Virouboff

Overview

A Russian who spoke in French at the farewell to Turgenev's body at the station in Paris on 1 October 1883: «un Russe qui a parlé français très bien et a ému plus que les autres» (101.0470). The Mon Journal t.16 index reads «Virouboff (M.) : 43». His first name is not given.

Relevance to Marie

She hears his speech after those of Renan and About (see TOURGUENIEFF, RENAN) and is proud that a Russian is honoured by the French. A painter, Bogoluboff, also spoke (101.0471; see BOGOLUBOFF).

Identity uncertain

We have not found a source that names the Russian speakers at the Gare du Nord; Henry James's account mentions only Renan and About. Candidates among Turgenev's Russian friends in Paris cannot be told apart from the spelling. If you can identify him, we would be glad to hear from you.

References in Diary

• 1883-10-01 (101.0470)

Sources

Diary 101.0470; Mon Journal t.16 index; Henry James on the station ceremony (https://www.excellence-in-literature.com/tag/ivan-turgenev/).