Cosima's Diaries

Diary Entry of December 14, 1871

Overview

News from Florence confirms Lohengrin's extraordinary success and prompts even broader Italian touring ambitions. Wagner telegraphs and writes from Bayreuth, but his somewhat sad tone increases Cosima's anxiety as reunion draws closer. Fidi's health requires the doctor, copies of Wagner's second volume are dispatched, and Cosima ends an anxious day writing to him in Mannheim.

Content

Thursday, December 14:

Into town early. News from M. Meysenbug that Lohengrin had an unparalleled success in Florence; letter from an Italian impresario, who wants to tour the towns of Italy and Germany (with Lohengrin). Telegram from R. in Bayreuth, then letter; somewhat sad. I am gnawed by worry about him—the nearer the reunion, the harder, almost, the separation! — Called the doctor: Fidi has a touch of eczema, and his stomach is very swollen. Dispatched copies of the second volume of the writings, in the evening wrote to R. in Mannheim. Anxious day—God help me—why do I feel so worried?