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5

bench on the Right Bank - the river bank.

I find it impossible to describe the really overly great sense of joy this city creates - it is all too much, really, at one time and I find it necessary to "read slowly" lest any be lost or I just faint from over consumption & exhaustion. So many feelings hitherto unknown in myself seem to come forth quite spontaneously than ever before a deep & true meaning of humaneness is known. This from the way the city is built - especially the great open areas left & articulated - the Place du Concord, Luxembourgh gardens, Tuillieres - all the squared, courts, broad avenues; also the buildings; most of all the people: their verve (vivre - French for life) and gentleness. But this I am able to say is hardly enough. At this point I feel certain of a change, a newness of feeling and sensation or awareness. - yet not able to define. You know, I wish that like you I could write. Painting is hardly an answer even were it now possible.

Often I think of you when I am out wandering - especially at an age like 22 - it must have been very difficult - more difficult than 29. How long were you here before you met him? And was he much older than you. I like to hear you speak of these things for they are very beautiful and expressive of your life.