have to spend on bread, on which we live.” + </p> + <p> + “Who are your friends? How can they abandon you at such a time?” + </p> + <p> + She mentioned several names—among others, Lord Baltimore, Marquis + Carracioli, the Neapolitan ambassador, and Lord Pembroke. + </p> + <p> + “I can’t believe it,” said I, “for I know the two last noblemen to be both + rich and generous. There must be some good reason for their conduct, since + you are beautiful; and for these gentlemen beauty is a bill to be honoured + on sight.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, there is a reason. These rich noblemen abandon us with contempt. + They refuse to take pity on us because we refuse to yield to their guilty + passion.” + </p> + <p> + “That is to say, they have taken a fancy to you, and as you will not have + pity on them they refuse to have pity on you. Is it not so?” + </p> + <p> + “That is exactly the situation.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I think they are in the right.” + </p> + <p> + “In the right?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I am quite of their opinion. We leave you to enjoy your sense of + virtue, and we spend our money in procuring those favours which you refuse + us. Your misfortune really is your prettiness, if you were ugly you would + get twenty guineas fast enough. I would give you the money myself, and the + action would be put down to benevolence; whereas, as the case stands, if I + were to give you anything it would be thought that I was actuated by the + hope of favours to come, and I should be laughed at, and deservedly, as a + dupe.” + </p> + <p> + I felt that this was the proper way to speak to the girl, whose eloquence + in pleading her cause was simply wonderful. + </p> + <p> + She did not reply to my oration, and I asked her how she came to know me. + </p> + <p> + “I saw you at Richmond with the Charpillon.” + </p> + <p> + “She cost me two thousand guineas, and I got nothing for my money; but I + have profited by the lesson, and in future I shall never pay in advance.” + </p> + <p> + Just then her mother called her, and, begging me to wait a moment, she + went into her room, and returned almost directly with the request that I + would come and speak to the invalid. + </p> + <p> + I found her sitting up in her bed; she looked about forty-five, and still + preserved traces of her former beauty; her countenance bore the imprint of + sadness, but had no marks of sickness whatsoever. Her brilliant and + expressive eyes, her intellectual face, and a suggestion of craft about + her, all bade me be on my guard, and a sort of false likeness to the + Charpillon’s mother made me still more cautious, and fortified me in my + resolution to give no heed to the appeals of pity. + </p> + <p> + “Madam,” I began, “what can I do for you?” + </p> + <p> + “Sir,” she replied, “I have heard the whole of your conversations with my + daughters, and you must confess that you have not talked to them in a very + fatherly manner.” + </p> + <p> + “Quite so, but the only part which I desire to play with them is that of + lover, and a fatherly style would not have been suitable to the part. If I + had the happiness of being their father, the case would be altered. What I + have said to your daughters is what I feel, and what I think most likely + to bring about the end I have in view. I have not the slightest pretence + to virtue, but I adore the fair sex, and now you and they know the road to + my purse. If they wish to preserve their virtue, why let them; nobody will + trouble them, and they, on their side, must not expect anything from men. + Good-bye, madam; you may reckon on my never addressing your daughters + again.” + </p> + <p> + “Wait a moment, sir. My husband was the Count of——, and you + see that my daughters are of respectable birth.” + </p> + <p> + “Have you not pity for our situation?” + </p> + <p> + “I pity you extremely, and I would relieve you in an instant if your + daughters were ugly, but as it is they are pretty, and that alters the + case.” + </p> + <p> + “What an argument!” + </p> + <p> + “It is a very strong one with me, and I think I am the best judge of + arguments which apply to myself. You want twenty guineas; well, you shall + have them after one of your five countesses has spent a joyous night with + me.” + </p> + <p> + “What language to a woman of my station! Nobody has ever dared to speak to + me in such a way before.” + </p> + <p> + “Pardon me, but what use is rank without a halfpenny? Allow me to retire. + </p> + <p> + “To-day we have only bread to eat.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, certainly that is rather hard on countesses.” + </p> + <p> + “You are laughing at the title, apparently.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I am; but I don’t want to offend you. If you like, I will stop to + dinner, and pay for all, yourself included.” + </p> + <p> + “You are an eccentric individual. My girls are sad, for I am going to + prison. You will find their company wearisome.” + </p> + <p> + “That is my affair.” + </p> + <p> + “You had much better give them the money you would spend on the dinner.” + </p> + <p> + “No, madam. I must have at least the pleasures of sight and sound for my + money. I will stay your arrest till to-morrow, and afterwards Providence + may possibly intervene on your behalf.” + </p> + <p> + “The landlord will not wait.” + </p> + <p> + “Leave me to deal with him.” + </p> + <p> + I told Goudar to go and see what the man would take to send the bailiff + away for twenty-four hours. He returned with the message that he must have + a guinea and bail for the twenty guineas, in case the lodgers might take + to flight before the next day. + </p> + <p> + My wine merchant lived close by. I told Goudar to wait for me, and the + matter was soon settled and the bailiff sent away, and I told the five + girls that they might take their ease for twenty-four hours more. + </p> + <p> + I informed Goudar of the steps I had taken, and told him to go out and get + a good dinner for eight people. He went on his errand, and I summoned the + girls to their mother’s bedside, and delighted them all by telling them + that for the next twenty-four hours they were to make good cheer. They + could not get over their surprise at the suddenness of the change I had + worked in the house. + </p> + <p> + “But this is all I can do for you,” said I to the mother. “Your daughters + are charming, and I have obtained a day’s respite for you all without + asking for anything in return; I shall dine, sup, and pass the night with + them without asking so much as a single kiss, but if your ideas have not + changed by to-morrow you will be in exactly the same position as you were + a few minutes ago, and I shall not trouble you any more with my + attentions.” + </p> + <p> + “What do you mean my ‘changing my ideas’?” + </p> + <p> + “I need not tell you, for you know perfectly well what I mean.” + </p> + <p> + “My daughters shall never become prostitutes.” + </p> + <p> + “I will proclaim their spotless chastity all over London—but I shall + spend my guineas elsewhere.” + </p> + <p> + “You are a cruel man.” + </p> + <p> + “I confess I can be very cruel, but it is only when I don’t meet with + kindness.” + </p> + <p> + Goudar came back and we returned to the ladies’ room, as the mother did + not like to shew herself to my friend, telling me that I was the only man + she had permitted to see her in bed during the whole time she had been in + London. + </p> + <p> + Our English dinner was excellent in its way, but my chief pleasure was to + see the voracity with which the girls devoured the meal. One would have + thought they were savages devouring raw meat after a long fast. I had got + a case of excellent wine and I made each of them drink a bottle, but not + being accustomed to such an indulgence they became quite drunk. The mother + had devoured the whole of the plentiful helpings I had sent in to her, and + she had emptied a bottle of Burgundy, which she carried very well. + </p> + <p> + In spite of their intoxication, the girls were perfectly safe; I kept my + word, and Goudar did not take the slightest liberty. We had a pleasant + supper, and after a bowl of punch I left them feeling in love with the + whole bevy, and very uncertain whether I should be able to shew as brave a + front the next day. + </p> + <p> + As we were going away Goudar said that I was conducting the affair + admirably, but if I made a single slip I should be undone. + </p> + <p> + I saw the good sense of his advice, and determined to shew that I was as + sharp as he. + </p> + <p> + The next day, feeling anxious to hear the result of the council which the + mother had doubtless held with the daughters, I called at their house at + ten o’clock. The two eldest sisters were out, endeavouring to beat up some + more friends, and the three youngest rushed up to me as if they had been + spaniels and I their master, but they would not even allow me to kiss + them. I told them they made a mistake, and knocked at the mother’s door. + She told me to come in, and thanked me for the happy day I had given them. + </p> + <p> + “Am I to withdraw my bail, countess?” + </p> + <p> + “You can do what you like, but I do not think you capable of such an + action.” + </p> + <p> + “You are mistaken. You have doubtless made a deep study of the human + heart; but you either know little of the human mind, or else you think you + have a larger share than any other person. All your daughters have + inspired me with love, but were it a matter of life and death I would not + do a single thing for them or you before you have done me the only favour + that is in your power. I leave you to your reflections, and more + especially to your virtues.” + </p> + <p> + She begged me to stay, but I did not even listen to her. I passed by the + three charmers, and after telling my wine merchant to withdraw his + security I went in a furious mood to call on Lord Pembroke. As soon as I + mentioned the Hanoverians he burst out laughing, and said these false + innocents must be made to fulfil their occupation in a proper manner. + </p> + <p> + “They came whining to me yesterday,” he proceeded, “and I not only would + not give them anything, but I laughed them to scorn. They have got about + twelve guineas out of me on false pretences; they are as cunning sluts as + the Charpillon.” + </p> + <p> + I told him what I had done the day before, and what I intended to offer: + twenty guineas for the first, and as much for each of the others, but + nothing to be paid in advance. + </p> + <p> + “I had the same idea myself, but I cried off, and I don’t think you’ll + succeed, as Lord Baltimore offered them forty apiece; that is two hundred + guineas in all, and the bargain has fallen through because they want the + money to be paid in advance. They paid him a visit yesterday, but found + him pitiless, for he has been taken in several times by them.” + </p> + <p> + “We shall see what will happen when the mother is under lock and key; I’ll + bet we shall have them cheaply.” + </p> + <p> + I came home for dinner, and Goudar, who had just been at their house, + reported that the bailiff would only wait till four o’clock, that the two + eldest daughters had come back empty-handed, and that they had been + obliged to sell one of their dresses to buy a morsel of bread. + </p> + <p> + I felt certain that they would have recourse to me again, and I was right. + We were at dessert when they put in an appearance. I made them sit down, + and the eldest sister exhausted her eloquence to persuade me to give them + another three days’ grace. + </p> + <p> + “You will find me insensible,” said I, “unless you are willing to adopt my + plan. If you wish to hear it, kindly follow me into the next room.” + </p> + <p> + She did so, leaving her sister with Goudar, and making her sit down on a + sofa beside me, I shewed her twenty guineas, saying,— + </p> + <p> + “These are yours; but you know on what terms?” + </p> + <p> + She rejected my offer with disdain, and thinking she might wish to salve + her virtue by being attacked, I set to work; but finding her resistance + serious I let her alone, and begged her to leave my house immediately. She + called to her sister, and they both went out. + </p> + <p> + In the evening, as I was going to the play, I called on my wine merchant + to hear the news. He told me that the mother had been taken to prison, and + that the youngest daughter had gone with her; but he did not know what had + become of the four others. + </p> + <p> + I went home feeling quite sad, and almost reproaching myself for not + having taken compassion on then; however, just as I was sitting down to + supper they appeared before me like four Magdalens. The eldest, who was + the orator of the company, told me that their mother was in prison, and + that they would have to pass the night in the street if I did not take + pity on them. + </p> + <p> + “You shall have rooms, beds, and good fires,” said I, “but first let me + see you eat.” + </p> + <p> + Delight appeared on every countenance, and I had numerous dishes brought + for them. They ate eagerly but sadly, and only drank water. + </p> + <p> + “Your melancholy and your abstinence displeases me,” said I, to the eldest + girl; “go upstairs and you will find everything necessary for your + comfort, but take care to be gone at seven in the morning and not to let + me see your faces again.” + </p> + <p> + They went up to the second floor without a word. + </p> + <p> + An hour afterwards, just as I was going to bed, the eldest girl came into + my room and said she wished to have a private interview with me. I told my + negro to withdraw, and asked her to explain herself. + </p> + <p> + “What will you do for us,” said she, “if I consent to share your couch?” + </p> + <p> + “I will give you twenty guineas, and I will lodge and board you as long as + you give me satisfaction.” + </p> + <p> + Without saying a word she began to undress, and got into bed. She was + submissive and nothing more, and did not give me so much as a kiss. At the + end of a quarter of an hour I was disgusted with her and got up, and + giving her a bank note for twenty guineas I told her to put on her clothes + and go back to her room. + </p> + <p> + “You must all leave my house to-morrow,” I said, “for I am ill pleased + with you. Instead of giving yourself up for love you have prostituted + yourself. I blush for you.” + </p> + <p> + She obeyed mutely, and I went to sleep in an ill humour. + </p> + <p> + At about seven o’clock in the morning I was awakened by a hand shaking me + gently. I opened my eyes, and I was surprised to see the second daughter. + </p> + <p> + “What do you want?” I said, coldly. + </p> + <p> + “I want you to take pity on us, and shelter us in your house for a few + days longer. I will be very grateful. My sister has told me all, you are + displeased with her, but you must forgive her, for her heart is not her + own. She is in love with an Italian who is in prison for debt.” + </p> + <p> + “And I suppose you are in love with someone else?” + </p> + <p> + “No, I am not.” + </p> + <p> + “Could you love me?” + </p> + <p> + She lowered her eyes, and pressed my hand gently. I drew her towards me, + and embraced her, and as I felt her kisses answer mine, I said,— + </p> + <p> + “You have conquered.” + </p> + <p> + “My name is Victoire.” + </p> + <p> + “I like it, and I will prove the omen a true one.” + </p> + <p> + Victoire, who was tender and passionate, made me spend two delicious + hours, which compensated me for my bad quarter of an hour of the night + before. + </p> + <p> + When our exploits were over, I said,— + </p> + <p> + “Dearest Victoire, I am wholly throe. Let your mother be brought here as + soon as she is free. Here are twenty guineas for you.” + </p> + <p> + She did not expect anything, and the agreeable surprise made her in an + ecstasy; she could not speak, but her heart was full of happiness. I too + was happy, and I believed that a great part of my happiness was caused by + the knowledge that I had done a good deed. We are queer creatures all of + us, whether we are bad or good. From that moment I gave my servants orders + to lay the table for eight persons every day, and told them that I was + only at home to Goudar. I spent money madly, and felt that I was within a + measurable distance of poverty. + </p> + <p> + At noon the mother came in a sedan-chair, and went to bed directly. I went + to see her, and did not evince any surprise when she began to thank me for + my noble generosity. She wanted me to suppose that she thought I had given + her daughters forty guineas for nothing, and I let her enjoy her + hypocrisy. + </p> + <p> + In the evening I took them to Covent Garden, where the castrato Tenducci + surprised me by introducing me to his wife, of whom he had two children. + He laughed at people who said that a castrato could not procreate. Nature + had made him a monster that he might remain a man; he was born triorchis, + and as only two of the seminal glands had been destroyed the remaining one + was sufficient to endow him with virility. + </p> + <p> + When I got back to my small seraglio I supped merrily with the five + nymphs, and spent a delicious night with Victoire, who was overjoyed at + having made my conquest. She told me that her sister’s lover was a + Neapolitan, calling himself Marquis de Petina, and that they were to get + married as soon as he was out of prison. It seemed he was expecting + remittances, and the mother would be delighted to see her daughter a + marchioness. + </p> + <p> + “How much does the marquis owe?” + </p> + <p> + “Twenty guineas.” + </p> + <p> + “And the Neapolitan ambassador allows him to languish in prison for such a + beggarly sum? I can’t believe it.” + </p> + <p> + “The ambassador won’t have anything to do with him, because he left Naples + without the leave of the Government.” + </p> + <p> + “Tell your sister that if the ambassador assures me that her lover’s name + is really the Marquis de Petina, I will get him out of prison + immediately.” + </p> + <p> + I went out to ask my daughter, and another boarder of whom I was very + fond, to dinner, and on my way called on the Marquis of Caraccioli, an + agreeable man, whose acquaintance I had made at Turin. I found the famous + Chevalier d’Eon at his house, and I had no need of a private interview to + make my inquiries about Petina. + </p> + <p> + “The young man is really what he professes to me,” said the ambassador, + “but I will neither receive him nor give him any money till I hear from my + Government that he has received leave to travel.” + </p> + <p> + That was enough for me, and I stayed there for an hour listening to + d’Eon’s amusing story. + </p> + <p> + Eon had deserted the embassy on account of ten thousand francs which the + department of foreign affairs at Versailles had refused to allow him, + though the money was his by right. He had placed himself under the + protection of the English laws, and after securing two thousand + subscribers at a guinea apiece, he had sent to press a huge volume in + quarto containing all the letters he had received from the French + Government for the last five or six years. + </p> + <p> + About the same time a London banker had deposited the sum of twenty + thousand guineas at the Bank of England, being ready to wager that sum + that Eon was a woman. The bet was taken by a number of persons who had + formed themselves into a kind of company for the purpose, and the only way + to decide it was that Eon should be examined in the presence of witnesses. + The chevalier was offered half the wager, but he laughed them to scorn. He + said that such an examination would dishonour him, were he man or woman. + Caraccioli said that it could only dishonour him if he were a woman, but I + could not agree with this opinion. At the end of a year the bet was + declared off; but in the course of three years he received his pardon from + the king, and appeared at Court in woman’s dress, wearing the cross of St. + Louis. + </p> + <p> + Louis XV. had always been aware of the chevalier’s sex, but Cardinal + Fleuri had taught him that it became kings to be impenetrable, and Louis + remained so all his life. + </p> + <p> + When I got home I gave the eldest Hanoverian twenty guineas, telling her + to fetch her marquis out of prison, and bring him to dine with us, as I + wanted to know him. I thought she would have died with joy. + </p> + <p> + The third sister, having taken counsel with Victoire, and doubtless with + her mother also, determined to earn twenty guineas for herself, and she + had not much trouble in doing so. She it was on whom Lord Pembroke had + cast the eye of desire. + </p> + <p> + These five girls were like five dishes placed before a gourmand, who + enjoys them one after the other. To my fancy the last was always the best. + The third sister’s name was Augusta. + </p> + <p> + Next Sunday I had a large number of guests. There were my daughter and her + friend, Madame Cornelis, and her son. Sophie was kissed and caressed by + the Hanoverians, while I bestowed a hundred kisses on Miss Nancy Steyne, + who was only thirteen, but whose young beauty worked sad havoc with my + senses. My affection was supposed to be fatherly in its character, but, + alas! it was of a much more fleshly kind. This Miss Nancy, who seemed to + me almost divine, was the daughter of a rich merchant. I said that I + wanted to make her father’s acquaintance, and she replied that her father + proposed coming to call on me that very day. I was delighted to hear of + the coincidence, and gave order that he should be shewn in as soon as he + came. + </p> + <p> + The poor marquis was the only sad figure in the company. He was young and + well-made, but thin and repulsively ugly. He thanked me for my kindness, + saying that I had done a wise thing, as he felt sure the time would come + when he would repay me a hundredfold. + </p> + <p> + I had given my daughter six guineas to buy a pelisse, and she took me to + my bedroom to shew it me. Her mother followed her to congratulate me on my + seraglio. + </p> + <p> + At dinner gaiety reigned supreme. I sat between my daughter and Miss Nancy + Steyne, and felt happy. Mr. Steyne came in as we were at the oysters. He + kissed his daughter with that tender affection which is more + characteristic, I think, of English parents than those of any other + nation. + </p> + <p> + Mr. Steyne had dined, but he nevertheless ate a hundred scolloped oysters, + in the preparation of which my cook was wonderfully expert; he also + honoured the champagne with equal attention. + </p> + <p> + We spent three hours at the table and then proceeded to the third floor, + where Sophie accompanied her mother’s singing on the piano, and young + Cornelis displayed his flute-playing talents. Mr. Steyne swore that he had + never been present at such a pleasant party in his life, adding that + pleasure was forbidden fruit in England on Sundays and holidays. This + convinced me that Steyne was an intelligent man, though his French was + execrable. He left at seven, after giving a beautiful ring to my daughter, + whom he escorted back to school with Miss Nancy. + </p> + <p> + The Marquis Petina foolishly observed to me that he did not know where to + find a bed. I understood what he wanted, but I told him he would easily + find one with a little money. Taking his sweetheart aside I gave her a + guinea for him, begging her to tell him not to visit me again till he was + invited. + </p> + <p> + When all the guests were gone, I led the five sisters to the mother’s + room. She was wonderfully well, eating, drinking, and sleeping to + admiration, and never doing anything, not even reading or writing. She + enjoyed the ‘dolce far niente’ in all the force of the term. However, she + told me she was always thinking of her family, and of the laws which it + imposed on her. + </p> + <p> + I could scarcely help laughing, but I only said that if these laws were + the same as those which her charming daughters followed, I thought them + wiser than Solon’s. + </p> + <p> + I drew Augusta on to my knee, and said,— + </p> + <p> + “My lady, allow me to kiss your delightful daughter.” + </p> + <p> + Instead of giving me a direct answer, the old hypocrite began a long + sermon on the lawfulness of the parental kiss. All the time Augusta was + lavishing on me secret but delicious endearments. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + ‘O tempora! O mores!’ +</pre> + <p> + The next day I was standing at my window, when the Marquis Caraccioli, who + was passing by, greeted me, and asked me if he could come in. I bade him + welcome, and summoning the eldest sister told the ambassador that this + young lady was going to marry the Marquis Petina as soon as his + remittances arrived. + </p> + <p> + He addressed himself to her, and spoke as follows: + </p> + <p> + “Mademoiselle, it is true that your lover is really a marquis, but he is + very poor and will never have any money; and if he goes back to Naples he + will be imprisoned, and if he is released from the State prison his + creditors will put him in the Vittoria.” + </p> + <p> + However this salutary warning had no effect. + </p> + <p> + After the ambassador had taken his leave I was dressing to take a ride + when Augusta told me that, if I liked, Hippolyta her sister would come + with me, as she could ride beautifully. + </p> + <p> + “That’s amusing,” said I, “make her come down.” + </p> + <p> + Hippolyta came down and begged me to let her ride with me, saying that she + would do me credit. + </p> + <p> + “Certainly;” said I, “but have you a man’s riding suit or a woman’s + costume?” + </p> + <p> + “No.” + </p> + <p> + “Then we must put off the excursion till to-morrow.” + </p> + <p> + I spent the day in seeing that a suit was made for her, and I felt quite + amorous when Pegu, the tailor, measured her for the breeches. Everything + was done in time and we had a charming ride, for she managed her horse + with wonderful skill. + </p> + <p> + After an excellent supper, to which wine had not been lacking, the happy + Hippolyta accompanied Victoire into my room and helped her to undress. + When she kissed her sister I asked if she would not give me a kiss too, + and after some jesting Augusta changed the joke into earnest by bidding + her come to bed beside me, without taking the trouble to ask my leave, so + sure did she feel of my consent. The night was well spent, and I had no + reason to complain of want of material, but Augusta wisely let the + newcomer have the lion’s share of my attentions. + </p> + <p> + Next day we rode out again in the afternoon, followed by my negro, who was + a skilful horseman himself. In Richmond Park Hippolyta’s dexterity + astonished me; she drew all eyes on her. In the evening we came home well + pleased with our day’s ride, and had a good supper. + </p> + <p> + As the meal proceeded I noticed that Gabrielle, the youngest of all, + looked sad and a little sulky. I asked her the reason, and with a little + pout that became her childish face admirably, she replied,— + </p> + <p> + “Because I can ride on horseback as well as my sister.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good,” said I, “then you shall ride the day after to-morrow.” This + put her into a good temper again. + </p> + <p> + Speaking of Hippolyta’s skill, I asked her where she had learnt to ride. + She simply burst out laughing. I asked her why she laughed, and she said,— + </p> + <p> + “Why, because I never learnt anywhere; my only masters were courage and + some natural skill.” + </p> + <p> + “And has your sister learnt?” + </p> + <p> + “No,” said Gabrielle, “but I can ride just as well.” + </p> + <p> + I could scarcely believe it, for Hippolyta had seemed to float on her + horse, and her riding shewed the utmost skill and experience. Hoping that + her sister would vie with her, I said that I would take them out together, + and the very idea made them both jump with joy. + </p> + <p> + Gabrielle was only fifteen, and her shape, though not fully developed, was + well marked, and promised a perfect beauty by the time she was in her + maturity. Full of grace and simplicity, she said she would like to come + with me to my room, and I readily accepted her offer, not caring whether + the scheme had been concerted between her and her other sisters. + </p> + <p> + As soon as we were alone, she told me that she had never had a lover, and + she allowed me to assure myself of the fact with the same child-like + simplicity. Gabrielle was like all the others; I would have chosen her if + I had been obliged to make the choice. She made me feel sorry for her + sake, to hear that the mother had made up her mind to leave. In the + morning I gave her her fee of twenty guineas and a handsome ring as a mark + of my peculiar friendship, and we spent the day in getting ready our + habits for the ride of the day following. + </p> + <p> + Gabrielle got on horseback as if she had had two years in the riding + school. We went along the streets at a walking pace, but as soon as we + were in the open country we broke into a furious gallop, and kept it up + till we got to Barnet, where we stopped to breakfast. We had done the + journey in twenty-five minutes, although the distance is nearly ten miles. + This may seem incredible, but the English horses are wonderfully swift, + and we were all of us well mounted. My two nymphs looked ravishing. I + adored them, and I adored myself for making them so happy. + </p> + <p> + Just as we were remounting, who should arrive but Lord Pembroke. He was on + his way to St. Alban’s. He stopped his horse, and admired the graceful + riding of my two companions; and not recognizing them immediately, he + begged leave to pay his court to them. How I laughed to myself! At last he + recognized them, and congratulated me on my conquest, asking if I loved + Hippolyta. I guessed his meaning, and said I only loved Gabrielle. + </p> + <p> + “Very good,” said he; “may I come and see you?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly,” I replied. + </p> + <p> + After a friendly hand-shake we set out once more, and were soon back in + London. + </p> + <p> + Gabrielle was done up and went to bed directly; she slept on till the next + morning without my disturbing her peaceful sleep, and when she awoke and + found herself in my arms, she began to philosophise. + </p> + <p> + “How easy it is,” said she, “to be happy when one is rich, and how sad it + is to see happiness out of one’s reach for lack of a little money. + Yesterday I was the happiest of beings, and why should I not be as happy + all my days? I would gladly agree that my life should be short provided + that it should be a happy one.” + </p> + <p> + I, too, philosophised, but my reflections were sombre. I saw my resources + all but exhausted, and I began to meditate a journey to Lisbon. If my + fortune had been inexhaustible, the Hanoverians might have held me in + their silken fetters to the end of my days. It seemed to me as if I loved + them more like a father than a lover, and the fact that I slept with them + only added to the tenderness of the tie. I looked into Gabrielle’s eyes, + and there I saw but love. How could such a love exist in her unless she + were naturally virtuous, and yet devoid of those prejudices which are + instilled into us in our early years. + </p> + <p> + The next day Pembroke called and asked me to give him a dinner. Augusta + delighted him. He made proposals to her which excited her laughter as he + did not want to pay till after the event, and she would not admit this + condition. However, he gave her a bank note for ten guineas before he + left, and she accepted it with much grace. The day after he wrote her a + letter, of which I shall speak presently. + </p> + <p> + A few minutes after the nobleman had gone the mother sent for me to come + to her, and after paying an eloquent tribute to my virtues, my generosity, + and my unceasing kindness towards her family, she made the following + proposal: + </p> + <p> + “As I feel sure that you have all the love of a father for my daughters, I + wish you to become their father in reality! I offer you my hand and heart; + become my husband, you will be their father, their lord and mine. What do + you say to this?” + </p> + <p> + I bit my lips hard and had great difficulty in restraining my inclination + to laughter. Nevertheless, the amazement, the contempt, and the + indignation which this unparalleled piece of impudence aroused in me soon + brought me to myself. I perceived that this consummate hypocrite had + counted on an abrupt refusal, and had only made this ridiculous offer with + the idea of convincing me that she was under the impression that I had + left her daughters as I had found them, and that the money I had spent on + them was merely a sign of my tender and fatherly affection. Of course she + knew perfectly well how the land lay, but she thought to justify herself + by taking this step. She was aware that I could only look upon such a + proposal as an insult, but she did not care for that. + </p> + <p> + I resolved to keep on the mask, and replied that her proposition was + undoubtedly a very great honour for me, but it was also a very important + question, and so I begged her to allow me some time for consideration. + </p> + <p> + When I got back to my room I found there the mistress of the wretched + Marquis Petina, who told me that her happiness depended on a certificate + from the Neapolitan ambassador that her lover was really the person he + professed to be. With this document he would be able to claim a sum of two + hundred guineas, and then they could both go to Naples, and he would marry + her there. “He will easily obtain the royal pardon,” said she. “You, and + you alone, can help us in the matter, and I commend myself to your + kindness.” + </p> + <p> + I promised to do all I could for her. In fact, I called on the ambassador, + who made no difficulty about giving the required certificate. For the + moment my chilly conquest was perfectly happy, but though I saw she was + very grateful to me I did not ask her to prove her gratitude. + </p> + <a name="linkE2HCH0016" id="linkE2HCH0016"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVI + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Augusta Becomes Lord Pembroke’s Titular Mistress—The King of + Corsica’s Son—M. du Claude, or the Jesuit Lavalette— + Departure of the Hanoverians—I Balance My Accounts— + The Baron Stenau—The English Girl, and What She Gave Me— + Daturi—My Flight from London—Comte St. Germain—Wesel +</pre> + <p> + Lord Pembroke wrote to Augusta offering her fifty guineas a month for + three years, with lodging, board, servants, and carriage at St. Albans, + without reckoning what she might expect from his grateful affection if it + were returned. + </p> + <p> + Augusta translated the letter for me, and asked for my advice. + </p> + <p> + “I can’t give you any counsel,” said I, “in a matter which only concerns + your own heart and your own interests.” + </p> + <p> + She went up to her mother, who would come to no conclusion without first + consulting me, because, as she said, I was the wisest and most virtuous of + men. I am afraid the reader will differ from her here, but I comfort + myself by the thought that I, too, think like the reader. At last it was + agreed that Augusta should accept the offer if Lord Pembroke would find a + surety in the person of some reputable London merchant, for with her + beauty and numerous graces she was sure to become Lady Pembroke before + long. Indeed, the mother said she was perfectly certain of it, as + otherwise she could not have given her consent, as her daughters were + countesses, and too good to be any man’s mistresses. + </p> + <p> + The consequence was that Augusta wrote my lord a letter, and in three days + it was all settled. The merchant duly signed the contract, at the foot of + which I had the honour of inscribing my name as a witness, and then I took + the merchant to the mother, and he witnessed her cession of her daughter. + She would not see Pembroke, but she kissed her daughter, and held a + private colloquy with her. + </p> + <p> + The day on which Augusta left my house was signalized by an event which I + must set down. + </p> + <p> + The day after I had given the Marquis Petina’s future bride the required + certificate, I had taken out Gabrielle and Hippolyta for a ride. When I + got home I found waiting for me a person calling himself Sir Frederick, + who was said to be the son of Theodore, King of Corsica, who had died in + London. This gentleman said he wished to speak to me in private, and when + we were alone he said he was aware of my acquaintance with the Marquis + Petina, and being on the eve of discounting a bill of two hundred guineas + for him he wished to be informed whether it was likely that he could meet + the bill when it fell due. + </p> + <p> + “It is important that I should be informed on that point,” he added, “for + the persons who are going to discount the bill want me to put my signature + to it.” + </p> + <p> + “Sir,” I replied, “I certainly am acquainted with the marquis, but I know + nothing about his fortune. However, the Neapolitan ambassador assured me + that he was the Marquis Petina.” + </p> + <p> + “If the persons who have the matter in hand should drop it, would you + discount the bill? You shall have it cheap.” + </p> + <p> + “I never meddle with these speculations. Good day, Sir Frederick.” + </p> + <p> + The next day Goudar came and said that a M. du Claude wanted to speak to + me. + </p> + <p> + “Who is M. du Claude?” + </p> + <p> + “The famous Jesuit Lavalette, who was concerned in the great bankruptcy + case which ruined the Society in France. He fled to England under a false + name. I advise you to listen to him, for he must have plenty of money.” + </p> + <p> + “A Jesuit and a bankrupt; that does not sound very well.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I have met him in good houses, and knowing that I was acquainted + with you he addressed himself to me. After all, you run no risk in + listening to what he has to say.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, well, you can take me to him; it will be easier to avoid any + entanglement than if he came to see me.” + </p> + <p> + Goudar went to Lavalette to prepare the way, and in the afternoon he took + me to see him. I was well enough pleased to see the man, whose rascality + had destroyed the infamous work of many years. He welcomed me with great + politeness, and as soon as we were alone he shewed me a bill of Petina’s, + saying,— + </p> + <p> + “The young man wants me to discount it, and says you can give me the + necessary information.” + </p> + <p> + I gave the reverend father the same answer as I had given the King of + Corsica’s son, and left him angry with this Marquis of Misery who had + given me so much needless trouble. I was minded to have done with him, and + resolved to let him know through his mistress that I would not be his + reference, but I could not find an opportunity that day. + </p> + <p> + The next day I took my two nymphs for a ride, and asked Pembroke to + dinner. In vain we waited for Petina’s mistress; she was nowhere to be + found. At nine o’clock I got a letter from her, with a German letter + enclosed for her mother. She said that feeling certain that her mother + would not give her consent to her marriage, she had eloped with her lover, + who had got together enough money to go to Naples, and when they reached + that town he would marry her. She begged me to console her mother and make + her listen to reason, as she had not gone off with an adventurer but with + a man of rank, her equal. My lips curled into a smile of pity and + contempt, which made the three sisters curious. I shewed them the letter I + had just received, and asked them to come with me to their mother. + </p> + <p> + “Not to-night,” said Victoire, “this terrible news would keep her awake.” + </p> + <p> + I took her advice and we supped together, sadly enough. + </p> + <p> + I thought the poor wretch was ruined for life, and I reproached myself + with being the cause of her misfortune; for if I had not released the + marquis from prison this could never have happened. The Marquis Caraccioli + had been right in saying that I had done a good deed, but a foolish one. I + consoled myself in the arms of my dear Gabrielle. + </p> + <p> + I had a painful scene with the mother the next morning. She cursed her + daughter and her seducer, and even blamed me. She wept and stormed + alternately. + </p> + <p> + It is never of any use to try and convince people in distress that they + are wrong, for one may only do harm, while if they are left to themselves + they soon feel that they have been unjust, and are grateful to the person + who let them exhaust their grief without any contradiction. + </p> + <p> + After this event I spent a happy fortnight in the society of Gabrielle, + whom Hippolyta and Victoire looked on as my wife. She made my happiness + and I made hers in all sorts of ways, but especially by my fidelity; for I + treated her sisters as if they had been my sisters, shewing no + recollection of the favours I had obtained from them, and never taking the + slightest liberty, for I knew that friendship between women will hardly + brook amorous rivalry. I had bought them dresses and linen in abundance, + they were well lodged and well fed, I took them to the theatre and to the + country, and the consequence was they all adored me, and seemed to think + that this manner of living would go on for ever. Nevertheless, I was every + day nearer and nearer to moral and physical bankruptcy. I had no more + money, and I had sold all my diamonds and precious stones. I still + possessed my snuff-boxes, my watches, and numerous trifles, which I loved + and had not the heart to sell; and, indeed, I should not have got the + fifth part of what I gave for them. For a whole month I had not paid my + cook, or my wine merchant, but I liked to feel that they trusted me. All I + thought of was Gabrielle’s love, and of this I assured myself by a + thousand delicacies and attentions. + </p> + <p> + This was my condition when one day Victoire came to me with sadness on her + face, and said that her mother had made up her mind to return to Hanover, + as she had lost all hope of getting anything from the English Court. + </p> + <p> + “When does she intend to leave?” + </p> + <p> + “In three or four days.” + </p> + <p> + “And is she going without telling me, as if she were leaving an inn after + paying her bill?” + </p> + <p> + “On the contrary, she wishes to have a private talk with you.” + </p> + <p> + I paid her a visit, and she began by reproaching me tenderly for not + coming to see her more often. She said that as I had refused her hand she + would not run the risk of incurring censure or slander of any kind. “I + thank you from my heart,” she added, “for all the kindness you have shewn + my girls, and I am going to take the three I have left away, lest I lose + them as I have lost the two eldest. If you like, you may come too and stay + with us as long as you like in my pretty country house near the capital.” + </p> + <p> + Of course I had to thank her and reply that my engagements did not allow + me to accept her kind offer. + </p> + <p> + Three days after, Victoire told me, as I was getting up, that they were + going on board ship at three o’clock. Hippolyta and Gabrielle made me come + for a ride, according to a promise I had given them the night before. The + poor things amused themselves, while I grieved bitterly, as was my habit + when I had to separate from anyone that I loved. + </p> + <p> + When we came home I lay down on my bed, not taking any dinner, and seeing + nothing of the three sisters till they had made everything ready for the + journey. I got up directly before they left, so as not to see the mother + in my own room, and I saw her in hers just as she was about to be taken + down into my carriage, which was in readiness at the door. The impudent + creature expected me to give her some money for the journey, but + perceiving that I was not likely to bleed, she observed, with involuntary + sincerity, that her purse contained the sum of a hundred and fifty + guineas, which I had given to her daughters; and these daughters of hers + were present, and sobbed bitterly. + </p> + <p> + When they were gone I closed my doors to everyone, and spent three days in + the melancholy occupation of making up my accounts. In the month I had + spent with the Hanoverians I had dissipated the whole of the sum resulting + from the sale of the precious stones, and I found that I was in debt to + the amount of four hundred guineas. I resolved to go to Lisbon by sea, and + sold my diamond cross, six or seven gold snuff-boxes (after removing the + portraits), all my watches except one, and two great trunks full of + clothes. I then discharged my debts and found I was eighty guineas to the + good, this being what remained of the fine fortune I had squandered away + like a fool or a philosopher, or, perhaps, a little like both. I left my + fine house where I had lived so pleasantly, and took a little room at a + guinea a week. I still kept my negro, as I had every reason to believe him + to be a faithful servant. + </p> + <p> + After taking these measures I wrote to M. de Bragadin, begging him to send + me two hundred sequins. + </p> + <p> + Thus having made up my mind to leave London without owing a penny to + anyone, and under obligations to no man’s purse, I waited for the bill of + exchange from Venice. When it came I resolved to bid farewell to all my + friends and to try my fortune in Lisbon, but such was not the fate which + the fickle goddess had assigned to me. + </p> + <p> + A fortnight after the departure of the Hanoverians (it was the end of + February in the year 1764), my evil genius made me go to the “Canon + Tavern,” where I usually dined in a room by myself. The table was laid and + I was just going to sit down, when Baron Stenau came in and begged me to + have my dinner brought into the next room, where he and his mistress were + dining. + </p> + <p> + “I thank you,” said I, “for the solitary man grows weary of his company.” + </p> + <p> + I saw the English woman I had met at Sartori’s, the same to whom the baron + had been so generous. She spoke Italian, and was attractive in many ways, + so I was well pleased to find myself opposite to her, and we had a + pleasant dinner. + </p> + <p> + After a fortnight’s abstinence it was not surprising that she inspired me + with desires, but I concealed them nevertheless, for her lover seemed to + respect her. I only allowed myself to tell the baron that I thought him + the happiest of men. + </p> + <p> + Towards the close of the dinner the girl noticed three dice on the mantel + and took them up, saying,— + </p> + <p> + “Let us have a wager of a guinea, and spend it on oysters and champagne.” + </p> + <p> + We could not refuse, and the baron having lost called the waiter and gave + him his orders. + </p> + <p> + While we were eating the oysters she suggested that we should throw again + to see which should pay for the dinner. + </p> + <p> + We did so and she lost. + </p> + <p> + I did not like my luck, and wishing to lose a couple of guineas I offered + to throw against the baron. He accepted, and to my annoyance I won. He + asked for his revenge and lost again. + </p> + <p> + “I don’t want to win your money,” said I, “and I will give you your + revenge up to a hundred guineas.” + </p> + <p> + He seemed grateful and we went on playing, and in less than half an hour + he owed me a hundred guineas. + </p> + <p> + “Let us go on,” said he. + </p> + <p> + “My dear baron, the luck’s against you; you might lose a large sum of + money. I really think we have had enough.” + </p> + <p> + Without heeding my politeness, he swore against fortune and against the + favour I seemed to be shewing him. Finally he got up, and taking his hat + and cane, went out, saying,— + </p> + <p> + “I will pay you when I come back.” + </p> + <p> + As soon as he had gone the girl said: + </p> + <p> + “I am sure you have been regarding me as your partner at play.” + </p> + <p> + “If you have guessed that, you will also have guessed that I think you + charming.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I think I have.” + </p> + <p> + “Are you angry with me?” + </p> + <p> + “Not in the least.” + </p> + <p> + “You shall have the fifty guineas as soon as he has paid me.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good, but the baron must know nothing about it.” + </p> + <p> + “Of course not.” + </p> + <p> + The bargain was scarcely struck before I began to shew her how much I + loved her. I had every reason to congratulate myself on her complaisance, + and I thought this meeting a welcome gleam of light when all looked dark + around me. We had to make haste, however, as the door was only shut with a + catch. I had barely time to ascertain her address and the hour at which + she could see me, and whether I should have to be careful with her lover. + She replied that the baron’s fidelity was not of a character to make him + very exacting. I put the address in my pocket, and promised to pass a + night with her. + </p> + <p> + The baron came in again, and said,— + </p> + <p> + “I have been to a merchant to discount this bill of exchange, and though + it is drawn on one of the best house in Cadiz, and made out by a good + house in London, he would not have anything to do with it.” + </p> + <p> + I took the bill and saw some millions mentioned on it, which astonished + me. + </p> + <p> + The baron said with a laugh that the currency was Portuguese milries, and + that they amounted to five hundred pounds sterling. + </p> + <p> + “If the signatures are known,” said I, “I don’t understand why the man + won’t discount it. Why don’t you take it to your banker?” + </p> + <p> + “I haven’t got one. I came to England with a thousand gold pieces in my + pocket, and I have spent them all. As I have not got any letters of credit + I cannot pay you unless the bill is discounted. If you have got any + friends on the Exchange, however, you could get it done.” + </p> + <p> + “If the names prove good ones I will let you have the money to-morrow + morning.