My resolution was soon taken after quitting Le Maitre; I set out
immediately for Annecy. The cause and mystery of our departure had
interested me for the security of our retreat: this interest, which
entirely employed my thoughts for some days, had banished every
other idea; but no sooner was I secure and in tranquility, than my
predominant sentiment regained its place. Nothing flattered, nothing
tempted me, I had no wish but to return to Madam de Warrens; the
tenderness and truth of my attachment to her had rooted from my
heart all the follies of ambition; I conceived no happiness but living
near her, nor could I take a step without feeling that the distance
between us was increased. I returned, therefore, as soon as
possible, with such speed, and with my spirits in such a state of
agitation, that though I recall with pleasure all my other travels,
I have not the least recollection of this, only remembering my leaving
Lyons and reaching Annecy. Let any one judge whether this last event
can have slipped my memory, when informed that on my arrival I found
Madam de Warrens was not there, having set out for Paris.
I was never well informed of the motives of this journey. I am
certain she would have told me had I asked her, but never was man less
curious to learn the secrets of his friend. My heart is ever so
entirely filled with the present, or with past pleasures, which become
a principal part of my enjoyment, that there is not a chink or
corner for curiosity to enter.
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