Mademoiselle Chameroi, the élève and favourite of Vestris, danced delightfully, and almost shared the popularity of her protector.
Bonaparte was present, and sat, for the first time, in his state or open box. He was welcomed with warm and universal plaudits; but I blush to add, that they were not greater than those which the “quick-footed” Vestris had already received. Is it possible that the parisians reward, with the same honours, the services of their great statesmen, and the exertions of their favourite dancers?
From the opera I went to a supper and concert, given in honour of the prince of Orange, at the celebrated madame de St—l’s. Her house is one of the most agreeable in Paris, and one of the few at which foreigners are received with kindness and hospitality. I have not been fortunate enough to form part of her dinner societies; but I am told, that they well deserve the credit of affording “the feast of reason, and the flow of wit.” Her evening assemblies, at several of which I have been present, are the liveliest and best conducted which I have seen in this town.
The most distinguished public characters, all the foreigners of eminence, and most of the reigning belles of Paris, are always met with at her house. Her parties, too, are so admirably managed, that every one does precisely what he wishes; and a stranger is sure to be amused either with excellent music, cards, or, what is better than either, the conversation of the lady of the house.
Adieu. This letter is already so very long that I shall make no apology for an abrupt conclusion.
LETTER XX.
The antichamber of the Musée Central, now filled with an additional collection of fine pictures.—Account of the wonderful recovery of some chefs-d’œuvre.—List of pictures in this room.
Paris, march the 20th, 1802 (29 ventose.)
MY DEAR SIR,