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I will make it payable to your order.” + </p> + <p> + He put his name to it, and I promised to send him either the money or the + bill before noon on the day following. He gave me his address and begged + me to come and dine with him, and so we parted. + </p> + <p> + The next day I went to Bosanquet, who told me that Mr. Leigh was looking + out for bills of exchange on Cadiz, and I accordingly waited on him. He + exclaimed that such paper was worth more than gold to him, and gave me + five hundred and twenty guineas, of course after I had endorsed it. + </p> + <p> + I called on the baron and gave him the money I had just received, and he + thanked me and gave me back the hundred guineas. Afterwards we had dinner, + and fell to talking of his mistress. + </p> + <p> + “Are you in love with her?” said I. + </p> + <p> + “No; I have plenty of others, and if you like her you can have her for ten + guineas.” + </p> + <p> + I liked this way of putting it, though I had not the slightest idea of + cheating the girl out of the sum I had promised her. On leaving the baron + I went to see her, and as soon as she heard that the baron had paid me she + ordered a delicious supper, and made me spend a night that obliterated all + my sorrows from my memory. In the morning, when I handed over the fifty + guineas, she said that as a reward for the way in which I kept my promise + I could sup with her whenever I liked to spend six guineas. I promised to + come and see her often. + </p> + <p> + The next morning I received a letter through the post, written in bad + Italian, and signed, “Your obedient godson, Daturi.” This godson of mine + was in prison for debt, and begged me to give him a few shillings to buy + some food. + </p> + <p> + I had nothing particular to do, the appellation of godson made me curious, + and so I went to the prison to see Daturi, of whose identity I had not the + slightest idea. He was a fine young man of twenty; he did not know me, nor + I him. I gave him his letter, and begging me to forgive him he drew a + paper from his pocket and shewed me his certificate of baptism, on which I + saw my own name inscribed beside his name and those of his father and + mother, the parish of Venice, where he was born, and the church in which + he was baptized; but still I racked my memory in vain; I could not + recollect him. + </p> + <p> + “If you will listen to me,” he said, “I can set you right; my mother has + told me the story a hundred times.” + </p> + <p> + “Go on,” said I, “I will listen;” and as he told his story I remembered + who he was. + </p> + <p> + This young man whom I had held at the font as the son of the actor Daturi + was possibly my own son. He had come to London with a troupe of jugglers + to play the illustrious part of clown, or pagliazzo, but having quarrelled + with the company he had lost his place and had got into debt to the extent + of ten pounds sterling, and for this debt he had been imprisoned. Without + saying anything to him about my relations with his mother, I set him free + on the spot, telling him to come to me every morning, as I would give him + two shillings a day for his support. + </p> + <p> + A week after I had done this good work I felt that I had caught the + fearful disease from which the god Mercury had already delivered me three + times, though with great danger and peril of my life. I had spent three + nights with the fatal English woman, and the misfortune was doubly + inconvenient under the circumstances. I was on the eve of a long sea + voyage, and though Venus may have risen from the waves of the sea, sea air + is by no means favourable to those on whom she has cast her malign aspect. + I knew what to do, and resolved to have my case taken in hand without + delay. + </p> + <p> + I left my house, not with the intention of reproaching the English woman + after the manner of fools, but rather of going to a good surgeon, with + whom I could make an agreement to stay in his house till my cure was + completed. + </p> + <p> + I had my trunks packed just as if I was going to leave London, excepting + my linen, which I sent to my washerwoman who lived at a distance of six + miles from town, and drove a great trade. + </p> + <p> + The very day I meant to change my lodging a letter was handed to me. It + was from Mr. Leigh, and ran as follows: + </p> + <p> + “The bill of exchange I discounted for you is a forgery, so please to send + me at your earliest convenience the five hundred and twenty guineas; and + if the man who has cheated you will not reimburse the money, have him + arrested. For Heaven’s sake do not force me to have you arrested + to-morrow, and whatever you do make haste, for this may prove a hanging + matter.” + </p> + <p> + Fortunately I was by myself when I received the letter. I fell upon my + bed, and in a moment I was covered with a cold sweat, while I trembled + like a leaf. I saw the gallows before me, for nobody would lend me the + money, and they would not wait for my remittance from Venice to reach me. + </p> + <p> + To my shuddering fit succeeded a burning fever. I loaded my pistols, and + went out with the determination of blowing out Baron Stenau’s brains, or + putting him under arrest if he did not give me the money. I reached his + house, and was informed that he had sailed for Lisbon four days ago. + </p> + <p> + This Baron Stenau was a Livonian, and four months after these events he + was hanged at Lisbon. I only anticipate this little event in his life + because I might possibly forget it when I come to my sojourn at Riga. + </p> + <p> + As soon as I heard he was gone I saw there was no remedy, and that I must + save myself. I had only ten or twelve guineas left, and this sum was + insufficient. I went to Treves, a Venetian Jew to whom I had a letter from + Count Algarotti, the Venetian banker. I did not think of going to + Bosanquet, or Sanhel, or Salvador, who might possibly have got wind of my + trouble, while Treves had no dealings with these great bankers, and + discounted a bill for a hundred sequins readily enough. With the money in + my pocket I made my way to my lodging, while deadly fear dogged every + step. Leigh had given me twenty-four hours’ breathing time, and I did not + think him capable of breaking his word, still it would not do to trust to + it. I did not want to lose my linen nor three fine suits of clothes which + my tailor was keeping for me, and yet I had need of the greatest + promptitude. + </p> + <p> + I called in Jarbe and asked him whether he would prefer to take twenty + guineas and his dismissal, or to continue in my service. I explained that + he would have to wait in London for a week, and join me at the place from + which I wrote to him. + </p> + <p> + “Sir,” said he, “I should like to remain in your service, and I will + rejoin you wherever you please. When are you leaving?” + </p> + <p> + “In an hour’s time; but say not a word, or it will cost me my life.” + </p> + <p> + “Why can’t you take me with you?” + </p> + <p> + “Because I want you to bring my linen which is at the wash, and my clothes + which the tailor is making. I will give you sufficient money for the + journey.” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t want anything. You shall pay me what I have spent when I rejoin + you. Wait a moment.” + </p> + <p> + He went out and came back again directly, and holding out sixty guineas, + said,— + </p> + <p> + “Take this, sir, I entreat you, my credit is good for as much more in case + of need.” + </p> + <p> + “I thank you, my good fellow, but I will not take your money, but be sure + I will not forget your fidelity.” + </p> + <p> + My tailor lived close by and I called on him, and seeing that my clothes + were not yet made up I told him that I should like to sell them, and also + the gold lace that was to be used in the trimming. He instantly gave me + thirty guineas which meant a gain to him of twenty-five per cent. I paid + the week’s rent of my lodging, and after bidding farewell to my negro I + set out with Daturi. We slept at Rochester, as my strength would carry me + no farther. I was in convulsions, and had a sort of delirium. Daturi was + the means of saving my life. + </p> + <p> + I had ordered post-horses to continue our journey, and Daturi of his own + authority sent them back and went for a doctor, who pronounced me to be in + danger of an apoplectic fit and ordered a copious blood-letting, which + restored my calm. Six hours later he pronounced me fit to travel. I got to + Dover early in the morning, and had only half an hour to stop, as the + captain of the packet said that the tide would not allow of any delay. The + worthy sailor little knew how well his views suited mine. I used this half + hour in writing to Jarbe, telling him to rejoin me at Calais, and Mrs. + Mercier, my landlady, to whom I had addressed the letter, wrote to tell me + that she had given it him with her own hands. However, Jarbe did not come. + We shall hear more of this negro in the course of two years. + </p> + <p> + The fever and the virus that was in my blood put me in danger of my life, + and on the third day I was in extremis. A fourth blood-letting exhausted + my strength, and left me in a state of coma which lasted for twenty-four + hours. This was succeeded by a crisis which restored me to life again, but + it was only by dint of the most careful treatment that I found myself able + to continue my journey a fortnight after my arrival in France. + </p> + <p> + Weak in health, grieved at having been the innocent cause of the worthy + Mr. Leigh’s losing a large sum of money, humiliated by my flight from + London, indignant with Jarbe, and angry at being obliged to abandon my + Portuguese project, I got into a post-chaise with Daturi, not knowing + where to turn or where to go, or whether I had many more weeks to live. + </p> + <p> + I had written to Venice asking M. de Bragadin to send the sum I have + mentioned to Brussels instead of London. + </p> + <p> + When I got to Dunkirk, the day after I left Paris, the first person I saw + was the merchant S——, the husband of that Therese whom my + readers may remember, the niece of Tiretta’s mistress, with whom I had + been in love seven years ago. The worthy man recognized me, and seeing his + astonishment at the change in my appearance I told him I was recovering + from a long illness, and then asked after his wife. + </p> + <p> + “She is wonderfully well,” he answered, “and I hope we shall have the + pleasure of seeing you to dinner tomorrow.” + </p> + <p> + I said I wanted to be off at day-break, but he would not hear of it, and + protested he would be quite hurt if I went away without seeing his wife + and his three children. At last I appeased him by saying that we would sup + together. + </p> + <p> + My readers will remember that I had been on the point of marrying Therese, + and this circumstance made me ashamed of presenting myself to her in such + a sorry plight. + </p> + <p> + In a quarter of an hour the husband arrived with his wife and three + children, the eldest of whom looked about six. After the usual greetings + and tiresome enquiries after my health, Therese sent back the two younger + children, rightly thinking that the eldest would be the only one in whom I + should take any interest. He was a charming boy; and as he was exactly + like his mother, the worthy merchant had no doubts as to the parentage of + the child. + </p> + <p> + I laughed to myself at finding my offspring thus scattered all over + Europe. At supper Therese gave me news of Tiretta. He had entered the + Dutch East India Company’s service, but having been concerned in a revolt + at Batavia, he had only escaped the gallows by flight—I had my own + thoughts as to the similarity between his destiny and mine, but I did not + reveal them. After all it is an easy enough matter for an adventurous man, + who does not look where he is going, to get hanged for a mere trifle. + </p> + <p> + The next day, when I got to Tournay, I saw some grooms walking fine horses + up and down, and I asked to whom they belonged. + </p> + <p> + “To the Comte de St. Germain, the adept, who has been here a month, and + never goes out. Everybody who passes through the place wants to see him; + but he is invisible.” + </p> + <p> + This was enough to give me the same desire, so I wrote him a letter, + expressing my wish to speak to him, and asking him to name an hour. His + reply, which I have preserved, ran as follows: + </p> + <p> + “The gravity of my occupation compels me to exclude everyone, but you are + an exception. Come whenever you like, you will be shewn in. You need not + mention my name nor your own. I do not ask you to share my repast, far my + food is not suitable to others—to you least of all, if your appetite + is what it used to be.” + </p> + <p> + At nine o’clock I paid my call, and found he had grown a beard two inches + long. He had a score of retorts before him, full of liquids in various + stages of digestion. He told me he was experimenting with colours for his + own amusement, and that he had established a hat factory for Count + Cobenzl, the Austrian ambassador at Brussels. He added that the count had + only given him a hundred and fifty thousand florins, which were + insufficient. Then we spoke of Madame d’Urfe. + </p> + <p> + “She poisoned herself,” said he, “by taking too strong a dose of the + Universal Medicine, and her will shews that she thought herself to be with + child. If she had come to me, I could have really made her so, though it + is a difficult process, and science has not advanced far enough for us to + be able to guarantee the sex of the child.” + </p> + <p> + When he heard the nature of my disease, he wanted me to stay three days at + Tournay for him to give me fifteen pills, which would effectually cure me, + and restore me to perfect health. Then he shewed me his magistrum, which + he called athoeter. It was a white liquid contained in a well-stoppered + phial. He told me that this liquid was the universal spirit of nature, and + that if the wax on the stopper was pricked ever so lightly, the whole of + the contents would disappear. I begged him to make the experiment. He gave + me the phial and a pin, and I pricked the wax, and to lo! the phial was + empty. + </p> + <p> + “It is very fine,” said I, “but what good is all this?” + </p> + <p> + “I cannot tell you; that is my secret.” + </p> + <p> + He wanted to astonish me before I went, and asked me if I had any money + about me. I took out several pieces and put them on the table. He got up, + and without saying what he was going to do he took a burning coal and put + it on a metal plate, and placed a twelve-sols piece with a small black + grain on the coal. He then blew it, and in two minutes it seemed on fire. + </p> + <p> + “Wait a moment,” said the alchemist, “let it get cool;” and it cooled + almost directly. + </p> + <p> + “Take it; it is yours,” said he. + </p> + <p> + I took up the piece of money and found it had become gold. I felt + perfectly certain that he had smuggled my silver piece away, and had + substituted a gold piece coated with silver for it. I did not care to tell + him as much, but to let him see that I was not taken in, I said,— + </p> + <p> + “It is really very wonderful, but another time you should warn me what you + are going to do, so that the operation might be attentively watched, and + the piece of money noted before being placed on the burning coal.” + </p> + <p> + “Those that are capable of entertaining doubts of my art,” said the rogue, + “are not worthy to speak to me.” + </p> + <p> + This was in his usual style of arrogance, to which I was accustomed. This + was the last time I saw this celebrated and learned impostor; he died at + Schlesing six or seven years after. The piece of money he gave me was pure + gold, and two months after Field-marshal Keith took such a fancy to it + that I gave it him. + </p> + <p> + I left Tournay the next morning, and stopped at Brussels to await the + answer of the letter which I had written to M. de Bragadin. Five days + after I got the letter with a bill of exchange for two hundred ducats. + </p> + <p> + I thought of staying in Brussels to get cured, but Daturi told me that he + had heard from a rope-dancer that his father and mother and the whole + family were at Brunswick, and he persuaded me to go there, assuring me + that I should be carefully looked after. + </p> + <p> + He had not much difficulty in getting me to go to Brunswick, as I was + curious to see again the mother of my godson, so I started the same day. + At Ruremonde I was so ill that I had to stop for thirty-six hours. At + Wesel I wished to get rid of my post-chaise, for the horses of the country + are not used to going between shafts, but what was my surprise to meet + General Bekw—— there. + </p> + <p> + After the usual compliments had passed, and the general had condoled with + me on my weak state of health, he said he should like to buy my chaise and + exchange it for a commodious carriage, in which I could travel all over + Germany. The bargain was soon struck, and the general advised me to stay + at Wesel where there was a clever young doctor from the University of + Leyden, who would understand my case better than the Brunswick physicians. + </p> + <p> + Nothing is easier than to influence a sick man, especially if he be in + search of fortune, and knows not where to look for the fickle goddess. + General Bekw——, who was in garrison at Wesel, sent for Dr. + Pipers, and was present at my confession and even at the examination. + </p> + <p> + I will not revolt my readers by describing the disgusting state in which I + was, suffice it to say that I shudder still when I think of it. + </p> + <p> + The young doctor, who was gentleness personified, begged me to come and + stay with him, promising that his mother and sisters should take the + greatest care of me, and that he would effect a radical cure in the course + of six weeks if I would carry out all his directions. The general advised + me strongly to stay with the doctor, and I agreed all the more readily as + I wished to have some amusement at Brunswick and not to arrive there + deprived of the use of all my limbs. I therefore gave in, but the doctor + would not hear of any agreement. He told me that I could give him whatever + I liked when I went away, and he would certainly be satisfied. He took his + leave to go and make my room ready, and told me to come in an hour’s time. + I went to his house in a sedan-chair, and held a handkerchief before my + face, as I was ashamed that the young doctor’s mother and sisters should + see me in the state I was in. + </p> + <p> + As soon as I got to my room, Daturi undressed me and I went to bed. + </p> + <a name="linkE2HCH0017" id="linkE2HCH0017"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVII + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + My Cure—Daturi is Beaten by Some Soldiers—I Leave Wesel + for Brunswick—Redegonde—Brunswick—The Hereditary Prince— + The Jew—My Stay at Wolfen-Buttel—The Library—Berlin + Calsabigi and the Berlin Lottery—Mdlle. Belanger +</pre> + <a name="linkEimage-0006" id="linkEimage-0006"> + <!-- IMG --></a> + <div class="fig" style="width:80%;"> + <img src="images/5c17.jpg" width="100%" alt="Chapter 17 " /> + </div> + <p> + At supper-time, the doctor, his mother, and one of his sisters came to see + me. All of them bore the love of their kind written on their features; + they assured me that I should have all possible care at their hands. When + the ladies were gone the doctor explained his treatment. He said that he + hoped to cure me by the exhibition of sudorifices and mercurial pills, but + he warned me I must be very careful in my diet and must not apply myself + in any way. I promised to abide by his directions, and he said that he + would read me the newspaper himself twice a week to amuse me, and by way + of a beginning he informed me that the famous Pompadour was dead. + </p> + <p> + Thus I was condemned to a state of perfect rest, but it was not the + remedies or the abstinence I dreaded most; I feared the effects of ennui; + I thought I should die of it. No doubt the doctor saw the danger as well + as myself, for he asked me if I would mind his sister coming and working + in my room occasionally with a few of her friends. I replied that, despite + my shame of shewing myself to young ladies in such a condition, I accepted + her offer with delight. The sister was very grateful for what she was + pleased to call my kindness, for my room was the only one which looked in + the street, and as everyone knows girls are very fond of inspecting the + passers-by. Unfortunately this arrangement turned out ill for Daturi. The + poor young man had only received the education of a mountebank, and it was + tiresome for him to pass all his time in my company. When he saw that I + had plenty of friends, he thought I could dispense with his society, and + only thought of amusing himself. On the third day towards the evening he + was carried home covered with bruises. He had been in the guard-room with + the soldiers, and some quarrel having arisen he had got a severe beating. + He was in a pitiable state; all over blood and with three teeth missing. + He told me the story with tears, and begged me to take vengeance on his + foes. + </p> + <p> + I sent my doctor to General Bekw——, who said that all he could + do was to give the poor man a bed in the hospital. Daturi had no bones + broken, and in a few days was quite well, so I sent him on to Brunswick + with a passport from General Salomon. The loss of his teeth secured him + from the conscription; this, at any rate, was a good thing. + </p> + <p> + The treatment of the young doctor was even more successful than he had + anticipated, for in a month I was perfectly well again, though terribly + thin. The worthy people of the house must have taken an idea of me not in + the least like myself; I was thought to be the most patient of men, and + the sister and her young lady friends must have considered me as modesty + personified; but these virtues only resulted from my illness and my great + depression. If you want to discover the character of a man, view him in + health and freedom; a captive and in sickness he is no longer the same + man. + </p> + <p> + I gave a beautiful dress to the sister, and twenty louis to the doctor, + and both seemed to me extremely satisfied. + </p> + <p> + On the eve of my departure I received a letter from Madame du Rumain, who + had heard I was in want from my friend Baletti, and sent me a bill of + exchange on Amsterdam for six hundred florins. She said I could repay her + at my convenience, but she died before I was able to discharge the debt. + </p> + <p> + Having made up my mind to go to Brunswick, I could not resist the + temptation to pass through Hanover, for whenever I thought of Gabrielle I + loved her still. I did not wish to stop any length of time, for I was poor + and I had to be careful of my health. I only wished to pay her a flying + visit on the estate which her mother had at Stocken, as she had told me. I + may also say that curiosity was a motive for this visit. + </p> + <p> + I had decided to start at day-break in my new carriage, but the fates had + ordained it otherwise. + </p> + <p> + The English general wrote me a note asking me to sup with him, telling me + that some Italians would be present, and this decided me to stay on, but I + had to promise the doctor to observe strict temperance. + </p> + <p> + My surprise may be imagined when I saw the Redegonde and her abominable + mother. The mother did not recognize me at first, but Redegonde knew me + directly, and said,— + </p> + <p> + “Good Heavens! how thin you have become!” + </p> + <p> + I complimented her on her beauty, and indeed she had improved wonderfully. + </p> + <p> + “I have just recovered from a dangerous illness,” said I, “and I am + starting for Brunswick at day-break tomorrow.” + </p> + <p> + “So are we,” she exclaimed, looking at her mother. + </p> + <p> + The general, delighted to find that we knew each other, said we could + travel together. + </p> + <p> + “Hardly, I think,” I replied, “unless the lady-mother has changed her + principles since I knew her.” + </p> + <p> + “I am always the same,” she said, dryly enough; but I only replied with a + glance of contempt. + </p> + <p> + The general held a bank at faro at a small table. There were several other + ladies and some officers, and the stakes were small. He offered me a + place, but I excused myself, saying that I never played while on a + journey. + </p> + <p> + At the end of the deal the general returned to the charge, and said,— + </p> + <p> + “Really, chevalier, this maxim of yours is anti-social; you must play.” + </p> + <p> + So saying he drew several English bank notes from his pocket-book, telling + me they were the same I had given him in London six months ago. + </p> + <p> + “Take your revenge,” he added; “there are four hundred pounds here.” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t want to lose as much as that,” I replied, “but I will risk fifty + pounds to amuse you.” + </p> + <p> + With this I took out the bill of exchange that Madame du Rumain had sent + me. + </p> + <p> + The general went on dealing, and at the third deal I found I was fifty + guineas to the good, and with that I was satisfied. Directly afterwards + supper was announced, and we went into the dining-room. + </p> + <p> + Redegonde, who had learnt French admirably, kept everybody amused. She had + been engaged by the Duke of Brunswick as second singer, and she had come + from Brussels. She bemoaned her journey in the uncomfortable post-chaise, + and expressed a fear that she would be ill by the time she got to her + journey’s end. + </p> + <p> + “Why, there’s the Chevalier Seingalt all alone in a most comfortable + carriage,” said the general. + </p> + <p> + Redegonde smiled. + </p> + <p> + “How many people will your carriage hold?” + </p> + <p> + “Only two.” + </p> + <p> + “Then it’s out of the question, for I never let my daughter travel alone + with anybody.” + </p> + <p> + A general burst of laughter, in which Redegonde joined, seemed to confuse + the mother in some degree; but like a good daughter Redegonde explained + that her mother was always afraid of her being assassinated. + </p> + <p> + The evening passed away in pleasant conversation, and the younger singer + did not need much persuasion to seat herself at the piano, where she sang + in a manner that won genuine applause. + </p> + <p> + When I wanted to go the general begged me to breakfast with him, saying + that the post-chaise did not go till twelve, and that this act of + politeness was due to my young fellow-countrywoman. Redegonde joined in, + reproaching me with my behaviour at Turin and Florence, though she had + nothing really to complain of. I gave in, and feeling that I wanted rest I + went to bed. + </p> + <p> + The next morning, at nine o’clock, I took leave of the worthy doctor and + his family and walked to the general’s, giving orders that my carriage + should be brought round as soon as it was ready. + </p> + <p> + In half an hour Redegonde and her mother arrived, and I was astonished to + see them accompanied by the brother who had been my servant at Florence. + </p> + <p> + When breakfast was over my carriage stood at the door, and I made my bow + to the general and all the company, who were standing in the hall to see + me off. Redegonde came down the steps with me, and asked if my carriage + was comfortable, and then got into it. I got in after her without the + slightest premeditation, and the postillion, seeing the carriage full, + gave a crack with his whip and we were off, Redegonde shrieking with + laughter. I was on the point of telling him to stop, but seeing her + enjoyment of the drive I held my tongue, only waiting for her to say, “I + have had enough.” But I waited in vain, and we had gone over half a league + before she said a word. + </p> + <p> + “I have laughed, and laugh still,” she said, “when I think of what my + mother will say at this freak of mine. I had no intentions in getting into + the carriage, and I am sure you cannot have told the postillion to drive + on.” + </p> + <p> + “You may be quite sure of that.” + </p> + <p> + “All the same my mother will believe it to be a deeply-laid plan, and that + strikes me as amusing.” + </p> + <p> + “So it is; I am quite satisfied, certainly. Now you are here you had + better come on with me to Brunswick; you will be more comfortable than in + a villainous stage coach.” + </p> + <p> + “I should be delighted, but that would be pushing matters too far. No, we + will stop at the first stage and wait for the coach.” + </p> + <p> + “You may do so if you please, but you will excuse my waiting.” + </p> + <p> + “What! you would leave me all alone?” + </p> + <p> + “You know, dear Redegonde, that I have always loved you, and I am ready to + take you with me to Brunswick; what more can I say?” + </p> + <p> + “If you love me you will wait with me and restore me to my mother, who + must be in despair.” + </p> + <p> + “In spite of my devotion I am afraid I cannot do so.” + </p> + <p> + Instead of turning sulky the young madcap began to laugh again; and I + determined she should come with me to Brunswick. + </p> + <p> + When we got to the end of the stage there were no horses ready. I arranged + matters with the postillion, and after baiting the horses we set out once + more. The roads were fearful, and we did not come to the second + posting-stage till nightfall. + </p> + <p> + We might have slept there, but not wishing to be caught up by the coach + and to lose my prize, I ordered fresh horses and we resumed our journey in + spite of Redegonde’s tears and supplications. We travelled all night and + reached Lippstadt in the early morning, and in spite of the + unseasonableness of the hour I ordered something to eat. Redegonde wanted + a rest, as indeed did I, but she had to give way when I said caressingly + that we could sleep at Minden. Instead of scolding me she began to smile, + and I saw she guessed what she had to expect; in fact, when we got to + Minden we had supper, and then went to bed together as man and wife, and + stayed in bed for five hours. She was quite kind, and only made me entreat + her for form’s sake. + </p> + <p> + We got to Hanover and put up at an excellent inn where we had a choice + meal, and where I found the waiter who was at the inn in Zurich when I + waited on the ladies at table. Miss Chudleigh had dined there with the + Duke of Kingston, and they had gone on to Berlin. + </p> + <p> + We had a beautiful French bed in which to spend the night, and in the + morning we were awakened by the noise of the stage coach. Redegonde not + wishing to be surprised in my arms rang the bell and told the waiter by no + means to admit the lady who would come out of the coach and ask to be + shewn in directly; but her precaution was vain, for, as the waiter went + out, the mother and son came in, and we were taken in ‘flagrante delicto’. + </p> + <p> + I told them to wait outside, and getting up in my shirt I locked the door. + The mother began to abuse me and her daughter, and threatened me with + criminal proceedings if I did not give her up. Redegonde, however, calmed + her by telling her the story, and she believed, or pretended to believe, + it was all chance; but she said,— + </p> + <p> + “That’s all very well; but you can’t deny, you little slut, that you have + been sleeping with him.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, there’s no harm in that, for you know, dear mamma, nobody does + anything asleep.” + </p> + <p> + Without giving her the time to reply she threw her arms round her neck and + promised to go on with her in the coach. + </p> + <p> + After things had been thus settled, I dressed myself, and gave them all a + good breakfast, and went on my way to Brunswick, where I arrived a few + hours before them. + </p> + <p> + Redegonde had deprived me of my curiosity to see Gabrielle; besides, in + the condition I was in, my vanity would have suffered grievously. As soon + as I had settled in a good inn I sent for Daturi, who came immediately, + elegantly dressed, and very anxious to introduce to me a certain Signor + Nicolini, theatrical manager. This Nicolini understood his craft + perfectly, and was high in favour with the prince to whom his daughter + Anna was mistress. He gave me a distinguished and a cordial greeting, and + was very anxious that I should stay with him, but I was able to escape the + constraint of such an arrangement without giving him any offense. I + accepted his offer to take my meals at his table, which was furnished by + an excellent cook and surrounded by a distinguished company. Here was no + gathering of men of title, with the cold and haughty manners of the Court, + all were talented, and such company to my mind was delightful. + </p> + <p> + I was not well, and I was not rich, or else I should have made a longer + stay at Brunswick, which had its charms for me. But we will not + anticipate, though as old age steals on a man he is never tired of + dwelling again and again on the incidents of his past life, in spite of + his desire to arrest the sands which run out so quickly. + </p> + <p> + The third day after my arrival at Brunswick, Redegonde knowing that I was + dining at Nicolini’s came there too. Everybody had found out, somehow or + other, that we had travelled from Wesel to Hanover together, and they were + at liberty to draw whatever conclusions they pleased. + </p> + <p> + Two days later the crown prince arrived from Potsdam on a visit to his + future bride, the daughter of the reigning duke, whom he married the year + after. + </p> + <p> + The Court entertained in the most magnificent manner, and the hereditary + prince, now the reigning duke, honoured me with an invitation. I had met + his highness at an assembly in Soho Square, the day after he had been made + a London citizen. + </p> + <p> + It was twenty-two years since I had been in love with Daturi’s mother. I + was curious to see the ravages which time had worked on her, but I had + reason to repent of my visit, for she had grown terribly ugly. She knew it + herself, and a blush of shame appeared on those features which had once + been fair. + </p> + <p> + The prince had an army of six thousand foot in good condition. This army + was to be reviewed on a plain at a little distance from the town, and I + went to see the spectacle, and was rewarded by having rain dripping down + my back the whole time. Among the numerous spectators were many persons of + fashion, ladies in handsome dresses, and a good sprinkling of foreigners. + I saw the Honourable Miss Chudleigh, who honoured me by addressing me, and + asked me, amongst other questions, how long I had left London. She was + dressed in Indian muslin, and beneath it she only wore a chemise of fine + cambric, and by the time the rain had made her clothes cling to her body + she looked more than naked, but she did not evince any confusion. Most of + the ladies sheltered themselves from the rain under elegant tents which + had been erected. + </p> + <p> + The troops, who took no notice of the weather, executed their manoeuvres, + and fired their muskets in a manner which seemed to satisfy good judges. + </p> + <p> + There was nothing further to attract me at Brunswick, and I thought of + spending the summer at Berlin, which I concluded would be more amusing + than a small provincial town. Wanting an overcoat I bought the material + from a Jew, who offered to discount bills of exchange for me if I had any. + I had the bill which Madame du Rumain had sent me, and finding that it + would be convenient for me to get it discounted, I gave it to the + Israelite, who cashed it, deducting commission at the ordinary rate of two + per cent. The letter was payable to the order of the Chevalier de + Seingalt, and with that name I endorsed it. + </p> + <p> + I thought no more of the matter, but early the next day the same Jew + called on me, and told me that I must either return him his money, or give + sureties for the amount till he had ascertained whether the bill was a + forgery or not. + </p> + <p> + I was offended at this piece of impertinence, and feeling certain that the + bill was a good one I told the fellow that he might set his mind at rest + and let me alone, as I should not give him any sureties. + </p> + <p> + “I must either have the money or the surety,” said he, “and if you refuse + I will have you arrested; your character is well known.” + </p> + <p> + This was too much for me, and raising my cane I gave him a blow on the + head which he must have felt for many a long day. I then dressed and dined + with Nicolini, without thinking or speaking of this disagreeable incident. + </p> + <p> + The next day as I was taking a walk outside the town walls, I met the + prince on horseback, followed by a single groom. I bowed to him as he + passed, but he came up to me and said,— + </p> + <p> + “You are leaving Brunswick, chevalier?” + </p> + <p> + “In two or three days, your highness.” + </p> + <p> + “I heard this morning that a Jew has brought a complaint against you for + beating him because he asked you to give him security for a bill of + exchange which he was afraid of.” + </p> + <p> + “My lord, I cannot answer for the effects of my indignation against a + rascal who dared to come and insult me in my own house, but I do know that + if I had given him security I should have impugned my own honour. The + impertinent scoundrel threatened to have me arrested, but I know that a + just Government rules here, and not arbitrary power.” + </p> + <p> + “You are right; it would be unjust to have you arrested, but he is afraid + for his ducats.” + </p> + <p> + “He need not be afraid, my lord, for the bill is drawn by a person of + honour and of high station in society.” + </p> + <p> + “I am delighted to hear it. The Jew said he would never have discounted + the bill if you had not mentioned my name.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s a lie! Your highness’ name never passed, my lips.” + </p> + <p> + “He also says that you endorsed the bill with a false name.” + </p> + <p> + “Then he lies again, for I signed myself Seingalt, and that name is mine.” + </p> + <p> + “In short, it is a case of a Jew who has been beaten, and is afraid of + being duped. I pity such an animal, and I must see what I can do to + prevent his keeping you here till he learns the fate of the bill at + Amsterdam. As I have not the slightest doubt as to the goodness of the + bill, I will take it up myself, and this very morning: thus you will be + able to leave when you like. Farewell, chevalier! I wish you a pleasant + journey.” + </p> + <p> + With this compliment the prince left me, without giving me time to answer + him. I might have felt inclined to tell him that by taking up the bill he + would give the Jew and everyone else to understand that it was a favour + done to me, to the great hurt of my honour, and that consequently I should + be obliged by his doing nothing of the kind. But though the prince was a + man of generosity and magnanimity, he was deficient in that delicate + quality which we call tact. This defect, common amongst princes, arises + from their education, which places them above the politeness which is + considered necessary in ordinary mortals. + </p> + <p> + He could not have treated me worse than he did, if he had been certain of + my dishonesty, and wished me to understand that I was forgiven, and that + he would bear all the consequences of my misdemeanour. With this idea in + my head, I said to myself; “Perhaps, indeed, this is exactly what the + prince does think. Is it the Jew or me that he pities? If the latter, I + think I must give him a lesson, though I do not wish to cause him any + humiliation.” + </p> + <p> + Feeling deeply humiliated myself, and pondering on my position, I walked + away, directing my attention especially to the duke’s concluding words. I + thought his wish for a pleasant journey supremely out of place, under the + circumstances, in the mouth of one who enjoyed almost absolute power. It + was equivalent to an order to leave the town, and I felt indignant at the + thought. + </p> + <p> + I therefore resolved to vindicate my honour by neither going away nor + remaining. + </p> + <p> + “If I stay,” I said to myself, “the Jew will be adjudged to be in the + right; and if I go the duke will think I have profited by his favour, and + so to speak, by his present of fifty louis if the bill were protested. I + will not let anyone enjoy a satisfaction which is no one due.” + </p> + <p> + After these considerations, which I thought worthy of a wiser head than + mine, I packed up my trunk, ordered horses, and after a good dinner and + the payment of my bill I went to Wolfenbuttel with the idea of spending + week there. I was sure of finding amusement, for Wolfenbuttel contains the + third largest library in Europe, and I had long been anxious to see it. + </p> + <p> + The learned librarian, whose politeness was all the better for being + completely devoid of affection, told me that not only could I have + whatever books I wished to see, but that I could take them to my lodging, + not even excepting the manuscripts, which are the chief feature in that + fine library. + </p> + <p> + I spent a week in the library, only leaving it to take my meals and go to + bed, and I count this week as one of the happiest I have ever spent, for + then I forgot myself completely; and in the delight of study, the past, + the present, and the future were entirely blotted out. Of some such sort, + I think, must be the joys of the redeemed; and now I see that only a few + trifling little circumstances and incidents were wanting to make me a + perfect sage. And here I must note a circumstance which my readers may + scarcely believe, but which, for all that, is quite true—namely, that I + have always preferred virtue to vice, and that when I sinned I did so out + of mere lightness of heart, for which, no doubt, I shall be blamed by many + persons. But, no matter—a man has only to give an account of his + actions to two beings, to himself here and to God hereafter. + </p> + <p> + At Wolfenbuttel I gathered a good many hints on the “Iliad” and “Odyssey,” + which will not be found in any commentator, and of which the great Pope + knew nothing. Some of these considerations will be found in my translation + of the “Iliad,” the rest are still in manuscript, and will probably never + see the light. However, I burn nothing, not even these Memoirs, though I + often think of doing so, but the time never comes. + </p> + <p> + At the end of the week I returned to the same inn at Brunswick which I had + occupied before, and let my godson Daturi know of my arrival. + </p> + <p> + I was delighted to hear that no one suspected that I had spent the + fortnight within five leagues of Brunswick. Daturi told me that the + general belief was that I had returned the Jew his money and got the bill + of exchange back. Nevertheless I felt sure that the bill had been honoured + at Amsterdam, and that the duke knew that I had been staying at + Wolfenbuttel. + </p> + <p> + Daturi told me that Nicolini was expecting to see me at dinner, and I was + not astonished to hear of it, for I had not taken leave of anyone. I + accordingly went, and the following incident, which served to justify me + in the eyes of all men, took place: + </p> + <p> + We were at the roast when one of the prince’s servants came in with the + Jew I had beaten. The poor man came up humbly to me, and spoke as follows: + </p> + <p> + “I am ordered to come here, sir, to apologize for suspecting the + authenticity of the bill of exchange you gave me. I have been punished by + being fined the amount of my commission.” + </p> + <p> + “I wish that had been your only punishment,” said I. + </p> + <p> + He made me a profound bow, and went out, saying that I was only too good. + </p> + <p> + When I got back to the inn, I found a letter from Redegonde in which she + reproached me tenderly for not having been once to see her all the time I + had been at Brunswick, and begging me to breakfast with her in a little + country house. + </p> + <p> + “I shall not be in my mother’s company,” she added, “but in that of a + young lady of your acquaintance, whom, I am sure, you will be glad to see + once more.” + </p> + <p> + I liked Redegonde, and I had only neglected her at Brunswick because my + means did not allow my making her a handsome present. I resolved to accept + her invitation, my curiosity being rather stimulated by the account of the + young lady. + </p> + <p> + I was exact at the time indicated, and I found Redegonde looking charming + in a pretty room on the ground floor, and with her was a young artiste + whom I had known as a child shortly before I had been put under the Leads. + I pretended to be delighted to see her, but I was really quite taken up + with Redegonde, and congratulated her upon her pretty house. She said she + had taken it for six months, but did not sleep there. After coffee had + been served we were on the point of going out for a stroll, when who + should come in but the prince. He smiled pleasantly when he saw us, and + apologized to Redegonde for interrupting our little party. + </p> + <p> + The appearance of the prince enlightened me as to the position of my + delightful fellow countrywoman, and I understood why she had been so + precise about the time at which I was to come. Redegonde had made the + conquest of the worthy prince, who was always disposed to gallantry, but + felt it his duty during the first year of his marriage with the King of + England’s sister to preserve some kind of incognito in his amours. + </p> + <p> + We spent an hour in walking up and down and talking of London and Berlin, + but nothing was said of the Jew or the bill of exchange. He was delighted + with my warm eulogium of his library at Wolfenbuttel, and laughed with all + his heart when I said that unless it had been for the intellectual + nourishment I enjoyed, the bad fare at the inn would certainly have + reduced me to half my present size. + </p> + <p> + After bidding a graceful farewell to the nymph, the prince left us, and we + heard him galloping away on his horse. + </p> + <p> + When I was alone with Redegonde, far from begging for new favours, I + advised her to be faithful to the prince; but though appearances were + certainly not deceitful in this case, she would not admit anything. This + was in accordance with her part as young mistress, and I did not reproach + her for her want of confidence. + </p> + <p> + I spent the rest of the day at the inn, and started the next morning at + day-break. + </p> + <p> + When I got to Magdeburg, I took a letter of introduction from General Bekw—— + to an officer. He shewed me the fortress, and kept me for three days + making me taste all the pleasures of the table, women, and gaming. + However, I was very moderate, and managed to increase my savings in a + small degree, contenting myself with modest wagers. + </p> + <p> + From Magdeburg I went straight to Berlin, without caring to stop at + Potsdam, as the king was not there. The fearful Prussian roads with their + sandy soil made me take three days to do eighteen Prussian miles. Prussia + is a country of which much could be made with labour and capital, but I do + not think it will ever become a really fine country. + </p> + <p> + I put up at the “Hotel de Paris,” which was both comfortable and + economical. Madame Rufin who kept it had entered into the spirit of her + business without losing her French politeness, and thus the inn had got a + reputation. As soon as I was in my room she came to ask me if I were + satisfied, and to make divers arrangements for my comfort. There was a + table d’hote, and those who ate in their private rooms paid double. + </p> + <p> + “This arrangement,” I said, “may suit you, but for the present it will not + suit me. I want to dine in my own room, but I don’t want to pay double; I + will therefore pay as if I were in the public room, but if you like you + need only send me up half the number of dishes.” + </p> + <p> + “I agree, on the condition that you sup with me; we will not put it in the + accounts, and you will only meet friends at my little suppers.” + </p> + <p> + I thought her proposal so curious a one that I had a great inclination to + laugh, but finding it at the same time very advantageous I accepted + frankly, and as if we had long been friends. + </p> + <p> + On the first day I was tired, and did not sup with her till the day + following. Madame Rufin had a husband who attended to the cooking, and a + son, but neither of them came to these suppers. The first time I went to + one of them I met an elderly but agreeable and sensible gentleman. He + lodged in a room adjoining mine, and called himself Baron Treidel; his + sister had married the Duke of Courland, Jean Ernest Biron, or Birlen. The + baron, who was extremely pleasant, became my friend, and remained so for + the couple of months I spent in Berlin. I also met a Hamburg merchant, + named Greve, and his wife, whom he had just married and had brought to + Berlin that she might see the marvels of the Warrior-King’s Court. She was + as pleasant as her husband, and I paid her an assiduous court. A lively + and high-spirited individual called Noel, who was the sole and beloved + cook of his Prussian Majesty, was the fourth person. He only came rarely + to the suppers on account of his duties in the king’s kitchen. As I have + said, his majesty had only this one cook, and Noel had only one scullion + to help him. + </p> + <p> + M. Noel, the ambassador of the French Republic at the Hague, is, as I am + assured, the son of this cook, who was an excellent man. And here I must + say, in despite of my hatred for the French Revolutionary Government, that + I am not at all ill pleased that a man of talents should be enabled to + fill exalted offices, which under the old system of privilege were often + occupied by fools. + </p> + <p> + If it had not been for the culinary skill of Noel the cook, the famous + Atheist physician Lametrie would not have died of indigestion, for the pie + he succeeded in eating in his extremity was made by Noel. + </p> + <p> + Lametrie often supped with Madame Rufin and I thought it disobliging of + him to die so soon, for I should have liked to know him, as he was a + learned man and full of mirth. He expired laughing, though it is said that + death from indigestion is the most painful of all. Voltaire told me that + he thought Lametrie the most obstinate Atheist in the world, and I could + easily believe it after reading his works. The King of Prussia himself + pronounced his funeral oration, using the words, “It is not wonderful that + he only believed in the existence of matter, for all the spirit in the + world was enclosed in his own body.” No one but a king would venture on + such a sally in a funeral oration. However, Frederick the Great was a + Deist and not an Atheist; but that is of little consequence, since he + never allowed the belief in a God to influence his actions in the + slightest degree. Some say that an Atheist who ponders over the possible + existence of a God is better than a Deist who never thinks of the Deity, + but I will not venture to decide this point. + </p> + <p> + The first visit I paid in Berlin was to Calsabigi, the younger brother of + the Calsabigi with whom I had founded the lottery in Paris in 1757. He had + left Paris and his wife too, and had set up a lottery in Brussels; but his + extravagance was so great that he became a bankrupt in spite of the + efforts of Count Cobenzl to keep him going. He fled from Brussels to + Berlin, and was introduced to the King of Prussia. He was a plausible + speaker, and persuaded the monarch to establish a lottery, to make him the + manager, and to give him the title of Counsellor of State. He promised + that the lottery should bring in an annual revenue of at least two hundred + thousand crowns, and only asked a percentage of ten per cent. for himself. + </p> + <p> + The lottery had been going for two years, and had had a great success, as + hitherto it had had no large losses; but the king, who knew that the luck + might turn, was always in a fidget about it. With this idea he told + Calsabigi that he must carry it on on his own responsibility and pay him a + hundred thousand crowns per annum, that being the cost of his Italian + Theatre. + </p> + <p> + I happened to call on Calsabigi on the very day on which the king + intimated to him this decision. After talking over our old relationship + and the vicissitudes we had both experienced, he told me what had + happened; it seemed an unexpected blow to him. The next drawing, he said, + would be at the king’s risk; but the public would have to be informed that + in future the lottery would be a private one. He wanted capital to the + amount of two million crowns, for he foresaw that otherwise the lottery + would collapse, as people would not risk their money without the certainty + of being paid in the event of their winning. He said he would guarantee me + an income of ten thousand crowns per annum if I succeeded in making the + king change his mind, and by way of encouragement he recalled to my mind + the effect of my persuasive powers at Paris seven years before. + </p> + <p> + “‘Tis a good omen,” said he, “and without any superstition I believe that + the good genius of the lottery has brought me to Berlin just now.” + </p> + <p> + I laughed at his illusions, but I pitied him. I shewed him the + impossibility of convincing an individual whose only argument was, “I am + afraid, and I don’t wish to be afraid any longer.” He begged me to stay to + dinner and introduced me to his wife. This was a double surprise for me, + in the first place because I thought General La Motte, as his first wife + was called, to be still living, and in the second place because I + recognized in this second wife of his, Mdlle. Belanger. I addressed the + usual compliments to her and enquired after her mother. She replied with a + profound sigh, and told me not to ask any questions about her family as + she had only bad news to tell me. + </p> + <p> + I had known Madame Belanger at Paris; she was a widow with one daughter, + and seemed to be well off. Now I saw this daughter, pretty enough and well + married, and yet in this doleful humour, and I felt embarrassed and yet + curious. + </p> + <p> + After Calsabigi had placed me in a position to entertain a high