Wilhelm, what is the world to our hearts without love? What is a
magic-lantern without light? You have but to kindle the flame within,
and the brightest figures shine on the white wall; and, if love only
show us fleeting shadows, we are yet happy, when, like mere children, we
behold them, and are transported with the splendid phantoms. I have not
been able to see Charlotte to-day. I was prevented by company from which
I could not disengage myself. What was to be done? I sent my servant to
her house, that I might at least see somebody to-day who had been near
her. Oh, the impatience with which I waited for his return! the joy with
which I welcomed him! I should certainly have caught him in my arms, and
kissed him, if I had not been ashamed.
It is said that the Bonona stone, when placed in the sun, attracts the
rays, and for a time appears luminous in the dark. So was it with me
and this servant. The idea that Charlotte's eyes had dwelt on his
countenance, his cheek, his very apparel, endeared them all inestimably
to me, so that at the moment I would not have parted from him for a
thousand crowns. His presence made me so happy! Beware of laughing at
me, Wilhelm. Can that be a delusion which makes us happy?