Friday, 17 January 1879

If I were sixteen I would be the happiest woman on earth.
This evening Robert-Fleury came, and now the evil tongues may hold their peace.
— Well, we have the prize?
— Yes, Monsieur.
— Very good. And you know that you have well deserved it.
— Oh! Monsieur, I am glad you say so.
— Yes, well deserved — not only for your competition head, but you merit it for the body of your work as a whole. You have made very great progress, and I am very pleased that it has come about in this way and that you have the medal. You have well deserved it.