Mon Pere, I find that a month has flown by since I last wrote you. I hope that you have received my last letter, and that this letter finds you in good health and humor. I am myself as well as ever. Paris, though gray in the short, cold hours of these northern winter days, is a marvel for someone used to the sleepy villages and quiet manors of the Rhone valley. The unending to and thro of the people of Paris, the vastness of the city, and the grandure of it's buildings. The cathedral of Notre Dame is overwhelming, thin spires reaching up to the clouds. And inside, a vast space for multitudes to worship. Poor Father Claude would be lost in the vastness of the place. I attended the party held by the Duc Mylcandona to celebrate his immediate marriage to the Princess Louisa. The guests were beyond counting. Nearly every gentleman in Paris attended. We drank to the marriage, we drank to our host, we drank to his intended, we drank red wine, we drank white wine, we drank brandy, we drank cordials and liquors. Some drank until sobriety was a dim memory. And some, it is rumored, drank water. The Duc spared no expense for the party. It was held at his club Le Fleur de Lys, a most elegant and refined location. Servants in livery were everywhere, the food was a gourmet's dream, each item exceeding the last in taste and presentation. The entertainment, I fear I must leave to your imagination, as Mama may read this and swoon away in shock. The party ended in the small hours of the morning, and as I walked out into the night, I passed many a gentleman resting on steps, fountains, and lamp posts, some gathering their wits and others gently snoring. I have made the acquaintance of a fine young lady of Paris, Mademoiselle Gail Force, a creature of beauty and civility. She is introducing me to the society of Paris. She has smoothed away a few of the rough edges of my manners and encouraged me to seek a position with the Dragoon Guards, rather than a less renowned regiment. I will apply for enlistment shortly, I hope that I am well received. I must close now, as the hour is growing late. Please write again soon. News from home lightens my heart. Give my love to Mama and the rest of the family. I shall write again soon. Louis d'Or __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Get email alerts & NEW webcam video instant messaging with Yahoo! Messenger. http://im.yahoo.com
