November 29 + 

… I am always looking out for new friends⁠—assaying for friendship.⁠ ⁠… There is no more delightful adventure than an expedition into a rich, many-sided personality. Gradually over a long probation⁠—for deep minds are naturally reticent⁠—piece after piece is added to the geography of your friend’s mind, and each piece pleases or entertains, while in return you let him steal away piece after piece of your own territory, perhaps saving a bit up here and there⁠—such as an enthusiasm for Francis Thompson’s poetry⁠—and then letting it go unexpectedly. It’s a delightful reciprocity. + 

I dream of “the honeyed ease of the Civil Servant’s working day” (Peacock). Yet the French say Songes sont mensonges. + 