Nicolas-Edme RÉSTIF DE LA BRETONNE. Autograph manuscript 2 pages in-4 (18.3 x 15.5 cm, slight ink corrosions). Rare fragment of a short story for Les Converseuses. On pages 5 and 6, this fragment relates to the unfinished draft of Les Converseuses, and to the second short story: Elisa ou la fille qui préfère un vieillard; it is a continuation of the text published by Jean-Claude Courbin in Études rétiviennes (1990, no. 12, pp. 109-117). Istref, Destianges and the young Elisa converse at table, after dinner. "Istref noticed the sighs, the pressing of hands and feet. When he had seen enough, he said to the two lovers: - When would you like your marriage to take place? They blushed without answering. He pressed them. - But (said Destianges), that's something in perspective. - No: Elise has been free for 8 days: I had the divorce done when I saw your love. At these words, Elisa came and sat on her husband's knee: - It's also too beautiful! (she said), & I don't want to leave you. - You will leave me (replied Istref); but I promise you, if you are not happy with him, I will marry you again. - This is the last line, generous man, I absolutely will not leave you.... But you are a philosopher, give him a few of my nights, and then you will see? Istref agreed. That very evening, Destianges was introduced to Elisa or Madame Istref. Istref. He was happy, no doubt, and so was she. The former husband did not disturb them. They always ate together, but he never said a word about his old rights or the new marriage. He carefully examined the appearance of the new couple. He saw them happy and calmed down"... But Elisa realised that she had only ever been happy with Istref, and divorced Destianges. "On the evening of the pronouncement, Elisa took Istref by the arm after supper and led him to her. - I am your wife (she said to him): but I do not deserve that you marry me again: I will remain your mistress. Istref replied: - Your desires will be my law; as soon as you want to be married, you will say so. And they got into bed together. For Destianges, see his Histoire in the following short story. Suffice it to say here that he first wanted to please Elise, but instead of listening to him, she urged Istref to marry her again. This did not happen, however, for 3 years"...