MOSCOW,
March 11, 1891.
As I depart for France, Spain, and Italy, I beseech you, oh, Heavens, keep
Babkino in good health and prosperity!
Yes, Marya Vladimirovna! As it is written in the scripture: he had not time
to cry out, before a bear devoured him. So I had not time to cry out before
an unseen power has drawn me again to the mysterious distance. To-day I am
going to Petersburg, from there to Berlin, and so further. Whether I climb
Vesuvius or watch a bull-fight in Spain, I shall remember you in my holiest
prayers. Good-bye.
I have been to a seminary and picked out a seminarist for Vassilisa. There
were plenty with delicate feelings and responsive natures, but not one
would consent. At first, especially when I told them that you sometimes had
peas and radishes on your table, they consented; but when I accidentally
let out that in the district captain’s room there was a bedstead on which
people were flogged, they scratched their heads and muttered that they must
think it over. One, however, a pockmarked fellow called Gerasim Ivanovitch,
with very delicate feelings and a responsive nature, is coming to see you
in a day or two. I hope that Vassilisa and you will make him welcome.
Snatch the chance: it’s a brilliant match. You can flog Gerasim Ivanovitch,
for he told me: “I am immensely fond of violent sensations;” when he is
with you you had better lock the cupboard where the vodka is kept and keep
the windows open, as the seminary inspiration and responsiveness is
perceptible at every minute.
“What a happy girl is Vassilisa!”
Idiotik has not been to see me yet.
The hens peck the cock. They must be keeping Lent, or perhaps the virtuous
widows don’t care for their new suitor.
They have brought me a new overcoat with check lining.
Well, be in Heaven’s keeping, happy, healthy and peaceful. God give you all
everything good. I shall come back in Holy Week. Don’t forget your truly
devoted,