Cosima's Diaries

Diary Entry of July 10, 1874

Overview

A friendly message from the King offers a welcome sign of support, while Wagner continues orchestrating the `Götterdämmerung` score. Yet the evening brings more anxiety as newspapers amplify damaging reports and make it harder for singers to join without financial help.

Content

Friday, July 10:

R. receives a letter from Councillor Dufflipp: the King sends friendly greetings to him and me. He orchestrates a page of Götterdämmerung.

In the evening the musicians again. We learn that the article, which has been reproduced in all newspapers, has alarmed some singers, who, however much they would like to appear here, do not have the means to do so without payment. In such ways can this unholy press cause damage and difficulties!

It is also a curious thing that the inscription on our house has been spread throughout the country as something to do with Ahnen [“surmise”]—they speak of Wahn [“madness”]!