The Castle of B— is at present very gay, my dear Viscount. We are happy in celebrating the event which interests all France; and, although at two hundred leagues from Versailles, I have illuminated my four towers and my gate-way – my peasants eat, drink, and dance in my garden; and I have, as well as you, the pleasure of hearing, Long live the King! a sound which must be pleasing to every Frenchman, particularly at this distance from Court; for, in the midst of a remote province, such exclamations can proceed only from the heart; they here express real joy and gratitude – you will not see an account of my entertainment in the Gazette; it is a citizen, and not a courtier, who gives it – The most virtuous sentiments, sentiments which at all times have produced the most shining actions, are now treated as prejudices; insensibility and licentiousness, under the specious names of reason and philosophy, break without scruple the most sacred ties, and glory in despising all decency. They speak of State affairs with a freedom, which even the presence of their children and domestics cannot restrain – For my part, occupied intirely by the education of mine, I have seldom time to go to Versailles – but I would have Theodore love his King, because he was born to serve him, and to receive his favours – I would have him love his country, because it is his duty to defend and to shed his blood for it. – In this, as in very thing else, I inforce my precepts by example; and I conduct myself so as to prove to Theodore, that I interest myself equally for the happiness and glory of France and of the Sovereign who governs us. – I never fail to shew my satisfaction at every event that happens for the good of my country, by giving a little feast within my own walls, which, while it amuses my children, makes them take a sensible part in the public felicity.