Though it is very difficult to break up housekeeping without confusion,and the loss of some
property;yet such was the fidelity of the domestics,and the vigilance of M. and Madam Lorenzy,
that no article of the inventory was found wanting;in short,nothing was missing but pink and
silver ribbon,which had been worn,and belonged to Mademoiselle Pontal. Though several things of
more value were in my reach, this ribbon alone tempted me, and accordingly I stole it. As I took
no great pains to conceal the bauble,it was soon discovered;they immediately insisted on knowing
whence I had taken it;this perplexed me--I hesitated,and at length said,with confusion, that Mari
on gave it me.
Marion was a young Mauriennese, and had been cook to Madam de Vercellis ever since she left off
giving entertainments, for being sensible she had more need of good broths than fine ragouts,she
had discharged her former one. Marion was not only pretty, but had that freshness of color of
modesty and sweetness, which made it impossible to see her without affection; she was besides
a good girl, virtuous, and of such strict fidelity, that everyone was surprised at hearing her
named. They had not less confidence in me,and judged it necessary to certify which of us was the
thief.