Cosima's Diaries

Diary Entry of January 10, 1875

Overview

R. reports a mean-spirited episode from Mendelssohn's past, and later they receive yet another godchild from Detroit, to whom he sends a warm, religiously earnest reply. The day ends with a crowded table of guests at lunch and more company in the evening, leaving R. somewhat overtaxed.

Content

Sunday, January 10:

In the morning R. tells me about strangely malicious traits in Felix Mendelssohn, of which he recently read in Meinardus's autobiography: how he had amused both himself and the other examiners gathered around by caricaturing the pupils who were playing to them, one of whom was deformed.

Another godchild, from Detroit in America. R. replies nicely, wishing the child a sincere religious faith.

At lunch Baroness Aufsess, Frau Muncker, and Prof. Fries; also several friends in the evening. Somewhat too much for R.