A Start in Life

This is one of Balzac's best stories ever. It's the story of a foolish, spoilt boy who brags about his place in life in front of his intended patron, who's travelling incognito on the same coach. Other occupants of the coach, all dependent on his patronage in one way or another, do the same. The way in which Balzac creates the setting, introduces the characters and leaks in the story of the Comte and how he plans to catch his dishonest steward out but reels in everyone else as well, is nothing short of brilliant. The story demonstrates human frailty with compassion and wisdom.