3–9 October 1853

Have thought of getting myself trans- ferred. Wrote letters and a report. Saw Valeryan and M&sha off. . . . Am terribly depressed. To-morrow will try to get rid of this depression by activity.

Morning, went to see the Prince, who again said unpleasant things to me, and for some hours I felt upset. After dinner read Profession de foi , and remem- bered the only means of being happy. After dinner began to write The Maid's Room but did it so carelessly that I dropped it. It must be reconsidered from the commence- ment. Was at Drozdov’s and rode out with him and passed the evening with him.

Have received money and have applied for leave of absence. I have given my horse to a Cossack lad. I did not take 3*90 from Teodorfna because she seemecj very pathetic to me. I left at and reached Gedrgevsk at 6, and here wrote three or four sheets of The Maid's Room.

On the road.