Here the author stopped in the reading of the letter to blow his nose, and Pierre, whom he had let smell the letter, licked his hands frantically, as though he sympathized, and would stand by him.
"Last June, when I returned to France," the letter continued, "I left Marie in America, to visit friends, and also to see if anything turned up concerning Pierre. She is to sail Saturday at three p. m. on the Princess Louise from New York. Can you meet her at the steamer, and bring dear Pierre with you? I will cable her, and she will be on the watch for you.
"I am glad he has not lost his War Cross. It was the gift of a brave Colonel who was dying on the battle-field. He said Pierre must always wear it and for me to have it buried with him.
"The enclosed check for a thousand francs is very small payment for all you have done for Pierre. You have, besides, my dear poet, my most abundant gratitude for all time.
"Thanking you again a thousand times,
