14–20 February 1853

We marched from Grozny to Kurfnski without an action. We were there for two weeks, and afterwards camped on the Kochkolykov ridge. On the 1 6th there was an artillery action in the night, and on the 17th in the day. I behaved well. Have been winning at cards all this time, but am now without a farthing, though money is owing to me. To-day Ogolin told me that I shall receive the Cross. God grant it, but I only want it for Tula.