opinion of + the skill of his cook, he shewed me his horses and carriages, begging me + to take a drive with his wife and come back to supper, which, as he said, + was his best meal. + </p> + <p> + When we were in the carriage together, the necessity of talking about + something led me to ask the lady by what happy chain of circumstances she + found herself the wife of Calsabigi. + </p> + <p> + “His real wife is still alive, so I have not the misfortune of occupying + that position, but everyone in Berlin thinks I am his lawful wife. Three + years ago I was deprived of my mother and the means of livelihood at one + stroke, for my mother had an annuity. None of my relations were rich + enough to help me, and wishing to live virtuously above all things I + subsisted for two years on the sale of my mother’s furniture, boarding + with a worthy woman who made her living by embroidery. I learnt her art, + and only went out to mass on Sundays. I was a prey to melancholy, and when + I had spent all I had I went to M. Brea, a Genoese, on whom I thought I + could rely. I begged him to get me a place as a mere waiting-maid, + thinking that I was tolerably competent for such a position. He promised + to do what he could for me, and five or six days afterwards he made me the + following proposal: + </p> + <p> + “He read me a letter from Calsabigi, of whom I had never heard, in which + he charged him to send a virtuous young lady to Berlin. She must be of + good birth, good education, and pleasant appearance, as when his aged and + infirm wife died he intended to marry her. + </p> + <p> + “As such a person would most probably be badly off, Calsabigi begged M. + Brea to give her fifty Louis to buy clothes and linen and fifty Louis to + journey to Berlin with a maid. M. Brea was also authorized to promise that + the young lady should hold the position of Calsabigi’s wife, and be + presented in that character to all his friends; that she should have a + waiting-maid, a carriage, an allowance of clothes, and a certain monthly + amount as pin-money to be spent as she chose. He promised, if the + arrangement was not found suitable, to set her free at the end of a year, + giving her a hundred Louis, and leaving her in possession of whatever + money she might have saved, and such clothes and jewels as he might have + given her; in fine, if the lady agreed to live with him till he was able + to marry her, Calsabigi promised to execute a deed of gift in her favour + to the amount of ten thousand crowns which the public would believe to be + her dowry, and if he died before being able to marry her she would have a + right to claim the aforesaid sum from his estate. + </p> + <p> + “With such fine promises did Brea persuade me to leave my native country + to come and dishonour myself here, for though everybody treats me as if I + were his wife, it is probably known that I am only his mistress. I have + been here for six months, and I have never had an instant’s happiness.” + </p> + <p> + “Has he not kept the conditions you have mentioned?” + </p> + <p> + “Conditions! Calsabigi’s state of health will kill him long before his + wife, and in that case I shall have nothing, for he is loaded with debt, + and his creditors would have the first claim on the estate. Besides, I do + not like him; and the reason is that he loves me too much. You can + understand that; his devotion worries me.” + </p> + <p> + “At all events, you can return to Paris in six months’ time, or, in fact, + do anything you like when the term stipulated has expired. You will get + your hundred louis, and can lay in a pretty stock of linen.” + </p> + <p> + “If I go to Paris I shall be dishonoured, and if I remain here I shall be + dishonoured. In fact, I am very unhappy, and Brea is the cause of my woe. + Nevertheless, I can’t blame him, as he could not have been aware that his + friend’s property only consisted of debts. And now the king has withdrawn + his countenance, the lottery will fail, and Calsabigi will inevitably + become a bankrupt.” + </p> + <p> + She had studiously refrained from exaggeration, and I could not help + confessing that she was to be pitied. I advised her to try and sell the + deed of gift for ten thousand crowns, as it was not likely he would raise + any objection. + </p> + <p> + “I have thought it over,” said she, “but to do that I have need of a + friend; of course, I do not expect to dispose of it save at a great loss.” + </p> + <p> + I promised to see what I could do for her. + </p> + <p> + There were four of us at supper. The fourth person was a young man who had + helped in the Paris and Brussels Lotteries, and had followed Calsabigi to + Berlin. He was evidently in love with Mdlle. Belanger, but I did not think + his love was crowned with success. + </p> + <p> + At dessert Calsabigi begged me to give him my opinion of a scheme he had + drafted, the aim of which was to bring in a sum of two million crowns, so + that the credit of the lottery might remain secure. + </p> + <p> + The lady left us to talk business at our ease. She was between twenty-four + and twenty-five, and without having much wit she possessed a great + knowledge of the usages of society, which is better than wit in a woman; + in fine, she had all that a man could well desire. The sentiments I felt + for her were confined to those of friendship and esteem after the + confidence she had placed in me. + </p> + <p> + Calsabigi’s project was brief, but clear and well imagined. He invited + capitalists not to speculate in the lottery, but to guarantee it for a + certain sum. In the case of the lottery’s losing, each guarantor would + have to share in paying according to the sum named, and in like manner + they would share in the profits. + </p> + <p> + I promised to give him my opinion in writing by the next day, and I + substituted the following plan for his: + </p> + <p> + 1. A capital of a million, would, I judged, be ample. + </p> + <p> + 2. This million should be divided into a hundred shares of ten thousand + crowns each. + </p> + <p> + 3. Each share must be taken up before a notary, who would answer for the + shareholder’s solvency. + </p> + <p> + 4. All dividends to be paid the third day after the drawing. + </p> + <p> + 5. In case of loss the shareholder to renew his share. + </p> + <p> + 6. A cashier, chosen by a majority of four-fifths of the shareholders, to + have the control of all moneys. + </p> + <p> + 7. Winning tickets to be paid the day after the drawing. + </p> + <p> + 8. On the eve of a drawing the shareholders’ cashier to have an account of + receipts from the lottery cashier, and the former to lock the safe with + three keys, one of which to remain in his hands, one in the hands of the + lottery cashier, and one in the hands of the manager of the lottery. + </p> + <p> + 9. Only the simple drawing, the ambe and the terne to be retained; the + quarterne and the quine to be abolished. + </p> + <p> + 10. On the three combinations a shilling to be the minimum, and a crown + the maximum stake; the offices to be closed twenty-four hours before the + drawing. + </p> + <p> + 11. Ten per cent. to go to Calsabigi, the manager; all expenses of farming + to be paid by him. + </p> + <p> + 12. Calsabigi to be entitled to the possession of two shares, without a + guarantee being required. + </p> + <p> + I saw by Calsabigi’s face that the plan did not please him, but I told him + that he would not get shareholders save on these terms, or on terms even + less favourable to himself. + </p> + <p> + He had degraded the lottery to the level of biribi; his luxury and + extravagance caused him to be distrusted; it was known that he was head + over ears in debt, and the king could not banish the fear that he would be + cheated in spite of the keenness of his comptroller-general. + </p> + <p> + The last drawing under the king’s sanction made everyone in good spirits, + for the lottery lost twenty thousand crowns. The king sent the money + immediately by a privy councillor, but it was said, when he heard the + result of the drawing, that he burst out laughing, observing,— + </p> + <p> + “I knew it would be so, and I am only too happy to have got quit of it so + cheaply.” + </p> + <p> + I thought it my duty to go and sup with the director to console him, and I + found him in a state of great depression. He could not help thinking that + his unhappy drawing would make the task of getting shareholders more + difficult than ever. Hitherto the lottery had always been a gainer, but + its late loss could not have come at a worse time. + </p> + <p> + Nevertheless, he did not lose heart, and the next morning the public were + informed by printed bills that the office would remain closed till a + sufficient number of guarantors were found. + </p> + <a name="linkE2HCH0018" id="linkE2HCH0018"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVIII + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Lord Keith—My Appointment to Meet the King in the Garden of + Sans-Souci—My Conversation with Frederick the Great—Madame + Denis The Pomeranian Cadets—Lambert—I Go to Mitau My + Welcome at the Court, and My Administrative Journey +</pre> + <p> + The fifth day after my arrival at Berlin I presented myself to the + lord-marshal, who since the death of his brother had been styled Lord + Keith. I had seen him in London after his return from Scotland, where he + had been reinstated in the family estates, which had been confiscated for + Jacobinism. Frederick the Great was supposed to have brought this about. + Lord Keith lived at Berlin, resting on his laurels, and enjoying the + blessings of peace. + </p> + <p> + With his old simplicity of manner he told me he was glad to see me again, + and asked if I proposed making any stay at Berlin. I replied that I would + willingly do so if the king would give me a suitable office. I asked him + if he would speak a word in my favour; but he replied that the king liked + to judge men’s characters for himself, and would often discover merit + where no one had suspected its presence, and vice versa. + </p> + <p> + He advised me to intimate to the king in writing that I desired to have + the honour of an interview. “When you speak to him,” the good old man + added, “you may say that you know me, and the king will doubtless address + me on the subject, and you may be sure what I say shall not be to your + disadvantage.” + </p> + <p> + “But, my lord, how can I write to a monarch of whom I know nothing, and + who knows nothing of me? I should not have thought of such a step.” + </p> + <p> + “I daresay, but don’t you wish to speak to him?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly.” + </p> + <p> + “That is enough. Your letter will make him aware of your desire and + nothing more.” + </p> + <p> + “But will he reply?” + </p> + <p> + “Undoubtedly; he replies to everybody. He will tell you when and where he + will see you. His Majesty is now at Sans-Souci. I am curious to know the + nature of your interview with the monarch who, as you can see, is not + afraid of being imposed on.” + </p> + <p> + When I got home I wrote a plain but respectful letter to the king, asking + where and at what time I could introduce myself to him. + </p> + <p> + In two days I received a letter signed “Frederick,” in which the receipt + of my letter was acknowledged, and I was told that I should find his + majesty in the garden of Sans-Souci at four o’clock. + </p> + <p> + As may be imagined I was punctual to my appointment. I was at Sans-Souci + at three, clad in a simple black dress. When I got into the court-yard + there was not so much as a sentinel to stop me, so I went on mounted a + stair, and opened a door in front of me. I found myself in a + picture-gallery, and the curator came up to me and offered to shew me over + it. + </p> + <p> + “I have not come to admire these masterpieces,” I replied, “but to see the + king, who informed me in writing that I should find him in the garden.” + </p> + <p> + “He is now at a concert playing the flute; he does so every day after + dinner. Did he name any time?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, four o’clock, but he will have forgotten that.” + </p> + <p> + “The king never forgets anything; he will keep the appointment, and you + will do well to go into the garden and await him.” + </p> + <p> + I had been in the garden for some minutes when I saw him appear, followed + by his reader and a pretty spaniel. As soon as he saw me he accosted me, + taking off his old hat, and pronouncing my name. Then he asked in a + terrible voice what I wanted of him. This greeting surprised me, and my + voice stuck in my throat. + </p> + <p> + “Well, speak out. Are you not the person who wrote to me?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sire, but I have forgotten everything now. I thought that I should + not be awed by the majesty of a king, but I was mistaken. My lord-marshal + should have warned me.” + </p> + <p> + “Then he knows you? Let us walk. What is it that you want? What do you + think of my garden?” + </p> + <p> + His enquiries after my needs and of his garden were simultaneous. To any + other person I should have answered that I did not know anything about + gardening, but this would have been equivalent to refusing to answer the + question; and no monarch, even if he be a philosopher, could endure that. + I therefore replied that I thought the garden superb. + </p> + <p> + “But,” he said, “the gardens of Versailles are much finer.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sire, but that is chiefly on account of the fountains.” + </p> + <p> + “True, but it is not my fault; there is no water here. I have spent more + than three hundred thousand crowns to get water, but unsuccessfully.” + </p> + <p> + “Three hundred thousand crowns, sire! If your majesty had spent them all + at once, the fountains should be here.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, oh! I see you are acquainted with hydraulics.” + </p> + <p> + I could not say that he was mistaken, for fear of offending him, so I + simply bent my head, which might mean either yes or no. Thank God the king + did not trouble to test my knowledge of the science of hydraulics, with + which I was totally unacquainted. + </p> + <p> + He kept on the move all the time, and as he turned his head from one side + to the other hurriedly asked me what forces Venice could put into the + field in war time. + </p> + <p> + “Twenty men-of-war, sire, and a number of galleys.” + </p> + <p> + “What are the land forces?” + </p> + <p> + “Seventy thousand men, sire; all of whom are subjects of the Republic, and + assessing each village at one man.” + </p> + <p> + “That is not true; no doubt you wish to amuse me by telling me these + fables. Give me your opinions on taxation.” + </p> + <p> + This was the first conversation I had ever had with a monarch. I made a + rapid review of the situation, and found myself much in the same position + as an actor of the improvised comedy of the Italians, who is greeted by + the hisses of the gods if he stops short a moment. I therefore replied + with all the airs of a doctor of finance that I could say something about + the theory of taxation. + </p> + <p> + “That’s what I want,” he replied, “for the practice is no business of + yours.” + </p> + <p> + “There are three kinds of taxes, considered as to their effects. The first + is ruinous, the second a necessary evil, and the third invariably + beneficial.” + </p> + <p> + “Good! Go on.” + </p> + <p> + “The ruinous impost is the royal tax, the necessary is the military, and + the beneficial is the popular.” + </p> + <p> + As I had not given the subject any thought I was in a disagreeable + position, for I was obliged to go on speaking, and yet not to talk + nonsense. + </p> + <p> + “The royal tax, sire, is that which deplenishes the purses of the subject + to fill the coffers of the king.” + </p> + <p> + “And that kind of tax is always ruinous, you think.” + </p> + <p> + “Always, sire; it prevents the circulation of money—the soul of + commerce and the mainstay of the state.” + </p> + <p> + “But if the tax be levied to keep up the strength of the army, you say it + is a necessary evil.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, it is necessary and yet evil, for war is an evil.” + </p> + <p> + “Quite so; and now about the popular tax.” + </p> + <p> + “This is always a benefit, for the monarch takes with one hand and gives + with the other; he improves towns and roads, founds schools, protects the + sciences, cherishes the arts; in fine, he directs this tax towards + improving the condition and increasing the happiness of his people.” + </p> + <p> + “There is a good deal of truth in that. I suppose you know Calsabigi?” + </p> + <p> + “I ought to, your majesty, as he and I established the Genoa Lottery at + Paris seven years ago.” + </p> + <p> + “In what class would you put this taxation, for you will agree that it is + taxation of a kind?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly, sire, and not the least important. It is beneficial when the + monarch spends his profits for the good of the people.” + </p> + <p> + “But the monarch may lose?” + </p> + <p> + “Once in fifty.” + </p> + <p> + “Is that conclusion the result of a mathematical calculation?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sire.” + </p> + <p> + “Such calculations often prove deceptive.” + </p> + <p> + “Not so, may it please your majesty, when God remains neutral.” + </p> + <p> + “What has God got to do with it?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, sire, we will call it destiny or chance.” + </p> + <p> + “Good! I may possibly be of your opinion as to the calculation, but I + don’t like your Genoese Lottery. It seems to me an elaborate swindle, and + I would have nothing more to do with it, even if it were positively + certain that I should never lose.” + </p> + <p> + “Your majesty is right, for the confidence which makes the people risk + their money in a lottery is perfectly fallacious.” + </p> + <p> + This was the end of our strange dialogue, and stopping before a building + he looked me over, and then, after a short silence, observed,— + </p> + <p> + “Do you know that you are a fine man?” + </p> + <p> + “Is it possible that, after the scientific conversation we have had, your + majesty should select the least of the qualities which adorn your life + guardsmen for remark?” + </p> + <p> + The king smiled kindly, and said,— + </p> + <p> + “As you know Marshal Keith, I will speak to him of you.” + </p> + <p> + With that he took off his hat, and bade me farewell. I retired with a + profound bow. + </p> + <p> + Three or four days after the marshal gave me the agreeable news that I had + found favour in the king’s eyes, and that his majesty thought of employing + me. + </p> + <p> + I was curious to learn the nature of this employment, and being in no kind + of hurry I resolved to await events in Berlin. The time passed pleasantly + enough, for I was either with Calsabigi, Baron Treidel, or my landlady, + and when these resources failed me, I used to walk in the park, musing + over the events of my life. + </p> + <p> + Calsabigi had no difficulty in obtaining permission to continue the + lottery on his own account, and he boldly announced that henceforward he + would conduct the lottery on his own risk. His audacity was crowned with + success, and he obtained a profit of a hundred thousand crowns. With this + he paid most of his debts, and gave his mistress ten thousand crowns, she + returning the document entitling her to that amount. After this lucky + drawing it was easy to find guarantors, and the lottery went on + successfully for two or three years. + </p> + <p> + Nevertheless Calsabigi ended by becoming bankrupt and died poor enough in + Italy. He might be compared to the Danaides; the more he got the more he + spent. His mistress eventually made a respectable marriage and returned to + Paris, where she lived in comfort. + </p> + <p> + At the period of which I am speaking, the Duchess of Brunswick, the king’s + sister, came to pay him a visit. She was accompanied by her daughter who + married the Crown Prince of Prussia in the following year. I saw the king + in a suit of lustring trimmed with gold lace, and black silk stockings on + his legs. He looked truly comic, and more like a theatrical heavy father + than a great king. He came into the hall with his sister on his arm and + attracted universal attention, for only very old men could remember seeing + him without his uniform and top-boots. + </p> + <p> + I was not aware that the famous Madame Denis was at Berlin, and it was + therefore an agreeable surprise to me to see her in the ballet one + evening, dancing a pas seul in an exquisite manner. We were old friends, + and I resolved to pay her a visit the next day. + </p> + <p> + I must tell the reader (supposing I ever have one), that when I was about + twelve years old I went to the theatre with my mother and saw, not without + much heart-beating, a girl of eight who danced a minuet in so ravishing a + manner that the whole house applauded loudly. This young dancer, who was + the pantaloon’s daughter, charmed me to such a degree that I could not + resist going to her dressing-room to compliment her on her performance. I + wore the cassock in those days, and she was astonished when she heard her + father order her to get up and kiss me. She kissed me, nevertheless, with + much grace, and though I received the compliment with a good deal of + awkwardness I was so delighted, that I could not help buying her a little + ring from a toy merchant in the theatre. She kissed me again with great + gratitude and enthusiasm. + </p> + <p> + The pleasantest part about this was that the sequin I had given for the + ring belonged to Dr. Gozzi, and so when I went back to him I was in a + pitiable state, for I had not only spent money which did not belong to me, + but I had spent it for so small a favour as a kiss. + </p> + <p> + I knew that the next day I should have to give an account of the money he + had entrusted to me, and not having the least idea as to what I should + say, I had a bad night of it. The next morning everything came out, and my + mother made up the sequin to the doctor. I laugh now when I think of this + childish piece of gallantry, which was an omen of the extent to which my + heart was to be swayed by the fair sex. + </p> + <p> + The toy-woman who had sold me the ring came the next day at dinner-time to + our house, and after producing several rings and trinkets which were + judged too dear, she began to praise my generosity, and said that I had + not thought the ring I had given to pretty Jeannette too dear. This did my + business; and I had to confess the whole, laying my fault to the account + of love, and promising not to do such a thing again. But when I uttered + the word love, everybody roared with laughter, and began to make cruel + game of me. I wished myself a mile away, and registered an interior + resolve never to confess my faults again. The reader knows how well I kept + my promise. + </p> + <p> + The pantaloon’s little daughter was my mother’s goddaughter, and my + thoughts were full of her. My mother, who loved me and saw my pain, asked + me if I would like the little girl to be asked to supper. My grandmother, + however, opposed the idea, and I was obliged to her. + </p> + <p> + The day after this burlesque scene I returned to Padua, where Bettina soon + made me forget the little ballet-girl. I saw her again at Charlottenbourg, + and that was now seventeen years ago. + </p> + <p> + I longed to have a talk with her, and to see whether she would remember + me, though I did not expect her to do so. I asked if her husband Denis was + with her, and they told me that the king had banished him because he + ill-treated her. + </p> + <p> + I called on her the day after the performance, and was politely received, + but she said she did not think she had had the pleasure of seeing me + before. + </p> + <p> + By degrees I told her of the events of her childhood, and how she + enchanted all Venice by the grace with which she danced the minuet. She + interrupted me by saying that at that time she was only six years old. + </p> + <p> + “You could not be more,” I replied, “for I was only ten; and nevertheless, + I fell in love with you, and never have I forgotten the kiss you gave me + by your father’s order in return for some trifling present I made you.” + </p> + <p> + “Be quiet; you gave me a beautiful ring, and I kissed you of my own free + will. You wore the cassock then. I have never forgotten you. But can it + really be you?” + </p> + <p> + “It is indeed.” + </p> + <p> + “I am delighted to see you again. But I could never have recognized you, + and I suppose you would not have recognized me.” + </p> + <p> + “No, I should not have known you, unless I had heard your name mentioned.” + </p> + <p> + “One alters in twenty years, you know.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, one cannot expect to have the same face as at six.” + </p> + <p> + “You can bear witness that I am not more than twenty-six, though some evil + speakers give me ten years more.” + </p> + <p> + “You should not take any notice of such calumnies, my dear. You are in the + flower of your age, and made for the service of love. For my part, I + congratulate myself on being able to tell you that you are the first woman + that inspired me with a real passion.” + </p> + <p> + We could not help becoming affectionate if we continued to keep up the + conversation in this style, but experience had taught us that it was well + to remain as we were for the present. + </p> + <p> + Madame Denis was still fresh and youthful looking, though she persisted in + abbreviating her age by ten years. Of course she could not deceive me, and + she must have known it, nevertheless, she liked me to bear outward + testimony to her youthfulness. She would have detested me if I had + attempted to prove to her what she knew perfectly well, but did not care + to confess. No doubt she cared little for my thoughts on the subject, and + she may have imagined that I owed her gratitude for diminishing her age, + as it enabled me to diminish my own to make our tales agree. However, I + did not trouble myself much about it, for it is almost a duty in an + actress to disguise her age, as in spite of talent the public will not + forgive a woman for having been born too soon. + </p> + <p> + I thought her behaviour augured well, and I hoped she would not make me + languish long. She shewed me her house, which was all elegance and good + taste. I asked her if she had a lover, and she replied with a smile that + all Berlin thought so, but that it was nevertheless deceived on the + principal point, as the individual in question was more of a father than a + lover. + </p> + <p> + “But you deserve to have a real lover; I cannot conceive how you can do + without one.” + </p> + <p> + “I assure you I don’t trouble myself about it. I am subject to + convulsions, which are the plague of my life. I want to try the Teplitz + waters, which are said to be excellent for all nervous affections; but the + king has refused his permission, which I, nevertheless, hope to obtain + next year.” + </p> + <p> + I felt ardently disposed, and I thought she was pleased with the restraint + I put upon myself. + </p> + <p> + “Will you be annoyed,” said I, “if I call upon you frequently?” + </p> + <p> + “If you don’t mind I will call myself your niece, or your cousin, and then + we can see each other.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you know that that may possibly be true? I would not swear that you + were not my sister.” + </p> + <p> + This sally made us talk of the friendship that had subsisted between her + father and my mother, and we allowed ourselves those caresses which are + permitted to near relations; but feeling that things were going too far we + ceased. As she bade me farewell, she asked me to dine with her the next + day, and I accepted. + </p> + <p> + As I went back to my inn I reflected on the strange combinations which + made my life one continuous chain of events, and I felt it my duty to give + thanks to eternal Providence, for I felt that I had been born under a + happy star. + </p> + <p> + The next day, when I went to dine with Madame Denis, I found a numerous + company assembled. The first person who greeted me with the warmth of an + old friend was a young dancer named Aubri, whom I had known at Paris and + at Venice. He was famous for having been the lover of one of the most + exalted Venetian ladies, and at the same time her husband’s pathic. It was + said that this scandalous intimacy was of such a nature that Aubri used to + sleep between the husband and wife. At the beginning of Lent the State + Inquisitors sent him to Trieste. He introduced me to his wife, who danced + like himself and was called La Panting. He had married her at St. + Petersburg, from which city he had just come, and they were going to spend + the winter in Paris. The next person who advanced to greet me was a fat + man, who held out his hand and said we had been friends twenty-five years + ago, but that we were so young then that it would be no wonder if we did + not know each other. “We knew each other at Padua, at Dr. Gozzi’s,” he + added; “my name is Joseph da Loglio.” + </p> + <p> + “I remember you,” I replied, “in those days you were violoncello at the + Russian chapel.” + </p> + <p> + “Exactly; and now I am returning to my native land to leave it no more. I + have the honour to introduce you to my wife, who was born at St. + Petersburg, but is a daughter of Modonis the violinist, whose reputation + is European. In a week I shall be at Dresden, where I hope to have the + honour of seeing Madame Casanova, your mother.” + </p> + <p> + I was delighted to find myself in such congenial society, but I could see + that Madame Denis did not relish these recollections extending over a + quarter of a century, and I turned the conversation to the events at St. + Petersburg which had resulted in Catherine the Great ascending the throne. + Da Loglio told us that he had taken a small part in this conspiracy, and + had thought it prudent to get out of the way. “Fortunately,” he added, + “this was a contingency I had long provided against, and I am in a + position to spend the rest of my days in comfort in Italy.” + </p> + <p> + Madame Denis then observed: + </p> + <p> + “A week ago a Piedmontese, named Audar, was introduced to me. He had been + a chief mover in the conspiracy, and the empress gave him a present of a + hundred thousand roubles and an order to leave Russia immediately.” + </p> + <p> + I heard afterwards that this Audar bought an estate in Piedmont on which + he built a fine mansion. In two or three years it was struck by a + thunder-bolt, and the unfortunate man was killed in the ruins of his own + house. If this was a blow from an Almighty hand, it could not, at all + events, have been directed by the genius of Russia, for if the unfortunate + Peter III. had lived, he would have retarded Russian civilization by a + hundred years. + </p> + <p> + The Empress Catherine rewarded all the foreigners who had assisted her in + her plots most magnificently, and shewed herself grateful to the Russians + who had helped her to mount the throne; while, like a crafty politician, + she sent such nobles as she suspected to be averse to revolution out of + the country. + </p> + <p> + It was Da Loglio and his pretty wife who determined me to betake myself to + Russia in case the King of Prussia did not give me any employment. I was + assured that I should make my fortune there, and Da Loglio promised to + give me good instructions. + </p> + <p> + As soon as this worthy man left Berlin my intimacy with Madame Denis + commenced. One night when I was supping with her she was seized with + convulsions which lasted all the night. I did not leave her for a moment, + and in the morning, feeling quite recovered, her gratitude finished what + my love had begun twenty-six years before, and our amorous commerce lasted + while I stayed at Berlin. We shall hear of her again at Florence six years + later. + </p> + <p> + Some days after Madame Denis took me to Potsdam to shew me all the sights + of the town. Our intimacy offended no one, for she was generally believed + to be my niece, and the general who kept her either believed the report, + or like a man of sense pretended to believe it. + </p> + <p> + Amongst other notable things I saw at Potsdam was the sight of the king + commanding the first battalion of his grenadiers, all picked men, the + flower of the Prussian army. + </p> + <p> + The room which we occupied at the inn faced a walk by which the king + passed when he came from the castle. The shutters were all closed, and our + landlady told us that on one occasion when a pretty dancer called La + Reggiana was sleeping in the same room, the king had seen her in ‘puris + naturalibus’. This was too much for his modesty, and he had ordered the + shutters to be closed, and closed they had remained, though this event was + four years old. The king had some cause to fear, for he had been severely + treated by La Barbarina. In the king’s bedroom we saw her portrait, that + of La Cochois, sister to the actress who became Marchioness d’Argens, and + that of Marie Theresa, with whom Frederick had been in love, or rather he + had been in love with the idea of becoming emperor. + </p> + <p> + After we had admired the beauty and elegance of the castle, we could not + help admiring the way in which the master of the castle was lodged. He had + a mean room, and slept on a little bed with a screen around it. There was + no dressing-gown and no slippers. The valet shewed us an old cap which the + king put on when he had a cold; it looked as if it must be very + uncomfortable. His majesty’s bureau was a table covered with pens, paper, + half-burnt manuscripts, and an ink-pot; beside it was a sofa. The valet + told us that these manuscripts contained the history of the last Prussian + war, and the king had been so annoyed by their accidentally getting burnt + that he had resolved to have no more to do with the work. He probably + changed his mind, for the book, which is little esteemed, was published + shortly after his death. + </p> + <p> + Five or six weeks after my curious conversation with the monarch, Marshal + Keith told me that his majesty had been pleased to create me a tutor to + the new corps of Pomeranian cadets which he was just establishing. There + were to be fifteen cadets and five tutors, so that each should have the + care of three pupils. The salary was six hundred crowns and board found. + The duty of the tutors was to follow or accompany the cadets wherever they + went, Court included. I had to be quick in making up my mind, for the four + others were already installed, and his majesty did not like to be kept + waiting. I asked Lord Keith where the college was, and I promised to give + him a reply by the next day. + </p> + <p> + I had to summon all my powers of self-restraint to my assistance when I + heard this extravagant proposal as coming from a man who was so discreet + in most things, but my astonishment was increased when I saw the abode of + these fifteen young noblemen of rich Pomerania. It consisted of three or + four great rooms almost devoid of furniture, several whitewashed bedrooms, + containing a wretched bed, a deal table, and two deal chairs. The young + cadets, boys of twelve or thirteen, all looked dirty and untidy, and were + boxed up in a wretched uniform which matched admirably their rude and + rustic faces. They were in company with their four governors, whom I took + for their servants, and who looked at me in a stupefied manner, not daring + to think that I was to be their future colleague. + </p> + <p> + Just as I was going to bid an eternal farewell to this abode of misery, + one of the governors put his head out of the window and exclaimed,— + </p> + <p> + “The king is riding up.” + </p> + <p> + I could not avoid meeting him, and besides, I was glad enough to see him + again, especially in such a place. + </p> + <p> + His majesty came up with his friend Icilius, examined everything, and saw + me, but did not honour me with a word. I was elegantly dressed, and wore + my cross set with brilliants. But I had to bite my lips so as not to burst + out laughing when Frederick the Great got in a towering rage at a chamber + utensil which stood beside one of the beds, and which did not appear to be + in a very cleanly condition. + </p> + <p> + “Whose bed is this?” cried the monarch. + </p> + <p> + “Mine, sire,” answered a trembling cadet. + </p> + <p> + “Good! but it is not you I am angry with; where is your governor?” + </p> + <p> + The fortunate governor presented himself, and the monarch, after honouring + him with the title of blockhead, proceeded to scold him roundly. However, + he ended by saying that there was a servant, and that the governor ought + to see that he did his work properly. This disgusting scene was enough for + me, and I hastened to call on Marshal Keith to announce my determination. + The old soldier laughed at the description I gave him of the academy, and + said I was quite right to despise such an office; but that I ought, + nevertheless, to go and thank the king before I left Berlin. I said I did + not feel inclined for another interview with such a man, and he agreed to + present my thanks and excuses in my stead. + </p> + <p> + I made up my mind to go to Russia, and began my preparations in good + earnest. Baron Treidel supported my resolve by offering to give me a + letter of introduction to his sister, the Duchess of Courland. I wrote to + M. de Bragadin to ‘give me a letter for a banker at St. Petersburg, and to + remit me through him every month a sum which would keep me in comfort. + </p> + <p> + I could not travel without a servant, and chance kindly provided me with + one. I was sitting with Madame Rufin, when a young Lorrainer came in; like + Bias, he bore all his fortune with him, but, in his case, it was carried + under his arm. He introduced himself thus: + </p> + <p> + “Madam, my name is Lambert, I come from Lorraine, and I wish to lodge + here.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good, sir, but you must pay for your board and lodging every day.” + </p> + <p> + “That, madam, is out of the question, for I have not got a farthing, but I + shall have some money when I discover who I am.” + </p> + <p> + “I am afraid I cannot put you up on those conditions, sir.” + </p> + <p> + He was going away with a mortified air, when my heart was touched, and I + called him back. + </p> + <p> + “Stay,” said I, “I will pay for you to-day.” + </p> + <p> + Happiness beamed over his face. + </p> + <p> + “What have you got in that little bundle?” said I. + </p> + <p> + “Two shirts, a score of mathematical books, and some other trifles.” + </p> + <p> + I took him to my room, and finding him tolerably well educated, I asked + him how he came to be in such a state of destitution. + </p> + <p> + “I come from Strasburg,” he replied, “and a cadet of a regiment stationed + there having given me a blow in a coffee-house I paid him a visit the next + day in his own room and stabbed him there. + </p> + <p> + “After this I went home, made up my bundle, and left the town. I walked + all the way and lived soberly, so that my money lasted till this morning. + To-morrow I shall write to my mother, who lives at Luneville, and I am + sure she will send me some money.” + </p> + <p> + “And what do you think of doing?” + </p> + <p> + “I want to become a military engineer, but if needs must I am ready to + enlist as a private soldier.” + </p> + <p> + “I can give you board and lodging till you hear from your mother.” + </p> + <p> + “Heaven has sent you in my way,” said he, kissing my hand gratefully. + </p> + <p> + I did not suspect him of deceiving me, though he stumbled somewhat in his + narrative. However my curiosity led me to write to M. Schauenbourg, who + was then at Strasburg, to enquire if the tale were true. + </p> + <p> + The next day I happened to meet an officer of engineers, who told me that + young men of education were so plentiful that they did not receive them + into the service unless they were willing to serve as common soldiers. I + was sorry for the young man to be reduced so low as that. I began to spend + some time with him every day in mathematical calculations, and I conceived + the idea of taking him with me to St. Petersburg, and broached the subject + to him. + </p> + <p> + “It would be a piece of good fortune for me,” he replied, “and to shew my + gratitude I will gladly wait on you as a servant during the journey.” + </p> + <p> + He spoke French badly, but as he was a Lorrainer I was not astonished at + that. Nevertheless I was surprised to find that he did not know a word of + Latin, and that his spelling was of the wildest description. He saw me + laughing, but did not seem in the least ashamed. Indeed he said that he + had only gone to school to learn mathematics, and that he was very glad + that he had escaped the infliction of learning grammar. Indeed, on every + subject besides mathematics, he was profoundly ignorant. He had no manners + whatever; in fact, he was a mere peasant. + </p> + <p> + Ten or twelve days later I received a letter from M. de Schauenbourg, + saying that the name of Lambert was unknown in Strasburg, and that no + cadet had been killed or wounded. + </p> + <p> + When I shewed Lambert this letter he said that as he wished to enter the + army he thought it would be of service to him to shew that he was brave, + adding that as this lie had not been told with the idea of imposing on me + I should forgive it. + </p> + <p> + “Poverty,” said he, “is a rascally teacher, that gives a man some bad + lessons. I am not a liar by disposition, but I have nevertheless told you + a lie on another and a more important matter. I don’t expect any money + whatever from my poor mother, who rather needs that I should send money to + her. So forgive me, and be sure I shall be a faithful servant to you.” + </p> + <p> + I was always ready to forgive other men’s peccadilloes, and not without + cause. I liked Lambert’s line of argument, and told him that we would set + out in five or six days. + </p> + <p> + Baron Bodisson, a Venetian who wanted to sell the king a picture by Andrea + del Sarto, asked me to come with him to Potsdam and the desire of seeing + the monarch once again made me accept the invitation. When I reached + Potsdam I went to see the parade at which Frederick was nearly always to + be found. When he saw me he came up and asked me in a familiar manner when + I was going to start for St. Petersburg. + </p> + <p> + “In five or six days, if your majesty has no objection.” + </p> + <p> + “I wish you a pleasant journey; but what do you hope to do in that land?” + </p> + <p> + “What I hoped to do in this land, namely, to please the sovereign.” + </p> + <p> + “Have you got an introduction to the empress?” + </p> + <p> + “No, but I have an introduction to a banker.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! that’s much better. If you pass through Prussia on your return I + shall be delighted to hear of your adventures in Russia.” + </p> + <p> + “Farewell, sire.” + </p> + <p> + Such was the second interview I had with this great king, whom I never saw + again. + </p> + <p> + After I had taken leave of all my friends I applied to Baron Treidel, who + gave me a letter for M. de Kaiserling, lord-chancellor at Mitau, and + another letter for his sister, the Duchess of Courland, and I spent the + last night with the charming Madame Denis. She bought my post-chaise, and + I started with two hundred ducats in my purse. This would have been ample + for the whole journey if I had not been so foolish as to reduce it by half + at a party of pleasure with some young merchants at Dantzic. I was thus + unable to stay a few days at Koenigsberg, though I had a letter to + Field-Marshal von Lewald, who was the governor of the place. I could only + stay one day to dine with this pleasant old soldier, who gave me a letter + for his friend General Woiakoff, the Governor of Riga. + </p> + <p> + I found I was rich enough to arrive at Mitau in state, and I therefore + took a carriage and six, and reached my destination in three days. At the + inn where I put up I found a Florentine artiste named Bregonei, who + overwhelmed me with caresses, telling me that I had loved her when I was a + boy and wore the cassock. I saw her six years later at Florence, where she + was living with Madame Denis. + </p> + <p> + The day after my departure from Memel, I was accosted in the open country + by a man whom I recognized as a Jew. He informed me that I was on Polish + territory, and that I must pay duty on whatever merchandise I had with me. + </p> + <p> + “I am no merchant,” said I, “and you will get nothing out of me.” + </p> + <p> + “I have the right to examine your effects,” replied the Israelite, “and I + mean to make use of it.” + </p> + <p> + “You are a madman,” I exclaimed, and I ordered the postillion to whip him + off. + </p> + <p> + But the Jew ran and seized the fore horses by the bridle and stopped us, + and the postillion, instead of whipping him, waited with Teutonic calm for + me to come and send the Jew away. I was in a furious rage, and leaping out + with my cane in one hand and a pistol in the other I soon put the Jew to + flight after applying about a dozen good sound blows to his back. I + noticed that during the combat my fellow-traveller, my + Archimedes-in-ordinary, who had been asleep all the way, did not offer to + stir. I reproached him for his cowardice; but he told me that he did not + want the Jew to say that we had set on him two to one. + </p> + <p> + I arrived at Mitau two days after this burlesque adventure and got down at + the inn facing the castle. I had only three ducats left. + </p> + <p> + The next morning I called on M. de Kaiserling, who read the Baron de + Treidel’s letter, and introduced me to his wife, and left me with her to + take the baron’s letter to his sister. + </p> + <p> + Madame de Kaiserling ordered a cup of chocolate to be brought me by a + beautiful young Polish girl, who stood before me with lowered eyes as if + she wished to give me the opportunity of examining her at ease. As I + looked at her a whim came into my head, and, as the reader is aware, I + have never resisted any of my whims. However, this was a curious one. As I + have said, I had only three ducats left, but after I had emptied the cup + of chocolate I put it back on the plate and the three ducats with it. + </p> + <p> + The chancellor came back and told me that the duchess could not see me + just then, but that she invited me to a supper and ball she was giving + that evening. I accepted the supper and refused the ball, on the pretext + that I had only summer clothes and a black suit. It was in the beginning + of October, and the cold was already commencing to make itself felt. The + chancellor returned to the Court, and I to my inn. + </p> + <p> + Half an hour later a chamberlain came to bring me her highness’s + compliments, and to inform me that the ball would be a masked one, and + that I could appear in domino. + </p> + <p> + “You can easily get one from the Jews,” he added. He further informed me + that the ball was to have been a full-dress one, but that the duchess had + sent word to all the guests that it would be masked, as a stranger who was + to be present had sent on his trunks. + </p> + <p> + “I am sorry to have caused so much trouble,” said I. + </p> + <p> + “Not at all,” he replied, “the masked ball will be much more relished by + the people.” + </p> + <p> + He mentioned the time it was to begin, and left me. + </p> + <p> + No doubt the reader will think that I found myself in an awkward + predicament, and I will be honest and confess I was far from being at my + ease. However, my good luck came to my assistance. + </p> + <p> + As Prussian money (which is the worst in Germany) is not current in + Russia, a Jew came and asked me if I had any friedrichs d’or, offering to + exchange them against ducats without putting me to any loss. + </p> + <p> + “I have only ducats,” I replied, “and therefore I cannot profit by your + offer.” + </p> + <p> + “I know it sir, and you give them away very cheaply.” + </p> + <p> + Not understanding what he meant, I simply gazed at him, and he went on to + say that he would be glad to let me have two hundred ducats if I would + kindly give him a bill on St. Petersburg for roubles to that amount. + </p> + <p> + I was somewhat surprised at the fellow’s trustfulness, but after + pretending to think the matter over I said that I was not in want of + ducats, but that I would take a hundred to oblige him. He counted out the + money gratefully, and I gave him a bill on the banker, Demetrio + Papanelopoulo, for whom Da Loglio had given me a letter. The Jew went his + way, thanking me, and saying that he would send me some beautiful dominos + to choose from. Just then I remembered that I wanted silk stockings, and I + sent Lambert after the Jew to tell him to send some. When he came back he + told me that the landlord had stopped him to say that I scattered my + ducats broadcast, as the Jew had informed him that I had given three + ducats to Madame de Kaiserling’s maid. + </p> + <p> + This, then, was the key to the mystery, and it made me lose myself in + wonder at the strangeness of the decrees of fortune. I should not have + been able to get a single crown at Mitau if it had not been for the way in + which I scattered my three remaining ducats. No doubt the astonished girl + had published my generosity all over the town, and the Jew, intent on + money-making, had hastened to offer his ducats to the rich nobleman who + thought so little of his money. + </p> + <p> + I repaired to Court at the time appointed, and M. de Kaiserling + immediately presented me to the duchess, and she to the duke, who was the + celebrated Biron, or Birlen, the former favourite of Anna Ivanovna. He was + six feet in height, and still preserved some traces of having been a fine + man, but old age had laid its heavy hand on him. I had a long talk with + him the day after the ball. + </p> + <p> + A quarter of an hour after my arrival, the ball began with a polonaise. I + was a stranger with introductions, so the duchess asked me to open the + ball with her. I did not know the dance, but I managed to acquit myself + honourably in it, as the steps are simple and lend themselves to the fancy + of the dancer. + </p> + <p> + After the polonaise we danced minuets, and a somewhat elderly lady asked + me if I could dance the “King Conqueror,” so I proceeded to execute it + with her. It had gone out of fashion since the time of the Regency, but my + companion may have shone in it in those days. All the younger ladies stood + round and watched us with admiration. + </p> + <p> + After a square dance, in which I had as partner Mdlle. de Manteufel, the + prettiest of the duchess’s maids of honour, her highness told me that + supper was ready. I came up to her and offered my arm, and presently found + myself seated beside her at a table laid for twelve where I was the only + gentleman. However, the reader need not envy me; the ladies were all + elderly dowagers, who had long lost the power of turning men’s heads. The + duchess took the greatest care of my comforts, and at the end of the + repast gave me with her own hands a glass of liqueur, which I took for + Tokay and praised accordingly, but it turned out to be only old English + ale. I took her back to the ball when we rose from table. The young + chamberlain who had invited me told me the names of all the ladies + present, but I had no time to pay my court to any of them. + </p> + <p> + The next day I dined with M. de Kaiserling, and handed Lambert over to a + Jew to be clothed properly. + </p> + <p> + The day after I dined with the duke with a party consisting only of men. + The old prince made me do most of the talking, and towards the end of the + dinner the conversation fell upon the resources of the country which was + rich in minerals and semi-minerals. I took it into my head to say that + these resources ought to be developed, and that they would become precious + if that were done. To justify this remark I had to speak upon the matter + as if I had made it my principal study. An old chamberlain, who had the + control of the mines, after