Quotation from: Villette

Written by: Charlotte Bronte

CHAPTER XXVII.

THE HOTEL CRECY.

The morrow turned out a more lively and busy day than we--or than I,
at least-had anticipated. It seems it was the birthday of one of the
young princes of Labassecour-the eldest, I think, the Duc de
Dindonneau, and a general holiday was given in his honour at the
schools, and especially at the principal "Athenee," or college. The
youth of that institution had also concocted, and were to present a
loyal address; for which purpose they were to be assembled in the
public building where the yearly examinations were conducted, and the
prizes distributed. After the ceremony of presentation, an oration, or
"discours," was to follow from one of the professors.