of writing to Monsieur de Lamotte. The latter, as yet unsuspecting, was
tormented by other anxieties, and kept at home by illness.

In these days, distance is shortened, and one can travel from
Villeneuve-le-Roi-les-Sens to Paris in a few hours. This was not the
case in 1777, when private industry and activity, stifled by routine and
privilege, had not yet experienced the need of providing the means for
rapid communication. Half a day was required to go from the capital to
Versailles; a journey of twenty leagues required at least two days and a
night, and bristled with obstacles ind delays of all kinds. These
difficulties of transport, still greater during bad weather, and a long
and serious attack of gout, explain why Monsieur ale Lamotte, who was so
ready to take alarm, had remained separated from his wife from the middle
of December to the end of February. He had received reassuring letters
from her, written at first with freedom and simplicity; but he thought he
noticed a gradual change in the later ones, which appeared to proceed
more from the mind than the heart. A style which aimed at being natural
was interspersed with unnecessary expressions of affection, unusual
between married people well assured of their mutual love. Monsieur de
Lamotte observed and exaggerated these peculiarities, and though
endeavouring to persuade himself that he was mistaken, he could not
forget them, or regain his usual tranquility. Being somewhat ashamed of
his anxiety, he kept his fears to himself.

One morning, as he was sunk in a large armchair by the fire, his
sitting-room door opened, and the cure entered, who was surprised by his
despondent, sad, and pale appearance. "What is the matter?" he inquired,
"Have you had an extra bad night?"

"Yes," answered Monsieur de Lamotte.