Enfants, n’y touchez pas![123]
Children have an innate inclination for destruction. There are very few who think of the mother of the nestlings when they take possession of the nests; and the poet has reason to say to them:
Ne pouvant rien créer, il ne faut rien détruire,
Enfants, n’y touchez pas![124]
May the angel of mercy spread his wing over the cradles and the nests, and may he protect you also, my beloved, and all of us with you!
June 30, 1868.
The retreat and the singing take up all my time, dear Kate, but I want to tell you that Lucy has come back to us, pale and weak, and recommends herself to your prayers. Gaston was asking for me down there. There is something so sad in this deep mourning; but Lucy looks above this earth. Edouard’s voice was wanting to our choir; it will be complete after to-morrow. Three poor children, clothed by your Georgina, will accompany our chosen ones.
The saint of the sea-coast arrives to-morrow. She will be lodged near to me. I wish she could be there always! Why cannot one gather together in one same place those whom one loves?
Kate dearest, René and all Brittany are for you.
July 2, 1868.