I promised, my dear papa, to write to you. I never broke my promises; judge whether I will begin with that promise which is so very close to my heart.

I am going to tell you about the life I lead here: I live on a superb property situated in the midst of a beautiful region; the region would be a cheerful place for any other woman but myself, but everything reminds me of a woman friend whom I loved tenderly, the first friend my heart loved, and whom I have lost! I soften this sorrow by thinking about my friends, about you, my dear papa, who honor me with your friendship, which is so dear to me; I say, the sun will not rise eight more times before I have seen the legislator of America again, and embraced him; I say, there is still happiness for me, because papa Franklin loves me, and because I return his love with all the powers of my heart.

For walks here we have a superb forest, which gives sensitive souls the sweet opportunity to dream—and as an object of interest, there is a large farm, well-maintained, which leads one to meditate on the charms and tranquillity of rural life. Oh my papa, with you, your children, my family, my good neighbors’ family, a few special friends, with occupation and freedom, would we not be happier than in the midst of that whirlpool that is Paris, where everyone, out of curiosity or idleness, squanders your time—time which could well be put to better use? Or where people seek you out, often, because they need to escape from themselves (a person is so well off on his own when he loves virtue, and tries to practice it). I admit that I am building castles in the air. It is not ambition, cupidity, or love of pleasure that is the object; it is happiness! We are born desiring it, we live seeking it, and we will die without having enjoyed it; it seems to me that mine would be complete, if fate destined me to live with you forever. My imagination occupies itself with what would bring me true happiness; it will never lead me astray when it makes me think of you. Farewell, my dear papa; when your soul will wish to rest by thinking of someone who loves it very tenderly, think of me: I have the honor to be, for life, my dear papa, with as much respect as friendship, your very humble and very obedient servant