To Miss Sophie Boisson, Cahors
Tilh, 9th January 1801
Three words: you are married! The
final word! Congratulations, my dear friend. I wish you all
the
happiness you deserve in your new situation. 
My
blessings for the
future, my dear Sophie, may you see grandchildren,
great-grandchildren, the grandchildren of your great-grandchildren…
That is what I wish you, amen!
Ah, you minx! I had a suspicion of this but did not want to speak of it in the letter you must have just received. Apart from not wishing to be indiscreet, I simply wanted our friendship to be one of mutual trust. I am not at all surprised at the length of time it has taken you to reply. Your engagement was a subject for attention which, for the moment, put me out of your head. Once things were settled, your thoughts returned to me. I am forever grateful to you, my lovely Sophie, and deeply value this mark of friendship, being myself so fond of you. Does your marriage take you away from the family? Where will you live? If you were in Toulouse …. My God! How wonderful for me! I could at least look forward to kissing you goodbye before I leave for America.
You ask me, my dear, whether we spend any of the winter in Toulouse? Our situation will not allow it. It is more expensive in town than in the country and, this year especially, the festivities make for endless merry-making, even in the smallest towns. Is it the same in Cahors? When such is the case, one keeps warmer in the country. And I am guessing you would much prefer warmth to amusement. I am sure if your heart was not invested there everything would soon change. Is that not the truth? I think so.
Farewell my dear Sophie. I am and always shall be your affectionate
Mimi.
So Emily married Monsieur Demoustier? It is quite a surprise that separation should be the outcome of so faithful a love. They say these undying loves always end that way, but there are many exceptions to the rule (or so I hear).
Kisses to Fanny, remember us to all your family. Mine, including little Tata, send you their best wishes, especially on your marriage, and we all wish your nearest well.
It is too good of you to remember I promised you my portrait but, since you do wish it, I renew the promise and anticipate your reply with impatience. Do not keep me too long, I implore you. Are you waiting for a kiss? Well then come here. All done now, I really am going. It is high time to put an end to this nonsense.
