Is stopping at a country seat 30 leagues from Paris on her journey to Nice for her health. Describes the country and its beautiful scenery. Postscript by M. Pagin, a friend of Dr. Franklin.
Her health is beginning to improve. Promises to write by turns to Franklin and Le Veillard. Has seen in the harbor a vessel called the "Comte d'Estaing" which was for sale. Postscript by M. Brillon. Hopes much from their stay at Nice, reputed to have the best climate in Southern France or Italy.
Only the Expectation of a happier life beyond the grave enables us to bear this one, where we have continually to part with friends. In heaven we shall all meet again, never to be separated. Gives her idea of what heaven will be like.
Has received Franklin's story of the "Whistle" translated into French by himself. It amused them all very much. Will try in future not to pay too dearly for "the whistle." Has often been deceived by others but has never deceived anyone herself.
Reproaches Franklin for having forsaken her the day before. She was searching for the books he wanted and now sends them to him. Mme. du Bospin's library is at his disposal. Loves Franklin tenderly but not furiously or too much, as Franklin says he loves her.
Witty and bantering reply to Franklin who had compared himself to a beggar asking alms from a bishop. Declines to give Franklin the kind of charity he asks for. Is willing to give him her friendship, considers him as her father but cannot entertain his proposals of love.
Letter in anonymous form giving the views of a certain lady on love as opposed to those of a certain gentleman {Franklin). She asserts that she is a follower of Plato, while he is an Epicurean and a disciple of Anacrcon. Platonic love is a convenient safeguard for the fair sex (beau sexe). Exculpates herself from the accusation of showing or giving copies to others of the gentleman's letters to her without his consent. Attributes his displeasure and bad humor to her refusal to accept his proposals of love. In French. In duplicate (see also: XLIII, 95).
Informed of his arrival in his own country and the honors he has received. Her grief over their separation. News of her family. Praise of Franklin's character.
Would like to live always at Nice solely on account of its healthy climate and the beauties of nature to be found there. Likens it to the Garden of Eden or the Elysian Fields.
Speaks of her sadness after Franklin's departure from her country house where he had stayed a few days. He has taken in her affections the place of her father whom she last too soon. Asks Franklin to come back again to her house with his son.