allowing me to exhaust my enthusiasm, began to + discuss the question himself, made divers objections, but seemed to + approve of many of my remarks. + </p> + <p> + If I had reflected when I began to speak in this manner that I should have + to act up to my words, I should certainly have said much less; but as it + was, the duke fancied that I knew much more than I cared to say. The + result was that, when the company had risen from the table, he asked me if + I could spare him a fortnight on my way to St. Petersburg. I said I should + be glad to oblige him, and he took me to his closet and said that the + chamberlain who had spoken to me would conduct me over all the mines and + manufactories in his duchies, and that he would be much obliged if I would + write down any observations that struck me. I agreed to his proposal, and + said I would start the next day. + </p> + <p> + The duke was delighted with my compliance, and gave the chamberlain the + necessary orders, and it was agreed that he should call for me at + day-break with a carriage and six. + </p> + <p> + When I got home I made my preparations, and told Lambert to be ready to + accompany me with his case of instruments. I then informed him of the + object of the journey, and he promised to assist me to the best of his + ability, though he knew nothing about mines, and still less of the science + of administration. + </p> + <p> + We started at day-break, with a servant on the box, and two others + preceding us on horseback, armed to the teeth. We changed horses every two + or three hours, and the chamberlain having brought plenty of wine we + refreshed ourselves now and again. + </p> + <p> + The tour lasted a fortnight, and we stopped at five iron and copper + manufactories. I found it was not necessary to have much technical + knowledge to make notes on what I saw; all I required was a little sound + argument, especially in the matter of economy, which was the duke’s main + object. In one place I advised reforms, and in another I counselled the + employment of more hands as likely to benefit the revenue. In one mine + where thirty convicts were employed I ordered the construction of a short + canal, by which three wheels could be turned and twenty men saved. Under + my direction Lambert drew the plans, and made the measurements with + perfect accuracy. By means of other canals I proposed to drain whole + valleys, with a view to obtain the sulphur with which the soil was + permeated. + </p> + <p> + I returned to Mitau quite delighted at having made myself useful, and at + having discovered in myself a talent which I had never suspected. I spent + the following day in making a fair copy of my report and in having the + plans done on a larger scale. The day after I took the whole to the duke, + who seemed well pleased; and as I was taking leave of him at the same time + he said he would have me drive to Riga in one of his carriages, and he + gave me a letter for his son, Prince Charles, who was in garrison there. + </p> + <p> + The worthy old man told me to say plainly whether I should prefer a jewel + or a sum of money of equivalent value. + </p> + <p> + “From a philosopher like your highness,” I replied, “I am not afraid to + take money, for it may be more useful to me than jewels.” + </p> + <p> + Without more ado he gave me a draft for four hundred albertsthalers, which + I got cashed immediately, the albertsthaler being worth half a ducat. I + bade farewell to the duchess, and dined a second time with M. de + Kaiserling. + </p> + <p> + The next day the young chamberlain came to bring me the duke’s letter, to + wish me a pleasant journey, and to tell me that the Court carriage was at + my door. I set out well pleased with the assistance the stuttering Lambert + had given me, and by noon I was at Riga. The first thing I did was to + deliver my letter of introduction to Prince Charles. + </p> + <a name="linkE2H_4_0024" id="linkE2H_4_0024"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> <a name="linkepisode25" id="linkepisode25"></a> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + EPISODE 25 — RUSSIA AND POLAND + </h2> + <a name="linkE2HCH0019" id="linkE2HCH0019"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIX + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + My Stay at Riga—Campioni St. Heleine—D’Asagon—Arrival of + the Empress—I Leave Riga and Go to St. Petersburg—I See + Society—I Buy Zaira +</pre> + <p> + Prince Charles de Biron, the younger son of the Duke of Courland, + Major-General in the Russian service, Knight of the Order of St. Alexander + Newski, gave me a distinguished reception after reading his father’s + letter. He was thirty-six years of age, pleasant-looking without being + handsome, and polite and well-mannered, and he spoke French extremely + well. In a few sentences he let me know what he could do for me if I + intended to spend some time at Riga. His table, his friends, his + pleasures, his horses, his advice, and his purse, all these were at my + service, and he offered them with the frankness of the soldier and the + geniality of the prince. + </p> + <p> + “I cannot offer you a lodging,” he said, “because I have hardly enough + room for myself, but I will see that you get a comfortable apartment + somewhere.” + </p> + <p> + The apartment was soon found, and I was taken to it by one of the prince’s + aides-de-camp. I was scarcely established when the prince came to see me, + and made me dine with him just as I was. It was an unceremonious dinner, + and I was pleased to meet Campioni, of whom I have spoken several times in + these Memoirs. He was a dancer, but very superior to his fellows, and fit + for the best company—polite, witty, intelligent, and a libertine in a + gentlemanly way. He was devoid of prejudices, and fond of women, good + cheer, and heavy play, and knew how to keep an even mind both in good and + evil fortune. We were mutually pleased to see each other again. + </p> + <p> + Another guest, a certain Baron de St. Heleine from Savoy, had a pretty but + very insignificant wife. The baron, a fat man, was a gamester, a gourmand, + and a lover of wine; add that he was a past master in the art of getting + into debt and lulling his creditors into a state of false security, and + you have all his capacities, for in all other respects he was a fool in + the fullest sense of the word. An aide-de-camp and the prince’s mistress + also dined with us. This mistress, who was pale, thin, and dreamy-looking, + but also pretty, might be twenty years old. She hardly ate anything, + saying that she was ill and did not like anything on the table. Discontent + shewed itself on her every feature. The prince endeavoured, but all in + vain, to make her eat and drink, she refused everything disdainfully. The + prince laughed good-humouredly at her in such a manner as not to wound her + feelings. + </p> + <p> + We spent two hours pleasantly enough at table, and after coffee had been + served, the prince, who had business, shook me by the hand and left me + with Campioni, telling me always to regard his table as my last resource. + </p> + <p> + This old friend and fellow-countryman took me to his house to introduce me + to his wife and family. I did not know that he had married a second time. + I found the so-called wife to be an Englishwoman, thin, but full of + intelligence. She had a daughter of eleven, who might easily have been + taken for fifteen; she, too, was marvellously intelligent, and danced, + sang, and played on the piano and gave such glances that shewed that + nature had been swifter than her years. She made a conquest of me, and her + father congratulated me to my delight, but her mother offended her + dreadfully by calling her baby. + </p> + <p> + I went for a walk with Campioni, who gave me a good deal of information, + beginning with himself. + </p> + <p> + “I have lived for ten years,” he said, “with that woman. Betty, whom you + admired so much, is not my daughter, the others are my children by my + Englishwoman. I have left St. Petersburg for two years, and I live here + well enough, and have pupils who do me credit. I play with the prince, + sometimes winning and sometimes losing, but I never win enough to enable + me to satisfy a wretched creditor I left at St. Petersburg, who persecutes + me on account of a bill of exchange. He may put me in prison any day, and + I am always expecting him to do so.” + </p> + <p> + “Is the bill for a large sum?” + </p> + <p> + “Five hundred roubles.” + </p> + <p> + “That is only two thousand francs.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but unfortunately I have not got it.” + </p> + <p> + “You ought to annul the debt by paying small sums on account.” + </p> + <p> + “The rascal won’t let me.” + </p> + <p> + “Then what do you propose doing?” + </p> + <p> + “Win a heavy sum, if I can, and escape into Poland. + </p> + <p> + “The Baron de St. Heleine will run away, too if he can, for he only lives + on credit. The prince is very useful to us, as we are able to play at his + house; but if we get into difficulty he could not extricate us, as he is + heavily in debt himself. He always loses at play. His mistress is + expensive, and gives him a great deal of trouble by her ill-humour.” + </p> + <p> + “Why is she so sour?” + </p> + <p> + “She wants him to keep his word, for he promised to get her married at the + end of two years; and on the strength of this promise she let him give her + two children. The two years have passed by and the children are there, and + she will no longer allow him to have anything to do with her for fear of + having a third child.” + </p> + <p> + “Can’t the prince find her a husband?” + </p> + <p> + “He did find her a lieutenant, but she won’t hear of anybody under the + rank of major.” + </p> + <p> + The prince gave a state dinner to General Woyakoff (for whom I had a + letter), Baroness Korf, Madame Ittinoff, and to a young lady who was going + to marry Baron Budberg, whom I had known at Florence, Turin, and Augsburg, + and whom I may possibly have forgotten to mention. + </p> + <p> + All these friends made me spend three weeks very pleasantly, and I was + especially pleased with old General Woyakoff. This worthy man had been at + Venice fifty years before, when the Russians were still called Muscovites, + and the founder of St. Petersburg was still alive. He had grown old like + an oak, without changing his horizons. He thought the world was just the + same as it had been when he was young, and was eloquent in his praise of + the Venetian Government, imagining it to be still the same as he had left + it. + </p> + <p> + At Riga an English merchant named Collins told me that the so-called Baron + de Stenau, who had given me the forged bill of exchange, had been hanged + in Portugal. This “baron” was a poor clerk, and the son of a small + tradesman, and had left his desk in search of adventure, and thus he had + ended. May God have mercy upon his soul! + </p> + <p> + One evening a Russian, on his way from Poland, where he had been executing + some commission for the Russian Court, called on the prince, played, and + lost twenty thousand roubles on his word of honour. Campioni was the + dealer. The Russian gave bills of exchange in payment of his debts; but as + soon as he got to St. Petersburg he dishonoured his own bills, and + declared them worthless, not caring for his honour or good faith. The + result of this piece of knavery was not only that his creditors were + defrauded, but gaming was henceforth strictly forbidden in the officers’ + quarters. + </p> + <p> + This Russian was the same that betrayed the secrets of Elizabeth Petrovna, + when she was at war with Prussia. He communicated to Peter, the empress’s + nephew and heir-presumptive, all the orders she sent to her generals, and + Peter in his turn passed on the information to the Prussian king whom he + worshipped. + </p> + <p> + On the death of Elizabeth, Peter put this traitor at the head of the + department for commerce, and the fellow actually made known, with the + Czar’s sanction, the service for which he had received such a reward, and + thus, instead of looking upon his conduct as disgraceful, he gloried over + it. Peter could not have been aware of the fact that, though it is + sometimes necessary to reward treachery, the traitor himself is always + abhorred and despised. + </p> + <p> + I have remarked that it was Campioni who dealt, but he dealt for the + prince who held the bank. I had certain claims, but as I remarked that I + expected nothing and would gladly sell my expectations for a hundred + roubles, the prince took me at my word and gave me the amount immediately. + Thus I was the only person who made any money by our night’s play. + </p> + <p> + Catherine II, wishing to shew herself to her new subjects, over whom she + was in reality supreme, though she had put the ghost of a king in the + person of Stanislas Poniatowski, her former favourite, on the throne of + Poland, came to Riga, and it was then I saw this great sovereign for the + first time. I was a witness of the kindness and affability with which she + treated the Livonian nobility, and of the way in which she kissed the + young ladies, who had come to kiss her hand, upon the mouth. She was + surrounded by the Orloffs and by other nobles who had assisted in placing + her on the throne. For the comfort and pleasure of her loyal subjects the + empress graciously expressed her intention of holding a bank at faro of + ten thousand roubles. + </p> + <p> + Instantly the table and the cards were brought forward, and the piles of + gold placed in order. She took the cards, pretended to shuffle them, and + gave them to the first comer to cut. She had the pleasure of seeing her + bank broken at the first deal, and indeed this result was to be expected, + as anybody not an absolute idiot could see how the cards were going. The + next day the empress set out for Mitau, where triumphal arches were + erected in her honour. They were made of wood, as stone is scarce in + Poland, and indeed there would not have been time to build stone arches. + </p> + <p> + The day after her arrival great alarm prevailed, for news came that a + revolution was ready to burst out at St. Petersburg, and some even said + that it had begun. The rebels wished to have forth from his prison the + hapless Ivan Ivanovitz, who had been proclaimed emperor in his cradle, and + dethroned by Elizabeth Petrovna. Two officers to whom the guardianship of + the prince had been confided had killed the poor innocent monarch when + they saw that they would be overpowered. + </p> + <p> + The assassination of the innocent prince created such a sensation that the + wary Panin, fearing for the results, sent courier after courier to the + empress urging her to return to St. Petersburg and shew herself to the + people. + </p> + <p> + Catherine was thus obliged to leave Mitau twenty-four hours after she had + entered it, and after hastening back to the capital she arrived only to + find that the excitement had entirely subsided. For politic reasons the + assassins of the wretched Ivan were rewarded, and the bold man who had + endeavoured to rise by her fall was beheaded. + </p> + <p> + The report ran that Catherine had concerted the whole affair with the + assassins, but this was speedily set down as a calumny. The czarina was + strong-minded, but neither cruel nor perfidious. When I saw her at Riga + she was thirty-five, and had reigned two years. She was not precisely + handsome, but nevertheless her appearance was pleasing, her expression + kindly, and there was about her an air of calm and tranquillity which + never left her. + </p> + <p> + At about the same time a friend of Baron de St. Heleine arrived from St. + Petersburg on his way to Warsaw. His name was Marquis Dragon, but he + called himself d’Aragon. He came from Naples, was a great gamester, a + skilled swordsman, and was always ready to extract himself from a + difficulty by a duel. He had left St. Petersburg because the Orloffs had + persuaded the empress to prohibit games of chance. It was thought strange + that the prohibition should come from the Orloffs, as gaming had been + their principal means of gaining a livelihood before they entered on the + more dangerous and certainly not more honourable profession of conspiracy. + However, this measure was really a sensible one. Having been gamesters + themselves they knew that gamesters are mostly knaves, and always ready to + enter into any intrigue or conspiracy provided it assures them some small + gain; there could not have been better judges of gaming and its + consequences than they were. + </p> + <p> + But though a gamester may be a rogue he may still have a good heart, and + it is only just to say that this was the case with the Orloffs. Alexis + gained the slash which adorns his face in a tavern, and the man who gave + the blow had just lost to him a large sum of money, and considered his + opponent’s success to be rather the result of dexterity than fortune. When + Alexis became rich and powerful, instead of revenging himself, he hastened + to make his enemy’s fortune. This was nobly done. + </p> + <p> + Dragon, whose first principle was always to turn up the best card, and + whose second principle was never to shirk a duel, had gone to St. + Petersburg in 1759 with the Baron de St. Heleine. Elizabeth was still on + the throne, but Peter, Duke of Holstein, the heir-presumptive, had already + begun to loom large on the horizon. Dragon used to frequent the fencing + school where the prince was a frequent visitor, and there encountered all + comers successfully. The duke got angry, and one day he took up a foil and + defied the Neapolitan marquis to a combat. Dragon accepted and was + thoroughly beaten, while the duke went off in triumph, for he might say + from henceforth that he was the best fencer in St. Petersburg. + </p> + <p> + When the prince had gone, Dragon could not withstand the temptation of + saying that he had only let himself be beaten for fear of offending his + antagonist; and this boast soon got to the grand-duke’s ears. The great + man was terribly enraged, and swore he would have him banished from St. + Petersburg if he did not use all his skill, and at the same time he sent + an order to Dragon to be at the fencing school the next day. + </p> + <p> + The impatient duke was the first to arrive, and d’Aragon was not long in + coming. The prince began reproaching him for what he had said the day + before, but the Neapolitan, far from denying the fact, expressed himself + that he had felt himself obliged to shew his respect for his prince by + letting him rap him about for upwards of two hours. + </p> + <p> + “Very good,” said the duke, “but now it is your turn; and if you don’t do + your best I will drive you from St. Petersburg.” + </p> + <p> + “My lord, your highness shall be obeyed. I shall not allow you to touch me + once, but I hope you will deign to take me under your protection.” + </p> + <p> + The two champions passed the whole morning with the foils, and the duke + was hit a hundred times without being able to touch his antagonist. At + last, convinced of Dragon’s superiority, he threw down his foil and shook + him by the hand, and made him his fencer-in-ordinary, with the rank of + major in his regiment of Holsteiners. + </p> + <p> + Shortly after, D’Aragon having won the good graces of the duke obtained + leave to hold a bank at faro in his court, and in three or four years he + amassed a fortune of a hundred thousand roubles, which he took with him to + the Court of King Stanislas, where games of all sorts were allowed. When + he passed through Riga, St. Heleine introduced him to Prince Charles, who + begged him to call on him the next day, and to shew his skill with the + foils against himself and some of his friends. I had the honour to be of + the number; and thoroughly well he beat us, for his skill was that of a + demon. I was vain enough to become angry at being hit at every pass, and + told him that I should not be afraid to meet him at a game of sharps. He + was calmer, and replied by taking my hand, and saying,— + </p> + <p> + “With the naked sword I fence in quite another style, and you are quite + right not to fear anyone, for you fence very well.” + </p> + <p> + D’Aragon set out for Warsaw the next day, but he unfortunately found the + place occupied by more cunning Greeks than himself. In six months they had + relieved him of his hundred thousand roubles, but such is the lot of + gamesters; no craft can be more wretched than theirs. + </p> + <p> + A week before I left Riga (where I stayed two months) Campioni fled by + favour of the good Prince Charles, and in a few days the Baron de St. + Heleine followed him without taking leave of a noble army of creditors. He + only wrote a letter to the Englishman Collins, to whom he owed a thousand + crowns, telling him that like an honest man he had left his debts where he + had contracted them. We shall hear more of these three persons in the + course of two years. + </p> + <p> + Campioni left me his travelling carriage, which obliged me to use six + horses on my journey to St. Petersburg. I was sorry to leave Betty, and I + kept up an epistolary correspondence with her mother throughout the whole + of my stay at St. Petersburg. + </p> + <p> + I left Riga with the thermometer indicating fifteen degrees of frost, but + though I travelled day and night, not leaving the carriage for the sixty + hours for which my journey lasted, I did not feel the cold in the least. I + had taken care to pay all the stages in advance, and Marshal Braun, + Governor of Livonia, had given me the proper passport. On the box seat was + a French servant who had begged me to allow him to wait on me for the + journey in return for a seat beside the coachman. He kept his word and + served me well, and though he was but ill clad he bore the horrible cold + for two days and three nights without appearing to feel it. It is only a + Frenchman who can bear such trials; a Russian in similar attire would have + been frozen to death in twenty-four hours, despite plentiful doses of corn + brandy. I lost sight of this individual when I arrived at St. Petersburg, + but I met him again three months after, richly dressed, and occupying a + seat beside mine at the table of M. de Czernitscheff. He was the uchitel + of the young count, who sat beside him. But I shall have occasion to speak + more at length of the office of uchitel, or tutor, in Russia. + </p> + <p> + As for Lambert, who was beside me in the carriage, he did nothing but eat, + drink, and sleep the whole way; seldom speaking, for he stammered, and + could only talk about mathematical problems, on which I was not always in + the humour to converse. He was never amusing, never had any sensible + observation to make on the varied scenes through which we passed; in + short, he was a fool, and wearisome to all save himself. + </p> + <p> + I was only stopped once, and that was at Nawa, where the authorities + demanded a passport, which I did not possess. I told the governor that as + I was a Venetian, and only travelled for pleasure, I did not conceive a + passport would be necessary, my Republic not being at war with any other + power, and Russia having no embassy at Venice. + </p> + <p> + “Nevertheless,” I added, “if your excellency wills it I will turn back; + but I shall complain to Marshal Braun, who gave me the passport for + posting, knowing that I had not the political passport.” + </p> + <p> + After rubbing his forehead for a minute, the governor gave me a pass, + which I still possess, and which brought me into St. Petersburg, without + my having to allow the custom-house officers to inspect my trunks. + </p> + <p> + Between Koporie and St. Petersburg there is only a wretched hut for the + accommodation of travellers. The country is a wilderness, and the + inhabitants do not even speak Russian. The district is called Ingria, and + I believe the jargon spoken has no affinity with any other language. The + principal occupation of the peasants is robbery, and the traveller does + well not to leave any of his effects alone for a moment. + </p> + <p> + I got to St. Petersburg just as the first rays of the sun began to gild + the horizon. It was in the winter solstice, and the sun rose at the + extremity of an immense plain at twenty-four minutes past nine, so I am + able to state that the longest night in Russia consists of eighteen hours + and three quarters. + </p> + <p> + I got down in a fine street called the Millione. I found a couple of empty + rooms, which the people of the house furnished with two beds, four chairs, + and two small tables, and rented to me very cheaply. Seeing the enormous + stoves, I concluded they must consume a vast amount of wood, but I was + mistaken. Russia is the land of stoves as Venice is that of cisterns. I + have inspected the interior of these stoves in summer-time as minutely as + if I wished to find out the secret of making them; they are twelve feet + high by six broad, and are capable of warming a vast room. They are only + refuelled once in twenty-four hours, for as soon as the wood is reduced to + the state of charcoal a valve is shut in the upper part of the stove. + </p> + <p> + It is only in the houses of noblemen that the stoves are refuelled twice a + day, because servants are strictly forbidden to close the valve, and for a + very good reason. + </p> + <p> + If a gentleman chance to come home and order his servants to warm his room + before he goes to bed, and if the servant is careless enough to close the + valve before the wood is reduced to charcoal, then the master sleeps his + last sleep, being suffocated in three or four hours. When the door is + opened in the morning he is found dead, and the poor devil of a servant is + immediately hanged, whatever he may say. This sounds severe, and even + cruel; but it is a necessary regulation, or else a servant would be able + to get rid of his master on the smallest provocation. + </p> + <p> + After I had made an agreement for my board and lodging, both of which were + very cheap (now St. Petersburg, is as dear as London), I brought some + pieces of furniture which were necessaries for me, but which were not as + yet much in use in Russia, such as a commode, a bureau, &c. + </p> + <p> + German is the language principally spoken in St. Petersburg, and I did not + speak German much better then than I do now, so I had a good deal of + difficulty in making myself understood, and usually excited my auditors to + laughter. + </p> + <p> + After dinner my landlord told me that the Court was giving a masked ball + to five thousand persons to last sixty hours. He gave me a ticket, and + told me I only needed to shew it at the entrance of the imperial palace. + </p> + <p> + I decided to use the ticket, for I felt that I should like to be present + at so numerous an assembly, and as I had my domino still by me a mask was + all I wanted. I went to the palace in a sedan-chair, and found an immense + crowd assembled, and dancing going on in several halls in each of which an + orchestra was stationed. There were long counters loaded with eatables and + drinkables at which those who were hungry or thirsty ate or drank as much + as they liked. Gaiety and freedom reigned everywhere, and the light of a + thousand wax candles illuminated the hall. Everything was wonderful, and + all the more so from its contrast with the cold and darkness that were + without. All at once I heard a masquer beside me say to another,— + </p> + <p> + “There’s the czarina.” + </p> + <p> + We soon saw Gregory Orloff, for his orders were to follow the empress at a + distance. + </p> + <p> + I followed the masquer, and I was soon persuaded that it was really the + empress, for everybody was repeating it, though no one openly recognized + her. Those who really did not know her jostled her in the crowd, and I + imagined that she would be delighted at being treated thus, as it was a + proof of the success of her disguise. Several times I saw her speaking in + Russian to one masquer and another. No doubt she exposed her vanity to + some rude shocks, but she had also the inestimable advantage of hearing + truths which her courtiers would certainly not tell her. The masquer who + was pronounced to be Orloff followed her everywhere, and did not let her + out of his sight for a moment. He could not be mistaken, as he was an + exceptionally tall man and had a peculiar carriage of the head. + </p> + <p> + I arrested my progress in a hall where the French square dance was being + performed, and suddenly there appeared a masquer disguised in the Venetian + style. The costume was so complete that I at once set him down as a + fellow-countryman, for very few strangers can imitate us so as to escape + detection. As it happened, he came and stood next to me. + </p> + <p> + “One would think you were a Venetian,” I said to him in French. + </p> + <p> + “So I am.” + </p> + <p> + “Like myself.” + </p> + <p> + “I am not jesting.” + </p> + <p> + “No more am I.” + </p> + <p> + “Then let us speak in Venetian.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you begin, and I will reply.” + </p> + <p> + We began our conversation, but when he came to the word Sabato, Saturday, + which is a Sabo in Venetian, I discovered that he was a real Venetian, but + not from Venice itself. He said I was right, and that he judged from my + accent that I came from Venice. + </p> + <p> + “Quite so,” said I. + </p> + <p> + “I thought Bernadi was the only Venetian besides myself in St. + Petersburg.” + </p> + <p> + “You see you are mistaken.” + </p> + <p> + “My name is Count Volpati di Treviso.” + </p> + <p> + “Give me your address, and I will come and tell you who I am, for I cannot + do so here.” + </p> + <p> + “Here it is.” + </p> + <p> + After leaving the count I continued my progress through this wonderful + hall, and two or three hours after I was attracted by the voice of a + female masquer speaking Parisian French in a high falsetto, such as is + common at an opera ball. + </p> + <p> + I did not recognize the voice but I knew the style, and felt quite certain + that the masquer must be one of my old friends, for she spoke with the + intonations and phraseology which I had rendered popular in my chief + places of resort at Paris. + </p> + <p> + I was curious to see who it could be, and not wishing to speak before I + knew her, I had the patience to wait till she lifted her mask, and this + occurred at the end of an hour. What was my surprise to see Madame Baret, + the stocking-seller of the Rue St. Honor! My love awoke from its long + sleep, and coming up to her I said, in a falsetto voice,— + </p> + <p> + “I am your friend of the ‘Hotel d’Elbeuf.’” + </p> + <p> + She was puzzled, and looked the picture of bewilderment. I whispered in + her ear, “Gilbert Baret, Rue des Prouveres,” and certain other facts which + could only be known to herself and a fortunate lover. + </p> + <p> + She saw I knew her inmost secrets, and drawing me away she begged me to + tell her who I was. + </p> + <p> + “I was your lover, and a fortunate one, too,” I replied; “but before I + tell you my name, with whom are you, and how are you?” + </p> + <p> + “Very well; but pray do not divulge what I tell you. I left Paris with M. + d’Anglade, counsellor in the Court of Rouen. I lived happily enough for + some time with him, and then left him to go with a theatrical manager, who + brought me here as an actress under the name of de l’Anglade, and now I am + kept by Count Rzewuski, the Polish ambassador. And now tell me who you + are?” + </p> + <p> + Feeling sure of enjoying her again, I lifted my mask. She gave a cry of + joy, and exclaimed,— + </p> + <p> + “My good angel has brought you to St. Petersburg.” + </p> + <p> + “How do you mean?” + </p> + <p> + “Rzewuski is obliged to go back to Poland, and now I count on you to get + me out of the country, for I can no longer continue in a station for which + I was not intended, since I can neither sing nor act.” + </p> + <p> + She gave me her address, and I left her delighted with my discovery. After + having passed half an hour at the counter, eating and drinking of the + best, I returned to the crowd and saw my fair stocking-seller talking to + Count Volpati. He had seen her with me, and hastened to enquire my name of + her. However, she was faithful to our mutual promise, and told him I was + her husband, though the Venetian did not seem to give the least credence + to this piece of information. + </p> + <p> + At last I was tired and left the ball, and went to bed intending to go to + mass in the morning. I slept for some time and woke, but as it was still + dark I turned on the other side and went to sleep again. At last I awoke + again, and seeing the daylight stealing through my double windows, I sent + for a hairdresser, telling my man to make haste as I wanted to hear mass + on the first Sunday after my arrival in St. Petersburg. + </p> + <p> + “But sir,” said he, “the first Sunday was yesterday; we are at Monday + now.” + </p> + <p> + “What! Monday?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir.” + </p> + <p> + I had spent twenty-seven hours in bed, and after laughing at the mishap I + felt as if I could easily believe it, for my hunger was like that of a + cannibal. + </p> + <p> + This is the only day which I really lost in my life; but I do not weep + like the Roman emperor, I laugh. But this is not the only difference + between Titus and Casanova. + </p> + <p> + I called on Demetrio Papanelopulo, the Greek merchant, who was to pay me a + hundred roubles a month. I was also commended to him by M. da Loglio, and + I had an excellent reception. He begged me to come and dine with him every + day, paid me the roubles for the month due, and assured me that he had + honoured my bill drawn at Mitau. He also found me a reliable servant, and + a carriage at eighteen roubles, or six ducats per month. Such cheapness + has, alas! departed for ever. + </p> + <p> + The next day, as I was dining with the worthy Greek and young Bernardi, + who was afterwards poisoned, Count Volpati came in with the dessert, and + told us how he had met a Venetian at the ball who had promised to come and + see him. + </p> + <p> + “The Venetian would have kept his promise,” said I, “if he had not had a + long sleep of twenty-seven hours. I am the Venetian, and am delighted to + continue our acquaintance.” + </p> + <p> + The count was about to leave, and his departure had already been announced + in the St. Petersburg Gazette. The Russian custom is not to give a + traveller his passports till a fortnight has elapsed after the appearance + of his name in the paper. This regulation is for the advantage of + tradesmen, while it makes foreigners think twice before they contract any + debts. + </p> + <p> + The next day I took a letter of introduction to M. Pietro Ivanovitch + Melissino, colonel and afterwards general of artillery. The letter was + written by Madame da Loglio, who was very intimate with Melissino. I was + most politely welcomed, and after presenting me to his pleasant wife, he + asked me once for all to sup with him every night. The house was managed + in the French style, and both play and supper were conducted without any + ceremony. I met there Melissino’s elder brother, the procurator of the + Holy Synod and husband of the Princess Dolgorouki. Faro went on, and the + company was composed of trustworthy persons who neither boasted of their + gains nor bewailed their losses to anyone, and so there was no fear of the + Government discovering this infringement of the law against gaming. The + bank was held by Baron Lefort, son of the celebrated admiral of Peter the + Great. Lefort was an example of the inconstancy of fortune; he was then in + disgrace on account of a lottery which he had held at Moscow to celebrate + the coronation of the empress, who had furnished him with the necessary + funds. The lottery had been broken and the fact was attributed to the + baron’s supposed dishonesty. + </p> + <p> + I played for small stakes and won a few roubles. I made friends with Baron + Lefort at supper, and he afterwards told me of the vicissitudes he had + experienced. + </p> + <p> + As I was praising the noble calmness with which a certain prince had lost + a thousand roubles to him, he laughed and said that the fine gamester I + had mentioned played upon credit but never paid. + </p> + <p> + “How about his honour?” + </p> + <p> + “It is not affected by the non-payment of gaming debts. It is an + understood thing in Russia that one who plays on credit and loses may pay + or not pay as he wishes, and the winner only makes himself ridiculous by + reminding the loser of his debt.” + </p> + <p> + “Then the holder of the bank has the right to refuse to accept bets which + are not backed by ready money.” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly; and nobody has a right to be offended with him for doing so. + Gaming is in a very bad state in Russia. I know young men of the highest + rank whose chief boast is that they know how to conquer fortune; that is, + to cheat. One of the Matuschkins goes so far as to challenge all foreign + cheats to master him. He has just received permission to travel for three + years, and it is an open secret that he wishes to travel that he may + exercise his skill. He intends returning to Russia laden with the spoils + of the dupes he has made.” + </p> + <p> + A young officer of the guards named Zinowieff, a relation of the Orloffs, + whom I had met at Melissino’s, introduced me to Macartney, the English + ambassador, a young man of parts and fond of pleasure. He had fallen in + love with a young lady of the Chitroff family, and maid of honour to the + empress, and finding his affection reciprocated a baby was the result. The + empress disapproved strongly of this piece of English freedom, and had the + ambassador recalled, though she forgave her maid of honour. This + forgiveness was attributed to the young lady’s skill in dancing. I knew + the brother of this lady, a fine and intelligent young officer. I had the + good fortune to be admitted to the Court, and there I had the pleasure of + seeing Mdlle. Chitroff dancing, and also Mdlle. Sievers, now Princesss, + whom I saw again at Dresden four years ago with her daughter, an extremely + genteel young princess. I was enchanted with Mdlle. Sievers, and felt + quite in love with her; but as we were never introduced I had no + opportunity of declaring my passion. Putini, the castrato, was high in her + favour, as indeed he deserved to be, both for his talents and the beauties + of his person. + </p> + <p> + The worthy Papanelopulo introduced me to Alsuwieff, one of the ministers, + a man of wit and letters, and only one of the kind whom I met in Russia. + He had been an industrious student at the University of Upsala, and loved + wine, women, and good cheer. He asked me to dine with Locatelli at + Catherinhoff, one of the imperial mansions, which the empress had assigned + to the old theatrical manager for the remainder of his days. He was + astonished to see me, and I was more astonished still to find that he had + turned taverner, for he gave an excellent dinner every day to all who + cared to pay a rouble, exclusive of wine. M. d’Alsuwieff introduced me to + his colleague in the ministry, Teploff, whose vice was that he loved boys, + and his virtue that he had strangled Peter III. + </p> + <p> + Madame Mecour, the dancer, introduced me to her lover, Ghelaghin, also a + minister. He had spent twenty years of his life in Siberia. + </p> + <p> + A letter from Da Loglio got me a warm welcome from the castrato Luini, a + delightful man, who kept a splendid table. He was the lover of Colonna, + the singer, but their affection seemed to me a torment, for they could + scarce live together in peace for a single day. At Luini’s house I met + another castrato, Millico, a great friend of the chief huntsman, + Narischkin, who also became one of my friends. This Narischkin, a pleasant + and a well-informed man, was the husband of the famous Maria Paulovna. It + was at the chief huntsman’s splendid table that I met Calogeso Plato, now + archbishop of Novgorod, and then chaplain to the empress. This monk was a + Russian, and a master of ruses, understood Greek, and spoke Latin and + French, and was what would be called a fine man. It was no wonder that he + rose to such a height, as in Russia the nobility never lower themselves by + accepting church dignities. + </p> + <p> + Da Loglio had given me a letter for the Princess Daschkoff, and I took it + to her country house, at the distance of three versts from St. Petersburg. + She had been exiled from the capital, because, having assisted Catherine + to ascend the throne, she claimed to share it with her. + </p> + <p> + I found the princess mourning for the loss of her husband. She welcomed me + kindly, and promised to speak to M. Panin on my behalf; and three days + later she wrote to me that I could call on that nobleman as soon as I + liked. This was a specimen of the empress’s magnanimity; she had disgraced + the princess, but she allowed her favourite minister to pay his court to + her every evening. I have heard, on good authority, that Panin was not the + princess’s lover, but her father. She is now the President of the Academy + of Science, and I suppose the literati must look upon her as another + Minerva, or else they would be ashamed to have a woman at their head. For + completeness’ sake the Russians should get a woman to command their + armies, but Joan d’Arcs are scarce. + </p> + <p> + Melissino and I were present at an extraordinary ceremony on the Day of + the Epiphany, namely the blessing of the Neva, then covered with five feet + of ice. + </p> + <p> + After the benediction of the waters children were baptized by being + plunged into a large hole which had been made in the ice. On the day on + which I was present the priest happened to let one of the children slip + through his hands. + </p> + <p> + “Drugoi!” he cried. + </p> + <p> + That is, “Give me another.” But my surprise may be imagined when I saw + that the father and mother of the child were in an ecstasy of joy; they + were certain that the babe had been carried straight to heaven. Happy + ignorance! + </p> + <p> + I had a letter from the Florentine Madame Bregonci for her friend the + Venetian Roccolini, who had left Venice to go and sing at the St. + Petersburg Theatre, though she did not know a note of music, and had never + appeared on the stage. The empress laughed at her, and said she feared + there was no opening in St. Petersburg for her peculiar talents, but the + Roccolini, who was known as La Vicenza, was not the woman to lose heart + for so small a check. She became an intimate friend of a Frenchwoman named + Prote, the wife of a merchant who lived with the chief huntsman. She was + at the same time his mistress and the confidante of his wife Maria + Petrovna, who did not like her husband, and was very much obliged to the + Frenchwoman for delivering her from the conjugal importunities. + </p> + <p> + This Prote was one of the handsomest women I have ever seen, and + undoubtedly the handsomest in St. Petersburg at that time. She was in the + flower of her age. She had at once a wonderful taste for gallantry and for + all the mysteries of the toilette. In dress she surpassed everyone, and as + she was witty and amusing she captivated all hearts. Such was the woman + whose friend and procuress La Vicenza had become. She received the + applications of those who were in love with Madame Prote, and passed them + on, while, whether a lover’s suit was accepted or not, the procuress got + something out of him. + </p> + <p> + I recognized Signora Roccolini as soon as I saw her, but as twenty years + had elapsed since our last meeting she did not wonder at my appearing not + to know her, and made no efforts to refresh my memory. Her brother was + called Montellato, and he it was who tried to assassinate me one night in + St. Mark’s Square, as I was leaving the Ridotto. The plot that would have + cost me my life, if I had not made my escape from the window, was laid in + the Roccolini’s house. + </p> + <p> + She welcomed me as a fellow-countryman in a strange land, told me of her + struggles, and added that now she had an easy life of it, and associated + with the pleasantest ladies in St. Petersburg. + </p> + <p> + “I am astonished that you have not met the fair Madame Prote at the chief + huntsman’s, for she is the darling of his heart. Come and take coffee with + me to-morrow, and you shall see a wonder.” + </p> + <p> + I kept the appointment, and I found the lady even more beautiful than the + Venetian’s praises of her had led me to expect. I was dazzled by her + beauty, but not being a rich man I felt that I must set my wits to work if + I wanted to enjoy her. I asked her name, though I knew it quite well, and + she replied, “Prote.” + </p> + <p> + “I am glad to hear it, madam,” said I, “for you thereby promise to be + mine.” + </p> + <p> + “How so?” said she, with a charming smile. I explained the pun, and made + her laugh. I told her amusing stories, and let her know the effect that + her beauty had produced on me, and that I hoped time would soften her + heart to me. The acquaintance was made, and thenceforth I never went to + Narischkin’s without calling on her, either before or after dinner. + </p> + <p> + The Polish ambassador returned about that time, and I had to forego my + enjoyment of the fair Anglade, who accepted a very advantageous proposal + which was made her by Count Brawn. This charming Frenchwoman died of the + small-pox a few months later, and there can be no doubt that her death was + a blessing, as she would have fallen into misery and poverty after her + beauty had once decayed. + </p> + <p> + I desired to succeed with Madame Prote, and with that idea I asked her to + dinner at Locatelli’s with Luini, Colonna, Zinowieff, Signora Vicenza, and + a violinist, her lover. We had an excellent dinner washed down with plenty + of wine, and the spirits of the company were wound up to the pitch I + desired. After the repast each gentleman went apart with his lady, and I + was on the point of success when an untoward accident interrupted us. We + were summoned to see the proofs of Luini’s prowess; he had gone out + shooting with his dogs and guns. + </p> + <p> + As I was walking away from Catherinhoff with Zinowieff I noticed a young + country-woman whose beauty astonished me. I pointed her out to the young + officer, and we made for her; but she fled away with great activity to a + little cottage, where we followed her. We went in and saw the father, + mother, and some children, and in a corner the timid form of the fair + maiden. + </p> + <p> + Zinowieff (who, by the way, was for twenty years Russian ambassador at + Madrid) had a long conversation in Russian with the father. I did not + understand what was said, but I guessed it referred to the girl because, + when her father called her, she advanced submissively, and stood modestly + before us. + </p> + <p> + The conversation over, Zinowieff went out, and I followed him after giving + the master of the house a rouble. Zinowieff told me what had passed, + saying that he had asked the father if he would let him have the daughter + as a maid-servant, and the father had replied that it should be so with + all his heart, but that he must have a hundred roubles for her, as she was + still a virgin. “So you see,” added Zinowieff, “the matter is quite + simple.” + </p> + <p> + “How simple?” + </p> + <p> + “Why, yes; only a hundred roubles.” + </p> + <p> + “And supposing me to be inclined to give that sum?” + </p> + <p> + “Then she would be your servant, and you could do anything you liked with + her, except kill her.” + </p> + <p> + “And supposing she is not willing?” + </p> + <p> + “That never happens, but if it did you could have beaten her.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, if she is satisfied and I enjoy her, can I still continue to keep + her?” + </p> + <p> + “You will be her master, I tell you, and can have her arrested if she + attempts to escape, unless she can return the hundred roubles you gave for + her.” + </p> + <p> + “What must I give her per month?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing, except enough to eat and drink. You must also let her go to the + baths on Saturday and to the church on Sunday.” + </p> + <p> + “Can I make her come with me when I leave St. Petersburg?” + </p> + <p> + “No, unless you obtain permission and find a surety, for though the girl + would be your slave she would still be a slave to the empress.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good; then will you arrange this matter for me? I will give the + hundred roubles, and I promise you I will not treat her as a slave. But I + hope you will care for my interests, as I do not wish to be duped.” + </p> + <p> + “I promise you you shall not be duped; I will see to everything. Would you + like her now?” + </p> + <p> + “No, to-morrow.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good; then to-morrow it shall be.” + </p> + <p> + We returned to St. Petersburg in a phaeton, and the next day at nine + o’clock I called on Zinowieff, who said he was delighted to do me this + small service. On the way he said that if I liked he could get me a + perfect seraglio of pretty girls in a few days. + </p> + <p> + “No,” said I, “one is enough.” And I gave him the hundred roubles. + </p> + <p> + We arrived at the cottage, where we found the father, mother, and + daughter. Zinowieff explained his business crudely enough, after the + custom of the country, and the father thanked St. Nicholas for the good + luck he had sent him. He spoke to his daughter, who looked at me and + softly uttered the necessary yes. + </p> + <p> + Zinowieff then told me that I ought to ascertain that matters were intact, + as I was going to pay for a virgin. I was afraid of offending her, and + would have nothing to do with it; but Zinowieff said the girl would be + mortified if I did not examine her, and that she would be delighted if I + place her in a position to prove before her father and mother that her + conduct had always been virtuous. I therefore made the examination as + modestly as I could, and I found her to be intact. To tell the truth, I + should not have said anything if things had been otherwise. + </p> + <p> + Zinowieff then gave the hundred roubles to the father, who handed them to + his daughter, and she only took them to return them to her mother. My + servant and coachman were then called in to witness as arrangement of + which they knew nothing. + </p> + <p> + I called her Zaira, and she got into the carriage and returned with me to + St. Petersburg in her coarse clothes, without a chemise of any kind. After + I had dropped Zinowieff at his lodging I went home, and for four days I + was engaged in collecting and arranging my slave’s toilet, not resting + till I had dressed her modestly in the French style. In less than three + months she had learnt enough Italian to tell me what she wanted and to + understand me. She soon loved me, and afterwards she got jealous. But we + shall hear more of her in the following chapter. + </p> + <a name="linkE2HCH0020" id="linkE2HCH0020"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XX + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + Crevecoeur—Bomback—Journey to Moscow—My Adventures At St. + Petersburg +</pre> + <p> + The day on which I took Zaira I sent Lambert away, for I did not know what + to do with him. He got drunk every day, and when in his cups he was + unbearable. Nobody would have anything to say to him except as a common + soldier, and that is not an enviable position in Russia. I got him a + passport for Berlin, and gave him enough money for the journey. I heard + afterwards that he entered the Austrian service. + </p> + <p> + In May, Zaira had become so beautiful that when I went to Moscow I dared + not leave her behind me, so I took her in place of a servant. It was + delicious to me to hear her chattering in the Venetian dialect I had + taught her. On a Saturday I would go with her to the bath where thirty of + forty naked men and women were bathing together without the slightest + constraint. This absence of shame must arise, I should imagine, from + native innocence; but I wondered that none looked at Zaira, who seemed to + me the original of the statue of Psyche I had seen at the Villa Borghese + at Rome. She was only fourteen, so her breast was not yet developed, and + she bore about her few traces of puberty. Her skin was as white as snow, + and her ebony tresses covered the whole of her body, save in a few places + where the dazzling whiteness of her skin shone through. Her eyebrows were + perfectly shaped, and her eyes, though they might have been larger, could + not have been more brilliant or more expressive. If it had not been for + her furious jealousy and her blind confidence in fortune-telling by cards, + which she consulted every day, Zaira would have been a paragon among + women, and I should never have left her. + </p> + <p> + A young and distinguished-looking Frenchman came to St. Petersburg with a + young Parisian named La Riviere, who was tolerably pretty but quite devoid + of education, unless it were that education common to all the girls who + sell their charms in Paris. This young man came to me with a letter from + Prince Charles of Courland, who said that if I could do anything for the + young couple he would be grateful to me. They arrived just as I was + breakfasting with Zaira. + </p> + <p> + “You must tell me,” said I to the young Frenchman, “in what way I can be + of use to you.” + </p> + <p> + “By admitting us to your company, and introducing us to your friends.