"Principally in comparative anatomy. None but an experimentalist could ever imagine what extraordinary results arise from this best and surest mode of investigation. A mouse, for instance.... Ah, madame! would you believe it possible that the formation of a mouse could throw light upon the theory of the noblest feeling that warms the heart of man--even upon valour? It is true, I assure you: such are the triumphs of science. By watching the pulsations of that _chétif_ animal," she continued, eagerly laying hold of my wrist, "we have obtained an immense insight into the most interesting phenomena of the passion of fear." At this moment my old gentleman came back to me, but evidently without any expectation of being able to resume his seat. It was only, I believe, to see how I got on with my metaphysical neighbour. There was an infinite deal of humour in the glance he gave me as he said, "Eh bien, Madame Trollope, est-ce que Madame ---- vous a donné l'ambition de la suivre dans ses sublimes études?" "I fear it would prove beyond my strength," I replied. Upon which Madame ---- started off anew in praise of _her_ science--"the only science worthy the name; the science...." Here my old friend stole off again, covered by an approaching tray of ices; and I soon after did the same; for I had been busily engaged all day, and I was weary,--so weary that I dreaded dropping to sleep at the very instant that Madame ---- was exerting herself to awaken me to a higher state of intelligence. I have not, however, told you one tenth part of the marvellous absurdities she poured forth; yet I suspect I have told you enough. I have never before met anything so pre-eminently ridiculous as this: but upon my saying so to my old friend as I passed him near the door, he assured me that he knew another lady, whose mania was education, and whose doctrines and manner of explaining them were decidedly more absurd than Madame ----'s philosophy of the soul. "Be not alarmed, however; I shall not bestow her upon you, for I intend most carefully to keep out of her way. Do you know of any English ladies thus devoted to the study of the soul?"... I am sincerely happy to say that I do not. LETTER XXIV. Expedition to the Luxembourg.--No admittance for Females.--Portraits of "Henri."--Republican Costume.--Quai Voltaire.--Mural Inscriptions.--Anecdote of Marshal Lobau.--Arrest. Ever since the trials at the Luxembourg commenced, we have intended to make an excursion thither, in order to look at the encampment in the garden, at the military array around the palace, and, in short, to see all that is visible for female eyes in the general aspect of the place, so interesting at the present moment from the important business going on there.