In the midst of our mourning, my illustrious doctor, I cannot keep myself from reminding you of the promise that you made to come see us here in Viry at my brother's house. We told him about this, and he loved the idea; he very much wants you to come. You know how a friend such as yourself can ease the pain of an unfortunate father and an unfortunate mother, still in the depths of their sorrow. By coming, you will not only act in keeping with your kind heart, but you will fulfill a duty of humanity. What an influence would the presence and the consolations of a friend like you have on us! Please, then, keep your word; this hope alone brings some ease to our suffering. I don't have to ask you to bring Monsieur your grandson and to tell you that my brother would be happy to have the honor to receive him. Anyone you bring will be well received, for that matter. If you want to stay the night, you will find good and very snug lodgings for you and for Monsieur your grandson. You will see certainly one of the most beautiful vistas and landscapes that can be seen near Paris. Please accept the sincere assurances of the sentiments of attachment of a man who, regardless of his state of mind, feels as strongly as always the friendship that he has devoted to you for life.