To Monsieur le Comte
Georges Mniszech:
Some envious being may think on seeing this page illustrated by one of the most illustrious of Sarmatian names, that I am striving, as the goldsmiths do, to enhance a modern work with an ancient jewel,--a fancy of the fashions of the day,--but you and a few others, dear count, will know that I am only seeking to pay my debt to Talent, Memory, and Friendship.
