Saturday, February 17:
Eva’s birthday. Preparations; 30 children of all ages; the performance of Rheingold very successful, appreciative audience. After it a lottery, much hubbub!
In the midst of my labors with the children I receive a letter from my father, enclosing one from Hans which contains so pitiful a description of his condition that I have to force myself to continue with my playing and joking. At last, when my hospitable duties have been done, the whole structure collapses inside me, and my evening passes in tears and beseeching prayer. Oh, help me, God, help me in my need!