This disappointment has, I confess, distressed me greatly, and has much altered my plans. If God wills that the Crimean campaign should end well, and if I do not receive an appointment that satisfies me, and if there is no war in Russia, I shall leave the army and go to Petersburg to the Military Academy. I have formed this plan, (1) because I do not want to abandon literature, at which it is impossible to work amid this camp life; (2) because it seems to me that I am becoming ambitious: not ambitious, but I want to do some good, and to do it one must be something more than a Sub-Lieutenant, and (3) because I shall see you all and all my friends.
[21] The 8th September, new style, was 24th August, old style.
[22] The Battle of Alma, fought on 8th September, old style = 20th September, new style.
[23] Prince Alexander Ménshikof, who was Commander-in-Chief in the Crimea till replaced by Gortchakóf. Besides being diplomatist and General, he was also an Admiral. In the other verses he is nicknamed 'Ménshik.'
[24] After the Battle of Alma, Ménshikof retreated northward to Baktchiseráy, almost abandoning Sevastopol.
[25] Saint Arnaud, the French Commander-in-Chief.
[26] Prince Alexander Ménshikof.
[27] Bags of sand were used as temporary protection from behind which to fire.
[28] Count Osten-Sáken was sent to advise Ménshikof and to report to the Tsar on his operations.
[29] The Grand Dukes alluded to above.