Since you do not return from Ghent till next month, my dear Viscount, I must send you some account of our children. For some time I had observed a visible alteration in Theodore; he was become absent and thoughtful: at one time he fixed his eyes on the Countess Anatolle (who sups here often) at another he passionately admired the charming figure of the beautiful Constantia. I found it was necessary for me to speak to him. One day, after having dined with Madame de Limours, where for the first time he had heard Constantia, sing, I said to him, I perceive with pleasure the impression your cousin has made upon you. At these words Theodore blushed; surprise and joy was painted in his countenance. Yes, my son, added I, Constantia is perfectly well educated; charming in every respect; and my warmest wishes will be completed in having her for my daughter-in-law. I own, said Theodore, I have often suspected you had such intentions: but your silence to me on that head made me reject these thoughts. – You was too young to be acquainted with a project in embrio, and which even now has no certainty. Yet the ties of blood and friendship which bind you to Mons. de Limours. – Surely the match would be a very proper one; but above all you must, I desire it most earnestly – Do not doubt that in the least – The heart of Constantia must also not make the least objection: and it must be the merit that your conduct will acquire, that will induce her parents to prefer you to the many that will seek their alliance: she is now but fourteen, will certainly not be married till she is seventeen: if till that time you do not act up to the hopes formed of you, or if you appear to have formed another attachment, Monsieur de Limours will never give you his daughter.