letters.

It is time, however, to let the correspondence speak for itself; as
has been already said, Carlisle was now at Nice.

[1767,] Dec. 29, Tuesday, de mon Chateau de Tonderdentronk.(1)--I
received your letter of the 8th and 10th, that is, one part wrote at
Antibes, the other at Nice, here yesterday, which gave me every
degree of pleasure and satisfaction that a letter can give; it could
never have come more seasonably, than when I cannot possibly, from
the snow without doors, and the Aldermen(2) within, have any other
pleasure.

As I am well furnished with maps, I had recourse to them to follow
you in your travels, and had besides the pleasure of hearing that
you were well, and knowing exactly where you are, which was an
occupation for the whole morning. The Antiquities of France have
furnished me with the knowledge of some places through which you
have passed. Mme de Sevigne(3) did, long ago, bring me acquainted
with others; and sure I am that when she was at Rochers, she could
not think more of the Pont de Garde than I should have done, if I
had known of your being there.

If you do me the honour to give me in future letters so much detail,
I shall be infinitely happy. You may be assured that I shall not
communicate a letter of yours to any one, not even to L(ady)
S(arah),(4) who hinted to me she wanted to see your last, without
your leave; but as for burning them directly, I cannot in your
absence resolve upon that; je les conserverai pretieusement till
your return, and that is all I can promise without your very express