"Here, love, is a letter from France," said she to Rodolph; "I brought it myself, because I wished to bid good-morrow to my dear child, whom I have not yet seen to-day."
"This letter arrives most opportunely," said Rodolph. "We were speaking of the Past; that monster we must destroy, since he threatens the repose of our child."
"Is it possible that these fits of melancholy we have so often remarked—"
"Were occasioned by unhappy recollections; but now that we know the enemy we shall destroy him."
"From whom is this letter?" asked Clémence.
"From Rigolette, Germain's wife."
"Rigolette?" cried Fleur-de-Marie. "Oh, I am so glad!"
"Do you not fear that this letter may serve to awaken fresh recollections?" said Clémence, in a low tone to Rodolph.
"On the contrary, I wish to destroy these recollections, and I shall, doubtless, find arms in this letter, for Rigolette is a worthy creature, who appreciated and adored our child."
Rodolph then read the following letter aloud: