Note 367 — LIVRE SIXIÈME DU BEAU IDÉAL MODERNE
Reading edition
The smile which sank into his heart, the first time he beheld her, played round her lips ever after: the look with which her eyes first met his, never passed away. The image of his mistress still haunted his mind, and was recalled by every object in nature. Even death could not dissolve the fine illusion: for that which exists in imagination is alone imperishable. As one's feelings become more ideal, the impression of the moment indeed becomes less violent, but the effect is more general and permanent. The blow is felt only by reflection; it is the rebound that is fatal. (Biography of the A.)