"However, when I saw what slow progress I was making in your affections, I was afraid that you did not see through the coldness and indifference that I habitually affected.
"Little by little, though, you began to trust me, and a few days after our departure from France we were like brothers.
"The rapid growth of our friendship did not surprise me; there was between us such an affinity, our souls were so magnetised by sympathy, that at the first contact they were joined for ever.
"Once sure of your affection, I began to examine my treasure at my leisure.
"I was like those antiquaries who, when they finally come into possession of a long-coveted rarity, spend hours in examining and admiring its beauty. It was thus that I learned to appreciate your learning and good sense. It was then that I undertook to awaken the good instincts that I believed existed in your nature.
"I was not mistaken. When I had once made this discovery, you were no longer in my eyes a poor, nervous, and irritable child, that we love because it is weak and suffering, but a proud and venturesome young man, with a strong mind, great intelligence, and persuasiveness, who had all defects that were the natural opposites of his virtues.
"The Sardinian mystic attacked us. I had a fearful presentiment, and wished to avoid the combat. That was impossible, and I now thank the fates, for you are almost well again, and I owe my life to you.
"Yes, Arthur, I owe you the life of my body in that I exist; I owe you the life of my soul, because you have become my friend.
"Do you know that unless I felt the strength of my gratitude I should be alarmed.
"For a long time I have been seeking a way to increase your happiness, you have done so much for mine.