March, 1615

I arrived in Paris wearing more mud than decent clothing, having traveled from Rouen through miserable rain and melting snow. After having secured a small but clean flat near Saint Germain des Prés, I immediately set to work.
 
I secured a position in Grand Duke Max’s Dragoons as a subaltern, then went about equipping myself. I found a sturdy warhorse, hired a groom and bought a suitable sabre, as it is the weapon of choice among the cavalry. Feeling a bit lonely so far from home, I then patrolled the cafés to find some company. I spied a witty and accomplished young lady, S. Enemme, and set my heart upon winning hers.
 
While she is well above my poor station, I learned she has a passion for music, and thus found a means of pressing my suit. I hired a reputable composer to write a few lines, which I later played for her during a romantic dinner. I must try my own hand at composition some day.
 
Finally, I joined a good club, Red Phillips, and indulged in the well-supplied stock of liquors. I met a Captain of the Picardy Musketeers there, a jolly fellow called Jean Neige, and we good-naturedly drank each others’ health. I ended the month in seeing to my regimental duties, which (under the circumstances) I did with some considerable pride.