Count Gercourt _to_ Madame de Volanges.
Every thing in this country, Madam, has the most pacific appearance,
and we daily expect orders to return to France. I hope you have not
the least doubt of my eagerness for this return, to complete my union
with Mademoiselle de Volanges and you. Yet the Duke of ——, my cousin,
to whom you know I am under so many obligations, has just informed
me of his recall from Naples. He writes me, his intention to come
by Rome, and take in his way that part of Italy he has not seen. He
requests I should accompany him on this journey, which will be of six
weeks or two months. I will not conceal from you, it would be very
agreeable to me to embrace this opportunity. For when once married,
I shall not readily undertake any journeys but those the service will
require; perhaps, it would be also more convenient to postpone the
ceremony until winter, as all my relations will not be in Paris until
then, particularly the Marquis de ——, to whom I am indebted for the
hope of being allied to you. Notwithstanding those considerations, my
resolutions on this matter shall be entirely governed by yours; and
if you are not perfectly satisfied with this proposal, I instantly
renounce mine. I only request you will do me the favour to inform me of
your intentions. I shall wait your answer here, which will regulate my
conduct.