The physician, who was consulted as to her state, said that there might only be sufficient time for Jasmin to receive the deputation.
He accordingly came out for a few moments from his mother's bed-side.

M.
Gasc explained the object of the visit, and read to Jasmin the gracious letter of the Mayor of Toulouse, concluding as follows:-- "I thank you, in the name of the city of Toulouse, for the fine poem which you have dedicated to us.

This branch of laurel will remind you of the youthful and beautiful Muse which has inspired you with such charming verses." The Mayor of Agen here introduced Mademoiselle Gasc, who, in her turn, said:-- "And I also, sir, am most happy and proud of the mission which has been entrusted to me." Then she presented him with the casket which contained the golden laurel.

Jasmin responded in the lines entitled 'Yesterday and To-day,' from which the following words may be quoted:-- "Yesterday! Thanks, Toulouse, for our old language and for my poetry.
Your beautiful golden branch ennobles both.

And you who offer it to me, gracious messenger--queen of song and queen of hearts--tell your city of my perfect happiness, and that I never anticipated such an honour even in my most golden dreams.
"To-day! Fascinated by the laurel which Toulouse has sent me, and which fills my heart with joy, I cannot forget, my dear young lady, the sorrow which overwhelms me--the fatal illness of my mother--which makes me fear that the most joyful day of my life will also be the most sorrowful." Jasmin's alarms were justified.