Monday, December 25:
The children wish me many happy returns, but R. declares I must remain aged 33 until New Year’s Eve. — I write to Hans to thank him; he is sad about leaving Italy. Two Hildesheim bowls from L. Bucher; also some things from Marie M.; quiet and peaceful day. Our nephew very pleasant company, we grow more and more fond of him. (Visit from Countess B. and her son, who considers it expedient to be a new Catholic.) Children’s games, family lunch, all happy and merry. I am contemplative, as always on my birthday. Fine letter from Prof. Nietzsche, who has sent me a musical composition. R. reads out loud to us his New Year’s letter to Fritzsch. Nice evening of conversation with our nephew.