Eugene Onegin ( without commentary )

228
Chapter Five
XL

At the beginning of my novel (see the first fascicle) I wanted in Albano's manner 4 a Petersburg ball to describe$ but, by an empty reverie diverted, I got engrossed in recollecting the little feet of ladies known to me. 8 Upon your narrow tracks, ? little feet, enough roving astray! With the betrayal of my youth 'tis time I grew more sensible, 12 improved in doings and in diction, and this fifth fascicle cleansed from digressions.