My partiality to Switzerland, excited by its natural charms, induces me to hope that the manners of the inhabitants are amiable; but at the same time I cannot help frequently comparing them with those of the French, and, as far as I have had opportunity to observe, they lose very much by the comparison.
We not only found the French a much less imposing people, but that politeness diffused through the lowest ranks had an air so engaging that you could scarce attribute it to any other cause than real benevolence.
During the time, which was near a month, that we were in France, we had not once to complain of the smallest deficiency in courtesy in any person, much less of any positive rudeness.

We had also perpetual occasion to observe that cheerfulness and sprightliness for which the French have always been remarkable.

But I must remind you that we crossed at the time when the whole nation was mad with joy in consequence of the Revolution.

It was a most interesting period to be in France; and we had many delightful scenes, where the interest of the picture was owing solely to this cause.

I was also much pleased with what I saw of the Italians during the short time we were among them.