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I am a stranger here, and I will come and see you, and you can come + and see me, and I shall be delighted; but I never dine at home. As to my + friends, you must feel that, being a stranger, I could not introduce you + and the lady. Is she your wife? People will ask me who you are, and what + you are doing at St. Petersburg. What am I to say? I wonder Prince Charles + did not send you to someone else.” + </p> + <p> + “I am a gentleman of Lorraine, and Madame la Riviere is my mistress, and + my object in coming to St. Petersburg is to amuse myself.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I don’t know to whom I could introduce you under the circumstances; + but I should think you will be able to find plenty of amusement without + knowing anyone. The theatres, the streets, and even the Court + entertainments, are open to everyone. I suppose you have plenty of money?” + </p> + <p> + “That’s exactly what I haven’t got, and I don’t expect any either.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I have not much more, but you really astonish me. How could you + have been so foolish as to come here without money?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, my mistress said we could do with what money we got from day to + day. She induced me to leave Paris without a farthing, and up to now it + seems to me that she is right. We have managed to get on somehow.” + </p> + <p> + “Then she has the purse?” + </p> + <p> + “My purse,” said she, “is in the pockets of my friends.” + </p> + <p> + “I understand, and I am sure you have no difficulty in finding the + wherewithal to live. If I had such a purse, it should be opened for you, + but I am not a rich man.” + </p> + <p> + Bomback, a citizen of Hamburg, whom I had known in England whence he had + fled on account of his debts, had come to St. Petersburg and entered the + army. He was the son of a rich merchant and kept up a house, a carriage, + and an army of servants; he was a lover of good cheer, women, and + gambling, and contracted debts everywhere. He was an ugly man, but full of + wit and energy. He happened to call on me just as I was addressing the + strange traveller whose purse was in the pocket of her friends. I + introduced the couple to him, telling the whole story, the item of the + purse excepted. The adventure was just to Bomback’s taste, and he began + making advances to Madame la Riviere, who received them in a thoroughly + professional spirit, and I was inwardly amused and felt that her axiom was + a true one. Bomback asked them to dine with him the next day, and begged + them to come and take an unceremonious dinner the same day with him at + Crasnacaback. I was included in the invitation, and Zaira, not + understanding French, asked me what we were talking about, and on my + telling her expressed a desire to accompany me. I gave in to appease her, + for I knew the wish proceeded from jealousy, and that if I did not consent + I should be tormented by tears, ill-humour, reproaches, melancholy, etc. + This had occurred several times before, and so violent had she been that I + had been compelled to conform to the custom of the country and beat her. + Strange to say, I could not have taken a better way to prove my love. Such + is the character of the Russian women. After the blows had been given, by + slow degrees she became affectionate again, and a love encounter sealed + the reconciliation. + </p> + <p> + Bomback left us to make his preparations in high spirits, and while Zaira + was dressing, Madame Riviere talked in such a manner as to make me almost + think that I was absolutely deficient in knowledge of the world. The + astonishing thing was that her lover did not seem in the least ashamed of + the part he had to play. He might say that he was in love with the + Messalina, but the excuse would not have been admissible. + </p> + <p> + The party was a merry one. Bomback talked to the adventuress, Zaira sat on + my knee, and Crevecoeur ate and drank, laughed in season and out of + season, and walked up and down. The crafty Madame Riviere incited Bomback + to risk twenty-five roubles at quinze; he lost and paid pleasantly, and + only got a kiss for his money. Zaira, who was delighted to be able to + watch over me and my fidelity, jested pleasantly on the Frenchwoman and + the complaisance of her lover. This was altogether beyond her + comprehension, and she could not understand how he could bear such deeds + as were done before his face. + </p> + <p> + The next day I went to Bomback by myself, as I was sure of meeting young + Russian officers, who would have annoyed me by making love to Zaira in + their own language. I found the two travellers and the brothers Lunin, + then lieutenants but now generals. The younger of them was as fair and + pretty as any girl. He had been the beloved of the minister Teploff, and, + like a lad of wit, he not only was not ashamed but openly boasted that it + was his custom to secure the good-will of all men by his caresses. + </p> + <p> + He had imagined the rich citizen of Hamburg to be of the same tastes as + Teploff, and he had not been mistaken; and so he degraded me by forming + the same supposition. With this idea he seated himself next to me at + table, and behaved himself in such a manner during dinner that I began to + believe him to be a girl in man’s clothes. + </p> + <p> + After dinner, as I was sitting at the fire, between him and the Frenchman, + I imparted my suspicions to him; but jealous of the superiority of his + sex, he displayed proof of it on the spot, and forthwith got hold of me + and put himself in a position to make my happiness and his own as he + called it. I confess, to my shame, that he might perhaps have succeeded, + if Madame la Riviere, indignant at this encroachment of her peculiar + province, had not made him desist. + </p> + <p> + Lunin the elder, Crevecceur, and Bomback, who had been for a walk, + returned at nightfall with two or three friends, and easily consoled the + Frenchman for the poor entertainment the younger Lunin and myself had + given him. + </p> + <p> + Bomback held a bank at faro, which only came to an end at eleven, when the + money was all gone. We then supped, and the real orgy began, in which la + Riviere bore the brunt in a manner that was simply astonishing. I and my + friend Lunin were merely spectators, and poor Crevecoeur had gone to bed. + We did not separate till day-break. + </p> + <p> + I got home, and, fortunately for myself, escaped the bottle which Zaira + flung at my head, and which would infallibly have killed me if it had hit + me. She threw herself on to the ground, and began to strike it with her + forehead. I thought she had gone mad, and wondered whether I had better + call for assistance; but she became quiet enough to call me assassin and + traitor, with all the other abusive epithets that she could remember. To + convict me of my crime she shewed me twenty-five cards, placed in order, + and on them she displayed the various enormities of which I had been + guilty. + </p> + <p> + I let her go on till her rage was somewhat exhausted, and then, having + thrown her divining apparatus into the fire, I looked at her in pity and + anger, and said that we must part the next day, as she had narrowly + escaped killing me. I confessed that I had been with Bomback, and that + there had been a girl in the house; but I denied all the other sins of + which she accused me. I then went to sleep without taking the slightest + notice of her, in spite of all she said and did to prove her repentance. + </p> + <p> + I woke after a few hours to find her sleeping soundly, and I began to + consider how I could best rid myself of the girl, who would probably kill + me if we continued living together. Whilst I was absorbed in these + thoughts she awoke, and falling at my feet wept and professed her utter + repentance, and promised never to touch another card as long as I kept + her. + </p> + <p> + At last I could resist her entreaties no longer, so I took her in my arms + and forgave her; and we did not part till she had received undeniable + proofs of the return of my affection. I intended to start for Moscow in + three days, and she was delighted when she heard she was to go. + </p> + <p> + Three circumstances had won me this young girl’s furious affection. In the + first place I often took her to see her family, with whom I always left a + rouble; in the second I made her eat with me; and in the third I had + beaten her three or four times when she had tried to prevent me going out. + </p> + <p> + In Russia beating is a matter of necessity, for words have no force + whatever. A servant, mistress, or courtezan understands nothing but the + lash. Words are altogether thrown away, but a few good strokes are + entirely efficacious. The servant, whose soul is still more enslaved than + his body, reasons somewhat as follows, after he has had a beating: + </p> + <p> + “My master has not sent me away, but beaten me; therefore he loves me, and + I ought to be attached to him.” + </p> + <p> + It is the same with the Russian soldier, and in fact with everybody. + Honour stands for nothing, but with the knout and brandy one can get + anything from them except heroical enthusiasm. + </p> + <p> + Papanelopulo laughed at me when I said that as I liked my Cossack I should + endeavour to correct him with words only when he took too much brandy. + </p> + <p> + “If you do not beat him,” he said, “he will end by beating you;” and he + spoke the truth. + </p> + <p> + One day, when he was so drunk as to be unable to attend on me, I began to + scold him, and threatened him with the stick if he did not mend his ways. + As soon as he saw my cane lifted, he ran at me and got hold of it; and if + I had not knocked him down immediately, he would doubtless have beaten me. + I dismissed him on the spot. There is not a better servant in the world + than a Russian. He works without ceasing, sleeps in front of the door of + his master’s bedroom to be always ready to fulfil his orders, never + answering his reproaches, incapable of theft. But after drinking a little + too much brandy he becomes a perfect monster; and drunkenness is the vice + of the whole nation. + </p> + <p> + A coachman knows no other way of resisting the bitter cold to which he is + exposed, than by drinking rye brandy. It sometimes happens that he drinks + till he falls asleep, and then there is no awaking for him in this world. + Unless one is very careful, it is easy to lose an ear, the nose, a cheek, + or a lip by frost bites. One day as I was walking out on a bitterly cold + day, a Russian noticed that one of my ears was frozen. He ran up to me and + rubbed the affected part with a handful of snow till the circulation was + restored. I asked him how he had noticed my state, and he said he had + remarked the livid whiteness of my ear, and this, he said, was always a + sign that the frost had taken it. What surprised me most of all is that + sometimes the part grows again after it has dropped off. Prince Charles of + Courland assured me that he had lost his nose in Siberia, and that it had + grown again the next summer. I have been assured of the truth of this by + several Russians. + </p> + <p> + About this time the empress made the architect Rinaldi, who had been fifty + years in St. Petersburg, build her an enormous wooden amphitheatre so + large as to cover the whole of the space in front of the palace. It would + contain a hundred thousand spectators, and in it Catherine intended to + give a vast tournament to all the knights of her empire. There were to be + four parties of a hundred knights each, and all the cavaliers were to be + clad in the national costume of the nations they represented. All the + Russians were informed of this great festival, which was to be given at + the expense of the sovereign, and the princes, counts, and barons were + already arriving with their chargers from the most remote parts of the + empire. Prince Charles of Courland wrote informing me of his intention to + be present. + </p> + <p> + It had been ordained, that the tournament should take place on the first + fine day, and this precaution was a very wise one; for, excepting in the + season of the hard frosts, a day without rain, or snow, or wind, is a + marvel. In Italy, Spain, and France, one can reckon on fine weather, and + bad weather is the exception, but it is quite the contrary in Russia. Ever + since I have known this home of frost and the cold north wind, I laugh + when I hear travelling Russians talking of the fine climate of their + native country. However, it is a pardonable weakness, most of us prefer + “mine” to “thine;” nobles affect to consider themselves of purer blood + than the peasants from whom they sprang, and the Romans and other ancient + nations pretended that they were the children of the gods, to draw a veil + over their actual ancestors who were doubtless robbers. The truth is, that + during the whole year 1756 there was not one fine day in Russia, or in + Ingria at all events, and the mere proofs of this statement may be found + in the fact that the tournament was not held in that year. It was + postponed till the next, and the princes, counts, barons, and knights + spent the winter in the capital, unless their purses forbade them to + indulge in the luxuries of Court life. The dear Prince of Courland was in + this case, to my great disappointment. + </p> + <p> + Having made all arrangements for my journey to Moscow, I got into my + sleeping carriage with Zaira, having a servant behind who could speak both + Russian and German. For twenty-four roubles the chevochic (hirer out of + horses) engaged to carry me to Moscow in six days and seven nights with + six horses. This struck me as being extremely cheap. The distance is + seventy-two Russian stages, almost equivalent to five hundred Italian + miles, or a hundred and sixty French leagues. + </p> + <p> + We set out just as a cannon shot from the citadel announced the close of + day. It was towards the end of May, in which month there is literally no + night at St. Petersburg. Without the report of the cannon no one would be + able to tell when the day ended and the night began. One can read a letter + at midnight, and the moonlight makes no appreciable difference. This + continual day lasts for eight weeks, and during that time no one lights a + candle. At Moscow it is different; a candle is always necessary at + midnight if one wished to read. + </p> + <p> + We reached Novgorod in forty-eight hours, and here the chevochic allowed + us a rest of five hours. I saw a circumstance there which surprised me + very much, though one has no business to be surprised at anything if one + travels much, and especially in a land of half savages. I asked the + chevochic to drink, but he appeared to be in great melancholy. I enquired + what was the matter, and he told Zaira that one of his horses had refused + to eat, and that it was clear that if he could not eat he could not work. + We followed him into the stable, and found the horse looking oppressed by + care, its head lowered and motionless; it had evidently got no appetite. + His master began a pathetic oration, looking tenderly at the animal, as if + to arouse it to a sense of duty, and then taking its head, and kissing it + lovingly, he put it into the manger, but to no purpose. Then the man began + to weep bitterly, but in such a way that I had the greatest difficulty to + prevent myself laughing, for I could see that he wept in the hope that his + tears might soften the brute’s heart. When he had wept some time he again + put the horse’s head into the manger, but again to no purpose. At this he + got furious and swore to be avenged. He led the horse out of the stable, + tied it to a post, and beat it with a thick stick for a quarter of an hour + so violently that my heart bled for the poor animal. At last the chevochic + was tired out, and taking the horse back to the stable he fastened up his + head once more, and to my astonishment it began to devour its provender + with the greatest appetite. At this the master jumped for joy, laughed, + sang, and committed a thousand extravagancies, as if to shew the horse how + happy it had made him. I was beside myself with astonishment, and + concluded that such treatment would have succeeded nowhere but in Russia, + where the stick seems to be the panacea or universal medicine. + </p> + <p> + They tell me, however, that the stick is gradually going out of fashion. + Peter the Great used to beat his generals black and blue, and in his days + a lieutenant had to receive with all submission the cuffs of his captain, + who bent before the blows of his major, who did the same to his colonel, + who received chastisement from his general. So I was informed by old + General Woyakoff, who was a pupil of Peter the Great, and had often been + beaten by the great emperor, the founder of St. Petersburg. + </p> + <p> + It seems to me that I have scarcely said anything about this great and + famous capital, which in my opinion is built on somewhat precarious + foundations. No one but Peter could have thus given the lie to Nature by + building his immense palaces of marble and granite on mud and shifting + sand. They tell me that the town is now in its manhood, to the honour of + the great Catherine; but in the year 1765 it was still in its minority, + and seemed to me only to have been built with the childish aim of seeing + it fall into ruins. Streets were built with the certainty of having to + repair them in six months’ time. The whole place proclaimed itself to be + the whim of a despot. If it is to be durable constant care will be + required, for nature never gives up its rights and reasserts them when the + constraint of man is withdrawn. My theory is that sooner or later the soil + must give way and drag the vast city with it. + </p> + <p> + We reached Moscow in the time the chevochic had promised. As the same + horses were used for the whole journey, it would have been impossible to + travel more quickly. A Russian told me that the Empress Elizabeth had done + the journey in fifty-two hours. + </p> + <p> + “You mean that she issued a ukase to the effect that she had done it,” + said a Russian of the old school; “and if she had liked she could have + travelled more quickly still; it was only a question of the wording of the + ukase.” + </p> + <p> + Even when I was in Russia it was not allowable to doubt the infallibility + of a ukase, and to do so was, equivalent to high treason. One day I was + crossing a canal at St. Petersburg by a small wooden bridge; Melissino + Papanelopulo, and some other Russians were with me. I began to abuse the + wooden bridge, which I characterized as both mean and dangerous. One of my + companions said that on such a day it would be replaced by a fine stone + bridge, as the empress had to pass there on some state occasion. The day + named way three weeks off, and I said plainly that it was impossible. One + of the Russians looked askance at me, and said there was no doubt about + it, as a ukase had been published ordering that the bridge should be + built. I was going to answer him, but Papanelopulo gave my hand a squeeze, + and whispered “Taci!” (hush). + </p> + <p> + The bridge was not built, but I was not justified, for the empress + published another ukase in which she declared it to be her gracious + pleasure that the bridge should not be built till the following year. If + anyone would see what a pure despotism is like, let him go to Russia. + </p> + <p> + The Russian sovereigns use the language of despotism on all occasions. One + day I saw the empress, dressed in man’s clothes, going out for a ride. Her + master of the horse, Prince Repnin, held the bridle of the horse, which + suddenly gave him a kick which broke his anklebone. The empress instantly + ordained that the horse should be taken away, and that no one should mount + it again under pain of death. All official positions in Russia have + military rank assigned to them, and this sufficiently indicates the nature + of the Government. The coachman-in-chief of her imperial highness holds + the rank of colonel, as also does her chief cook. The castrato Luini was a + lieutenant-colonel, and the painter Toretti only a captain, because he had + only eight hundred roubles a year, while the coachman had three thousand. + The sentinels at the doors of the palace have their muskets crossed, and + ask those who wish to pass through what is their rank. When I was asked + this question, I stopped short; but the quick-witted officer asked me how + much I had a year, and on my replying, at a hazard, three thousand + roubles, he gave me the rank of general, and I was allowed to pass. I saw + the czarina for a moment; she stopped at the door and took off her gloves + to give her hands to be kissed by the officer and the two sentinels. By + such means as this she had won the affection of the corps, commanded by + Gregorius Gregorovitch Orloff, on which her safety depended in case of + revolution. + </p> + <p> + I made the following notes when I saw the empress hearing mass in her + chapel. The protopapa, or bishop, received her at the door to give her the + holy water, and she kissed his episcopal ring, while the prelate, whose + beard was a couple of feet in length, lowered his head to kiss the hands + of his temporal sovereign and spiritual head, for in Russia the he or she + on the throne is the spiritual as well as temporal head of the Church. + </p> + <p> + She did not evidence the least devotion during mass; hypocrisy did not + seem to be one of her vices. Now she smiled at one of her suite, now at + another, and occasionally she addressed the favourite, not because she had + anything to say to him, but to make him an object of envy to the others. + </p> + <p> + One evening, as she was leaving the theatre where Metastasio’s Olympiade + had been performed, I heard her say,— + </p> + <p> + “The music of that opera has given the greatest pleasure to everyone, so + of course I am delighted with it; but it wearies me, nevertheless. Music + is a fine thing, but I cannot understand how anyone who is seriously + occupied can love it passionately. I will have Buranello here, and I + wonder whether he will interest me in music, but I am afraid nature did + not constitute me to feel all its charms.” + </p> + <p> + She always argued in that way. In due time I will set down her words to me + when I returned from Moscow. When I arrived at that city I got down at a + good inn, where they gave me two rooms and a coach-house for my carriage. + After dinner I hired a small carriage and a guide who could speak French. + My carriage was drawn by four horses, for Moscow is a vast city composed + of four distinct towns, and many of the streets are rough and ill-paved. I + had five or six letters of introduction, and I determined to take them + all. I took Zaira with me, as she was as curious to see everything as a + girl of fourteen naturally is. I do not remember what feast the Greek + Church was keeping on that day, but I shall never forget the terrific + bell-ringing with which my ears were assailed, for there are churches + every where. The country people were engaged in sowing their grain, to + reap it in September. They laughed at our Southern custom of sowing eight + months earlier, as unnecessary and even prejudicial to the crops, but I do + not know where the right lies. Perhaps we may both be right, for there is + no master to compare with experience. I took all the introductions I had + received from Narischkin, Prince Repnin, the worthy Pananelopulo, and + Melissino’s brother. The next morning the whole of the persons at whose + houses I had left letters called on me. They all asked Zaira and myself to + dinner, and I accepted the invitation of the first comer, M. Dinidoff, and + promised to dine with the rest on the following days. Zaira, who had been + tutored by me to some extent, was delighted to shew me that she was worthy + of the position she occupied. She was exquisitely dressed, and won golden + opinions everywhere, for our hosts did not care to enquire whether she + were my daughter, my mistress, or my servant, for in this matter, as in + many others, the Russians are excessively indulgent. Those who have not + seen Moscow have not seen Russia, for the people of St. Petersburg are not + really Russians at all. Their court manners are very different from their + manners ‘au naturel’, and it may be said with truth that the true Russian + is as a stranger in St. Petersburg. The citizens of, Moscow, and + especially the rich ones, speak with pity of those, who for one reason or + another, had expatriated themselves; and with them to expatriate one’s + self is to leave Moscow, which they consider as their native land. They + look on St. Petersburg with an envious eye, and call it the ruin of + Russia. I do not know whether this is a just view to take of the case, I + merely repeat what I have heard. + </p> + <p> + In the course of a week I saw all the sights of Moscow—the + manufacturers, the churches, the remains of the old days, the museums, the + libraries, (of no interest to my mind), not forgetting the famous bell. I + noticed that their bells are not allowed to swing like ours, but are + motionless, being rung by a rope attached to the clapper. + </p> + <p> + I thought the Moscow women more handsome than those of St. Petersburg, and + I attribute this to the great superiority of the air. They are gentle and + accessible by nature; and to obtain the favour of a kiss on the lips, one + need only make a show of kissing their hands. + </p> + <p> + There was good fare in plenty, but no delicacy in its composition or + arrangement. Their table is always open to friends and acquaintances, and + a friend may bring to five or six persons to dinner, and even at the end + of the meals you will never hear a Russian say, “We have had dinner; you + have come too late.” Their souls are not black enough for them to + pronounce such words as this. Notice is given to the cook, and the dinner + begins over again. They have a delicious drink, the name of which I do not + remember; but it is much superior to the sherbet of Constantinople. The + numerous servants are not given water, but a light, nourishing, and + agreeable fluid, which may be purchased very cheaply. They all hold St. + Nicholas in the greatest reverence, only praying to God through the + mediation of this saint, whose picture is always suspended in the + principal room of the house. A person coming in makes first a bow to the + image and then a bow to the master, and if perchance the image is absent, + the Russian, after gazing all round, stands confused and motionless, not + knowing what to do. As a general rule the Muscovites are the most + superstitious Christians in the world. Their liturgy is in Greek, of which + the people understand nothing, and the clergy, themselves extremely + ignorant, gladly leave them completely in the dark on all matters + connected with religion. I could never make them understand that the only + reason for the Roman Christians making the sign of the Cross from left to + right, while the Greeks make it from right to left, is that we say + ‘spiritus sancti’, while they say ‘agion pneuma’. + </p> + <p> + “If you said pneuma agion,” I used to say, “then you would cross yourself + like us, and if we said sancti spiritus we should cross ourselves like + you.” + </p> + <p> + “The adjective,” replied my interlocutor, “should always precede the + substantive, for we should never utter the name of God without first + giving Him some honourable epithet.” + </p> + <p> + Such are nearly all the differences which divide the two churches, without + reckoning the numerous idle tales which they have as well as ourselves, + and which are by no means the least cherished articles of their faith. + </p> + <p> + We returned to St. Petersburg by the way we had come, but Zaira would have + liked me never to leave Moscow. She had become so much in love with me by + force of constant association that I could not think without a pang of the + moment of separation. The day after our arrival in the capital I took her + to her home, where she shewed her father all the little presents I had + given her, and told him of the honour she had received as my daughter, + which made the good man laugh heartily. + </p> + <p> + The first piece of news I heard was that a ukase had been issued, ordering + the erection of a temple dedicated to God in the Moscoi opposite to the + house where I resided. The empress had entrusted Rinaldi, the architect, + with the erection. He asked her what emblem he should put above the + portal, and she replied,— + </p> + <p> + “No emblem at all, only the name of God in large letters.” + </p> + <p> + “I will put a triangle.” + </p> + <p> + “No triangle at all; but only the name of God in whatever language you + like, and nothing more.” + </p> + <p> + The second piece of news was that Bomback had fled and had been captured + at Mitau, where he believed himself in safety. M. de Simolia had arrested + him. It was a grave case, for he had deserted; however, he was given his + life, and sent into barracks at Kamstchatka. Crevecoeur and his mistress + had departed, carrying some money with them, and a Florentine adventurer + named Billotti had fled with eighteen thousand roubles belonging to + Papanelopulo, but a certain Bori, the worthy Greek’s factotum, had caught + him at Mitau and brought him back to St. Petersburg, where he was now in + prison. Prince Charles of Courland arrived about this time, and I hastened + to call upon him as soon as he advised me of his coming. He was lodging in + a house belonging to Count Dimidoff, who owned large iron mines, and had + made the whole house of iron, from attic to basement. The prince had + brought his mistress with him, but she was still in an ill-humour, and he + was beginning to get heartily sick of her. The man was to be pitied, for + he could not get rid of her without finding her a husband, and this + husband became more difficult to find every day. When the prince saw how + happy I was with my Zaira, he could not help thinking how easily happiness + may be won; but the fatal desire for luxury and empty show spoils all, and + renders the very sweets of life as bitter as gall. + </p> + <p> + I was indeed considered happy, and I liked to appear so, but in my heart I + was wretched. Ever since my imprisonment under The Leads, I had been + subject to haemorrhoids, which came on three or four times a year. At St. + Petersburg I had a serious attack, and the daily pain and anxiety + embittered my existence. A vegetarian doctor called Senapios, for whom I + had sent, gave me the sad news that I had a blind or incomplete fistula in + the rectum, and according to him nothing but the cruel pistoury would give + me any relief, and indeed he said I had no time to lose. I had to agree, + in spite of my dislike to the operation; but fortunately the clever + surgeon whom the doctor summoned pronounced that if I would have patience + nature itself would give me relief. I had much to endure, especially from + the severe dieting to which I was subjected, but which doubtless did me + good. + </p> + <p> + Colonel Melissino asked me to be present at a review which was to take + place at three versts from St. Petersburg, and was to be succeeded by a + dinner to twenty-four guests, given by General Orloff. I went with the + prince, and saw a cannon fired twenty times in a minute, testing the + performance with my watch. + </p> + <p> + My neighbour at dinner was the French ambassador. Wishing to drink deeply, + after the Russian fashion, and thinking the Hungarian wine as innocent as + champagne, he drank so bravely that at the end of dinner he had lost the + use of his legs. Count Orloff made him drink still more, and then he fell + asleep and was laid on a bed. + </p> + <p> + The gaiety of the meal gave me some idea of Russian wit. I did not + understand the language, so M. Zinowieff translated the curious sallies to + me while the applause they had raised was still resounding. + </p> + <p> + Melissino rose to his feet, holding a large goblet full of Hungarian wine + in his hand. There was a general silence to listen to him. He drank the + health of General Orloff in these words: + </p> + <p> + “May you die when you become rich.” + </p> + <p> + The applause was general, for the allusion was to the unbounded generosity + of Orloff. The general’s reply struck me as better still, but it was + equally rugged in character. He, too, took a full cup, and turning to + Melissino, said, + </p> + <p> + “May you never die till I slay you!” + </p> + <p> + The applause was furious, for he was their host and their general. + </p> + <p> + The Russian wit is of the energetic kind, devoid of grace; all they care + about is directness and vigour. + </p> + <p> + Voltaire had just sent the empress his “Philosophy of History,” which he + had written for her and dedicated to her. A month after, an edition of + three thousand copies came by sea, and was sold out in a week, for all the + Russians who knew a little French were eager to possess a copy of the + work. The leaders of the Voltaireans were two noblemen, named, + respectively, Stroganoff and Schuvaloff. I have seen verses written by the + former of these as good as Voltaire’s own verses, and twenty years later I + saw an ode by the latter of which Voltaire would not have been ashamed, + but the subject was ill chosen; for it treated of the death of the great + philosopher who had so studiously avoided using his pen on melancholy + themes. In those days all Russians with any pretensions to literature read + nothing but Voltaire, and when they had read all his writings they thought + themselves as wise as their master. To me they seemed pigmies mimicking a + giant. I told them that they ought to read all the books from which + Voltaire had drawn his immense learning, and then, perhaps, they might + become as wise as he. I remember the saying of a wise man at Rome: “Beware + of the man of one book.” I wonder whether the Russians are more profound + now; but that is a question I cannot answer. At Dresden I knew Prince + Biloselski, who was on his way back to Russia after having been ambassador + at Turin. He was the author of an admirable work on metaphysics, and the + analysis of the soul and reason. + </p> + <p> + Count Panin was the tutor of Paul Petrovitch, heir-presumptive to the + throne. The young prince had a severe master, and dared not even applaud + an air at the opera unless he first received permission to do so from his + mentor. + </p> + <p> + When a courier brought the news of the sudden death of Francis I., Emperor + of Germany and of the Holy Roman Empire, the czarina being at + Czarsko-Zelo, the count minister-tutor was in the palace with his pupil, + then eleven years old. The courier came at noon, and gave the dispatch + into the hands of the minister, who was standing in the midst of a crowd + of courtiers of whom I was one. The prince imperial was at his right hand. + The minister read the dispatch in a low voice, and then said: + </p> + <p> + “This is news indeed. The Emperor of the Romans has died suddenly.” + </p> + <p> + He then turned to Paul, and said to him,— + </p> + <p> + “Full court mourning, which your highness will observe for three months + longer than the empress.” + </p> + <p> + “Why so?” said Paul. + </p> + <p> + “Because, as Duke of Holstein, your highness has a right to attend the + diet of the empire, a privilege,” he added, turning to us, “which Peter + the Great desired in vain.” + </p> + <p> + I noted the attention with which the Grand Duke Paul listened to his + mentor, and the care with which he concealed his joy at the news. I was + immensely pleased with this way of giving instruction. I said as much to + Prince Lobkowitz, who was standing by me, and he refined on my praises. + This prince was popular with everyone. He was even preferred to his + predecessor, Prince Esterhazy; and this was saying a great deal, for + Esterhazy was adored in Russia. The gay and affable manner of Prince + Lobkowitz made him the life and soul of all the parties at which he was + present. He was a constant courtier of the Countess Braun, the reigning + beauty, and everyone believed his love had been crowned with success, + though no one could assert as much positively. + </p> + <p> + There was a great review held at a distance of twelve or fourteen versts + from St. Petersburg, at which the empress and all her train of courtiers + were present. The houses of the two or three adjoining villages were so + few and small that it would be impossible for all the company to find a + lodging. Nevertheless I wished to be present chiefly to please Zaira, who + wanted to be seen with me on such an occasion. The review was to last + three days; there were to be fireworks, and a mine was to be exploded + besides the evolutions of the troops. I went in my travelling carriage, + which would serve me for a lodging if I could get nothing better. + </p> + <p> + We arrived at the appointed place at eight o’clock in the morning; the + evolutions lasted till noon. When they were over we went towards a tavern + and had our meal served to us in the carriage, as all the rooms in the inn + were full. + </p> + <p> + After dinner my coachman tried in vain to find me a lodging, so I disposed + myself to sleep all night in the carriage; and so I did for the whole time + of the review, and fared better than those who had spent so much money to + be ill lodged. Melissino told me that the empress thought my idea a very + sensible one. As I was the only person who had a sleeping carriage, which + was quite a portable house in itself, I had numerous visitors, and Zaira + was radiant to be able to do the honours. + </p> + <p> + I had a good deal of conversation during the review with Count Tott, + brother of the nobleman who was employed at Constantinople, and known as + Baron Tott. We had known each other at Paris, and afterwards at the Hague, + where I had the pleasure of being of service to him. He had come to St. + Petersburg with Madame de Soltikoff, whom he had met at Paris, and whose + lover he was. He lived with her, went to Court, and was well received by + everyone. + </p> + <p> + Two or three years after, the empress ordered him to leave St. Petersburg + on account of the troubles in Poland. It was said that he kept up a + correspondence with his brother, who was endeavouring to intercept the + fleet under the command of Alexis Orloff. I never heard what became of him + after he left Russia, where he obliged me with the loan of five hundred + roubles, which I have not yet been able to return to him. + </p> + <p> + M. Maruzzi, by calling a Venetian merchant, and by birth a Greek, having + left trade to live like a gentleman, came to St. Petersburg when I was + there, and was presented at Court. He was a fine-looking man, and was + admitted to all the great houses. The empress treated him with distinction + because she had thoughts of making him her agent at Venice. He paid his + court to the Countess Braun, but he had rivals there who were not afraid + of him. He was rich enough, but did not know how to spend his money; and + avarice is a sin which meets with no pity from the Russian ladies. + </p> + <p> + I went to Czarsko-Zelo, Peterhoff, and Cronstadt, for if you want to say + you have been in a country you should see as much as possible of it. I + wrote notes and memorandums on several questions with the hope of their + procuring me a place in the civil service, and all my productions were + laid before the empress but with no effect. In Russia they do not think + much of foreigners unless they have specially summoned them; those who + come of their own account rarely make much, and I suspect the Russians are + right. + </p> + <a name="linkE2HCH0021" id="linkE2HCH0021"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXI + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + I See the Empress—My Conversations with Her—The Valville— + I Leave Zaiya—I Leave St. Petersburg and Arrive at Warsaw— + The Princes Adam Czartoryski and Sulkowski—The King of + Poland—Theatrical Intrigues—Byanicki +</pre> + <p> + I thought of leaving Russia at the beginning of the autumn, but I was told + by M M. Panin and Alsuwieff that I ought not to go without having spoken + to the empress. + </p> + <p> + “I should be sorry to do so,” I replied, “but as I can’t find anyone to + present me to her, I must be resigned.” + </p> + <p> + At last Panin told me to walk in a garden frequented by her majesty at an + early hour, and he said that meeting me, as it were by chance, she would + probably speak to me. I told him I should like him to be with her, and he + accordingly named a day. + </p> + <p> + I repaired to the garden, and as I walked about I marvelled at the + statuary it contained, all the statues being made of the worst stone, and + executed in the worst possible taste. The names cut beneath them gave the + whole the air of a practical joke. A weeping statue was Democritus; + another, with grinning mouth, was labelled Heraclitus; an old man with a + long beard was Sappho; and an old woman, Avicenna; and so on. + </p> + <p> + As I was smiling at this extraordinary collection, I saw the czarina, + preceded by Count Gregorius Orloff, and followed by two ladies, + approaching. Count Panin was on her left hand. I stood by the hedge to let + her pass, but as soon as she came up to me she asked, smilingly, if I had + been interested in the statues. I replied, following her steps, that I + presumed they had been placed there to impose on fools, or to excite the + laughter of those acquainted with history. + </p> + <p> + “From what I can make out,” she replied, “the secret of the matter is that + my worthy aunt was imposed on, and indeed she did not trouble herself much + about such trifles. But I hope you have seen other things in Russia less + ridiculous than these statues?” + </p> + <p> + I entertained the sovereign for more than an hour with my remarks on the + things of note I had seen in St. Petersburg. The conversation happened to + turn on the King of Prussia, and I sang his praises; but I censured his + terrible habit of always interrupting the person whom he was addressing. + Catherine smiled and asked me to tell her about the conversation I had had + with this monarch, and I did so to the best of my ability. She was then + kind enough to say that she had never seen me at the Courtag, which was a + vocal and instrumental concert given at the palace, and open to all. I + told her that I had only attended once, as I was so unfortunate as not to + have a taste for music. At this she turned to Panin, and said smilingly + that she knew someone else who had the same misfortune. If the reader + remembers what I heard her say about music as she was leaving the opera, + he will pronounce my speech to have been a very courtier-like one, and I + confess it was; but who can resist making such speeches to a monarch, and + above all, a monarch in petticoats? + </p> + <p> + The czarina turned from me to speak to M. Bezkoi, who had just come up, + and as M. Panin left the garden I did so too, delighted with the honour I + had had. + </p> + <p> + The empress, who was a woman of moderate height and yet of a majestic + appearance, thoroughly understood the art of making herself loved. She was + not beautiful, but yet she was sure of pleasing by her geniality and her + wit, and also by that exquisite tact which made one forget the awfulness + of the sovereign in the gentleness of the woman. A few days after, Count + Partin told me that the empress had twice asked after me, and that this + was a sure sign I had pleased her. He advised me to look out for another + opportunity of meeting her, and said that for the future she would always + tell me to approach whenever she saw me, and that if I wanted some + employment she might possible do something for me. + </p> + <p> + Though I did not know what employ I could ask for in that disagreeable + country, I was glad to hear that I could have easy access to the Court. + With that idea I walked in the garden every day, and here follows my + second conversation with the empress She saw me at a distance and sent an + officer to fetch me into her presence. As everybody was talking of the + tournament, which had to be postponed on account of the bad weather, she + asked me if this kind of entertainment could be given at Venice. I told + her some amusing stories on the subject of shows and spectacles, and in + this relation I remarked that the Venetian climate was more pleasant than + the Russian, for at Venice fine days were the rule, while at St. + Petersburg they were the exception, though the year is younger there than + anywhere else. + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” she said, “in your country it is eleven days older.” + </p> + <p> + “Would it not be worthy of your majesty to put Russia on an equality with + the rest of the world in this respect, by adopting the Gregorian calendar? + All the Protestants have done so, and England, who adopted it fourteen + years ago, has already gained several millions. All Europe is astonished + that the old style should be suffered to exist in a country where the + sovereign is the head of the Church, and whose capital contains an academy + of science. It is thought that Peter the Great, who made the year begin in + January, would have also abolished the old style if he had not been afraid + of offending England, which then kept trade and commerce alive throughout + your vast empire.” + </p> + <p> + “You know,” she replied, with a sly smile, “that Peter the Great was not + exactly a learned man.” + </p> + <p> + “He was more than a man of learning, the immortal Peter was a genius of + the first order. Instinct supplied the place of science with him; his + judgment was always in the right. His vast genius, his firm resolve, + prevented him from making mistakes, and helped him to destroy all those + abuses which threatened to oppose his great designs.” + </p> + <p> + Her majesty seemed to have heard me with great interest, and was about to + reply when she noticed two ladies whom she summoned to her presence. To me + she said,— + </p> + <p> + “I shall be delighted to reply to you at another time,” and then turned + towards the ladies. + </p> + <p> + The time came in eight or ten days, when I was beginning to think she had + had enough of me, for she had seen me without summoning me to speak to + her. + </p> + <p> + She began by saying what I desired should be done was done already. “All + the letters sent to foreign countries and all the important State records + are marked with both dates.” + </p> + <p> + “But I must point out to your majesty that by the end of the century the + difference will be of twelve days, not eleven.” + </p> + <p> + “Not at all; we have seen to that. The last year of this century will not + be counted as a leap year. It is fortunate that the difference is one of + eleven days, for as that is the number which is added every year to the + epact. Our epacts are almost the same. As to the celebration of Easter, + that is a different question. Your equinox is on March the 21st, ours on + the 10th, and the astronomers say we are both wrong; sometimes it is we + who are wrong and sometimes you, as the equinox varies. You know you are + not even in agreement with the Jews, whose calculation is said to be + perfectly accurate; and, in fine, this difference in the time of + celebrating Easter does not disturb in any way public order or the + progress of the Government.” + </p> + <p> + “Your majesty’s words fill me with admiration, but the Festival of + Christmas—— ” + </p> + <p> + “I suppose you are going to say that we do not celebrate Christmas in the + winter solstice as should properly be done. We know it, but it seems to me + a matter of no account. I would rather bear with this small mistake than + grievously afflict vast numbers of my subjects by depriving them of their + birthdays. If I did so, there would be no open complaints uttered, as that + is not the fashion in Russia; but they would say in secret that I was an + Atheist, and that I disputed the infallibility of the Council of Nice. You + may think such complaints matter for laughter, but I do not, for I have + much more agreeable motives for amusement.” + </p> + <p> + The czarina was delighted to mark my surprise. I did not doubt for a + moment that she had made a special study of the whole subject. M. + Alsuwieff told me, a few days after, that she had very possibly read a + little pamphlet on the subject, the statements of which exactly coincided + with her own. He took care to add, however, that it was very possible her + highness was profoundly learned on the matter, but this was merely a + courtier’s phrase. + </p> + <p> + What she said was spoken modestly and energetically, and her good humour + and pleasant smile remained unmoved throughout. She exercised a constant + self-control over herself, and herein appeared the greatness of her + character, for nothing is more difficult. Her demeanour, so different from + that of the Prussian king, shewed her to be the greater sovereign of the + two; her frank geniality always gave her the advantage, while the short, + curt manners of the king often exposed him to being made a dupe. In an + examination of the life of Frederick the Great, one cannot help paying a + deserved tribute to his courage, but at the same time one feels that if it + had not been for repeated turns of good fortune he must have succumbed, + whereas Catherine was little indebted to the favours of the blind deity. + She succeeded in enterprises which, before her time, would have been + pronounced impossibilities, and it seemed her aim to make men look upon + her achievements as of small account. + </p> + <p> + I read in one of our modern journals, those monuments of editorial + self-conceit, that Catherine the Great died happily as she had lived. + Everybody knows that she died suddenly on her close stool. By calling such + a death happy, the journalist hints that it is the death he himself would + wish for. Everyone to his taste, and we can only hope that the editor may + obtain his wish; but who told this silly fellow that Catherine desired + such a death? If he regards such a wish as natural to a person of her + profound genius I would ask who told him that men of genius consider a + sudden death to be a happy one? Is it because that is his opinion, and are + we to conclude that he is therefore person of genius? To come to the truth + we should have to interrogate the late empress, and ask her some such + question as: + </p> + <p> + “Are you well pleased to have died suddenly?” + </p> + <p> + She would probably reply: + </p> + <p> + “What a foolish question! Such might be the wish of one driven to despair, + or of someone suffering from a long and grievous malady. Such was not my + position, for I enjoyed the blessings of happiness and good health; no + worse fate could have happened to me. My sudden death prevented me from + concluding several designs which I might have brought to a successful + issue if God had granted me the warning of a slight illness. But it was + not so; I had to set out on the long journey at a moment’s notice, without + the time to make any preparations. Is my death any the happier from my not + foreseeing it? Do you think me such a coward as to dread the approach of + what is common to all? I tell you that I should have accounted myself + happy if I had had a respite of but a day. Then I should not complain of + the Divine justice.” + </p> + <p> + “Does your highness accuse God of injustice, then?” + </p> + <p> + “What boots it, since I am a lost soul? Do you expect the damned to + acknowledge the justice of the decree which has consigned them to eternal + woe?” + </p> + <p> + “No doubt it is a difficult matter, but I should have thought that a sense + of the justice of your doom would have mitigated the pains of it.