188 Boulevard Haussmann
Paris
25th April 1877
My dearest Julius,
Before going out this afternoon I must sit down & answer your nice long letter, which I received yesterday morning, just as I was sitting down to breakfast with Papa. Many thanks for the photos, I am pleased to have them, though I do not like either as well as the one I already had - the full face one of Elliots & Frys. I gave the duplicate one to Papa & he told me to thank you for it, with his love. I had hoped to have been able to send you my portrait with this letter, but the photographer has disappointed me & not sent them when he promised, I suppose I shall have them in a few days before I write my next letter I hope.
I am glad to hear you have selected the house you want, though I pity the poor tenant who has to turn out, & must think “Mr Sladden” a great nuisance, don’t you think so! You see, I have just gone through the troubles of a remove so have a fellow-feeling for others.
Joe & I have had tickets given us for a concert tomorrow evening, May & Mr Whitney & the Burridges are also going. I see some nice pieces down on the programme so hope to enjoy it. On Friday, we are going to a party, you see we are quite dissipated.
I had a nice long talk with May yesterday such a one as I have not enjoyed for a long time, certainly not since her return. I had her to myself for at least two hours & it seemed like a return to old times. I don’t think they will leave till 20th May, but I am afraid they will be gone long before you come over again.
So you think I must have smiled at your letter, well perhaps I did a little, but it was with pleasure. I am afraid you are making me grow romantic & I rather think I like some kinds of poetry.
I went to church this morning & afterwards did some shopping, it was so lovely out, I quite enjoyed my walk. It has been quite April weather for the last week, very heavy showers but I hope now, it is more settled. So you think more of me on Sundays than other days, well dear, so do I of you; I remember Easter day & then there is the little prayer book to remind me of you. So you like to be able to trace what I am doing, well, as my days are tolerably alike you could do so easily. I get up about eight (lazy, you see) then there is breakfast & prayers with Papa & after he has gone, I have many household duties to attend to, which often occupy me till lunch, at half past eleven or twelve. Being alone for that meal, I generally read, then I practise for about an hour, write a letter or work, & go out at three or half past to make some calls or shop as the case may be. In the evening, if not going out, we have some music, play a game of cards with Papa, then after prayers read or write a letter till bedtime. Then when I am in my room I look at your photograph & read over your last letter & put it under my pillow. You will think my letter tiresome I fear, but I am in no writing mood today.
Best love, dearest Julius
Your own affectionate
Eugénie N. Mourilyan
