et Bonheur_, was written for her. Balzac had been her guest
repeatedly; he had recognized in her one of the rare women, who by
their intelligence and, as it were, instinctive appreciation of genius
can compensate to a great _incompris_ like Balzac for the lack of
recognition on the part of his contemporaries; one of those women near
whom, thanks to tactful treatment, a depressed man will regain
confidence in himself and courage to go on.


Of the distinguished houses which were open to Balzac, that of the
Comte Appony was one of the most beautiful. This protege of the Prince
of Metternich, having had the rare good fortune to please both
governments, was retained by Louis-Philippe, and was as well liked and
appreciated in the role of ambassador and diplomat as in that of man
of the world. The Countess Appony possessed a very peculiar charm, and
was a type of feminine distinction. Balls and receptions were given
frequently in her home, where all was of a supreme elegance.

Balzac visited the Count and Countess frequently, often having a
letter or a message to deliver for the Comtesse Marie Potocka. He
realized that it would be of advantage to be friendly toward the
Ambassador of Austria, and he doubtless enjoyed the society of his
charming wife. He writes of one of these visits:

"Alas! your _moujik_ also has been _un poco_ in that market of
false smiles and charming toilets; he has made his debut at Madame
Appony's,--for the house of Balzac must live on good terms with
the house of Austria,--and your _moujik_ had some success. He was
examined with the curiosity felt for animals from distant regions.
There were presentations on presentations, which bored him so that