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps so, but a damned soul must be without consolation for ever.” + </p> + <p> + “In spite of that there are some philosophers who call you happy in your + death by virtue of its suddenness.” + </p> + <p> + “Not philosophers, but fools, for in its suddenness was the pain and woe.” + </p> + <p> + “Well said; but may I ask your highness if you admit the possibility of a + happy eternity after an unhappy death, or of an unhappy doom after a happy + death?” + </p> + <p> + “Such suppositions are inconceivable. The happiness of futurity lies in + the ecstasy of the soul in feeling freed from the trammels of matter, and + unhappiness is the doom of a soul which was full of remorse at the moment + it left the body. But enough, for my punishment forbids my farther + speech.” + </p> + <p> + “Tell me, at least, what is the nature of your punishment?” + </p> + <p> + “An everlasting weariness. Farewell.” + </p> + <p> + After this long and fanciful digression the reader will no doubt be + obliged by my returning to this world. + </p> + <p> + Count Panin told me that in a few days the empress would leave for her + country house, and I determined to have an interview with her, foreseeing + that it would be for the last time. + </p> + <p> + I had been in the garden for a few minutes when heavy rain began to fall, + and I was going to leave, when the empress summoned me into an apartment + on the ground floor of the palace, where she was walking up and down with + Gregorovitch and a maid of honour. + </p> + <p> + “I had forgotten to ask you,” she said, graciously, “if you believe the + new calculation of the calendar to be exempt from error?” + </p> + <p> + “No, your majesty; but the error is so minute that it will not produce any + sensible effect for the space of nine or ten thousand years.” + </p> + <p> + “I thought so; and in my opinion Pope Gregory should not have acknowledged + any mistake at all. The Pope, however, had much less difficulty in + carrying out his reform than I should have with my subjects, who are too + fond of their ancient usages and customs.” + </p> + <p> + “Nevertheless, I am sure your majesty would meet with obedience.” + </p> + <p> + “No doubt, but imagine the grief of my clergy in not being able to + celebrate the numerous saints’ days, which would fall on the eleven days + to be suppressed. You have only one saint for each day, but we have a + dozen at least. I may remark also that all ancient states and kingdoms are + attached to their ancient laws. I have heard that your Republic of Venice + begins the year in March, and that seems to me, as it were, a monument and + memorial of its antiquity—and indeed the year begins more naturally + in March than in January—but does not this usage cause some + confusion?” + </p> + <p> + “None at all, your majesty. The letters M V, which we adjoin to all dates + in January and February, render all mistakes impossible.” + </p> + <p> + “Venice is also noteworthy for its peculiar system of heraldry, by the + amusing form under which it portrays its patron saint, and by the five + Latin words with which the Evangelist is invoked, in which, as I am told, + there is a grammatical blunder which has become respectable by its long + standing. But is it true that you do not distinguish between the day and + night hours?” + </p> + <p> + “It is, your majesty, and what is more we reckon the day from the + beginning of the night.” + </p> + <p> + “Such is the force of custom, which makes us admire what other nations + think ridiculous. You see no inconvenience in your division of the day, + which strikes me as most inconvenient.” + </p> + <p> + “You would only have to look at your watch, and you would not need to + listen for the cannon shot which announces the close of day.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but for this one advantage you have over us, we have two over you. + We know that at twelve o’clock it is either mid-day or midnight.” + </p> + <p> + The czarina spoke to me about the fondness of the Venetians for games of + chance, and asked if the Genoa Lottery had been established there. “I have + been asked,” she added, “to allow the lottery to be established in my own + dominions; but I should never permit it except on the condition that no + stake should be below a rouble, and then the poor people would not be able + to risk their money in it.” + </p> + <p> + I replied to this discreet observation with a profound inclination of the + head, and thus ended my last interview with the famous empress who reigned + thirty-five years without committing a single mistake of any importance. + The historian will always place her amongst great sovereigns, though the + moralist will always consider her, and rightly, as one of the most notable + of dissolute women. + </p> + <p> + A few days before I left I gave an entertainment to my friends at + Catherinhoff, winding up with a fine display of fireworks, a present from + my friend Melissino. My supper for thirty was exquisite, and my ball a + brilliant one. In spite of the tenuity of my purse I felt obliged to give + my friends this mark of my gratitude for the kindness they had lavished on + me. + </p> + <p> + I left Russia with the actress Valville, and I must here tell the reader + how I came to make her acquaintance. + </p> + <p> + I happened to go to the French play, and to find myself seated next to an + extremely pretty lady who was unknown to me. I occasionally addressed an + observation to her referring to the play or actors, and I was immensely + delighted with her spirited answers. Her expression charmed me, and I took + the liberty of asking her if she were a Russian. + </p> + <p> + “No, thank God!” she replied, “I am a Parisian, and an actress by + occupation. My name is Valville; but I don’t wonder I am unknown to you, + for I have been only a month here, and have played but once.” + </p> + <p> + “How is that?” + </p> + <p> + “Because I was so unfortunate as to fail to win the czarina’s favour. + However, as I was engaged for a year, she has kindly ordered that my + salary of a hundred roubles shall be paid monthly. At the end of the year + I shall get my passport and go.” + </p> + <p> + “I am sure the empress thinks she is doing you a favour in paying you for + nothing.” + </p> + <p> + “Very likely; but she does not remember that I am forgetting how to act + all this time.” + </p> + <p> + “You ought to tell her that.” + </p> + <p> + “I only wish she would give me an audience.” + </p> + <p> + “That is unnecessary. Of course, you have a lover.” + </p> + <p> + “No, I haven’t.” + </p> + <p> + “It’s incredible to me!” + </p> + <p> + “They say the incredible often happens.” + </p> + <p> + “I am very glad to hear it myself.” + </p> + <p> + I took her address, and sent her the following note the next day: + </p> + <p> + “Madam,—I should like to begin an intrigue with you. You have + inspired me with feelings that will make me unhappy unless you reciprocate + them. I beg to take the liberty of asking myself to sup with you, but + please tell me how much it will cost me. I am obliged to leave for Warsaw + in the course of a month, and I shall be happy to offer you a place in my + travelling carriage. I shall be able to get you a passport. The bearer of + this has orders to wait, and I hope your answer will be as plainly worded + as my question.” + </p> + <p> + In two hours I received this reply: + </p> + <p> + “Sir,—As I have the knack of putting an end to an intrigue when it + has ceased to amuse me, I have no hesitation in accepting your proposal. + As to the sentiments with which you say I have inspired you, I will do my + best to share them, and to make you happy. Your supper shall be ready, and + later on we will settle the price of the dessert. I shall be delighted to + accept the place in your carriage if you can obtain my expenses to Paris + as well as my passport. And finally, I hope you will find my plain + speaking on a match with yours. Good bye, till the evening.” + </p> + <p> + I found my new friend in a comfortable lodging, and we accosted each other + as if we had been old acquaintances. + </p> + <p> + “I shall be delighted to travel with you,” said she, “but I don’t think + you will be able to get my passport.” + </p> + <p> + “I have no doubt as to my success,” I replied, “if you will present to the + empress the petition I shall draft for you.” + </p> + <p> + “I will surely do so,” said she, giving me writing materials. + </p> + <p> + I wrote out the following petition,— + </p> + <p> + “Your Majesty,—I venture to remind your highness that my enforced + idleness is making me forget my art, which I have not yet learnt + thoroughly. Your majesty’s generosity is therefore doing me an injury, and + your majesty would do me a great benefit in giving me permission to leave + St. Petersburg.” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing more than that?” + </p> + <p> + “Not a word.” + </p> + <p> + “You say nothing about the passport, and nothing about the journey-money. + I am not a rich woman.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you only present this petition; and, unless I am very much mistaken, + you will have, not only your journey-money, but also your year’s salary.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, that would be too much!” + </p> + <p> + “Not at all. You do not know Catherine, but I do. Have this copied, and + present it in person.” + </p> + <p> + “I will copy it out myself, for I can write a good enough hand. Indeed, it + almost seems as if I had composed it; it is exactly my style. I believe + you are a better actor than I am, and from this evening I shall call + myself your pupil. Come, let us have some supper, that you may give me my + first lesson.” + </p> + <p> + After a delicate supper, seasoned by pleasant and witty talk, Madame + Valville granted me all I could desire. I went downstairs for a moment to + send away my coachman and to instruct him what he was to say to Zaira, + whom I had forewarned that I was going to Cronstadt, and might not return + till the next day. My coachman was a Ukrainian on whose fidelity I could + rely, but I knew that it would be necessary for me to be off with the old + love before I was on with the new. + </p> + <p> + Madame Valville was like most young Frenchwomen of her class; she had + charms which she wished to turn to account, and a passable education; her + ambition was to be kept by one man, and the title of mistress was more + pleasing in her ears than that of wife. + </p> + <p> + In the intervals of four amorous combats she told me enough of her life + for me to divine what it had been. Clerval, the actor, had been gathering + together a company of actors at Paris, and making her acquaintance by + chance and finding her to be intelligent, he assured her that she was a + born actress, though she had never suspected it. The idea had dazzled her, + and she had signed the agreement. She started from Paris with six other + actors and actresses, of whom she was the only one that had never played. + </p> + <p> + “I thought,” she said, “it was like what is done at Paris, where a girl + goes into the chorus or the ballet without having learnt to sing or dance. + What else could I think, after an actor like Clerval had assured me I had + a talent for acting and had offered me a good engagement? All he required + of me was that I should learn by heart and repeat certain passages which I + rehearsed in his presence. He said I made a capital soubrette, and he + certainly could not have been trying to deceive me, but the fact is he was + deceived himself. A fortnight after my arrival I made my first appearance, + and my reception was not a flattering one.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps you were nervous?” + </p> + <p> + “Nervous? not in the least. Clerval said that if I could have put on the + appearance of nervousness the empress, who is kindness itself, would + certainly have encouraged me.” + </p> + <p> + I left her the next morning after I had seen her copy out the petition. + She wrote a very good hand. + </p> + <p> + “I shall present it to-day,” said she. + </p> + <p> + I wished her good luck, and arranged to sup with her again on the day I + meant to part with Zaira. + </p> + <p> + All French girls who sacrifice to Venus are in the same style as the + Valville; they are entirely without passion or love, but they are pleasant + and caressing. They have only one object; and that is their own profit. + They make and unmake an intrigue with a smiling face and without the + slightest difficulty. It is their system, and if it be not absolutely the + best it is certainly the most convenient. + </p> + <p> + When I got home I found Zaira submissive but sad, which annoyed me more + than anger would have done, for I loved her. However, it was time to bring + the matter to an end, and to make up my mind to endure the pain of + parting. + </p> + <p> + Rinaldi, the architect, a man of seventy, but still vigorous and sensual, + was in love with her, and he had hinted to me several times that he would + be only too happy to take her over and to pay double the sum I had given + for her. My answer had been that I could only give her to a man she liked, + and that I meant to make her a present of the hundred roubles I had given + for her. Rinaldi did not like this answer, as he had not very strong hopes + of the girl taking a fancy to him; however, he did not despair. + </p> + <p> + He happened to call on me on the very morning on which I had determined to + give her up, and as he spoke Russian perfectly he gave Zaira to understand + how much he loved her. Her answer was that he must apply to me, as my will + was law to her, but that she neither liked nor disliked anyone else. The + old man could not obtain any more positive reply and left us with but + feeble hopes, but commending himself to my good offices. + </p> + <p> + When he had gone, I asked Zaira whether she would not like me to leave her + to the worthy man, who would treat her as his own daughter. + </p> + <p> + She was just going to reply when I was handed a note from Madame Valville, + asking me to call on her, as she had a piece of news to give me. I ordered + the carriage immediately, telling Zaira that I should not be long. + </p> + <p> + “Very good,” she replied, “I will give you a plain answer when you come + back.” + </p> + <p> + I found Madame Valville in a high state of delight. + </p> + <p> + “Long live the petition!” she exclaimed, as soon as she saw me. “I waited + for the empress to come out of her private chapel. I respectfully + presented my petition, which she read as she walked along, and then told + me with a kindly smile to wait a moment. I waited, and her majesty + returned me the petition initialled in her own hand, and bade me take it + to M. Ghelagin. This gentleman gave me an excellent reception, and told me + that the sovereign hand ordered him to give me my passport, my salary for + a year, and a hundred ducats for the journey. The money will be forwarded + in a fortnight, as my name will have to be sent to the Gazette.” + </p> + <p> + Madame Valville was very grateful, and we fixed the day of our departure. + Three or four days later I sent in my name to the Gazette. + </p> + <p> + I had promised Zaira to come back, so telling my new love that I would + come and live with her as soon as I had placed the young Russian in good + hands, I went home, feeling rather curious to hear Zaira’s determination. + </p> + <p> + After Zaira had supped with me in perfect good humour, she asked if M. + Rinaldi would pay me back the money I had given for her. I said he would, + and she went on,— + </p> + <p> + “It seems to me that I am worth more than I was, for I have all your + presents, and I know Italian.” + </p> + <p> + “You are right, dear, but I don’t want it to be said that I have made a + profit on you; besides, I intend to make you a present of the hundred + roubles.” + </p> + <p> + “As you are going to make me such a handsome present, why not send me back + to my father’s house? That would be still more generous. If M. Rinaldi + really loves me, he can come and talk it over with my father. You have no + objection to his paying me whatever sum I like to mention.” + </p> + <p> + “Not at all. On the contrary, I shall be very glad to serve your family, + and all the more as Rinaldi is a rich man.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good; you will be always dear to me in my memory. You shall take me + to my home to-morrow; and now let us go to bed.” + </p> + <p> + Thus it was that I parted with this charming girl, who made me live + soberly all the time I was at St. Petersburg. Zinowieff told me that if I + had liked to deposit a small sum as security I could have taken her with + me; but I had thought the matter over, and it seemed to me that as Zaira + grew more beautiful and charming I should end by becoming a perfect slave + to her. Possibly, however, I should not have looked into matters so + closely if I had not been in love with Madame Valville. + </p> + <p> + Zaira spent the next morning in gathering together her belongings, now + laughing and now weeping, and every time that she left her packing to give + me a kiss I could not resist weeping myself. When I restored her to her + father, the whole family fell on their knees around me. Alas for poor + human nature! thus it is degraded by the iron heel of oppression. Zaira + looked oddly in the humble cottage, where one large mattress served for + the entire family. + </p> + <p> + Rinaldi took everything in good part. He told me that since the daughter + would make no objection he had no fear of the father doing so. He went to + the house the next day, but he did not get the girl till I had left St. + Petersburg. He kept her for the remainder of his days, and behaved very + handsomely to her. + </p> + <p> + After this melancholy separation Madame Valville became my sole mistress, + and we left the Russian capital in the course of a few weeks. I took an + Armenian merchant into my service; he had lent me a hundred ducats, and + cooked very well in the Eastern style. I had a letter from the Polish + resident to Prince Augustus Sulkowski, and another from the English + ambassador for Prince Adam Czartoryski. + </p> + <p> + The day after we left St. Petersburg we stopped at Koporie to dine; we had + taken with us some choice viands and excellent wines. Two days later we + met the famous chapel-master, Galuppi or Buranelli, who was on his way to + St. Petersburg with two friends and an artiste. He did not know me, and + was astonished to find a Venetian dinner awaiting him at the inn, as also + to hear a greeting in his mother tongue. As soon as I had pronounced my + name he embraced me with exclamations of surprise and joy. + </p> + <p> + The roads were heavy with rain, so we were a week in getting to Riga, and + when we arrived I was sorry to hear that Prince Charles was not there. + From Riga, we were four days before getting to Konigsberg, where Madame + Valville, who was expected at Berlin, had to leave me. I left her my + Armenian, to whom she gladly paid the hundred ducats I owed him. I saw her + again two years later, and shall speak of the meeting in due time. + </p> + <p> + We separated like good friends, without any sadness. We spent the night at + Klein Roop, near Riga, and she offered to give me her diamonds, her + jewels, and all that she possessed. We were staying with the Countess + Lowenwald, to whom I had a letter from the Princess Dolgorouki. This lady + had in her house, in the capacity of governess, the pretty English woman + whom I had known as Campioni’s wife. She told me that her husband was at + Warsaw, and that he was living with Villiers. She gave me a letter for + him, and I promised to make him send her some money, and I kept my word. + Little Betty was as charming as ever, but her mother seemed quite jealous + of her and treated her ill. + </p> + <p> + When I reached Konigsberg I sold my travelling carriage and took a place + in a coach for Warsaw. We were four in all, and my companions only spoke + German and Polish, so that I had a dreadfully tedious journey. At Warsaw I + went to live with Villiers, where I hoped to meet Campioni. + </p> + <p> + It was not long before I saw him, and found him well in health and in + comfortable quarters. He kept a dancing school, and had a good many + pupils. He was delighted to have news of Fanny and his children. He sent + them some money, but had no thoughts of having them at Warsaw, as Fanny + wished. He assured me she was not his wife. + </p> + <p> + He told me that Tomatis, the manager of the comic opera, had made a + fortune, and had in his company a Milanese dancer named Catai, who + enchanted all the town by her charms rather than her talent. Games of + chance were permitted, but he warned me that Warsaw was full of + card-sharpers. A Veronese named Giropoldi, who lived with an officer from + Lorrain called Bachelier, held a bank at faro at her house, where a + dancer, who had been the mistress of the famous Afflisio at Vienna, + brought customers. + </p> + <p> + Major Sadir, whom I have mentioned before, kept another gaming-house, in + company with his mistress, who came from Saxony. The Baron de St. Heleine + was also in Warsaw, but his principal occupation was to contract debts + which he did not mean to pay. He also lived in Villier’s house with his + pretty and virtuous young wife, who would have nothing to say to us. + Campioni told me of some other adventurers, whose names I was very glad to + know that I might the better avoid them. + </p> + <p> + The day after my arrival I hired a man and a carriage, the latter being an + absolute necessity at Warsaw, where in my time, at all events, it was + impossible to go on foot. I reached the capital of Poland at the end of + October, 1765. + </p> + <p> + My first call was on Prince Adam Czartoryski, Lieutenant of Podolia, for + whom I had an introduction. I found him before a table covered with + papers, surrounded by forty or fifty persons, in an immense library which + he had made into his bedroom. He was married to a very pretty woman, but + had not yet had a child by her because she was too thin for his taste. + </p> + <p> + He read the long letter I gave him, and said in elegant French that he had + a very high opinion of the writer of the letter; but that as he was very + busy just then he hoped I would come to supper with him if I had nothing + better to do. + </p> + <p> + I drove off to Prince Sulkouski, who had just been appointed ambassador to + the Court of Louis XV. The prince was the elder of four brothers and a man + of great understanding, but a theorist in the style of the Abbe St. + Pierre. He read the letter, and said he wanted to have a long talk with + me; but that being obliged to go out he would be obliged if I would come + and dine with him at four o’clock. I accepted the invitation. + </p> + <p> + I then went to a merchant named Schempinski, who was to pay me fifty + ducats a month on Papanelopulo’s order. My man told me that there was a + public rehearsal of a new opera at the theatre, and I accordingly spent + three hours there, knowing none and unknown to all. All the actresses were + pretty, but especially the Catai, who did not know the first elements of + dancing. She was greatly applauded, above all by Prince Repnin, the + Russian ambassador, who seemed a person of the greatest consequence. + </p> + <p> + Prince Sulkouski kept me at table for four mortal hours, talking on every + subject except those with which I happened to be acquainted. His strong + points were politics and commerce, and as he found my mind a mere void on + these subjects, he shone all the more, and took quite a fancy to me, as I + believe, because he found me such a capital listener. + </p> + <p> + About nine o’clock, having nothing better to do (a favourite phrase with + the Polish noblemen), I went to Prince Adam, who after pronouncing my name + introduced me to the company. There were present Monseigneur Krasinski, + the Prince-Bishop of Warmia, the Chief Prothonotary Rzewuski, whom I had + known at St. Petersburg, the Palatin Oginski, General Roniker, and two + others whose barbarous names I have forgotten. The last person to whom he + introduced me was his wife, with whom I was very pleased. A few moments + after a fine-looking gentleman came into the room, and everybody stood up. + Prince Adam pronounced my name, and turning to me said, coolly,— + </p> + <p> + “That’s the king.” + </p> + <p> + This method of introducing a stranger to a sovereign prince was assuredly + not an overwhelming one, but it was nevertheless a surprise; and I found + that an excess of simplicity may be as confusing as the other extreme. At + first I thought the prince might be making a fool of me; but I quickly put + aside the idea, and stepped forward and was about to kneel, but his + majesty gave me his hand to kiss with exquisite grace, and as he was about + to address me, Prince Adam shewed him the letter of the English + ambassador, who was well known to the king. The king read it, still + standing, and began to ask me questions about the Czarina and the Court, + appearing to take great interest in my replies. + </p> + <p> + When supper was announced the king continued to talk, and led me into the + supper-room, and made me sit down at his right hand. Everybody ate + heartily except the king, who appeared to have no appetite, and myself, + who had no right to have any appetite, even if I had not dined well with + Prince Sulkouski, for I saw the whole table hushed to listen to my replies + to the king’s questions. + </p> + <p> + After supper the king began to comment very graciously on my answers. His + majesty spoke simply but with great elegance. As he was leaving he told me + he should always be delighted to see me at his Court, and Prince Adam said + that if I liked to be introduced to his father, I had only to call at + eleven o’clock the next morning. + </p> + <p> + The King of Poland was of a medium height, but well made. His face was not + a handsome one, but it was kindly and intelligent. He was rather + short-sighted, and his features in repose bore a somewhat melancholy + expression; but in speaking, the whole face seemed to light up. All he + said was seasoned by a pleasant wit. + </p> + <p> + I was well enough pleased with this interview, and returned to my inn, + where I found Campioni seated amongst several guests of either sex, and + after staying with them for half an hour I went to bed. + </p> + <p> + At eleven o’clock the next day I was presented to the great Russian + Paladin. He was in his dressing-gown, surrounded by his gentlemen in the + national costume. He was standing up and conversing with his followers in + a kindly but grave manner. As soon as his son Adam mentioned my name, he + unbent and gave me a most kindly yet dignified welcome. His manners were + not awful, nor did they inspire one with familiarity, and I thought him + likely to be a good judge of character. When I told him that I had only + gone to Russia to amuse myself and see good company, he immediately + concluded that my aims in coming to Poland were of the same kind; and he + told me that he could introduce me to a large circle. He added that he + should be glad to see me to dinner and supper whenever I had no other + engagements. + </p> + <p> + He went behind a screen to complete his toilette, and soon appeared in the + uniform of his regiment, with a fair peruke in the style of the late King + Augustus II. He made a collective bow to everyone, and went to see his + wife, who was recovering from a disease which would have proved fatal if + it had not been for the skill of Reimann, a pupil of the great Boerhaave. + The lady came of the now extinct family of Enoff, whose immense wealth she + brought to her husband. When he married her he abandoned the Maltese + Order, of which he had been a knight. He won his bride by a duel with + pistols on horseback. The lady had promised that her hand should be the + conqueror’s guerdon, and the prince was so fortunate as to kill his rival. + Of this marriage there issued Prince Adam and a daughter, now a widow, and + known under the name of Lubomirska, but formerly under that of + Strasnikowa, that being the title of the office her husband held in the + royal army. + </p> + <p> + It was this prince palatine and his brother, the High Chancellor of + Lithuania, who first brought about the Polish troubles. The two brothers + were discontented with their position at the Court where Count Bruhl was + supreme, and put themselves at the head of the plot for dethroning the + king, and for placing on the throne, under Russian protection, their young + nephew, who had originally gone to St. Petersburg as an attache at the + embassy, and afterwards succeeded in winning the favour of Catherine, then + Grand Duchess, but soon to become empress. + </p> + <p> + This young man was Stanislas Poniatowski, son of Constance Czartoryski and + the celebrated Poniatowski, the friend of Charles III. As luck would have + it, a revolution was unnecessary to place him on the throne, for the king + died in 1763, and gave place to Prince Poniatowski, who was chosen king on + the 6th of September, 1776, under the title of Stanislas Augustus I. He + had reigned two years at the time of my visit; and I found Warsaw in a + state of gaiety, for a diet was to be held and everyone wished to know how + it was that Catherine had given the Poles a native king. + </p> + <p> + At dinner-time I went to the paladin’s and found three tables, at each of + which there were places for thirty, and this was the usual number + entertained by the prince. The luxury of the Court paled before that of + the paladin’s house. Prince Adam said to me, + </p> + <p> + “Chevalier, your place will always be at my father’s table.” + </p> + <p> + This was a great honour, and I felt it. The prince introduced me to his + handsome sister, and to several palatins and starosts. I did not fail to + call on all these great personages, so in the course of a fortnight I + found myself a welcome guest in all the best houses. + </p> + <p> + My purse was too lean to allow of my playing or consoling myself with a + theatrical beauty, so I fell back on the library of Monseigneur Zalewski, + the Bishop of Kiowia, for whom I had taken a great liking. I spent almost + all my mornings with him, and it was from this prelate that I learnt all + the intrigues and complots by which the ancient Polish constitution, of + which the bishop was a great admirer, had been overturned. Unhappily, his + firmness was of no avail, and a few months after I left Warsaw the Russian + tyrants arrested him and he was exiled to Siberia. + </p> + <p> + I lived calmly and peaceably, and still look back upon those days with + pleasure. I spent my afternoons with the paladin playing tressette, an + Italian game of which he was very fond, and which I played well enough for + the paladin to like to have me as a partner. + </p> + <p> + In spite of my sobriety and economy I found myself in debt three months + after my arrival, and I did not know where to turn for help. The fifty + ducats per month, which were sent me from Venice, were insufficient, for + the money I had to spend on my carriage, my lodging, my servant, and my + dress brought me down to the lowest ebb, and I did not care to appeal to + anyone. But fortune had a surprise in store for me, and hitherto she had + never left me. + </p> + <p> + Madame Schmit, whom the king for good reasons of his own had accommodated + with apartments in the palace, asked me one evening to sup with her, + telling me that the king would be of the party. I accepted the invitation, + and I was delighted to find the delightful Bishop Kraswiski, the Abbe + Guigiotti, and two or three other amateurs of Italian literature. The + king, whose knowledge of literature was extensive, began to tell anecdotes + of classical writers, quoting manuscript authorities which reduced me to + silence, and which were possibly invented by him. Everyone talked except + myself, and as I had had no dinner I ate like an ogre, only replying by + monosyllables when politeness obliged me to say something. The + conversation turned on Horace, and everyone gave his opinion on the great + materialist’s philosophy, and the Abbe Guigiotti obliged me to speak by + saying that unless I agreed with him I should not keep silence. + </p> + <p> + “If you take my silence for consent to your extravagant eulogium of + Horace,” I said, “you are mistaken; for in my opinion the ‘nec cum venari + volet poemata panges’, of which you think so much, is to my mind a satire + devoid of delicacy.” + </p> + <p> + “Satire and delicacy are hard to combine.” + </p> + <p> + “Not for Horace, who succeeded in pleasing the great Augustus, and + rendering him immortal as the protector of learned men. Indeed other + sovereigns seem to vie with him by taking his name and even by disguising + it.” + </p> + <p> + The king (who had taken the name of Augustus himself) looked grave and + said,— + </p> + <p> + “What sovereigns have adopted a disguised form of the name Augustus?” + </p> + <p> + “The first king of Sweden, who called himself Gustavus, which is only an + anagram of Augustus.” + </p> + <p> + “That is a very amusing idea, and worth more than all the tales we have + told. Where did you find that?” + </p> + <p> + “In a manuscript at Wolfenbuttel.” + </p> + <p> + The king laughed loudly, though he himself had been citing manuscripts. + But he returned to the charge and said,— + </p> + <p> + “Can you cite any passage of Horace (not in manuscript) where he shews his + talent for delicacy and satire?” + </p> + <p> + “Sir, I could quote several passages, but here is one which seems to me + very good: ‘Coram rege’, says the poet, ‘sua de paupertate tacentes, plus + quam pocentes ferent.” + </p> + <p> + “True indeed,” said the king, with a smile. + </p> + <p> + Madame Schmit, who did not know Latin, and inherited curiosity from her + mother, and eventually from Eve, asked the bishop what it meant, and he + thus translated it: + </p> + <p> + “They that speak not of their necessities in the presence of a king, gain + more than they that are ever asking.” + </p> + <p> + The lady remarked that she saw nothing satirical in this. + </p> + <p> + After this it was my turn to be silent again; but the king began to talk + about Ariosto, and expressed a desire to read it with me. I replied with + an inclination of the head, and Horace’s words: ‘Tempora quoeram’. + </p> + <p> + Next morning, as I was coming out from mass, the generous and unfortunate + Stanislas Augustus gave me his hand to kiss, and at the same time slid a + roll of money into my hand, saying,— + </p> + <p> + “Thank no one but Horace, and don’t tell anyone about it.” + </p> + <p> + The roll contained two hundred ducats, and I immediately paid off my + debts. Since then I went almost every morning to the king’s closet, where + he was always glad to see his courtiers, but there was no more said about + reading Ariosto. He knew Italian, but not enough to speak it, and still + less to appreciate the beauties of the great poet. When I think of this + worthy prince, and of the great qualities he possessed as a man, I cannot + understand how he came to commit so many errors as a king. Perhaps the + least of them all was that he allowed himself to survive his country. As + he could not find a friend to kill him, I think he should have killed + himself. But indeed he had no need to ask a friend to do him this service; + he should have imitated the great Kosciuszko, and entered into life + eternal by the sword of a Russian. + </p> + <p> + The carnival was a brilliant one. All Europe seemed to have assembled at + Warsaw to see the happy being whom fortune had so unexpectedly raised to a + throne, but after seeing him all were agreed that, in his case at all + events, the deity had been neither blind nor foolish. Perhaps, however, he + liked shewing himself rather too much. I have detected him in some + distress on his being informed that there was such a thing as a stranger + in Warsaw who had not seen him. No one had any need of an introduction, + for his Court was, as all Courts should be, open to everyone, and when he + noticed a strange face he was the first to speak. + </p> + <p> + Here I must set down an event which took place towards the end of January. + It was, in fact, a dream; and, as I think I have confessed before, + superstition had always some hold on me. + </p> + <p> + I dreamt I was at a banquet, and one of the guests threw a bottle at my + face, that the blood poured forth, that I ran my sword through my enemy’s + body, and jumped into a carriage, and rode away. + </p> + <p> + Prince Charles of Courland came to Warsaw, and asked me to dine with him + at Prince Poninski’s, the same that became so notorious, and was + afterwards proscribed and shamefully dishonoured. His was a hospitable + house, and he was surrounded by his agreeable family. I had never called + on him, as he was not a ‘persona grata’ to the king or his relations. + </p> + <p> + In the course of the dinner a bottle of champagne burst, and a piece of + broken glass struck me just below the eye. It cut a vein, and the blood + gushed over my face, over my clothes, and even over the cloth. Everybody + rose, my wound was bound up, the cloth was changed, and the dinner went on + merrily. I was surprised at the likeness between my dream and this + incident, while I congratulated myself on the happy difference between + them. However, it all came true after a few months. + </p> + <p> + Madame Binetti, whom I had last seen in London, arrived at Warsaw with her + husband and Pic the dancer. She had a letter of introduction to the king’s + brother, who was a general in the Austrian service, and then resided at + Warsaw. I heard that the day they came, when I was at supper at the + palatin’s. The king was present, and said he should like to keep them in + Warsaw for a week and see them dance, if a thousand ducats could do it. + </p> + <p> + I went to see Madame Binetti and to give her the good news the next + morning. She was very much surprised to meet me in Warsaw, and still more + so at the news I gave her. She called Pic who seemed undecided, but as we + were talking it over, Prince Poniatowski came in to acquaint them with his + majesty’s wishes, and the offer was accepted. In three days Pic arranged a + ballet; the costumes, the scenery, the music, the dancers—all were + ready, and Tomatis put it on handsomely to please his generous master. The + couple gave such satisfaction that they were engaged for a year. The Catai + was furious, as Madame Binetti threw her completely into the shade, and, + worse still, drew away her lovers. Tomatis, who was under the Catai’s + influence, made things so unpleasant for Madame Binetti that the two + dancers became deadly enemies. + </p> + <p> + In ten or twelve days Madame Binetti was settled it a well-furnished + house; her plate was simple but good, her cellar full of excellent wine, + her cook an artist and her adorers numerous, amongst them being Moszciuski + and Branicki, the king’s friends. + </p> + <p> + The pit was divided into two parties, for the Catai was resolved to make a + stand against the new comer, though her talents were not to be compared to + Madame Binetti’s. She danced in the first ballet, and her rival in the + second. Those who applauded the first greeted that second in dead silence, + and vice versa. I had great obligations towards Madame Binetti, but my + duty also drew me towards the Catai, who numbered in her party all the + Czartoryskis and their following, Prince Lubomirski, and other powerful + nobles. It was plain that I could not desert to Madame Binetti without + earning the contempt of the other party. + </p> + <p> + Madame Binetti reproached me bitterly, and I laid the case plainly before + her. She agreed that I could not do otherwise, but begged me to stay away + from the theatre in future, telling me that she had got a rod in pickle + for Tomatis which would make him repent of his impertinence. She called me + her oldest friend; and indeed I was very fond of her, and cared nothing + for the Catai despite her prettiness. + </p> + <p> + Xavier Branicki, the royal Postoli, Knight of the White Eagle, Colonel of + Uhlans, the king’s friend, was the chief adorer of Madame Binetti. The + lady probably confided her displeasure to him, and begged him to take + vengeance on the manager, who had committed so many offences against her. + Count Branicki in his turn probably promised to avenge her quarrel, and, + if no opportunity of doing so arose, to create an opportunity. At least, + this is the way in which affairs of this kind are usually managed, and I + can find no better explanation for what happened. Nevertheless, the way in + which the Pole took vengeance was very original and extraordinary. + </p> + <p> + On the 20th of February Branicki went to the opera, and, contrary to his + custom, went to the Catai’s dressing-room, and began to pay his court to + the actress, Tomatis being present. Both he and the actress concluded that + Branicki had had a quarrel with her rival, and though she did not much + care to place him in the number of her adorers, she yet gave him a good + reception, for she knew it would be dangerous to despise his suit openly. + </p> + <p> + When the Catai had completed her toilet, the gallant postoli offered her + his arm to take her to her carriage, which was at the door. Tomatis + followed, and I too was there, awaiting my carriage. Madame Catai came + down, the carriage-door was opened, she stepped in, and Branicki got in + after her, telling the astonished Tomatis to follow them in the other + carriage. Tomatis replied that he meant to ride in his own carriage, and + begged the colonel to get out. Branicki paid no attention, and told the + coachman to drive on. Tornatis forbade him to stir, and the man, of + course, obeyed his master. The gallant postoli was therefore obliged to + get down, but he bade his hussar give Tomatis a box on the ear, and this + order was so promptly and vigorously obeyed that the unfortunate man was + on the ground before he had time to recollect that he had a sword. He got + up eventually and drove off, but he could eat no supper, no doubt because + he had a blow to digest. I was to have supped with him, but after this + scene I had really not the face to go. I went home in a melancholy and + reflective mood, wondering whether the whole had been concerted; but I + concluded that this was impossible, as neither Branicki nor Binetti could + have foreseen the impoliteness and cowardice of Tomatis. + </p> + <p> + In the next chapter the reader will see how tragically the matter ended. + </p> + <a name="linkE2HCH0022" id="linkE2HCH0022"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXII + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + My Duel with Branicki—My Journey to Leopol and Return to + Warsaw—I Receive the Order to Leave—My Departure with the + Unknown One +</pre> + <p> + On reflection I concluded that Branicki had not done an ungentlemanly + thing in getting into Tomatis’s carriage; he had merely behaved with + impetuosity, as if he were the Catai’s lover. It also appeared to me that, + considering the affront he had received from the jealous Italian, the box + on the ear was a very moderate form of vengeance. A blow is bad, of + course, but not so bad as death; and Branicki might very well have run his + sword through the manager’s body. Certainly, if Branicki had killed him he + would have been stigmatised as an assassin, for though Tomatis had a sword + the Polish officer’s servants would never have allowed him to draw it, + nevertheless I could not help thinking that Tomatis should have tried to + take the servant’s life, even at the risk of his own. He wanted no more + courage for that than in ordering the king’s favourite to come out of the + carriage. He might have foreseen that the Polish noble would be stung to + the quick, and would surely attempt to take speedy vengeance. + </p> + <p> + The next day the encounter was the subject of all conversations. Tomatis + remained indoors for a week, calling for vengeance in vain. The king told + him he could do nothing for him, as Branicki maintained he had only given + insult for insult. I saw Tomatis, who told me in confidence that he could + easily take vengeance, but that it would cost him too dear. He had spent + forty thousand ducats on the two ballets, and if he had avenged himself he + would have lost it nearly all, as he would be obliged to leave the + kingdom. The only consolation he had was that his great friends were + kinder to him than ever, and the king himself honoured him with peculiar + attention. Madame Binetti was triumphant. When I saw her she condoled with + me ironically on the mishap that had befallen my friend. She wearied me; + but I could not guess that Branicki had only acted at her instigation, and + still less that she had a grudge against me. Indeed, if I had known it, I + should only have laughed at her, for I had nothing to dread from her + bravo’s dagger. I had never seen him nor spoken to him; he could have no + opportunity for attacking me. He was never with the king in the morning + and never went to the palatin’s to supper, being an unpopular character + with the Polish nobility. This Branicki was said to have been originally a + Cossack, Branecki by name. He became the king’s favorite and assumed the + name of Branicki, pretending to be of the same family as the illustrious + marshal of that name who was still alive; but he, far from recognizing the + pretender, ordered his shield to be broken up and buried with him as the + last of the race. However that may be, Branicki was the tool of the + Russian party, the determined enemy of those who withstood Catherine’s + design of Russianising the ancient Polish constitution. The king liked him + out of habit, and because he had peculiar obligations to him. + </p> + <p> + The life I lived was really exemplary. I indulged neither in love affairs + nor gaming. I worked for the king, hoping to become his secretary. I paid + my court to the princess-palatine, who liked my company, and I played + tressette with the palatin himself. + </p> + <p> + On the 4th of March, St. Casimir’s Eve, there was a banquet at Court to + which I had the honour to be invited. Casimir was the name of the king’s + eldest brother, who held the office of grand chamberlain. After dinner the + king asked me if I intended going to the theatre, where a Polish play was + to be given for the first time. Everybody was interested in this novelty, + but it was a matter of indifference to me as I did not understand the + language, and I told the king as much. + </p> + <p> + “Never mind,” said he, “come in my box.” + </p> + <p> + This was too flattering an invitation to be refused, so I obeyed the royal + command and stood behind the king’s chair. After the second act a ballet + was given, and the dancing of Madame Caracci, a Piedmontese, so pleased + his majesty that he went to the unusual pains of clapping her. + </p> + <p> + I only knew the dancer by sight, for I had never spoken to her. She had + some talents. Her principal admirer was Count Poninski, who was always + reproaching me when I dined with him for visiting the other dancers to the + exclusion of Madame Caracci. I thought of his reproach at the time, and + determined to pay her a visit after the ballet to congratulate her on her + performance and the king’s applause. On my way I passed by Madame + Binetti’s dressing-room, and seeing the door open I stayed a moment. Count + Branicki came up, and I left with a bow and passed on to Madame Caracci’s + dressing-room. She was astonished to see me, and began with kindly + reproaches for my neglect; to which I replied with compliments, and then + giving her a kiss I promised to come and see her. + </p> + <p> + Just as I embraced her who should enter but Branicki, whom I had left a + moment before with Madame Binetti. He had clearly followed me in the hopes + of picking a quarrel. He was accompanied by Bininski, his + lieutenant-colonel. As soon as he appeared, politeness made me stand up + and turn to go, but he stopped me. + </p> + <p> + “It seems to me I have come at a bad time; it looks as if you loved this + lady.” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly, my lord; does not your excellency consider her as worthy of + love?” + </p> + <p> + “Quite so; but as it happens I love her too, and I am not the man to bear + any rivals.” + </p> + <p> + “As I know that, I shall love her no more.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you give her up?” + </p> + <p> + “With all my heart; for everyone must yield to such a noble as you are.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good; but I call a man that yields a coward.” + </p> + <p> + “Isn’t that rather a strong expression?” + </p> + <p> + As I uttered these words I looked proudly at him and touched the hilt of + my sword. Three or four officers were present and witnessed what passed. + </p> + <p> + I had hardly gone four paces from the dressing-room when I heard myself + called “Venetian coward.” In spite of my rage I restrained myself, and + turned back saying, coolly and firmly, that perhaps a Venetian coward + might kill a brave Pole outside the theatre; and without awaiting a reply + I left the building by the chief staircase. + </p> + <p> + I waited vainly outside the theatre for a quarter of an hour with my sword + in my hand, for I was not afraid of losing forty thousand ducats like + Tomatis. At last, half perishing with cold, I called my carriage and drove + to the palatin’s, where the king was to sup. + </p> + <p> + The cold and loneliness began to cool my brain, and I congratulated myself + on my self-restraint in not drawing my sword in the actress’s + dressing-room; and I felt glad that Branicki had not followed me down the + stairs, for his friend Bininski had a sabre, and I should probably have + been assassinated. + </p> + <p> + Although the Poles are polite enough, there is still a good deal of the + old leaven in them. They are still Dacians and Samaritans at dinner, in + war, and in friendship, as they call it, but which is often a burden + hardly to be borne. They can never understand that a man may be sufficient + company for himself, and that it is not right to descend on him in a troop + and ask him to give them dinner. + </p> + <p> + I made up my mind that Madame Binetti had excited Branicki to follow me, + and possibly to treat me as he had treated Tomatis. I had not received a + blow certainly, but I had been called a coward. I had no choice but to + demand satisfaction, but I also determined to be studiously moderate + throughout. In this frame of mind I got down at the palatin’s, resolved to + tell the whole story to the king, leaving to his majesty the task of + compelling his favourite to give me satisfaction. + </p> + <p> + As soon as the palatin saw me, he reproached me in a friendly manner for + keeping him waiting, and we sat down to tressette. I was his partner, and + committed several blunders. When it came to losing a second game he said,— + </p> + <p> + “Where is your head to-night?” + </p> + <p> + “My lord, it is four leagues away.” + </p> + <p> + “A respectable man ought to have his head in the game, and not at a + distance of four leagues.” + </p> + <p> + With these words the prince threw down his cards and began to walk up and + down the room. I was rather startled, but I got up and stood by the fire, + waiting for the king. But after I had waited thus for half an hour a + chamberlain came from the palace, and announced that his majesty could not + do himself the honour of supping with my lord that night. + </p> + <p> + This was a blow for me, but I concealed my disappointment. Supper was + served, and I sat down as usual at the left hand of the palatin, who was + annoyed with me, and shewed it. We were eighteen at table, and for once I + had no appetite. About the middle of the supper Prince Gaspard Lubomirski + came in, and chanced to sit down opposite me. As soon as he saw me he + condoled with me in a loud voice for what had happened. + </p> + <p> + “I am sorry for you,” said he, “but Branicki was drunk, and you really + shouldn’t count what he said as an insult.” + </p> + <p> + “What has happened?” became at once the general question. I held my + tongue, and when they asked Lubomirski he replied that as I kept silence + it was his duty to do the same. + </p> + <p> + Thereupon the palatin, speaking in his friendliest manner, said to me,— + </p> + <p> + “What has taken place between you and Branicki?” + </p> + <p> + “I will tell you the whole story, my lord, in private after supper.” + </p> + <p> + The conversation became indifferent, and after the meal was over the + palatin took up his stand by the small door by which he was accustomed to + leave the room, and there I told him the whole story. He sighed, condoled + with me, and added,— + </p> + <p> + “You had good reasons for being absent-minded at cards.” + </p> + <p> + “May I presume to ask your excellency’s advice?” + </p> + <p> + “I never give advice in these affairs, in which you must do every-thing or + nothing.” + </p> + <p> + The palatin shook me by the hand, and I went home and slept for six hours. + As soon as I awoke I sat up in bed, and my first thought was everything or + nothing. I soon rejected the latter alternative, and I saw that I must + demand a duel to the death. If Branicki refused to fight I should be + compelled to kill him, even if I were to lose my head for it. + </p> + <p> + Such was my determination; to write to him proposing a duel at four + leagues from Warsaw, this being the limit of the starostia, in which + duelling was forbidden on pain of death. I wrote as follows, for I have + kept the rough draft of the letter to this day: + </p> + <center> + “WARSAW, + </center> + <p> + “March 5th, 1766. 