We used to boast of our drunkenness; I beat in a drinking bout the
famous Bourtsoff [Footnote: A cavalry officer, notorious for his drunken
escapades], of whom Denis Davidoff [Footnote: A military poet who
flourished in the reign of Alexander I] has sung. Duels in our regiment
were constantly taking place, and in all of them I was either second or
principal. My comrades adored me, while the regimental commanders, who
were constantly being changed, looked upon me as a necessary evil.
"I was calmly enjoying my reputation, when a young man belonging to a
wealthy and distinguished family--I will not mention his name--joined
our regiment. Never in my life have I met with such a fortunate fellow!
Imagine to yourself youth, wit, beauty, unbounded gayety, the most
reckless bravery, a famous name, untold wealth--imagine all these, and
you can form some idea of the effect that he would be sure to produce
among us. My supremacy was shaken. Dazzled by my reputation, he began to
seek my friendship, but I received him coldly, and without the least
regret he held aloof from me. I took a hatred to him. His success in the
regiment and in the society of ladies brought me to the verge of
despair.
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