Wednesday, March 10:
In the morning I visited the museum; unfortunately the Esterházy gallery is closed. On the whole a very dismal impression of Hungary as a country; it seems to be heading for complete dissolution. Within the administration, robbery is a matter of course, and then the delusions of grandeur, it is not permitted to speak a word of German. Life is appallingly expensive; no middle class, only an inflated, uncultivated aristocracy.
The musical situation just as dismal; my father is barred from everything, from any activity. He is in fact a complete stranger here. But Richter seems to be doing well. Concert at 7 o’clock, after we had had a meal with my father and I had paid some calls with him, to Parson Schwendtner among others. A very full hall, very brilliant, and great enthusiasm as well. After the concert a small supper, during which I learn from Count Apponyi more details of the saddest kind about the country. Home at one o’clock in the morning.