Cosima's Diaries

Diary Entry of July 6, 1874

Overview

Plans for the third act of Götterdämmerung are delayed by the day’s interruptions, while I turn to teaching and look after Lusch with care. There is worry for little Putz, disappointment over musical support, and some satisfaction in the harpist’s visit, but the undercurrent is R.’s sense that he lacks the right companions for his work.

Content

Monday, July 6:

R. wanted to start today on the 3rd act of Götterdämmerung, but all sorts of things cropped up, and it is not so easy to get back into the thread. I go with Lusch to see the former governess of the Grand Duchess of Oldenburg regarding Italian lessons, which she gives.

In the afternoon great concern over our little dog, Putz, whom some fierce animal seems to have bitten. Besides that, lessons for Lusch, who proves very attentive. Gymnastic class.

In the evening the musicians. R. is sad at not having better supports: 'I made music better with Bülow and Schnorr!' The harpist from the theater in Pest is here on a visit, and R. discusses many things with him, what needs to be altered in Rheingold, Walküre, etc., since R. is not familiar with the technique of this instrument. This very mannerly person is full of praise for Richter's direction of the theater and the way it is flourishing under him.