Cosima's Diaries

Diary Entry of October 3, 1872

Overview

R. sleeps a little better but remains weak, and the doctor reassures them that no organ is affected even though his condition is still poor. She goes out on errands, takes a sweltering walk with him, then falls ill herself with a throat inflammation that keeps her in bed for several days. During her confinement they receive letters and postpone her father's visit, while R. improves somewhat and busies himself with correspondence and business matters.

Content

Thursday, October 3:

R. had a good night, but he is not well. The doctor said none of his organs was affected, thank God, but nevertheless he is in a sorry condition.

I go with Lusch to see the headmistress of the girls’ school and then do some shopping. In the afternoon I set off for a long walk with R. in the sultriest heat, but during it I feel very unwell, and in the evening go to bed with a temperature. After a wretched night the doctor is called, and it turns out that I have an inflammation of the throat which keeps me in bed for four days.

Yesterday, Tuesday the 8th, I got up, but do not feel really recovered; I am entirely unable to sleep and feel very worn out. During this time letters have come from M. Schl., Frau v. Meyendorff, Countess Bassenheim. We sent a telegram to my father, putting off his visit till I am recovered.

R. was very much better during these days; he is sleeping better, but is now unfortunately upset by my condition. He writes a lot: to the King, then in connection with his publisher Schott, who again appears to be behaving in an underhand way; then copying out his piece for the people of Bologna, also to Mme Lucca regarding Milan.