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Thursday, 17 September 1874
Jeudi, 17 septembre 1874 Je pense qu'on peut beaucoup supprimer dans ce livre, et ne conserver que quelques journées, qui donnent une idée de ma vie. Et puis des choses qui ont une suite après, comme Girofla par exemple.
I think one could cut a great deal from this book, and keep only a few days that give an idea of my life. And then things that have a sequel, like Girofla for example.
I feel unwell enough not to be able to go on foot and have to hail a cab; I step out onto the balcony but whom do I see? Doria in person! It is incredible! Then his brother.
We meet everywhere (grey and green dress); we visit Jouvin, Ferry, Mousset, and Duval, then go to the Champs-Elysees.
On the boulevards we met Mme Sapogenikoff with the deacon. We spoke to them and continued our errands. I have already seen nearly all my street acquaintances, Doria too. And a quantity of familiar faces; I love Paris, because one meets everyone there.
I must say that in Paris one feels well; Paris is not as large as London, which overwhelms by its immensity. And then it is brighter here and I know everything here.
In the evening at the Opera-Comique, "Le Pardon de Ploermel" — an opera completely falling apart, in pieces, and lacking naturalness at every turn.
I have nothing but praise for my aunt; she does everything I wish and serves me like a slave. I have only to say a word for everything to be done, and more — she anticipates my desires.