Saturday, 15 July
Fine, sun
At 6.00 in the afternoon the Soviet Government invited us to the Grand Theatre to attend the memorial ceremony of the 40th anniversary of Chekhov’s death. First the famous writer N. Tikhanov talked about Chekov’s life and work. As I did not understand the language, I found that it was too long since he presented for one and a half hours. Afterwards Counsellor Liu told me that there was a meeting yesterday and his presentation lasted two hours, but because he presented so well the audience did not feel that it took so long. Chekov’s wife was also there. This old lady has enjoyed all the glory, but still she is unwilling to give up the theatrical life, so many young actors have criticised her for retarding the advancement of younger actors. But it is respectable that she is so faithful to art. Because I found it too boring and I did not know the language, I made an excuse to leave at 7.30.
The American newspapers reported that Madame Chiang has arrived in South America to recuperate. I am not sure if there is another reason.