Diary Entry of December 18, 1872
Blandine’s birthday is marked by illness and exhaustion, with R. unwell enough to need a doctor and Eva still feverish in bed. I spend much of the day outdoors with the other children, while the looming house project keeps weighing on my mind. Herr Gross brings news that the Grand Duke of Baden has taken up two patronage certificates, which gives the day a small lift. We read Schlegel on Roman comedy, and R. ends with a witty comparison that makes Shakespeare sound like an Atellan comedian.
Wednesday, December 18:
Blandine's birthday. R. is not well, consults the doctor; rest is ordered. I spend much time out of doors with the four children; Eva in bed with a temperature. Everybody, in fact, run down; the specter of the new house keeps coming into my mind.
Herr Gross comes, tells us that the Grand Duke of Baden has taken up two certificates of patronage!
We read Schlegel's lectures on Roman comedy. "Ah, yes," says R., "we are all of us little Romans. Shakespeare was an Atellan!"