12.07.1916. Terioca. Dear Kostya, frankly speaking, I did not expect such a kind, sincere letter from you. I also want to see you! Maybe you will come in August, before the classes? Now my Lenochka's parents offered me to go with her along the Volga River, but I refused. I never doubted your friendly feelings, and I do not need to assure you of my friendship. So, dear friend, what I will tell you... I thought about it and forgot. And as if something very important had wanted to say... No, I can't remember...

Dear my Beloved Milena, No One Owes you Anything.    Рождество Christmas has already passed, and I have a Common Problem — which Gift to Choose for you.  I know what Pleases you - Books, Games, Dresses.  But I'm Very Selfish.  I want to give you something that will stay with you for longer than a few days or even years.  I Want to Give you Something that will remind you of me every Christmas.  And, You Know, I think I Chose A Gift.  I will give you One Simple Truth that I had to Learn for many years.  If you Understand it Now, you will Enrich Your Life in Hundreds of different Ways and this will Protect you from a Lot of Problems in the Future...