In the rebellious pride of my heart I swore never to do it again, never to speak to those who had so injured me.

The holy, pure love which binds me to this dear girl has released me from my oath.

We have tried to live separated from each other a long year, an inconsolable, unhappy year! We hoped to renounce each other, although we could not forget.

Marie, as an obedient daughter, obeyed your commands, and returned the ring, which I gave her in a moment of affection and holy trust.

I released her from the oath of constancy, and made her free! But it is in vain! During this year I have striven with sorrow as a man, helpless in a desert, who writhes in the folds of the poisonous serpent.