Wednesday, 15 May 1878

This evening, the last Wednesday gathering at Mouzay's. A play composed by de Daillens in which Russians are spoken of in the most extraordinary terms. In short, I go with my aunt and Dina. If I did not go, it would be a disappointment as great as when Cassagnac does not come here.
Only, to the men who have tried to pay me court, I would always say more or less this: Sir, I am a wicked nature — I am only entertained when alone; everything anyone can say to me bores me.
Goldsmid was there on our behalf. When I think that the mad Mouzay was hoping for a salon presided over by Popaul.
The sculptor from the Opera was there. I notice with satisfaction that he is paying court to de Daillens. Since this began, she dresses better and keeps herself more neatly. Besides, you see,
there is only that. Everything is done for and because of that. And those who say otherwise do not know what they are saying. Only, that alone cannot satisfy — because alone it is not complete; one needs the frame. And even the frame alone: one can stretch it with fabric and make a panel, which is beautiful but cold; whereas the painting without a frame produces a sad, desolate effect.
Why does one desire all these things? But to provide a frame, of course!