PARIS, Friday, August 15, 1670.
When I write to you so frequently, you must remember that it is on
condition that you do not answer me. Relying on this, I shall proceed
to tell you that I am heartily rejoiced at the many honors that are
conferred on you. It appears to me that the commandant has less share
in them than M. de Grignan himself; and I think I see a partiality for
you that another would not experience.
I find there is so brisk a correspondence kept up between a certain
lady and you, that it would be ridiculous to give you any news. I
have not so much as a hope of acquainting you that she loves you: her
every action, her whole conduct, with all her little anxieties and
cares about you, tell it plain enough. I am very delicate in the point
of friendship, and pretend to know something about it, and I own to
you that I am perfectly satisfied with what I see, and could not wish
it to be greater. Enjoy this pleasure to the utmost, and never be
ungrateful. If there is any little vacant place in your heart, allow
me the pleasure of occupying it; for, I assure you, you hold a very
considerable one in mine.