Paris and Vienna long remembered her warmth at the glittering events, with which she tirelessly entertained society. Carlsbad even erected a monument in her honor in gratitude for her indefatigable efforts in organizing walks and festive occasions — she was the very soul of society there. My grandmother’s passion for lively entertainment reached a point of obsession, her entire life was an endless, busy movement in a whirlwind of fun and crowds; high society and outings sustained her. Of course, this desire for entertainment could not exist without a love of fashion, and this love rose to immense proportions… But despite this frivolity, she was the most kind, like an angel. She was unable to refuse a request for money from her relatives, and, in some cases, she would reduce her expenses in order to pay the debts of one of her nephews… She often experienced financial difficulties, and only her close relatives could understand the reason for this, considering the total amount of her mercy and generosity towards them.

…everyone loved the countess but not everyone knew her. She was a truthful and sincere individual. Under the glittering façade of social life, under the motley cover of Parisian dresses, one would often find goodness, kindness, and compassion in this Russian woman.