With the snow still falling, the Marquis de Saint-Céneri, and his aunt, the Marquise de Chatellerau, discuss family, court, and their responsibilities of being in Madame Victorie's Household. As the snow falls, adding more to the layer across god's earth, so does the Marquise's wisdom to her nephew, bits of their conversation still in his mind:

The Marquis de Saint-Ceneri continues "she is good at conversation, and plays some instruments very well " as he speaks a smile crossing his lips "the only fault of hers, is that her uncle is that position grabbing character, and her sister, Jospehine if I remember, ran off with a painter", with those, I suspect prospects would be low, for such a rose that is fine...A rose surrounded by thorns" he looks up at his aunt "she conducts herself with great modesty, and respect, she is quite witty as well".The Marquise de Chatellerau smiles looking at a man in love and praying that the women doesn't corrupt his heart. The Marquise de Saint-Ceneri keeps his smile, his cheeks starting to blush "she has been so generous with care, helping me" and looks over "and while others simply aim at me...this one aims to care for me" The Marquise de Chatellerau lets out sigh and then goes on to say" I would like to meet with her alone if that is all right with you to see...where her heart is and I want to know if this is not a plot by her uncle." The Marquis de Saint-Ceneri looks up, confused, but nods "you have been and bred to be at court, I trust you entirely for my happiness" he looks at his aunt with deep respect "what ever you decide, is best tante."