What is there more beautiful, and stern at the same time, than this old Armorica.

I find here, dear D'Artagnan, all that is opposite to what I formerly loved, and that is what must happen at the end of life, which is opposite to the beginning.
A little of my old pleasure of former times still comes to salute me here, now and then, without diverting me from the road of salvation.

I am still of this world, and yet every step that I take brings me nearer to God." "Eloquent, wise and discreet; you are an accomplished prelate, Aramis, and I offer you my congratulations." "But," said Aramis smiling, "you did not come here only for the purpose of paying me compliments.

Speak; what brings you hither?
May it be that, in some fashion or other, you want me ?" "Thank God, no, my friend," said D'Artagnan, "it is nothing of that kind .-- I am rich and free." "Rich!" exclaimed Aramis.
"Yes, rich for me; not for you or Porthos, understand.

I have an income of about fifteen thousand livres." Aramis looked at him suspiciously.