5 A.M. + </p> + <p> + “My Lord,—Yesterday evening your excellency insulted me with a light + heart, without my having given you any cause or reason for doing so. This + seems to indicate that you hate me, and would gladly efface me from the + land of the living. I both can and will oblige you in this matter. Be kind + enough, therefore, to drive me in your carriage to a place where my death + will not subject your lordship to the vengeance of the law, in case you + obtain the victory, and where I shall enjoy the same advantage if God give + me grace to kill your lordship. I should not make this proposal unless I + believe your lordship to be of a noble disposition. + </p> + <p> + “I have the honour to be, etc.” + </p> + <p> + I sent this letter an hour before day-break to Branicki’s lodging in the + palace. My messenger had orders to give the letter into the count’s own + hands, to wait for him to rise, and also for an answer. + </p> + <p> + In half an hour I received the following answer: + </p> + <p> + “Sir,—I accept your proposal, and shall be glad if you will have the + kindness to inform me when I shall have the honour of seeing you. + </p> + <p> + “I remain, sir, etc.” + </p> + <p> + I answered this immediately, informing him I would call on him the next + day, at six o’clock in the morning. + </p> + <p> + Shortly after, I received a second letter, in which he said that I might + choose the arms and place, but that our differences must be settled in the + course of the day. + </p> + <p> + I sent him the measure of my sword, which was thirty-two inches long, + telling him he might choose any place beyond the ban. In reply, I had the + following: + </p> + <p> + “Sir,—You will greatly oblige me by coming now. I have sent my + carriage. + </p> + <p> + “I have the honour to be, etc.” + </p> + <p> + I replied that I had business all the day, and that as I had made up my + mind not to call upon him, except for the purpose of fighting, I begged + him not to be offended if I took the liberty of sending back his carriage. + </p> + <p> + An hour later Branicki called in person, leaving his suite at the door. He + came into the room, requested some gentlemen who were talking with me to + leave us alone, locked the door after them, and then sat down on my bed. I + did not understand what all this meant so I took up my pistols. + </p> + <p> + “Don’t be afraid,” said he, “I am not come to assassinate you, but merely + to say that I accept your proposal, on condition only that the duel shall + take place to-day. If not, never!” + </p> + <p> + “It is out of the question. I have letters to write, and some business to + do for the king.” + </p> + <p> + “That will do afterwards. In all probability you will not fall, and if you + do I am sure the king will forgive you. Besides, a dead man need fear no + reproaches.” + </p> + <p> + “I want to make my will.” + </p> + <p> + “Come, come, you needn’t be afraid of dying; it will be time enough for + you to make your will in fifty years.” + </p> + <p> + “But why should your excellency not wait till tomorrow?” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t want to be caught.” + </p> + <p> + “You have nothing of the kind to fear from me.” + </p> + <p> + “I daresay, but unless we make haste the king will have us both arrested.” + </p> + <p> + “How can he, unless you have told him about our quarrel?” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, you don’t understand! Well, I am quite willing to give you + satisfaction, but it must be to-day or never.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good. This duel is too dear to my heart for me to leave you any + pretext for avoiding it. Call for me after dinner, for I shall want all my + strength.” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly. For my part I like a good supper after, better than a good + dinner before.” + </p> + <p> + “Everyone to his taste.” + </p> + <p> + “True. By the way, why did you send me the length of your sword? I intend + to fight with pistols, for I never use swords with unknown persons.” + </p> + <p> + “What do you mean? I beg of you to refrain from insulting me in my own + house. I do not intend to fight with pistols, and you cannot compel me to + do so, for I have your letter giving me the choice of weapons.” + </p> + <p> + “Strictly speaking, no doubt you are in the right; but I am sure you are + too polite not to give way, when I assure you that you will lay me under a + great obligation by doing so. Very often the first shot is a miss, and if + that is the case with both of us, I promise to fight with swords as long + as you like. Will you oblige me in the matter?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, for I like your way of asking, though, in my opinion, a pistol duel + is a barbarous affair. I accept, but on the following conditions: You must + bring two pistols, charge them in my presence, and give me the choice. If + the first shot is a miss, we will fight with swords till the first blood + or to the death, whichever you prefer. Call for me at three o’clock, and + choose some place where we shall be secure from the law.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good. You are a good fellow, allow me to embrace you. Give me your + word of honour not to say a word about it to anyone, for if you did we + should be arrested immediately.” + </p> + <p> + “You need not be afraid of my talking; the project is too dear to me.” + </p> + <p> + “Good. Farewell till three o’clock.” + </p> + <p> + As soon as the brave braggart had left me, I placed the papers I was doing + for the king apart, and went to Campioni, in whom I had great confidence. + </p> + <p> + “Take this packet to the king,” I said, “if I happen to be killed. You may + guess, perhaps, what is going to happen, but do not say a word to anyone, + or you will have me for your bitterest enemy, as it would mean loss of + honour to me.” + </p> + <p> + “I understand. You may reckon on my discretion, and I hope the affair may + be ended honourably and prosperously for you. But take a piece of friendly + advice—don’t spare your opponent, were it the king himself, for it + might cost you your life. I know that by experience.” + </p> + <p> + “I will not forget. Farewell.” + </p> + <p> + We kissed each other, and I ordered an excellent dinner, for I had no mind + to be sent to Pluto fasting. Campioni came in to dinner at one o’clock, + and at dessert I had a visit from two young counts, with their tutor, + Bertrand, a kindly Swiss. They were witnesses to my cheerfulness and the + excellent appetite with which I ate. At half-past two I dismissed my + company, and stood at the window to be ready to go down directly + Branicki’s carriage appeared. He drove up in a travelling carriage and + six; two grooms, leading saddle-horses, went in front, followed by his two + aide-de-camps and two hussars. Behind his carriage stood four servants. I + hastened to descend, and found my enemy was accompanied by a + lieutenant-general and an armed footman. The door was opened, the general + gave me his place, and I ordered my servants not to follow me but to await + my orders at the house. + </p> + <p> + “You might want them,” said Branicki; “they had better come along.” + </p> + <p> + “If I had as many as you, I would certainly agree to your proposition; but + as it is I shall do still better without any at all. If need be, your + excellency will see that I am tended by your own servants.” + </p> + <p> + He gave me his hand, and assured me they should wait on me before himself. + </p> + <p> + I sat down, and we went off. + </p> + <p> + It would have been absurd if I had asked where we were going, so I held my + tongue, for at such moments a man should take heed to his words. Branicki + was silent, and I thought the best thing I could do would be to engage him + in a trivial conversation. + </p> + <p> + “Does your excellency intend spending the spring at Warsaw?” + </p> + <p> + “I had thought of doing so, but you may possibly send me to pass the + spring somewhere else.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, I hope not!” + </p> + <p> + “Have you seen any military service?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; but may I ask why your excellency asks me the question, for—” + </p> + <p> + “I had no particular reason; it was only for the sake of saying + something.” + </p> + <p> + We had driven about half an hour when the carriage stopped at the door of + a large garden. We got down and, following the postoli, reached a green + arbour which, by the way, was not at all green on that 5th of March. In it + was a stone table on which the footman placed two pistols, a foot and half + long, with a powder flask and scales. He weighed the powder, loaded them + equally, and laid them down crosswise on the table. + </p> + <p> + This done, Branicki said boldly, + </p> + <p> + “Choose your weapon, sir.” + </p> + <p> + At this the general called out, + </p> + <p> + “Is this a duel, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “You cannot fight here; you are within the ban.” + </p> + <p> + “No matter.” + </p> + <p> + “It does matter; and I, at all events, refuse to be a witness. I am on + guard at the castle, and you have taken me by surprise.” + </p> + <p> + “Be quiet; I will answer for everything. I owe this gentleman + satisfaction, and I mean to give it him here.” + </p> + <p> + “M. Casanova,” said the general, “you cannot fight here.” + </p> + <p> + “Then why have I been brought here? I shall defend myself wherever I am + attacked.” + </p> + <p> + “Lay the whole matter before the king, and you shall have my voice in your + favour.” + </p> + <p> + “I am quite willing to do so, general, if his excellency will say that he + regrets what passed between us last night.” + </p> + <p> + Branicki looked fiercely at me, and said wrathfully that he had come to + fight and not to parley. + </p> + <p> + “General,” said I, “you can bear witness that I have done all in my power + to avoid this duel.” + </p> + <p> + The general went away with his head between his hands, and throwing off my + cloak I took the first pistol that came to my hand. Branicki took the + other, and said that he would guarantee upon his honour that my weapon was + a good one. + </p> + <p> + “I am going to try its goodness on your head,” I answered. + </p> + <p> + He turned pale at this, threw his sword to one of his servants, and bared + his throat, and I was obliged, to my sorrow, to follow his example, for my + sword was the only weapon I had, with the exception of the pistol. I bared + my chest also, and stepped back five or six paces, and he did the same. + </p> + <p> + As soon as we had taken up our positions I took off my hat with my left + hand, and begged him to fire first. + </p> + <p> + Instead of doing so immediately he lost two or three seconds in sighting, + aiming, and covering his head by raising the weapon before it. I was not + in a position to let him kill me at his ease, so I suddenly aimed and + fired on him just as he fired on me. That I did so is evident, as all the + witnesses were unanimous in saying that they only heard one report. I felt + I was wounded in my left hand, and so put it into my pocket, and I ran + towards my enemy who had fallen. All of a sudden, as I knelt beside him, + three bare swords were flourished over my head, and three noble assassins + prepared to cut me down beside their master. Fortunately, Branicki had not + lost consciousness or the power of speaking, and he cried out in a voice + of thunder,— + </p> + <p> + “Scoundrels! have some respect for a man of honour.” + </p> + <p> + This seemed to petrify them. I put my right hand under the pistoli’s + armpit, while the general helped him on the other side, and thus we took + him to the inn, which happened to be near at hand. + </p> + <p> + Branicki stooped as he walked, and gazed at me curiously, apparently + wondering where all the blood on my clothes came from. + </p> + <p> + When we got to the inn, Branicki laid himself down in an arm-chair. We + unbuttoned his clothes and lifted up his shirt, and he could see himself + that he was dangerously wounded. My ball had entered his body by the + seventh rib on the right hand, and had gone out by the second false rib on + the left. The two wounds were ten inches apart, and the case was of an + alarming nature, as the intestines must have been pierced. Branicki spoke + to me in a weak voice,— + </p> + <p> + “You have killed me, so make haste away, as you are in danger of the + gibbet. The duel was fought in the ban, and I am a high court officer, and + a Knight of the White Eagle. So lose no time, and if you have not enough + money take my purse.” + </p> + <p> + I picked up the purse which had fallen out, and put it back in his pocket, + thanking him, and saying it would be useless to me, for if I were guilty I + was content to lose my head. “I hope,” I added, “that your wound will not + be mortal, and I am deeply grieved at your obliging me to fight.” + </p> + <p> + With these words I kissed him on his brow and left the inn, seeing neither + horses nor carriage, nor servant. They had all gone off for doctor, + surgeon, priest, and the friends and relatives of the wounded man. + </p> + <p> + I was alone and without any weapon, in the midst of a snow-covered + country, my hand was wounded, and I had not the slightest idea which was + the way to Warsaw. + </p> + <p> + I took the road which seemed most likely, and after I had gone some + distance I met a peasant with an empty sleigh. + </p> + <p> + “Warszawa?” I cried, shewing him a ducat. + </p> + <p> + He understood me, and lifted a coarse mat, with which he covered me when I + got into the sleigh, and then set off at a gallop. + </p> + <p> + All at once Biniski, Branicki’s bosom-friend, came galloping furiously + along the road with his bare sword in his hand. He was evidently running + after me. Happily he did not glance at the wretched sleigh in which I was, + or else he would undoubtedly have murdered me. I got at last to Warsaw, + and went to the house of Prince Adam Czartoryski to beg him to shelter me, + but there was nobody there. Without delay I determined to seek refuge in + the Convent of the Recollets, which was handy. + </p> + <p> + I rang at the door of the monastery, and the porter seeing me covered with + blood hastened to shut the door, guessing the object of my visit. But I + did not give him the time to do so, but honouring him with a hearty kick + forced my way in. His cries attracted a troop of frightened monks. I + demanded sanctuary, and threatened them with vengeance if they refused to + grant it. One of their number spoke to me, and I was taken to a little den + which looked more like a dungeon than anything else. I offered no + resistance, feeling sure that they would change their tune before very + long. I asked them to send for my servants, and when they came I sent for + a doctor and Campioni. Before the surgeon could come the Palatin of + Polduchia was announced. I had never had the honour of speaking to him, + but after hearing the history of my duel he was so kind as to give me all + the particulars of a duel he had fought in his youthful days. Soon after + came the Palatin of Kalisch, Prince Jablenowski. Prince Sanguska, and the + Palatin of Wilna, who all joined in a chorus of abuse of the monks who had + lodged me so scurvily. The poor religious excused themselves by saying + that I had ill-treated their porter, which made my noble friends laugh; + but I did not laugh, for my wound was very painful. However I was + immediately moved into two of their best guest-rooms. + </p> + <p> + The ball had pierced my hand by the metacarpus under the index finger, and + had broken the first phalanges. Its force had been arrested by a metal + button on my waistcoat, and it had only inflicted a slight wound on my + stomach close to the navel. However, there it was and it had to be + extracted, for it pained me extremely. An empiric named Gendron, the first + surgeon my servants had found, made an opening on the opposite side of my + hand which doubled the wound. While he was performing this painful + operation I told the story of the duel to the company, concealing the + anguish I was enduring. What a power vanity exercises on the moral and + physical forces! If I had been alone I should probably have fainted. + </p> + <p> + As soon as the empiric Gendron was gone, the palatin’s surgeon came in and + took charge of the case, calling Gendron a low fellow. At the same time + Prince Lubomirski, the husband of the palatin’s daughter, arrived, and + gave us all a surprise by recounting the strange occurrences which had + happened after the duel. Bininski came to where Branicki was lying, and + seeing his wound rode off furiously on horseback, swearing to strike me + dead wherever he found me. He fancied I would be with Tomatis, and went to + his house. He found Tomatis with his mistress, Prince Lubomirski, and + Count Moszczinski, but no Casanova was visible. He asked where I was, and + on Tomatis replying that he did not know he discharged a pistol at his + head. At this dastardly action Count Moszczincki seized him and tried to + throw him out of the window, but the madman got loose with three cuts of + his sabre, one of which slashed the count on the face and knocked out + three of his teeth. + </p> + <p> + “After this exploit,” Prince Lubomirski continued, “he seized me by the + throat and held a pistol to my head, threatening to blow out my brains if + I did not take him in safety to the court where his horse was, so that he + might get away from the house without any attack being made on him by + Tomatis’s servants; and I did so immediately. Moszczinski is in the + doctor’s hands, and will be laid up for some time. + </p> + <p> + “As soon as it was reported that Branicki was killed, his Uhlans began to + ride about the town swearing to avenge their colonel, and to slaughter + you. It is very fortunate that you took refuge here. + </p> + <p> + “The chief marshal has had the monastery surrounded by two hundred + dragoons, ostensibly to prevent your escape, but in reality to defend you + from Branicki’s soldiers. + </p> + <p> + “The doctors say that the postoli is in great danger if the ball has + wounded the intestines, but if not they answer for his recovery. His fate + will be known tomorrow. He now lies at the lord chamberlain’s, not daring + to have himself carried to his apartments at the palace. The king has been + to see him, and the general who was present told his majesty that the only + thing that saved your life was your threat to aim at Branicki’s head. This + frightened him, and to keep your ball from his head he stood in such an + awkward position that he missed your vital parts. Otherwise he would + undoubtedly have shot you through the heart, for he can split a bullet + into two halves by firing against the blade of a knife. It was also a + lucky thing for you that you escaped Bininski, who never thought of + looking for you in the wretched sleigh.” + </p> + <p> + “My lord, the most fortunate thing for me is that I did not kill my man + outright. Otherwise I should have been cut to pieces just as I went to his + help by three of his servants, who stood over me with drawn swords. + However, the postoli ordered them to leave me alone. + </p> + <p> + “I am sorry for what has happened to your highness and Count Moszczinski; + and if Tomatis was not killed by the madman it is only because the pistol + was only charged with powder.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s what I think, for no one heard the bullet; but it was a mere + chance.” + </p> + <p> + “Quite so.” + </p> + <p> + Just then an officer of the palatin’s came to me with a note from his + master, which ran as follows: + </p> + <p> + “Read what the king says to me, and sleep well.” + </p> + <p> + The king’s note was thus conceived: + </p> + <p> + “Branicki, my dear uncle, is dangerous wounded. My surgeons are doing all + they can for him, but I have not forgotten Casanova. You may assure him + that he is pardoned, even if Branicki should die.” + </p> + <p> + I kissed the letter gratefully, and shewed it to my visitors, who lauded + this generous man truly worthy of being a king. + </p> + <p> + After this pleasant news I felt in need of rest, and my lords left me. As + soon as they were gone, Campioni, who had come in before and had stood in + the background, came up to me and gave me back the packet of papers, and + with tears of joy congratulated me on the happy issue of the duel. + </p> + <p> + Next day I had shoals of visitors, and many of the chiefs of the party + opposed to Branicki sent me purses full of gold. The persons who brought + the money on behalf of such a lord or lady, said that being a foreigner I + might be in need of money, and that was their excuse for the liberty they + had taken. I thanked and refused them all, and sent back at least four + thousand ducats, and was very proud of having done so. Campioni thought it + was absurd, and he was right, for I repented afterwards of what I had + done. The only present I accepted was a dinner for four persons, which + Prince Adam Czartoryski sent me in every day, though the doctor would not + let me enjoy it, he being a great believer in diet. + </p> + <p> + The wound in my stomach was progressing favourably, but on the fourth day + the surgeons said my hand was becoming gangrened, and they agreed that the + only remedy was amputation. I saw this announced in the Court Gazette the + next morning, but as I had other views on the matter I laughed heartily at + the paragraph. The sheet was printed at night, after the king had placed + his initials to the copy. In the morning several persons came to condole + with me, but I received their sympathy with great irreverence. I merely + laughed at Count Clary, who said I would surely submit to the operation; + and just as he uttered the words the three surgeons came in together. + </p> + <p> + “Well, gentlemen,” said I, “you have mustered in great strength; why is + this?” + </p> + <p> + My ordinary surgeon replied that he wished to have the opinion of the + other two before proceeding to amputation, and they would require to look + at the wound. + </p> + <p> + The dressing was lifted and gangrene was declared to be undoubtedly + present, and execution was ordered that evening. The butchers gave me the + news with radiant faces, and assured me I need not be afraid as the + operation would certainly prove efficacious. + </p> + <p> + “Gentlemen,” I replied, “you seem to have a great many solid scientific + reasons for cutting off my hand; but one thing you have not got, and that + is my consent. My hand is my own, and I am going to keep it.” + </p> + <p> + “Sir, it is certainly gangrened; by to-morrow the arm will begin to + mortify, and then you will have to lose your arm.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good; if that prove so you shall cut off my arm, but I happen to + know something of gangrene, and there is none about me.” + </p> + <p> + “You cannot know as much about it as we do.” + </p> + <p> + “Possibly; but as far as I can make out, you know nothing at all.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s rather a strong expression.” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t care whether it be strong or weak; you can go now.” + </p> + <p> + In a couple of hours everyone whom the surgeons had told of my obstinacy + came pestering me. Even the prince-palatin wrote to me that the king was + extremely surprised at my lack of courage. This stung me to the quick, and + I wrote the king a long letter, half in earnest and half in jest, in which + I laughed at the ignorance of the surgeons, and at the simplicity of those + who took whatever they said for gospel truth. I added that as an arm + without a hand would be quite as useless as no arm at all, I meant to wait + till it was necessary to cut off the arm. + </p> + <p> + My letter was read at Court, and people wondered how a man with gangrene + could write a long letter of four pages. Lubomirski told me kindly that I + was mistaken in laughing at my friends, for the three best surgeons in + Warsaw could not be mistaken in such a simple case. + </p> + <p> + “My lord, they are not deceived themselves, but they want to deceive me.” + </p> + <p> + “Why should they?” + </p> + <p> + “To make themselves agreeable to Branicki, who is in a dangerous state, + and might possibly get better if he heard that my hand had been taken + off.” + </p> + <p> + “Really that seems an incredible idea to me!” + </p> + <p> + “What will your highness say on the day when I am proved to be right?” + </p> + <p> + “I shall say you are deserving of the highest praise, but the day must + first come.” + </p> + <p> + “We shall see this evening, and I give you my word that if any gangrene + has attacked the arm, I will have it cut off to-morrow morning.” + </p> + <p> + Four surgeons came to see me. My arm was pronounced to be highly + aedematous, and of a livid colour up to the elbow; but when the lint was + taken off the wound I could see for myself that it was progressing + admirably. However, I concealed my delight. Prince Augustus Sulkowski and + the Abbe Gouvel were present; the latter being attached to the palatin’s + court. The judgment of the surgeons was that the arm was gangrened, and + must be amputated by the next morning at latest. + </p> + <p> + I was tired of arguing with these rascals, so I told them to bring their + instruments, and that I would submit to the operation. At this they went + way in high glee, to tell the news at the Court, to Branicki, to the + palatin, and so forth. I merely gave my servants orders to send them away + when they came. + </p> + <p> + I can dwell no more on this matter, though it is interesting enough to me. + However, the reader will no doubt be obliged to me by my simply saying + that a French surgeon in Prince Sulkowski’s household took charge of the + case in defiance of professional etiquette, and cured me perfectly, so I + have my hand and my arm to this day. + </p> + <p> + On Easter Day I went to mass with my arm in a sling. My cure had only + lasted three weeks, but I was not able to put the hand to any active + employment for eighteen months afterwards. Everyone was obliged to + congratulate me on having held out against the amputation, and the general + consent declared the surgeons grossly ignorant, while I was satisfied with + thinking them very great knaves. + </p> + <p> + I must here set down an incident which happened three days after the duel. + </p> + <p> + I was told that a Jesuit father from the bishop of the diocese wanted to + speak to me in private, and I had him shewn in, and asked him what he + wanted. + </p> + <p> + “I have come from my lord-bishop,” said he, “to absolve you from the + ecclesiastical censure, which you have incurred by duelling.” + </p> + <p> + “I am always delighted to receive absolution, father, but only after I + have confessed my guilt. In the present case I have nothing to confess; I + was attacked, and I defended myself. Pray thank my lord for his kindness. + If you like to absolve me without confession, I shall be much obliged.” + </p> + <p> + “If you do not confess, I cannot give you absolution, but you can do this: + ask me to absolve you, supposing you have fought a duel.” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly; I shall be glad if you will absolve me, supposing I have + fought a duel.” + </p> + <p> + The delightful Jesuit gave me absolution in similar terms. He was like his + brethren—never at a loss when a loophole of any kind is required. + </p> + <p> + Three days before I left the monastery, that is on Holy Thursday, the + marshal withdrew my guard. After I had been to mass on Easter Day, I went + to Court, and as I kissed the king’s hand, he asked me (as had been + arranged) why I wore my arm in a sling. I said I had been suffering from a + rheum, and he replied, with a meaning smile,— + </p> + <p> + “Take care not to catch another.” + </p> + <p> + After my visit to the king, I called on Branicki, who had made daily + enquiries after my health, and had sent me back my sword, He was condemned + to stay in bed for six weeks longer at least, for the wad of my pistol had + got into the wound, and in extracting it the opening had to be enlarged, + which retarded his recovery. The king had just appointed him chief + huntsman, not so exalted an office as chamberlain, but a more lucrative + one. It was said he had got the place because he was such a good shot; but + if that were the reason I had a better claim to it, for I had proved the + better shot—for one day at all events. + </p> + <p> + I entered an enormous ante-room in which stood officers, footmen, pages, + and lacqueys, all gazing at me with the greatest astonishment. I asked if + my lord was to be seen, and begged the door-keeper to send in my name. He + did not answer, but sighed, and went into his master’s room. Directly + after, he came out and begged me, with a profound bow, to step in. + </p> + <p> + Branicki, who was dressed in a magnificent gown and supported by pillows + and cushions, greeted me by taking off his nightcap. He was as pale as + death. + </p> + <p> + “I have come here, my lord,” I began, “to offer you my service, and to + assure you how I regret that I did not pass over a few trifling words of + yours.” + </p> + <p> + “You have no reason to reproach yourself, M. Casanova.” + </p> + <p> + “Your excellency is very kind. I am also come to say that by fighting with + me you have done me an honour which completely swallows up all offence, + and I trust that you will give me your protection for the future.” + </p> + <p> + “I confess I insulted you, but you will allow that I have paid for it. As + to my friends, I openly say that they are my enemies unless they treat you + with respect. Bininski has been cashiered, and his nobility taken from + him; he is well served. As to my protection you have no need of it, the + king esteems you highly, like myself, and all men of honour. Sit down; we + will be friends. A cup of chocolate for this gentleman. You seem to have + got over your wound completely.” + </p> + <p> + “Quite so, my lord, except as to the use of my fingers, and that will take + some time.” + </p> + <p> + “You were quite right to withstand those rascally surgeons, and you had + good reason for your opinion that the fools thought to please me by + rendering you one-handed. They judged my heart by their own. I + congratulate you on the preservation of your hand, but I have not been + able to make out how my ball could have wounded you in the hand after + striking your stomach.” + </p> + <p> + Just then the chocolate was brought, and the chamberlain came in and + looked at me with a smile. In five minutes the room was full of lords and + ladies who had heard I was with Branicki, and wanted to know how we were + getting on. I could see that they did not expect to find us on such good + terms, and were agreeably surprised. Branicki asked the question which had + been interrupted by the chocolate and the visitors over again. + </p> + <p> + “Your excellency will allow me to assume the position I was in as I + received your fire.” + </p> + <p> + “Pray do so.” + </p> + <p> + I rose and placed myself in the position, and he said he understood how it + was. + </p> + <p> + A lady said,— + </p> + <p> + “You should have put your hand behind your body.” + </p> + <p> + “Excuse me, madam, but I thought it better to put my body behind my hand.” + </p> + <p> + This sally made Branicki laugh, but his sister said to me,— + </p> + <p> + “You wanted to kill my brother, for you aimed at his head.” + </p> + <p> + “God forbid, madam! my interest lay in keeping him alive to defend me from + his friends.” + </p> + <p> + “But you said you were going to fire at his head.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s a mere figure of speech, just as one says, ‘I’ll blow your brains + out.’ The skilled duellist, however, always aims at the middle of the + body; the head does not offer a large enough surface.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes,” said Branicki, “your tactics were superior to mine, and I am + obliged to you for the lesson you gave me.” + </p> + <p> + “Your excellency gave me a lesson in heroism of far greater value.” + </p> + <p> + “You must have had a great deal of practice with the pistol,” continued + his sister. + </p> + <p> + “Not at all, madam, I regard the weapon with detestation. This unlucky + shot was my first; but I have always known a straight line, and my hand + has always been steady.” + </p> + <p> + “That’s all one wants,” said Branicki. “I have those advantages myself, + and I am only too well pleased that I did not aim so well as usual.” + </p> + <p> + “Your ball broke my first phalanges. Here it is you see, flattened by my + bone. Allow me to return it to you.” + </p> + <p> + “I am sorry to say I can’t return yours, which I suppose remains on the + field of battle.” + </p> + <p> + “You seem to be getting better, thank God!” + </p> + <p> + “The wound is healing painfully. If I had imitated you I should no longer + be in the land of the living; I am told you made an excellent dinner?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, my lord, I was afraid I might never have another chance of dining + again.” + </p> + <p> + “If I had dined, your ball would have pierced my intestines; but being + empty it yielded to the bullet, and let it pass by harmlessly.” + </p> + <p> + I heard afterwards that on the day of the duel Branicki had gone to + confession and mass, and had communicated. The priest could not refuse him + absolution, if he said that honour obliged him to fight; for this was in + accordance with the ancient laws of chivalry. As for me I only addressed + these words to God: + </p> + <p> + “Lord, if my enemy kill me, I shall be damned; deign, therefore, to + preserve me from death. Amen.” + </p> + <p> + After a long and pleasant conversation I took leave of the hero to visit + the high constable, Count Bielinski, brother of Countess Salmor. He was a + very old man, but the sovereign administrator of justice in Poland. I had + never spoken to him, but he had defended me from Branicki’s Uhlans, and + had made out my pardon, so I felt bound to go and thank him. + </p> + <p> + I sent in my name, and the worthy old man greeted me with: + </p> + <p> + “What can I do for you?” + </p> + <p> + “I have come to kiss the hand of the kindly man that signed my pardon, and + to promise your excellency to be more discreet in future.” + </p> + <p> + “I advise you to be more discreet indeed. As for your pardon, thank the + king; for if he had not requested me especially to grant it you, I should + have had you beheaded.” + </p> + <p> + “In spite of the extenuating circumstances, my lord?” + </p> + <p> + “What circumstances? Did you or did you not fight a duel.” + </p> + <p> + “That is not a proper way of putting it; I was obliged to defend myself. + You might have charged me with fighting a duel if Branicki had taken me + outside the ban, as I requested, but as it was he took me where he willed + and made me fight. Under these circumstances I am sure your excellency + would have spared my head.” + </p> + <p> + “I really can’t say. The king requested that you should be pardoned, and + that shews he believes you to be deserving of pardon; I congratulate you + on his good will. I shall be pleased if you will dine with me tomorrow.” + </p> + <p> + “My lord, I am delighted to accept your invitation.” + </p> + <p> + The illustrious old constable was a man of great intelligence. He had been + a bosom-friend of the celebrated Poniatowski, the king’s father. We had a + good deal of conversation together at dinner the next day. + </p> + <p> + “What a comfort it would have been to your excellency’s friend,” said I, + “if he could have lived to see his son crowned King of Poland.” + </p> + <p> + “He would never have consented.” + </p> + <p> + The vehemence with which he pronounced these words gave me a deep insight + into his feelings. He was of the Saxon party. The same day, that is on + Easter Day, I dined at the palatin’s. + </p> + <p> + “Political reasons,” said he, “prevented me from visiting you at the + monastery; but you must not think I had forgotten you, for you were + constantly in my thoughts. I am going to lodge you here, for my wife is + very fond of your society; but the rooms will not be ready for another six + weeks.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall take the opportunity, my lord, of paying a visit to the Palatin + of Kiowia, who has honoured me with an invitation to come and see him.” + </p> + <p> + “Who gave you the invitation?” + </p> + <p> + “Count Bruhl, who is at Dresden; his wife is daughter of the palatin.” + </p> + <p> + “This journey is an excellent idea, for this duel of yours has made you + innumerable enemies, and I only hope you will have to fight no more duels. + I give you fair warning; be on your guard, and never go on foot, + especially at night.” + </p> + <p> + I spent a fortnight in going out to dinner and supper every day. I had + become the fashion, and wherever I went I had to tell the duel story over + again. I was rather tired of it myself, but the wish to please and my own + self-love were too strong to be resisted. The king was nearly always + present, but feigned not to hear me. However, he once asked me if I had + been insulted by a patrician in Venice, whether I should have called him + out immediately. + </p> + <p> + “No, sire, for his patrician pride would have prevented his complying, and + I should have had my pains for my trouble.” + </p> + <p> + “Then what would you have done?” + </p> + <p> + “Sire, I should have contained myself, though if a noble Venetian were to + insult me in a foreign country he would have to give me satisfaction.” + </p> + <p> + I called on Prince Moszczinski, and Madame Binetti happened to be there; + the moment she saw me she made her escape. + </p> + <p> + “What has she against me?” I asked the count. + </p> + <p> + “She is afraid of you, because she was the cause of the duel, and now + Branicki who was her lover will have nothing more to say to her. She hoped + he would serve you as he served Tomatis, and instead of that you almost + killed her bravo. She lays the fault on him for having accepted your + challenge, but he has resolved to have done with her.” + </p> + <p> + This Count Moszczinski was both good-hearted and quick-witted, and so, + generous that he ruined himself by making presents. His wounds were + beginning to heal, but though I was the indirect cause of his mishap, far + from bearing malice against me he had become my friend. + </p> + <p> + The person whom I should have expected to be most grateful to me for the + duel was Tomatis, but on the contrary he hated the sight of me and hardly + concealed his feelings. I was the living reproach of his cowardice; my + wounded hand seemed to shew him that he had loved his money more than his + honour. I am sure he would have preferred Branicki to have killed me, for + then he would have become an object of general execration, and Tomatis + would have been received with less contempt in the great houses he still + frequented. + </p> + <p> + I resolved to pay a visit to the discontented party who had only + recognized the new king on compulsion, and some of whom had not recognized + him at all; so I set out with my true friend Campioni and one servant. + </p> + <p> + Prince Charles of Courland had started for Venice, where I had given him + letters for my illustrious friends who would make his visit a pleasant + one. The English ambassador who had given me an introduction to Prince + Adam had just arrived at Warsaw. I dined with him at the prince’s house, + and the king signified his wish to be of the party. I heard a good deal of + conversation about Madame de Geoffrin, an old sweetheart of the king’s + whom he had just summoned to Warsaw. The Polish monarch, of whom I cannot + speak in too favourable terms, was yet weak enough to listen to the + slanderous reports against me, and refused to make my fortune. I had the + pleasure of convincing him that he was mistaken, but I will speak of this + later on. + </p> + <p> + I arrived at Leopol the sixth day after I had left Warsaw, having stopped + a couple of days at Prince Zamoiski’s; he had forty thousand ducats + a year, but also the falling sickness. + </p> + <p> + “I would give all my goods,” said he, “to be cured.” + </p> + <p> + I pitied his young wife. She was very fond of him, and yet had to deny + him, for his disease always came on him in moments of amorous excitement. + She had the bitter task of constantly refusing him, and even of running + away if he pressed her hard. This great nobleman, who died soon after, + lodged me in a splendid room utterly devoid of furniture. This is the + Polish custom; one is supposed to bring one’s furniture with one. + </p> + <p> + At Leopol I put up, at an hotel, but I soon had to move from thence to + take up my abode with the famous Kaminska, the deadly foe of Branicki, the + king, and all that party. She was very rich, but she has since been ruined + by conspiracies. She entertained me sumptuously for a week, but the visit + was agreeable to neither side, as she could only speak Polish and German. + From Leopol I proceeded to a small town, the name of which I forget (the + Polish names are very crabbed) to take an introduction from Prince + Lubomirski to Joseph Rzewuski, a little old man who wore a long beard as a + sign of mourning for the innovations that were being introduced into his + country. He was rich, learned, superstitiously religious, and polite + exceedingly. I stayed with him for three days. He was the commander of a + stronghold containing a garrison of five hundred men. + </p> + <p> + On the first day, as I was in his room with some other officers, about + eleven o’clock in the morning, another officer came in, whispered to + Rzewuski, and then came up to me and whispered in my ear, “Venice and St. + Mark.” + </p> + <p> + “St. Mark,” I answered aloud, “is the patron saint and protector of + Venice,” and everybody began to laugh. + </p> + <p> + It dawned upon me that “Venice and St. Mark” was the watchword, and I + began to apologize profusely, and the word was changed. + </p> + <p> + The old commander spoke to me with great politeness. He never went to + Court, but he had resolved on going to the Diet to oppose the Russian + party with all his might. The poor man, a Pole of the true old leaven, was + one of the four whom Repnin arrested and sent to Siberia. + </p> + <p> + After taking leave of this brave patriot, I went to Christianpol, where + lived the famous palatin Potocki, who had been one of the lovers of the + empress Anna Ivanovna. He had founded the town in which he lived and + called it after his own name. This nobleman, still a fine man, kept a + splendid court. He honoured Count Bruhl by keeping me at his house for a + fortnight, and sending me out every day with his doctor, the famous + Styrneus, the sworn foe of Van Swieten, a still more famous physician. + Although Styrneus was undoubtedly a learned man, I thought him somewhat + extravagant and empirical. His system was that of Asclepiades, considered + as exploded since the time of the great Boerhaave; nevertheless, he + effected wonderful cures. + </p> + <p> + In the evenings I was always with the palatin and his court. Play was not + heavy, and I always won, which was fortunate and indeed necessary for me. + After an extremely agreeable visit to the palatin I returned to Leopol, + where I amused myself for a week with a pretty girl who afterwards so + captivated Count Potocki, starost of Sniatin, that he married her. This is + purity of blood with a vengeance in your noble families! + </p> + <p> + Leaving Leopol I went to Palavia, a splendid palace on the Vistula, + eighteen leagues distant from Warsaw. It belonged to the prince palatin, + who had built it himself. + </p> + <p> + Howsoever magnificent an abode may be, a lonely man will weary of it + unless he has the solace of books or of some great idea. I had neither, + and boredom soon made itself felt. + </p> + <p> + A pretty peasant girl came into my room, and finding her to my taste I + tried to make her understand me without the use of speech, but she + resisted and shouted so loudly that the door-keeper came up, and asked me, + coolly,— + </p> + <p> + “If you like the girl, why don’t you go the proper way to work?” + </p> + <p> + “What way is that?” + </p> + <p> + “Speak to her father, who is at hand, and arrange the matter amicably.” + </p> + <p> + “I don’t know Polish. Will you carry the thing through?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly. I suppose you will give fifty florins?” + </p> + <p> + “You are laughing at me. I will give a hundred willingly, provided she is + a maid and is as submissive as a lamb.” + </p> + <p> + No doubt the arrangement was made without difficulty, for our hymen took + place the same evening, but no sooner was the operation completed than the + poor lamb fled away in hot haste, which made me suspect that her father + had used rather forcible persuasion with her. I would not have allowed + this had I been aware of it. + </p> + <p> + The next morning several girls were offered to me, but the faces of all of + them were covered. + </p> + <p> + “Where is the girl?” said I. “I want to see her face.” + </p> + <p> + “Never mind about the face, if the rest is all right.” + </p> + <p> + “The face is the essential part for me,” I replied, “and the rest I look + upon as an accessory.” + </p> + <p> + He did not understand this. However, they were uncovered, but none of + their faces excited my desires. + </p> + <p> + As a rule, the Polish women are ugly; a beauty is a miracle, and a pretty + woman a rare exception. At the end of a week of feasting and weariness, I + returned to Warsaw. + </p> + <p> + In this manner I saw Podolia and Volkynia, which were rebaptized a few + years later by the names of Galicia and Lodomeria, for they are now part + of the Austrian Empire. It is said, however, that they are more prosperous + than they ever were before. + </p> + <p> + At Warsaw I found Madame Geoffrin the object of universal admiration; and + everybody was remarking with what simplicity she was dressed. As for + myself, I was received not coldly, but positively rudely. People said to + my face,— + </p> + <p> + “We did not expect to see you here again. Why did you come back?” + </p> + <p> + “To pay my debts.” + </p> + <p> + This behaviour astonished and disgusted me. The prince-palatin even seemed + quite changed towards me. I was still invited to dinner, but no one spoke + to me. However, Prince Adam’s sister asked me very kindly to come and sup + with her, and I accepted the invitation with delight. I found myself + seated opposite the king, who did not speak one word to me the whole time. + He had never behaved to me thus before. + </p> + <p> + The next day I dined with the Countess Oginski, and in the course of + dinner the countess asked where the king had supper the night before; + nobody seemed to know, and I did not answer. Just as we were rising, + General Roniker came in, and the question was repeated. + </p> + <p> + “At Princess Strasnikowa’s,” said the general, “and M. Casanova was + there.” + </p> + <p> + “Then why did you not answer my question?” said the countess to me. + </p> + <p> + “Because I am very sorry to have been there. His majesty neither spoke to + me nor looked at me. I see I am in disgrace, but for the life of me I know + not why.” + </p> + <p> + On leaving the house I went to call on Prince Augustus Sulkowski, who + welcomed me as of old, but told me that I had made a mistake in returning + to Warsaw as public opinion was against me. + </p> + <p> + “What have I done?” