Henri to Yvette.

650 Gen Tpt Coy
Italy

26 December 1944

My darling,

At last I have received a letter from you. Dated the 8^th and 9^th. It was so lovely, your letter, and I had such immense pleasure, but pleasure is not the right word. As I read it, all my black thoughts dissipated, my unhealthy scepticism vanished. I became myself again…. I was very moved to read the news you have received from Helene and how Alain is now closest to your heart. Oh yes, I am so sorry for him and for you and foe all the new young French who now, with Alain are prisoners of the Germans. Now when his activity is so needed as part of the French effort for their liberation… Alain’s evolution is not unique. The dialectic of history led from Petainism to the maquis. You must be proud of Alain, darling. He has contributed to the resurrection of France. And he will contribute again with the two of us in creating a France, truly French… Thanks for your kind and helpful words about my state of mind…. I am certain that after the war, a rest of two or three months with you will put me back on my feet. The observations that I accumulate enrich my inner life but the trouble is that I am not simply a machine that registers impressions. I am living. And that is costly. I think I’m a fellow who’s a little too sensitive. Pity. . Another Christmas has past. Let’s hope it’s the last without you.