I was at that time like a fledgling swallow living high up in a niche in the eaves, who from time to time peeps out over the top of its nest with its little bright eyes.

My Brother Yves)
Les Trois Dames de la Kasbah (1884) which first appeared as part of Fleurs d'Ennui. Loti was an inveterate collector and his marriage into wealth helped him support this habit. Another room evokes a medieval banqueting hall.