To Abbot Bascou

May 18, 1818

Dear Father, 

I hope that in the writing of this letter, you will recall me. I thought we were friends because Etienne was your friend, and I thought I could count you among my own. You promised to come see me, but did not give me that pleasure. I know how you treated that young man. I still have not heard from him, and I am still tormented. Everyone has abandoned me: Baptiste Prieur is no longer staying at the hotel, and the same for his cousin Lomini, so I no longer see anyone to whom I can address my complaints against Etienne, their relative. If by chance you know where he is, I beg you, in the name of our old friendship and religion, be so kind as to speak to him, and guide him to cease his torments of me and restore me to freedom. 

I dare to hope that you will be so kind as to take my request into your consideration, and answer me as soon as you can.

It is my honor to be your servant,

M.B.

[M.B. notes, “This letter remained unanswered, and I do not feel obligated to write another one to the abbey.”]