Cosima's Diaries

Diary Entry of February 15, 1872

Overview

A letter from Nietzsche arrives while Wagner works and she looks after the children during family lunch, where Fidi is especially lively. Wagner is still not well, though he does manage a walk and they read together later in the day. She also notes his thoughts on Gustavus Adolphus, his comparison to Dietrich von Bern, talk of Bismarck's possible fall, and the reimbursement of a lost money order.

Content

Thursday, February 15:

Letter from Prof. Nietzsche. R. at work, I with the children; family lunch; Fidi very exuberant and lusty. R. goes for a walk, but is not well; in the evening we read together.

I forgot to note that on his journey R. spent much time thinking of Gustavus Adolphus, whom he is coming increasingly to respect; when I tell him that he reminds me of Dietrich von Bern, he agrees.

[A repeated entry omitted.]

In Prussia people are now talking of Bismarck’s downfall! (The post office has paid me 50 francs for the lost money order.)