Sunday, May 23:
R. had a good night, and he christens yesterday "the day of youth". Now cleaning up and restoring order, gray and cold weather to accompany it.
Friendly calls, which, however, tire R. because of the need to talk French. The sitting room is in order, and we spend a cozy evening together, R. remarking in connection with Mme Minghetti's visit how disturbing people are when they seem to respond to the boldest of ideas yet always remain in their wonted paths.
With his very harsh remarks about the Italian theater, among other things, he said he could not understand how a lady of breeding could still go to the theater, Mme Minghetti was in full agreement, and took leave of him saying, "Je suis amoureuse folle de vous" ["I am madly in love with you"], whereupon R. replied jokingly, "Nous sommes au bord d'un abîme, mes devoirs compliqués à M. Minghetti" ["We are on the edge of an abyss, my complex respects to M. Minghetti"].