Cosima's Diaries

Diary Entry of March 8, 1873

Overview

A tense meeting postpones the performance for a year, forcing more correspondence and delicate diplomacy. The writer manages a difficult social situation with poise while R. and others assess the consequences. The day feels like one of maneuvering and delay rather than accomplishment.

Content

Saturday, March 8:

R. has to leave home early: Herr Brandt and Herr Briickwald are here, and a conference is held, the important outcome of which is that the performance is put off for a year.

I write to Marie M., in order to explain to her that W.'s true friends must stop urging him to conduct concerts.

In the afternoon and evening Brandt and Briickwald, a rather difficult occasion, and R. is kind enough to admire the courage with which I, tort et a travers, guide the conversation and keep it going.