Thursday, 9 April 1874

I have just broken the lock of my little casket. I keep my journal in it and hide the key under the clock. I do not know what devil could have taken it.
Before breaking this lock, I sang "Dis-moi Venus" in costume and before the mirror. I find myself very well -- of figure especially, that is to say, well in general. I am not a beauty, but the whole is not bad.
This morning we were at church; almost all the Russians were taking communion. The Beak was very pretty; she is in mourning and had a very nice white silk dress -- even pretty.
At five o'clock I ride with Stiopa. We went at a walk; his horse was bad for riding in the Russian style. There is no sun, and going slowly I was not at all warm.
Fedus has left -- what a misfortune! How I should like to leave too; I hope that soon, with God's help, we shall go. At mass was the man who is so well built.