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went to the Taylors again in the evening. Mrs. Youmans was there also Mr & Mrs. Rotta and later Mrs. Shellaber and her sister came. Mrs Shellaber struck me as possibly an ambitious woman of not much cultivation. Taylor and I smoked again after they all left and had a talk.

Tuesday 8 Jan. 1878. Attended the 12" night festival at the Century. It was very absurd but very funny and I think all enjoyed it, young and old. The weather has been intensely cold for several days but is a little milder today. Went to see Booth in Richard III which he is acting according to Shakespeare instead of Cibbers arrangement. I sat very far back and could not get the full effect nor was I in a mood to see it. Went to his dressing room and saw Mrs Booth who is looking remarkably well. Did not sleep well.

Wednesday 9. Awoke feeling very depressed. I always feel most discouraged in the morning when I am at all worried. Went out for a walk and painted until 12 o'clock when Booth came by appointment. I repainted the feet of the Hamlet and made them much better. Worked on the legs of Iago but it was so dark I could not accomplish much. Mr. Williams called today. He was pleased with what I did to his picture and invited me to come to his house on Saturday morning to see his pictures. There was a fire at the Century Club this forenoon which destroyed the ceiling of the smoking room but was fortunately extinguished before great damage was done. Had a letter from Gertrude yesterday and one today. Sent her a letter this morning. Went up to the Club a moment to see the extent of the damage. Met poor Stoddard there who was getting himself intoxicated as fast as possible. He always seems to feel most friendly to me and I pity him for there is so much that is lovable in him