Rocca Sorrentina

14 May 1785

Dearest Fanny,

The scent of the sea breezes and the blue of the Mediterranean sky bring me warmth as I rest from my labors furnishing the new apartments on the island in order to deliver greetings to you from Mrs. Piozzi and her delightful husband Signor Piozzi.

That good lady has asked me to provide entertainment this very day for a gathering of notables in her delightful residence here on the island. I am flattered, for the lady has many in her acquaintance with far greater talents and of wider knowledge of the world than your simple friend. However, I shall endeavor to acquit myself favorably, for I do so wish to be included in her circle.

I had hoped Lucien would accompany me to this evenings soiree, but he is nowhere to be found. Only his infernal maps give evidence that he has even visited his new pied a Terre that I have labored longand with some success I believeto furnish for his and godfathers comfort, as well as their shelter.

When I arrived at the apartment after meeting with yet another draper who wishes to win my trade, the beautiful map of Paris drawn in the year 1600 that I brought from The Haven had been put away. Yet another map showing troop placements during the siege of Yorktown in the new United States had taken its place on Luciens chart table.

Yorktown! Why does it continue to haunt Luciens dreams and disturb his ease? Luciens company of Hussars with Lafayette and de Rochambeau's decisions as his commanders made no small contribution to the victory, yet Lucien takes no satisfaction in victory. I confide to you that on his return I hardly knew him so changed was he in his opinions and his outlook. He now has my fear for his soul, as well as my heart, so I will put my own impatience aside and strive to forbear his moods and his absence.

Still, Lorsagne as the patient Griselda? I think not! Only a man would flatter himself so. Foolish creatures. Perhaps my motives in the choice of decoration for the walls in repaire masculin I have furnished for Lucien and godfather will not be lost on at least one of those good gentlemen.

I close now to make my toilette for todays gathering at Mrs. Ps.

As ever, your devoted friend,

Lorsagne