21–27 April 1856

Behaved disgustingly after dinner at Nekrasov’s. Gadded about the N6vski. . . . Set myself a rule never to drink more than half a glass of vodka, one glass of strong wine, and one tumbler of light wine.

Am not writing anything. My relation to my serfs is beginning to trouble me much. I feel the need of learning, learning, and learning.

Was at Medem’s in the morning. Dined with Blddov. In the evening at Kov&in's. A delightful mind and nature. The serf-question is becoming clearer. I returned from him bright, hopeful, and happy. Shall go back to the country with a ready written project.

Have jotted down a summary of the pro- jects. Heard Kovelin’s charming proposals. Went to Kutler and saw a fine little girl there, his sister-in-law.

Gorbunov came in the morning. It flatters my self-love to note his improvement. Afterwards we went to Milutin, who explained much to me and showed me the project concerning the rights of serfdom, which I read while having dinner. Wrote down for myself the project of a project and of the report. Paid a pleasant visit to Turgenev. Must book him to-morrow for dinner.

% Arkadi Stotypin came in the morning. He is heavy. Corrected proofs. Had very amusing gym- nastics. Dined at Dusseau’s with Arkadi Stotypin. A splendid and interesting fellow. Dmitri Stotypin was touched because I abused his chief and begged his pardon. In the evening corrected proofs.