Cosima's Diaries

Diary Entry of February 12, 1869

Overview

Springlike weather arrives too early, with a primrose already appearing, while Richard continues the Devrient article and Cosima divides herself between Winckelmann and the children. Reports of Milan success for the Tannhäuser overture, questions about where to publish, and Claire's plea for consideration fill the day. Calderon's comedy and Richard's amusing article reading close the evening, but Cosima falls ill with fever.

Content

Friday, February 12:

Settled springlike weather; a primrose has already appeared. That is indeed rather alarming. What will April and May be like?

Richard is working on his Devrient article; I pass my time with Winckelmann and the children. The Italian newspapers report the success of the Tannhäuser Overture in Milan.

At lunch our conversation scarcely moves from the Devrient book. Where to publish R.’s article?

In the garden with the children, then a letter from Claire, advising me to be as considerate of everyone as possible!

Read Calderón’s comedy Los enredos de la suerte. In these comedies, R. says, chance takes the place of Fate in the tragedies.

In the evening R. reads me the continuation of his article, much amusement from it. But I am unwell and have soon to take to my bed with a temperature.