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing; but the Poles are always inconstant and changeable. ‘Sarmatarum + virtus veluti extra ipsos’. This inconstancy will cost us dear sooner or + later. Your fortune was made, but you missed the turn of the tide, and I + advise you to go.” + </p> + <p> + “I will certainly do so, but it seems to me rather hard.” + </p> + <p> + When I got home my servant gave me a letter which some unknown person had + left at my door. I opened it and found it to be anonymous, but I could see + it came from a well-wisher. The writer said that the slanderers had got + the ears of the king, and that I was no longer a persona grata at Court, + as he had been assured that the Parisians had burnt me in effigy for my + absconding with the lottery money, and that I had been a strolling player + in Italy and little better than a vagabond. + </p> + <p> + Such calumnies are easy to utter but hard to refute in a foreign country. + At all Courts hatred, born of envy, is ever at work. I might have despised + the slanders and left the country, but I had contracted debts and had not + sufficient money to pay them and my expenses to Portugal, where I thought + I might do something. + </p> + <p> + I no longer saw any company, with the exception of Campioni, who seemed + more distressed than myself. I wrote to Venice and everywhere else, where + there was a chance of my getting funds; but one day the general, who had + been present at the duel, called on me, and told me (though he seemed + ashamed of his task) that the king requested me to leave the ban in the + course of a week. + </p> + <p> + Such a piece of insolence made my blood boil, and I informed the general + that he might tell the king that I did not feel inclined to obey such an + unjust order, and that if I left I would let all the world know that I had + been compelled to do so by brute force. + </p> + <p> + “I cannot take such a message as that,” said the general, kindly. “I shall + simply tell the king that I have executed his orders, and no more; but of + course you must follow your own judgment.” + </p> + <p> + In the excess of my indignation I wrote to the king that I could not obey + his orders and keep my honour. I said in my letter,— + </p> + <p> + “My creditors, sire, will forgive me for leaving Poland without paying my + debts, when they learn that I have only done so because your majesty gave + me no choice.” + </p> + <p> + I was thinking how I could ensure this letter reaching the king, when who + should arrive but Count Moszczinski. I told him what had happened, and + asked if he could suggest any means of delivering the letter. “Give it to + me,” said he; “I will place it in the king’s hands.” + </p> + <p> + As soon as he had gone I went out to take the air, and called on Prince + Sulkowski, who was not at all astonished at my news. As if to sweeten the + bitter pill I had to swallow, he told me how the Empress of Austria had + ordered him to leave Vienna in twenty-four hours, merely because he had + complimented the Archduchess Christina on behalf of Prince Louis of + Wurtemberg. + </p> + <p> + The next day Count Moszczinski brought me a present of a thousand ducats + from the king, who said that my leaving Warsaw would probably be the means + of preserving my life, as in that city I was exposed to danger which I + could not expect to escape eventually. + </p> + <p> + This referred to five or six challenges I had received, and to which I had + not even taken the trouble to reply. My enemies might possibly assassinate + me, and the king did not care to be constantly anxious on my account. + Count Moszczinski added that the order to leave carried no dishonour with + it, considering by whom it had been delivered, and the delay it gave me to + make my preparations. + </p> + <p> + The consequence of all this was that I not only gave my word to go, but + that I begged the count to thank his majesty for his kindness, and the + interest he had been pleased to take in me. + </p> + <p> + When I gave in, the generous Moszczinski embraced me, begged me to write + to him, and accept a present of a travelling carriage as a token of his + friendship. He informed me that Madame Binetti’s husband had gone off with + his wife’s maid, taking with him her diamonds, jewels, linen, and even her + silver plate, leaving her to the tender mercies of the dancer, Pic. Her + admirers had clubbed together to make up to her for what her husband had + stolen. I also heard that the king’s sister had arrived at Warsaw from + Bialistock, and it was hoped that her husband would follow her. This + husband was the real Count Branicki, and the Branicki, or rather Branecki, + or Bragnecki, who had fought with me, was no relation to him whatever. + </p> + <p> + The following day I paid my debts, which amounted to about two hundred + ducats, and I made preparations for starting for Breslau, the day after, + with Count Clary, each of us having his own carriage. Clary was one of + those men to whom lying has become a sort of second nature; whenever such + an one opens his mouth, you may safely say to him, “You have lied, or you + are going to lie.” If they could feel their own degradation, they would be + much to be pitied, for by their own fault at last no one will believe them + even when by chance they speak the truth. This Count Clary, who was not + one of the Clarys of Teplitz, could neither go to his own country nor to + Vienna, because he had deserted the army on the eve of a battle. He was + lame, but he walked so adroitly that his defect did not appear. If this + had been the only truth he concealed, it would have been well, for it was + a piece of deception that hurt no one. He died miserably in Venice. + </p> + <p> + We reached Breslau in perfect safety, and without experiencing any + adventures. Campioni, who had accompanied me as far as Wurtemburg, + returned, but rejoined me at Vienna in the course of seven months. Count + Clary had left Breslau, and I thought I would make the acquaintance of the + Abbe Bastiani, a celebrated Venetian, whose fortune had been made by the + King of Prussia. He was canon of the cathedral, and received me cordially; + in fact, each mutually desired the other’s acquaintance. He was a fine + well-made man, fair-complexioned, and at least six feet high. He was also + witty, learned, eloquent, and gifted with a persuasive voice; his cook was + an artist, his library full of choice volumes, and his cellar a very good + one. He was well lodged on the ground floor, and on the first floor he + accommodated a lady, of whose children he was very fond, possibly because + he was their father. Although a great admirer of the fair sex, his tastes + were by no means exclusive, and he did not despise love of the Greek or + philosophic kind. I could see that he entertained a passion for a young + priest whom I met at his table. This young abbe was Count di Cavalcano and + Bastiani seemed to adore him, if fiery glances signified anything; but the + innocent young man did not seem to understand, and I suppose Bastiani did + not like to lower his dignity by declaring his love. The canon shewed me + all the letters he had received from the King of Prussia before he had + been made canon. He was the son of a tailor at Venice, and became a friar, + but having committed some peccadillo which got him into trouble, he was + fortunate enough to be able to make his escape. He fled to The Hague, and + there met Tron, the Venetian ambassador, who lent him a hundred ducats + with which he made his way to Berlin and favour with the king. Such are + the ways by which men arrive at fortune! ‘Sequere deum’! + </p> + <p> + On the event of my departure from Breslau I went to pay a call on a + baroness for whom I had a letter of introduction from her son, who was an + officer of the Polish Court. I sent up my name and was asked to wait a few + moments, as the baroness was dressing. I sat down beside a pretty girl, + who was neatly dressed in a mantle with a hood. I asked her if she were + waiting for the baroness like myself. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir,” she replied, “I have come to offer myself as governess for her + three daughters.” + </p> + <p> + “What! Governess at your age?” + </p> + <p> + “Alas! sir, age has nothing to do with necessity. I have neither father + nor mother. My brother is a poor lieutenant who cannot help me; what can I + do? I can only get a livelihood by turning my good education to account.” + </p> + <p> + “What will your salary be?” + </p> + <p> + “Fifty wretched crowns, enough to buy my dresses.” + </p> + <p> + “It’s very little.” + </p> + <p> + “It is as much as people give.” + </p> + <p> + “Where are you living now?” + </p> + <p> + “With a poor aunt, where I can scarce earn enough bread to keep me alive + by sewing from morning till night.” + </p> + <p> + “If you liked to become my governess instead of becoming a children’s + governess, I would give you fifty crowns, not per year, but per month.” + </p> + <p> + “Your governess? Governess to your family, you mean, I suppose?” + </p> + <p> + “I have no family; I am a bachelor, and I spend my time in travelling. I + leave at five o’clock to-morrow morning for Dresden, and if you like to + come with me there is a place for you in my carriage. I am staying at such + an inn. Come there with your trunk, and we will start together.” + </p> + <p> + “You are joking; besides, I don’t know you.” + </p> + <p> + “I am not jesting; and we should get to know each other perfectly well in + twenty-four hours; that is ample time.” + </p> + <p> + My serious air convinced the girl that I was not laughing at her; but she + was still very much astonished, while I was very much astonished to find I + had gone so far when I had only intended to joke. In trying to win over + the girl I had won over myself. It seemed to me a rare adventure, and I + was delighted to see that she was giving it her serious attention by the + side-glances she kept casting in my direction to see if I was laughing at + her. I began to think that fate had brought us together that I might + become the architect of her fortune. I had no doubt whatever as to her + goodness or her feelings for me, for she completely infatuated my + judgment. To put the finishing stroke on the affair I drew out two ducats + and gave them her as an earnest of her first month’s wages. She took them + timidly, but seemed convinced that I was not imposing on her. + </p> + <p> + By this time the baroness was ready, and she welcomed me very kindly; but + I said I could not accept her invitation to dine with her the following + day, as I was leaving at day-break. I replied to all the questions that a + fond mother makes concerning her son, and then took leave of the worthy + lady. As I went out I noticed that the would-be governess had disappeared. + The rest of the day I spent with the canon, making good cheer, playing + ombre, drinking hard, and talking about girls or literature. The next day + my carriage came to the door at the time I had arranged, and I went off + without thinking of the girl I had met at the baroness’s. But we had not + gone two hundred paces when the postillion stopped, a bundle of linen + whirled through the window into the carriage, and the governess got in. I + gave her a hearty welcome by embracing her, and made her sit down beside + me, and so we drove off. + </p> + <p> + In the ensuing chapter the reader will become more fully acquainted with + my fresh conquest. In the meantime let him imagine me rolling peacefully + along the Dresden road. + </p> + <a name="linkE2HCH0023" id="linkE2HCH0023"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXIII + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + My Arrival at Dresden with Maton—She Makes Me a Present— + Leipzig—Castelbajac—Schwerin—Return to Dresden and + Departure—I Arrive at Vienna—Pocchini’s Vengeance +</pre> + <p> + When I saw myself in the carriage with this pretty girl, who had fallen on + me as if from the clouds, I imagined I was intended to shape her destiny. + Her tutelary genius must have placed her in my hands, for I felt inclined + to do her all the good that lay in my power. But for myself; was it a + piece of good or ill luck for me? I formed the question, but felt that + time alone could give the answer. I knew that I was still living in my old + style, while I was beginning to feel that I was no longer a young man. + </p> + <p> + I was sure that my new companion could not have abandoned herself to me in + this manner, without having made up her mind to be complaisant; but this + was not enough for me, it was my humour to be loved. This was my chief + aim, everything else was only fleeting enjoyment, and as I had not had a + love affair since I parted with Zaira, I hoped most fervently that the + present adventure would prove to be one. + </p> + <p> + Before long I learnt that my companion’s name was Maton; this at least was + her surname, and I did not feel any curiosity to know the name of the he + or she saint whom her godmothers had constituted her patron at the + baptismal font. I asked her if she could write French as well as she spoke + it, and she shewed me a letter by way of sample. It assured me that she + had received an excellent education, and this fact increased my pleasure + in the conquest I had made. She said she had left Breslau without telling + her aunt or her cousin that she was going, perhaps never to return. + </p> + <p> + “How about your belongings?” + </p> + <p> + “Belongings? They were not worth the trouble of gathering together. All I + have is included in that small package, which contains a chemise, a pair + of stockings, some handkerchiefs, and a few nicknacks.” + </p> + <p> + “What will your lover say?” + </p> + <p> + “Alas! I haven’t got one to say anything.” + </p> + <p> + “I cannot credit that.” + </p> + <p> + “I have had two lovers; the first one was a rascal, who took advantage of + my innocence to seduce me, and then left me when I ceased to present any + novelty for him; my second was an honest man, but a poor lieutenant with + no prospects of getting on. He has not abandoned me, but his regiment was + ordered to Stetin, and since then—” + </p> + <p> + “And since then?” + </p> + <p> + “We were too poor to write to one another, so we had to suffer in + silence.” + </p> + <p> + This pathetic history seemed to bear the marks of truth; and I thought it + very possible that Maton had only come with me to make her fortune or to + do rather better than she had been doing, which would not be difficult. + She was twenty-five years old, and as she had never been out of Breslau + before, she would doubtless be delighted to see what the world was like at + Dresden. I could not help feeling that I had been a fool to burden myself + with the girl, who would most likely cost me a lot of money; but still I + found my conduct excusable, as the chances were a hundred to one against + her accepting the proposal I had been foolish enough to make. In short, I + resolved to enjoy the pleasure of having a pretty girl all to myself, and + I determined not to do anything during the journey, being anxious to see + whether her moral qualities would plead as strongly with me as her + physical beauty undoubtedly did. At nightfall I stopped, wishing to spend + the night at the posting-station. Maton, who had been very hungry all day, + but had not dared to tell me so, ate with an amazing and pleasing + appetite; but not being accustomed to wine, she would have fallen asleep + at table, if I had not begged her to retire. She begged my pardon, + assuring me she would not let such a thing occur again. I smiled by way of + reply, and stayed at the table, not looking to see whether she undressed + or went to bed in her clothes. I went to bed myself soon after, and at + five o’clock was up again to order the coffee, and to see that the horses + were put in. Maton was lying on her bed with all her clothes on, fast + asleep, and perspiring with the heat. I woke her, telling her that another + time she must sleep more comfortably, as such heats were injurious to + health. + </p> + <p> + She got up and left the room, no doubt to wash, for she returned looking + fresh and gay, and bade me good day, and asked me if I would like to give + her a kiss. + </p> + <p> + “I shall be delighted,” I replied; and, after kissing her, I made her + hurry over the breakfast, as I wished to reach Dresden that evening. + However, I could not manage it, my carriage broke down, and took five + hours to mend, so I had to sleep at another posting station. Maton + undressed this time, but I had the firmness not to look at her. + </p> + <p> + When I reached Dresden I put up at the “Hotel de Saxe,” taking the whole + of the first floor. My mother was in the country, and I paid her a visit, + much to her delight; we made quite an affecting picture, with my arm in a + sling. I also saw my brother John and his wife Therese, Roland, and a + Roman girl whom I had known before him, and who made much of me. I also + saw my sister, and I then went with my brother to pay my suit to Count + Bruhl and to his wife, the daughter of the palatin of Kiowia, who was + delighted to hear news of her family. I was welcomed everywhere, and + everywhere I had to tell the story of my duel. I confess that very little + pressing was required, for I was very proud of it. + </p> + <p> + At this period the States were assembled in Dresden, and Prince Xavier, + uncle of the Elector, was regent during his minority. + </p> + <p> + The same evening I went to the opera-house, where faro was played. I + played, but prudently, for my capital only consisted of eighteen hundred + ducats. + </p> + <p> + When I came back we had a good supper, and Maton pleased me both by her + appetite and amiability. When we had finished I affectionately asked her + if she would like to share my bed, and she replied as tenderly that she + was wholly mine. And so, after passing a voluptuous night, we rose in the + morning the best friends in the world. + </p> + <p> + I spent the whole morning in furnishing her toilette. A good many people + called on me, and wanted to be presented to Maton; but my answer was that, + as she was only my housekeeper, and not my wife, I could not have the + pleasure of introducing her. In the same way I had instructed her that she + was not to let anyone in when I was away. She was working in her room on + the linen I had provided for her, aided in her task by a seamstress. + Nevertheless, I did not want to make her a slave, so I occasionally took + her into the pleasant suburbs of Dresden, where she was at liberty to + speak to any of my acquaintances we might meet. + </p> + <p> + This reserve of mine which lasted for the fortnight we stayed in Dresden + was mortifying for all the young officers in the place, and especially for + the Comte de Bellegarde, who was not accustomed to being denied any girl + to whom he chose to take a fancy. He was a fine young fellow, of great + boldness and even impudence, and one day he came into our room and asked + me to give him a dinner just as Maton and myself were sitting down to + table. I could not refuse him, and I could not request Maton to leave the + room, so from the beginning to the end of the meal he showered his + military jokes and attentions on her, though he was perfectly polite the + whole time. Maton behaved very well; she was not prudish, nor did she + forget the respect she owed to me and indeed to herself. + </p> + <p> + I was accustomed to take a siesta every day after dinner, so half an hour + after the conclusion of the meal I stated the fact and begged him to leave + us. He asked smilingly if the lady took a siesta too, and I replied that + we usually took it together. This made him take up his hat and cane, and + as he did so he asked us both to dine with him the next day. I replied + that I never took Maton out anywhere, but that he would be welcome to come + and take pot-luck with us every day if he liked. + </p> + <p> + This refusal exhausted his resources, and he took his leave if not + angrily, at least very coldly. + </p> + <p> + My mother returned to her town apartments, which were opposite to mine, + and the next day when I was calling on her I noticed the erker (a sort of + grating in the Spanish fashion) which indicated my rooms in the hotel. I + happened to look in that direction and I saw Maton at the window standing + up and talking to M. de Bellegarde, who was at a neighbouring window. This + window belonged to a room which adjoined my suite of rooms, but did not + belong to it. This discovery amused me. I knew what I was about, and did + not fear to be made a cuckold in spite of myself. I was sure I had not + been observed, and I was not going to allow any trespassers. I was + jealous, in fact; but the jealousy was of the mind, not the heart. + </p> + <p> + I came in to dinner in the highest spirits, and Maton was as gay as + myself. I led the conversation up to Bellegarde, and said I believed him + to be in love with her. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, he is like all officers with girls; but I don’t think he is more in + love with me than any other girl.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, but didn’t he come to call on me this morning?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly not; and if he had come the maid would have told him you were + out.” + </p> + <p> + “Did you not notice him walking up and down under the windows?” + </p> + <p> + “No.” + </p> + <p> + This was enough for me; I knew they had laid a plot together. Maton was + deceiving me, and I should be cheated in twenty-four hours unless I took + care. At my age such treason should not have astonished me, but my vanity + would not allow me to admit the fact. + </p> + <p> + I dissembled my feelings and caressed the traitress, and then leaving the + house I went to the theatre where I played with some success and returned + home while the second act was in progress; it was still daylight. The + waiter was at the door, and I asked him whether there were any rooms + besides those which I occupied on the first floor. “Yes, two rooms, both + looking on the street.” + </p> + <p> + “Tell the landlord that I will take them both.” + </p> + <p> + “They were taken yesterday evening.” + </p> + <p> + “By whom?” + </p> + <p> + “By a Swiss officer, who is entertaining a party of friends to supper here + this evening.” + </p> + <p> + I said no more lest I should awaken suspicion; but I felt sure that + Bellegarde could easily obtain access to my rooms from his. Indeed, there + was a door leading to the room where Maton slept with her maid when I did + not care to have her in my room. The door was bolted on her side, but as + she was in the plot there was not much security in this. + </p> + <p> + I went upstairs softly, and finding Maton on the balcony, I said, after + some indifferent conversation, that I should like to change rooms. + </p> + <p> + “You shall have my room,” I said, “and I will have yours; I can read + there, and see the people going by.” + </p> + <p> + She thought it a very good idea, and added that it would serve us both if + I would allow her to sit there when I was out. + </p> + <p> + This reply shewed me that Maton was an old hand, and that I had better + give her up if I did not wish to be duped. + </p> + <p> + I changed the rooms, and we supped pleasantly together, laughing and + talking, and in spite of all her craft Maton did not notice any change in + me. + </p> + <p> + I remained alone in my new room, and soon heard the voices of Bellegarde + and his merry companions. I went on to the balcony, but the curtains of + Bellegarde’s room were drawn, as if to assure me that there was no + complot. However, I was not so easily deceived, and I found afterwards + that Mercury had warned Jupiter that Amphytrion had changed his room. + </p> + <p> + Next day, a severe headache, a thing from which I seldom suffer, kept me + to the house all day. I had myself let blood, and my worthy mother, who + came to keep me company, dined with Maton. My mother had taken a weakness + for the girl, and had often asked me to let her come and see her, but I + had the good sense to refuse this request. The next day I was still far + from well, and took medicine, and in the evening, to my horror, I found + myself attacked by a fearful disease. This must be a present from Maton, + for I had not known anyone else since leaving Leopol. I spent a troubled + night, rage and indignation being my principal emotions; and next morning, + coming upon Maton suddenly, I found everything in the most disgusting + state. The wretched creature confessed she had been infected for the last + six months, but that she had hoped not to give it me, as she had washed + herself carefully whenever she thought I was going to have to do with her. + </p> + <p> + “Wretch, you have poisoned me; but nobody shall know it, as it is by my + own fault, and I am ashamed of it. Get up, and you shall see how generous + I can be.” + </p> + <p> + She got up, and I had all the linen I had given her packed into a trunk. + This done, I told my man to take a small room for her at another inn. His + errand was soon over, and I then told Maton to go immediately, as I had + done with her. I gave her fifty crowns, and made her sign a receipt + specifying the reason why I had sent her away, and acknowledging that she + had no further claim upon me. The conditions were humiliating, and she + wished me to soften them down, but she soon gave in when I told her that + unless she signed I would turn her into the streets as naked as when I + found her. + </p> + <p> + “What am I to do here? I don’t know anyone.” + </p> + <p> + “If you like to return to Breslau I will pay your expenses there.” + </p> + <p> + She made no answer, so I sent her away bag and baggage, and merely turned + my back on her when she went down on her knees to excite my compassion. + </p> + <p> + I got rid of her without the slightest feeling of pity, for from what she + had done to me and from what she was preparing to do I considered her as a + mere monster, who would sooner or later have cost me my life. + </p> + <p> + I left the inn the following day, and I took a furnished apartment on the + first floor of the house where my mother lived for six months, and + proceeded about my cure. Everyone asked me what I had done with my + housekeeper, and I said that having no further need of her services I had + sent her away. + </p> + <p> + A week afterwards my brother John came to tell me that Bellegarde and five + or six of his friends were on the sick list; Maton had certainly lost no + time. + </p> + <p> + “I am sorry for them, but it’s their own fault; why didn’t they take more + care?” + </p> + <p> + “But the girl came to Dresden with you.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, and I sent her about her business. It was enough for me to keep them + off while she was under my charge. Tell them that if they complain of me + they are wrong, and still more wrong to publish their shame. Let them + learn discretion and get themselves cured in secrecy, if they do not want + sensible men to laugh at them. Don’t you think I am right?” + </p> + <p> + “The adventure is not a very honourable one for you.” + </p> + <p> + “I know it, and that’s why I say nothing; I am not such a fool as to + proclaim my shame from the housetops. These friends of yours must be + simpletons indeed; they must have known that I had good reasons for + sending the girl away, and should consequently have been on their guard. + They deserve what they got, and I hope it may be a lesson to them.” + </p> + <p> + “They are all astonished at your being well.” + </p> + <p> + “You may comfort them by saying that I have been as badly treated as they, + but that I have held my tongue, not wishing to pass for a simpleton.” + </p> + <p> + Poor John saw he had been a simpleton himself and departed in silence. I + put myself under a severe diet, and by the middle of August my health was + re-established. + </p> + <p> + About this time, Prince Adam Czartoryski’s sister came to Dresden, lodging + with Count Bruhl. I had the honour of paying my court to her, and I heard + from her own mouth that her royal cousin had had the weakness to let + himself be imposed on by calumnies about me. I told her that I was of + Ariosto’s opinion that all the virtues are nothing worth unless they are + covered with the veil of constancy. + </p> + <p> + “You saw yourself when I supped with you, how his majesty completely + ignored me. Your highness will be going to Paris next year; you will meet + me there and you can write to the king that if I had been burnt in effigy + I should not venture to shew myself.” + </p> + <p> + The September fair being a great occasion at Leipzig, I went there to + regain my size by eating larks, for which Leipzig is justly famous. I had + played a cautious but a winning game at Dresden, the result of which had + been the gain of some hundreds of ducats, so I was able to start for + Leipzig with a letter of credit for three thousand crowns on the banker + Hohman, an intelligent old man of upwards of eighty. It was of him I heard + that the hair of the Empress of Russia, which looked a dark brown or even + black, had been originally quite fair. The old banker had seen her at + Stettin every day between her seventh and tenth years, and told me that + even then they had begun to comb her hair with lead combs, and to rub a + certain composition into it. From an early age Catherine had been looked + upon as the future bride of the Duke of Holstein, afterwards the hapless + Peter III. The Russians are fair as a rule, and so it was thought it that + the reigning family should be dark. + </p> + <p> + Here I will note down a pleasant adventure I had at Leipzig. The Princess + of Aremberg had arrived from Vienna, and was staying at the same hotel as + myself. She took a fancy to go to the fair incognito, and as she had a + large suite she dressed up one of her maids as the princess, and mingled + with her following. I suppose my readers to be aware that this princess + was witty and beautiful, and that she was the favourite mistress of the + Emperor Francis the First. + </p> + <p> + I heard of his masquerade, and leaving my hotel at the same time I + followed her till she stopped at a stall, and then going up to her and + addressing her as one would any other maid, I asked if that (pointing at + the false princess) were really the famous Princess of Aremberg. + </p> + <p> + “Certainly,” she replied. + </p> + <p> + “I can scarcely believe it, for she is not pretty, and she has not the + look nor the manners of a princess.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps you are not a good judge of princesses.” + </p> + <p> + “I have seen enough of them anyhow, and to prove that I am a good judge I + say that it is you who ought to be the princess; I would willingly give a + hundred ducats to spend the night with you.” + </p> + <p> + “A hundred ducats! What would you do if I were to take you at your word?” + </p> + <p> + “Try me. I lodge at the same hotel as you, and if you can contrive ways + and means, I will give you the money in advance, but not till I am sure of + my prize, for I don’t like being taken in.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good. Say not a word to anyone, but try to speak with me either + before or after supper. If you are brave enough to face certain risks, we + will spend the night together.” + </p> + <p> + “What is your name?” + </p> + <p> + “Caroline.” + </p> + <p> + I felt certain it would come to nothing, but I was glad to have amused the + princess, and to have let her know that I appreciated her beauties, and I + resolved to go on with the part I was playing. About supper-time I began a + promenade near the princess’s apartments, stopping every now and then in + front of the room where her women were sitting, till one of them came out + to ask me if I wanted anything. + </p> + <p> + “I want to speak for a moment to one of your companions to whom I had the + pleasure of talking at the fair.” + </p> + <p> + “You mean Caroline, I expect?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “She is waiting on the princess, but she will be out in half an hour.” + </p> + <p> + I spent this half hour in my own room, and then returned to dance + attendance. Before long the same maid to whom I had spoken came up to me + and told me to wait in a closet which she shewed me, telling me that + Caroline would be there before long. I went into the closet, which was + small, dark, and uncomfortable. I was soon joined by a woman. This time I + was sure it was the real Caroline, but I said nothing. + </p> + <p> + She came, in, took my hand, and told me that if I would wait there she + would come to me as soon as her mistress was in bed. + </p> + <p> + “Without any light?” + </p> + <p> + “Of course, or else the people of the house would notice it, and I should + not like that.” + </p> + <p> + “I cannot do anything without light, charming Caroline; and besides, this + closet is not a very nice place to pass five or six hours. There is + another alternative, the first room above is mine. I shall be alone, and I + swear to you that no one shall come in; come up and make me happy; I have + got the hundred ducats here.” + </p> + <p> + “Impossible! I dare not go upstairs for a million ducats.” + </p> + <p> + “So much the worse for you, as I am not going to stay in this hole which + has only a chair in it, if you offer me a million and a half. Farewell, + sweet Caroline.” + </p> + <p> + “Wait a moment; let me go out first.” + </p> + <p> + The sly puss went out quickly enough, but I was as sharp as she, and trod + on the tail of her dress so that she could not shut the door after her. So + we went out together, and I left her at the door, saying,— + </p> + <p> + “Good night, Caroline, you see it was no use.” + </p> + <p> + I went to bed well pleased with the incident. The princess, it was plain, + had intended to make me pass the night in the hole of a closet, as a + punishment for having dared to ask the mistress of an emperor to sleep + with me for a hundred crowns. + </p> + <p> + Two days later, as I was buying a pair of lace cuffs, the princess came + into the shop with Count Zinzendorf, whom I had known at Paris twelve + years before just as I was making way for the lady the count recognized + me, and asked me if I knew anything about the Casanova that had fought the + duel at Warsaw. + </p> + <p> + “Alas! count, I am that Casanova, and here is my arm still in a sling.” + </p> + <p> + “I congratulate you, my dear fellow; I should like to hear about it.” + </p> + <p> + With these words he introduced me to the princess, asking her if she had + heard of the duel. + </p> + <p> + “Yes; I heard something about it in the papers. So this is the hero of the + tale. Delighted to make your acquaintance.” + </p> + <p> + The princess spoke with great kindness, but with the cool politeness of + the Court. She did not give me the slightest sign of recognition, and of + course I imitated her in her reserve. + </p> + <p> + I visited the count in the afternoon, and he begged me to come and see the + princess, who would be delighted to hear the account of my duel from my + own lips, and I followed him to her apartment with pleasure. The princess + listened to my narrative in stately sort, and her women never looked at + me. She went away the day after, and the story went no farther. + </p> + <p> + Towards the end of the fair I received a very unexpected visit from the + fair Madame Castelbajac. I was just sitting down to table to eat a dozen + larks, when she made her appearance. + </p> + <p> + “What, madam, you here!” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, to my sorrow. I have been here for the last three weeks, and have + seen you several times, but you have always avoided us.” + </p> + <p> + “Who are ‘us’?” + </p> + <p> + “Schwerin and myself.” + </p> + <p> + “Schwerin is here, is he?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; and in prison on account of a forged bill. I am sure I do not know + what they will do to the poor wretch. He would have been wise to have + fled, but it seems as if he wanted to get hanged.” + </p> + <p> + “And you have been with him ever since you left England? that is, three + years ago.” + </p> + <p> + “Exactly. Our occupation is robbing, cheating, and escaping from one land + to another. Never was a woman so unhappy as I.” + </p> + <p> + “For how much is the forged bill?” + </p> + <p> + “For three hundred crowns. Do a generous action M. Casanova, and let + bygones be bygones; deliver the poor wretch from the gallows and me from + death, for if he is hanged I shall kill myself.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed, madam, he may hang for me, for he did his best to send me to the + gallows with his forged bills; but I confess I pity you. So much, indeed, + that I invite you to come to Dresden with me the day after to-morrow, and + I promise to give you three hundred crowns as soon as Schwerin has + undergone the extreme penalty of the law. I can’t understand how a woman + like you can have fallen in love with a man that has neither face, nor + talents, nor wit, nor fortune, for all that he has to boast of is his name + of Schwerin.” + </p> + <p> + “I confess, to my shame, that I never loved him. Ever since the other + rogue, Castelbajac—who, by the way, was never married to me—made + me know him, I have only lived with him by force, though his tears and his + despairs have excited my compassion. If destiny had given me an honest man + in his stead, I would have forsaken him long ago, for sooner or later he + will be the death of me.” + </p> + <p> + “Where do you live?” + </p> + <p> + “Nowhere. I have been turned out into the street with nothing but the + clothes on my back. Have compassion on me.” + </p> + <p> + With these words the hapless woman threw herself at my knees and burst + into tears. I was much affected. The waiter of the inn stood staring with + amazement till I told him to go out. I may safely say that this woman was + one of the most handsome in France; she was probably about twenty-six + years old. She had been the wife of a druggist of Montpellier, and had + been so unfortunate as to let Castelbajac seduce her. At London her beauty + had produced no impression on me, my heart was another’s; nevertheless, + she was made to seduce the heart of man. + </p> + <p> + I raised her from her knees, and said I felt inclined to help her, but + that in the first place she must calm herself, and in the second share my + supper. The waiter brought another bed and put it in my room, without + receiving any orders to do so; this made me feel inclined to laugh. + </p> + <p> + The appetite with which the poor woman ate, despite her sorrow, reminded + me of the matron of Ephesus. When supper was over I gave her her choice: + she might either stay in Leipzig and fare as best she might, or I would + reclaim her effects, take her with me to Dresden, and pay her a hundred + gold ducats as soon as I could be certain that she would not give the + money to the wretch who had reduced her to such an extremity. She did not + ask much time for reflection. She said that it would be no good for her to + stay in Leipzig, for she could do nothing for the wretched Schwerin or + even keep herself for a day, for she had not got a farthing. She would + have to beg or to become a prostitute, and she could not make up her mind + to either course. + </p> + <p> + “Indeed,” she concluded, “if you were to give me the hundred ducats this + moment, and I used them to free Schwerin, I should be no better off than + before; so I accept your generous offer thankfully.” + </p> + <p> + I embraced her, promised to get back what her landlord had seized for + rent, and then begged her to go to bed, as she was in need of rest. + </p> + <p> + “I see,” she answered, “that either out of liking or for politeness’ sake + you will ask me for those favours which I should be only too happy to + grant, but if I allowed that it would be a bad return indeed for your + kindness. Look at my linen, and behold in what a state that unhappy wretch + has left me!” + </p> + <p> + I saw that I ran the risk of being infected again, and thanked her for + warning me of the danger I ran. In spite of her faults she was a woman of + feeling, and had an excellent heart, and from these good qualities of hers + proceeded all her misfortunes. + </p> + <p> + The next morning I arranged for the redemption of her effects, which cost + me sixty crowns of Saxony, and in the afternoon the poor woman saw herself + once more in possession of her belongings, which she had thought never to + see again. She seemed profoundly grateful, and deplored her state, which + hindered her from proving the warmth of her feelings. + </p> + <p> + Such is the way of women: a grateful woman has only one way of shewing her + gratitude, and that is to surrender herself without reserve. A man is + different, but we are differently constituted; a man is made to give and a + woman to receive. + </p> + <p> + The next day, a short while before we left, the broker I had employed in + the redemption of the lady’s effects, told me that the banker, whom + Schwerin had cheated, was going to send an express to Berlin, to enquire + whether the king would object to Count Schwerin’s being proceeded against + with the utmost rigour of the law. + </p> + <p> + “Alas!” cried his late mistress, “that’s what he was most afraid of. It’s + all up with him. The King of Prussia will pay his debts, but he will end + his days at Spandau. Why didn’t they put him there before I ever knew + him?” + </p> + <p> + She left Leipzig with me, and our appearance at Dresden caused a good deal + of surprise. She was not a mere girl, like Maton; she had a good + appearance, and a modest yet distinguished manner. I called her Countess + Blasin, and introduced her to my mother and relations, and put her in my + best room. I summoned the doctor who had treated me, and made him swear + not to disclose the countess’s state, but to tell everyone that he came to + see me. I took her to the theatre, and it was my humour to have her + regarded as a person of distinction. Good treatment soon restored her to + health, and by the end of November she believed herself in a state to + reward me for my kindness. + </p> + <p> + The wedding was a secret one, but none the less pleasant; and as if by way + of wedding present the next day I heard that the King of Prussia had paid + Schwerin’s debts, and had had him brought to Berlin under a strong escort. + If he is alive, the rascal is at Spandau to this day. + </p> + <p> + The time had come for me to pay her the hundred ducats. I told her frankly + that I was obliged to go to Portugal, and that I could not make my + appearance there in company with a pretty woman without failing in my + project. I added that my means would not allow me to pay double expenses + for so long a journey. + </p> + <p> + She had received too many proofs of my love to think for a moment that I + had got tired of her, and wanted to be on with some other woman. She told + me that she owed everything to me, while I owed nothing to her; and that + all she asked of me was to enable her to return to Montpellier. + </p> + <p> + “I have relations there,” said she, “who will be glad to see me, and I + hope that my husband will let me return to him. I am the Prodigal Son, and + I hope to find in him the forgiving father.” + </p> + <p> + I told her I would do my utmost to send her home in safety and comfort. + </p> + <p> + Towards the middle of December I left Dresden with Madame Blasin. My purse + only contained four hundred ducats, for I had had a run of bad luck at + play; and the journey to Leipzig had cost me altogether three hundred + ducats. I told my mistress nothing of all this, for my only thought was + how to please her. + </p> + <p> + We stayed a short while at Prague, and reached Vienna on Christmas Day. We + put up at the “Red Bull,” the Countess Blasin (who had been transformed + into a milliner) in one room, and I in another, so that we might pass for + strangers while continuing our intimacy. + </p> + <p> + The next morning, as we were taking coffee together, two individuals came + into the room, and asked the rude question,— + </p> + <p> + “Who are you, madam?” + </p> + <p> + “My name is Blasin.” + </p> + <p> + “Who is this gentleman?” + </p> + <p> + “You had better ask him.” + </p> + <p> + “What are you doing at Vienna?” + </p> + <p> + “Taking coffee. I should have thought you could have seen that for + yourselves.” + </p> + <p> + “If the gentleman is not your husband, you will leave the town within + twenty-four hours.” + </p> + <p> + “The gentleman is my friend, and not my husband; and I shall leave Vienna + exactly when I choose, unless you make me go away by force.” + </p> + <p> + “Very good. We are aware, sir, that you have a separate room, but that + makes no difference.” + </p> + <p> + Thereupon one of the policemen entered my room, I following him. + </p> + <p> + “What do you want here?” said I. + </p> + <p> + “I am looking at your bed, and I can see you have not slept in it. That’s + enough.” + </p> + <p> + “The devil! What business have you here at all, and who authorizes such + disgraceful proceedings?” + </p> + <p> + He made no reply, but returned to Madame Blasin’s room, where they both + ordered her to leave Vienna in the course of twenty-four hours, and then + they both left us. + </p> + <p> + “Dress yourself,” said I to her, “and tell the French ambassador the whole + story. Tell him that you are a milliner, Blasin by name, and that all you + want is to go from here to Strasburg, and from there to Montpellier.” + </p> + <p> + While she was dressing I ordered a carriage and a servant to be in + attendance. She returned in an hour’s time, and said the ambassador had + assured her that she would be left alone, and need not leave Vienna till + she thought fit. I took her to mass in triumph, and then, as the weather + was bad, we spent the rest of the day in eating and drinking and sitting + by the fire. + </p> + <p> + At eight o’clock in the evening the landlord came up and said very + politely that he had been ordered by the police to give the lady a room at + some distance from mine, and that he was obliged to obey. + </p> + <p> + “I am quite ready to change my room,” said Madame Blasin, with a smile. + </p> + <p> + “Is the lady to sup alone?” I asked. + </p> + <p> + “I have received no instructions on that point.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I will sup with her, and I hope you will treat us well.” + </p> + <p> + “You shall be well served, sir.” + </p> + <p> + In spite of the detestable and tyrannical police we spent the last four + days and nights together in the closest intimacy. When she left I wanted + her to take fifty Louis; but she would only have thirty, saying that she + could travel to Montpellier on that sum, and have money in her pocket when + she got there. Our parting was an affecting one. She wrote to me from + Strasburg, and we shall hear of her again when I describe my visit to + Montpellier. + </p> + <p> + The first day of the year 1767 I took an apartment in the house of a + certain Mr. Schroder, and I took letters of introduction to Madame de + Salmor and Madame de Stahremberg. I then called on the elder Calsabigi, + who was in the service of Prince Kaunitz. + </p> + <p> + This Calsabigi, whose whole body was one mass of eruption, always worked + in bed, and the minister, his master, went to see him almost every day. I + went constantly to the theatre, where Madame Vestris was dancing. On + January the 7th or 8th, I saw the empress dowager come to the theatre + dressed in black; she was received with applause, as this was the first + appearance she had made since the death of her husband. At Vienna I met + the Comte de la Perouse, who was trying to induce the empress to give him + half a million of florins, which Charles VI. owed his father. Through him + I made the acquaintance of the Spaniard Las Casas, a man of intelligence, + and, what is a rare thing in a Spaniard, free from prejudices. I also met + at the count’s house the Venetian Uccelli, with whom I had been at St. + Cyprian’s College at Muran; he was, at the time of which I write, + secretary to the ambassador, Polo Renieri. This gentleman had a great + esteem for me, but my affair with the State Inquisitors prevented him from + receiving me. My friend Campioni arrived at this date from Warsaw; he had + passed through Cracovia. I accommodated him in my apartment with great + pleasure. He had an engagement at London, but to my great delight he was + able to spend a couple of months with me. + </p> + <p> + Prince Charles of Courland, who had been at Venice and had been well + received by M. de Bragadin and my other friends, had been in Vienna and + had left it a fortnight before my arrival to return to Venice. Prince + Charles wrote to tell me that there was no bounds to the care and kindness + of my Venetian friends, and that he would be grateful to me for all his + days. + </p> + <p> + I lived very quietly at Vienna; my health was good, and I thought of + nothing but my journey to Portugal, which I intended to take place in the + spring. I saw no company of any kind, whether good or ill. I often called + on Calsabigi, who made a parade of his Atheism, and slandered my friend + Metastasio, who despised him. Calsabigi knew it and laughed at him; he was + a profound politician and the right hand of Prince Kaunitz. + </p> + <p> + One day after dinner, as I was sitting at table with my friend Campioni, a + pretty little girl, between twelve and thirteen, as I should imagine, came + into my room with mingled boldness and fear, and made me a low bow. I + asked her what she wanted, and she replied in Latin verse to the effect + that her mother was in the next room, and that if I liked she would come + in. I replied in Latin prose that I did not care about seeing her mother, + telling her my reasons with great plainness. She replied with four Latin + lines, but as they were not to the point I could see that she had learnt + them by heart, and repeated them like a parrot. She went on—still in Latin + verse—to tell me that her mother must come in or else the + authorities might think I was abusing her. + </p> + <p> + This last phrase was uttered with all the directness of the Latin style. + It made me burst out laughing, and I felt inclined to explain to her what + she had said in her own language. The little slut told me she was a + Venetian, and this putting me at my ease I told her that the authorities + would never suspect her of doing such a thing as she was too young. At + this the girl seemed to reflect a moment, and then recited some verses + from the Priapeia to the effect that unripe fruit is often more piquant + than that which is ripe. This was enough to set me on fire, and Campioni, + seeing that he was not wanted, went back to his room. + </p> + <p> + I drew her gently to me and asked her if her father was at Vienna. She + said yes, and instead of repulsing my caresses she proceeded to accompany + my actions with the recital of erotic verses. I sent her away with a fee + of two ducats, but before she went she gave me her address written in + German with four Latin verses beneath, stating that her bedfellow would + find her either Hebe or Ganymede, according to his liking. + </p> + <p> + I could not help admiring the ingenuity of her father, who thus contrived + to make a living out of his daughters. She was a pretty girl enough, but + at Vienna pretty girls are so common that they often have to starve in + spite of their charms. The Latin verses had been thrown in as an + attraction in this case, but I did not think she would find it very + remunerative in Vienna. + </p> + <p> + Next evening my evil genius made me go and seek her out at the address she + had given me. Although I was forty-two years old, in spite of the + experience I had had, I was so foolish as to go alone. The girl saw me + coming from the window, and guessing that I was looking for her, she came + down and shewed me in. I went in, I went upstairs, and when I found myself + in the presence of the wretch Pocchini my blood froze in my veins. A + feeling of false shame prevented my retracing my steps, as it might have + looked as if I had been afraid. In the same room were his pretended wife, + Catina, two Sclavonic-looking assassins, and the decoy-duck. I saw that + this was not a laughing matter, so I dissembled to the best of my ability, + and made up my mind to leave the place in five minutes’ time. + </p> + <p> + Pocchini, swearing and blaspheming, began to reproach me with the manner + in which I had treated him in England, and said that his time had come, + and that my life was in his hands. One of the two Sclavs broke in, and + said we must make friends, and so made me sit down, opened a bottle, and + said we must drink together. I tried to put as good a face upon it as I + could, but I begged to be excused, on which Pocchini swore that I was + afraid of having to pay for the bottle of wine. + </p> + <p> + “You are mistaken,” said I; “I am quite ready to pay.” + </p> + <p> + I put my hand in my pocket to take out a ducat without drawing out my + purse, but the Sclav told me I need not be afraid, as I was amongst honest + people. Again shame made me yield, and as I had some difficulty in + extracting my purse, the Sclav kindly did it for me. Pocchini immediately + snatched it from his hands, and said he should keep it as part + compensation for all I had made him endure. + </p> + <p> + I saw that it was a concerted scheme, and said with a smile that he could + do as he liked, and so I rose to leave them. The Sclav said we must + embrace each other, and on my declaring that to be unnecessary, he and his + comrade drew their sabres, and I thought myself undone. Without more ado, + I hastened to embrace them. To my astonishment they let me go, and I went + home in a grievous state, and not knowing what else to do went to bed. + </p> + <div style="height: 6em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + +<pre> + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Memoires of Casanova, by +Jacques Casanova de Seingalt + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE MEMOIRES OF CASANOVA *** + +***** This file should be named 39305-h.htm or 39305-h.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + http://www.gutenberg.org/3/9/3/0/39305/ + +Produced by David Widger + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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