Diary of Marie Bashkirtseff
CZENUKFR

Wednesday, 10 March 1880

We go to the Mouzays'.
Maman thinks I go there because young Kent will be there, and because Mme Kent told us on Saturday that her rascal of a son has 50,000 francs a year and an old kept woman. I would indeed go for that if I believed he really had that much money.
I go there because my painting is not going well and I want to amuse myself. I look my best, all in white crepe, pearls around my neck, and no gloves.
Julian, whom I find there and with whom we often chat, compares me to the heroine "of certain novels we have read, when she appears in the second act of the Blonde Venus" (notice to those who have not read the vile Nana) "you understand," continues Papa Julian, "between ourselves, we understand each other and you understand how far the comparison goes; besides, between artists, do not protest, you are flattered."
The fact is that there is a description of a woman done by a master's hand.
While they sing, play, and recite in the salon, I go off to form a little circle near the buffet with Julian, Soutzo, and Kent.
I enjoy myself. We make the acquaintance of General Jeanningros with his wife and daughter, a young lady who acted the other day with Mme de Daillens. A general in uniform with decorations makes a fine impression.
Maman, I believe, spoke of Mme Adam (A., damn!) with Gaillard, who said that we have enemies among the friends of that lady.
But here is what has happened in Russia: Paul and his fiancee were entering the church to be married when M. Bashkirtseff arrived with a letter from the archbishop and everything was thrown into disorder.
Think of the scandal for the young lady...