In November 1809, with Napoleon at the height of his glory after Wagram, a glittering ball in Paris becomes the stage for a small drama. A beautiful stranger sits apart, attracting admirers, the malicious old Madame de Lansac whispers that Monsieur de la Roche-Hugon is flirting dangerously, and a missing diamond ring ties the evening together.
A polished short piece from The Human Comedy, ideal as a first taste of Balzac. Download the free EPUB.