Cosima's Diaries

Diary Entry of April 24, 1873

Overview

This final entry is brief but social, noting that Hiller receives consolation from his allies and even gifts, despite the surrounding rivalry. The detail suggests a world of reputations, factions, and ritual gestures of support. Beneath the surface, it closes the sequence on a note of irony rather than reconciliation.

Content

Thursday, April 24:

Rehearsal and concert; the latter, nicely full, brings in 3,400 thalers, and the Wagner Society is happy over “the hole that has been drilled.” Diener sings the “Prize Song” well; R. rehearsed it with him.

After the concert R. tells me he would like to burn the parts, so as never again to have to conduct a concert! Herr Hiller was given a consolation party by his friends, with presents! (Good news from the children.)