Cosima's Diaries

Diary Entry of April 29, 1872

Overview

The day is dominated by packing, sending messages, and a difficult departure from Tribschen with children, servants, and dog in tow. Bad weather, a stormy boat crossing, rain, customs delays, and overloaded train cars make the journey chaotic and exhausting. After a long ordeal, they finally reach Bayreuth, where R. welcomes them and she ends the night walking the grounds of the Fantaisie and talking with him until bed.

Content

Monday, April 29:

Packed, cabled R., said goodbye to Vreneli, who is very grieved. Telegram from R. Departure at 1:20; my five children with Anna, Kathchen with baby, Jakob with Russ.

First stop in Zurich; concern for Lulu, who has a cough. Terrible storm, crossing in the night steamer. Loldi fell into a puddle. Darkness, endless hand luggage, streaming rain, customs examination. At last boarded the train at Lindau, said goodbye to Jakob. I to look after Russ.

All goes well as far as Augsburg; then the luggage car is too full, the dog car impossible, so we take him in the compartment with us. Astonishment when I lead him out and give him a drink.

At long, long last arrival in Bayreuth on Tuesday the 30th at 4:30; the children lively, Russ well, and R. to greet us!

In the evening went immediately for a walk around the Fantaisie. Splendid park, even more remote from the world than Tribschen. R. happy that we are here, calls me his vital force. Conversed with R. until 10 o'clock, then to bed.