Page:William Jerdan.pdf/37

202 write as soon as possible. I feel convinced I could make a very amusing book; shortening, softening down, omitting, and altering in my translations, according to my own discretion. I could have my part of the volume ready in about six weeks. "The weather is now awfully hot—it is a positive exertion to open one's eyes—yet I went yesterday to see the Museum d'Artillerie, and one or two old churches, but truly sightseeing is the most tiresome thing in the world. God never sent me into the world to use my hands, or my feet, or my eyes; he put all my activity into my tongue and ears. Yesterday I had a visit from Monsieur and Madame Roget Collard, and a very pleasant visit it was. I have received so much kindness and attention from Monsieur Merimée; he is very amusing, speaks English (a great fault in my eyes) like a native, and tells you all sorts of anecdotes in the most unscrupulous fashion. I think a young man called A. Fontanez, more realises my beau ideal of a young French poet than any one that I have seen, being pale, silent, réveur, with a sort, too, of enthusiasm. I like Monsieur Odillon Barrot the best; there is something so very kind in his manners. As to seeing the 'Gazette' at Galignani's, first, we do not subscribe there; secondly, it is so crowded with gentlemen; thirdly, remember to go to any place is a matter of difficulty, as I have no walking companion. We have now very pleasant apartments, with a delightful garden, a fine view over Paris, and the windmills of Montmartre in the distance. Such a magnificent storm as we had last night. I am, however, looking out anxiously for an escort to return. If I can only get to Boulogne I should not at all mind the passage. I do not think, under your circumstances, your plan of crossing the channel at all prudent, or rather it is the very reverse, and meeting me at the custom-house will