Letters of Two Brides · Chapter
XXXVII: The Baronne de Macumer to the Vicomtesse de l’Estorade explained
Louise writes to Renée from Genoa, describing her delight in traveling through Italy with Felipe.
What happens
Louise writes to Renée from Genoa, describing her delight in traveling through Italy with Felipe. She mentions his warm reception, the possibility of a diplomatic post, and their planned itinerary through Florence, Naples, Rome, Venice, and back to Paris. The journey is portrayed as a honeymoon, with new places renewing their passion.
Themes in this chapter
Passion and Self-Restraint
Louise describes the journey as a 'perfect honeymoon' where new places give 'fresh life to our passion,' highlighting the continued intensity of her love for Felipe.
Friendship and Correspondence
The letter itself is an act of friendship; Louise writes to Renée despite the busyness of travel, promising to share memories later.
Characters to notice
- Louise de Chaulieu
Writes from Genoa, ecstatic about her travels with Felipe.
- Renée de Maucombe
Recipient of the letter; Louise addresses her as 'my beloved beauty'.
- Felipe Hénarez
Traveling with Louise; received with acclamation in Italy; could obtain the Sardinian embassy.
Key passages
“Our journey is a perfect honeymoon; the sight of new places gives fresh life to our passion.”
Our trip feels like an endless honeymoon, and seeing new places rekindles our love.
Louise expresses the rejuvenating effect of travel on her marriage.
“Macumer has been received with acclamation, and they are all delighted to have made an Italian of so distinguished a man.”
Felipe has been warmly welcomed, and everyone is pleased to claim such a distinguished man as Italian.
Highlights Felipe's favorable reception in Italy.