_The_ Marchioness de Merteuil _to_ Cecilia Volanges.
I am much concerned, my charming girl, to be deprived of the pleasure
of seeing you, as well as for the cause; I hope we shall find another
opportunity. I performed your commission with the Chevalier Danceny,
who will certainly be very sorry to hear of your Mamma’s indisposition;
if she’ll admit me to-morrow, I’ll wait on her. She and I will attack
the Chevalier de Belleroche at piquet[1]; and in winning his money,
we shall have the double pleasure of hearing you sing with your
amiable master, to whom I shall propose it. If it be agreeable to your
Mamma and you, I will answer for my two Knights and myself. Adieu, my
lovely girl! My compliments to Madame de Volanges. I embrace you most
affectionately.
_From ——, Aug._ 13, 17—.
[1] This is the same who is mentioned in Madame de Merteuil’s letters.