The Manuscript Found Under the Bed

“Lies and gossip. I’m happy… Now, it’s quiet time: I’m sitting at home, under the most wonderful lamp—do you know those silky ones, like a ballerina’s skirt, cozy lampshades? There’s a lot of coal—an entire box. Behind me, the fireplace is burning. There’s also tobacco—excellent Egyptian cigarettes. Who cares that the wind tears apart those iron shutters on the door. I’m wearing something lighter than down, warmer than a fur coat—a robe made of Piraine wool. I’ll get bored and go over to the glass door—Paris, Paris!..”