I think of you in your peregrinations, and I feel sure that you must meet with many obstacles and difficulties; but with patience, perseverance, and help from on high, a great deal may be done.
As for myself, I have not got rid of my atony—for such is my illness. At first I obtained some relief by means of opium as an astringent and quinine as a tonic, and by great attention to diet, living almost wholly on broth; a piece of meat, or even an egg, throws me back for a week.
M. Guilloux set off in good health on the 9th January. He tells me that you have promised to go and see his relations when you return to France.
I shall never forget, dear M. Mouhot, the pleasure that I experienced in the few days that I passed in your society; such days are so rare in our missionary life.
All is quiet just now in Cambodia; the forts or redoubts are guarded only by a few men. Mgr. Miche is expected to return from Komput about the end of March. Shall I be so happy as to receive news of you? It would give me great pleasure, and recall that which I have already experienced in our meeting in this life. Let us hope to be re-united, no more to part, in a happier one.
Pray receive my kindest remembrances, and believe me, dear M. Mouhot,
Your true friend in the Lord,
Marie Chs. Fontaine.
From M. Chas. Fontaine.
Singapore, 29th May, 1860.
My very dear Friend, M. Mouhot,