Wednesday, 29 September 1880

Since yesterday I have been white-skinned and fresh and pretty enough to astonish myself. My eyes are lively and bright; even the contour of my face appears more beautiful and more refined. It is thanks to Gabriel, no doubt. Only it is a pity it should come at a moment when I see no one. It is foolish to say, but I spent half an hour gazing at myself in the mirror with pleasure — it has been some time since that has happened!
And it is a pity too that no one sees the arms and the torso — all this freshness and youth... which serve no purpose. I do not like things that serve no purpose; better to waste than...
I am beginning to say frivolous things, I see.
Yesterday old Géry received a little note from Mme de Brimond, reproaching him for neglecting her. "I am jealous of my pretty neighbour on the mezzanine."
He received that at dinner. Accordingly he went there today, and then came to us — but we were out. I left my fan behind there.