The General laughed, Dina laughed, everybody laughed.

Every time he changed his position I imitated him like the most
faithful mirror.

It was the last act, the house was half empty, and I continued my
game in freedom till the last moment. I went out fairly jumping for
joy and returned home gay and talkative.

To-night "Mignon" was given at the theatre.

I listened with pleasure and emotion. I forgot everything, toilette
and audience, and, with my head resting against the pillar, I
devoured the charming melodies. If I had "Mignon" given in my room I
should enjoy it just as much, even more. With an interesting
audience one hears nothing. I have seen this opera so many times!
And I am always moved.

One could not imagine my impatience to go to Rome and resume my
work. To study, to study, that is my desire! I grow joyous at the
sight of my dear books, my adored classics, my beloved Plutarch.

I shall carry with me a few volumes to read, for I suppose we shall
not see many people; we know no one there.


Saturday, December 11th, 1875.

The weather is magnificent. A tremendous crowd when we go out. We
move at a walk, between hedges formed of the young men of Nice. They