“Ozanam, weak and thin, courageously resigns himself to drop out of classes, abandon his research, books, articles, charitable activities, and even his dreams, due to his extended illness. It was the price he had to pay to hopefully regain his health so that he could pursue those goals later. At first they send him to Eaux-Bonnes, but he would not benefit from his stay there; after that he heads further south with Amélie and Marie, towards Ayona and Biarritz where the weather is milder. There they are joined by the painter Janmot, Frederic’s childhood friend, who rents a small house for a few weeks, two steps away from Frederic’s hotel. He draws portraits of each member of the family, showing us a Frederic with normal features, well-groomed hair and an impeccable beard. Gray eyes dominate his beautiful noble head. The ribbon of the Knight of the Legion of Honor is suggested in his buttonhole. Amelia, sitting on a sofa, poses in profile. Just thirty years old, she appears older with her high hairstyle: serious, neat, and simple. With an open forehead, a fine nose, a mouth suggesting a slight smile: an immense sweetness comes from this face, which is practical, marked by resignation. Little Marie has the round face and chubby neck of a six-year-old. Her hair is gathered back in a fine netting; large and expressive eyes, and a small and serious mouth finish the portrait of a beautiful little girl, full of grace.”

Source: Ozanam, un sabio entre los pobres. 14. Las alas rotas. 1850-1853. Autor: Madeleine des Rivières · Traductor: Máximo Agustín, C.M.. · Año publicación original: 1997.