“Baron Sixte du Châtelet was of the opinion that the little rhymer would succumb, sooner or later, in the hot house atmosphere of applause, or perhaps that, intoxicated with the prospect of future glory, he would commit some impertinence that would consign him again to his original obscurity. While awaiting the decease of the young genius, he pretended to immolate his own aspirations at Mme de Bargeton’s feet; but with the subtlety of a confirmed rake, he held his hand and followed the progress of the lovers with diplomatic attention, waiting for his opportunity to exterminate Lucien.”
Honoré de Balzac, “Lost Illusions”
A Bird's Eye View of Fashion, Food, Travel, Culture, Beverage and Curiosity 