Sends a letter (see IX, 167) which he has just received from M. Didelot, "Fermier-General," recommending M. Gellee who was about to depart for America.
Jesting reply to a letter of Franklin's. Promises to be his wife in heaven. Willing to spend eternity with her friends and in the manner described by Franklin. Would, however, exclude one woman from amongst those named by Franklin.
Inquires about his health. Quotes some verses on human misery and the ills man has to suffer in old age. Hopes he will live long to finish his work. Gives him a budget of news about political and public events in Paris; refers to the affair of the diamond necklace. Mesmer and his disciple, Deslon, still have many partisans. Extravagant costumes worn by men and women. Mme. de Maucomeil has taken the house occupied by Franklin when in Paris. Tells him about the de Chaumont family, the Le Veillard family, Mme. Helvétius, Abbés Laroque and Rochon and all his old friends and former neighbors. M. Brillon, his wife and two daughters with the latters' husbands all living together in Paris. Wishes Franklin could get loans of money for the United States like M. Charles Alexandre de Calonne, in France. New coinage of gold pieces.
Sending notes or coments on a dialogue written in French by Franklin. Thinks he expresses himself more forcefully than would a grammarian. Reminds Franklin of his promise to give her a printed copy of his works.
Has arranged to go to the Salon with Franklin and take breakfast at M. Vernet's. Will give him particulars when he calls at her house on Wednesday evening.
Chides Franklin for leaving her house earlier than usual one evening, because she was engaged with some ladies. Was annoyed and angry when she learned he had left so soon.
Cannot give Franklin a list of his sins, as it would be too long; they all spring from one source, however, Cannot approve or tolerate the dangerous principle, which Franklin seems to have adopted; that love and friendship can be divided up ad infinitum and distributed amongst any number of persons.
Criticised for her informal relations with Franklin; necessary to submit to what is called propriety. State of her nerves; begs him to drink tea with her every day.
Is too ill yet to invite Franklin to tea. Will be glad to have a chat with him any time. Hopes she will enjoy better health during the approaching new year (1781). Only this hope prevents her from seeking death.
Appreciates his philosophy of life but cannot attain to it; analyzes her own character; deeply wounded at present by ingratitude; begs him to cure her or pity her; reminds him of his promise to drink tea with her the following day.
