To Mr. Cazin, Priest at Saint-Genest 

[From Etienne Prieur]

Paris, December 12, 1817, 

Dear Sir,

Since you have neglected Mr. Berbiguier, he has been tormented by Moreau, Pinel Vandeval, and all the rabble you know too well. He is tormented day and night by strange noises and smells, and the goblins show him no respect at all, attacking him in the street, climbing on him when he’s in bed. He’s afraid of an evil spirit, and his health is all the worse for it He will tell you that the goblins knocked over his hot chocolate, and they’re scaring Coco, who’s jumping all around, she’s been very wild since her tail was cut. 

We ask that he be released on the 17th of December, as you promised. In doing so, you will be fulfilling the wishes of Mr. Bigbuier, but also myself, who respects you deeply. He hopes that when he is released from him, he will never again be in anyone’s power, having never agreed to share in the works of the infernal spirit. 

With respect,

Etienne