Wednesday, February 22:
R. had a tolerable night; he has a sponge bath in the morning and feels very run down after it. An article on Cherubini by Dr. Schemann, which he reads (in the Bayr. Blätter), vexes him, and he writes ironically to Wolz. about the various tragedies: of Schumann, to have possessed no melodies; of Rossini, to have had no school; of Brahms, to be a bore, etc. That relieves him. He is much amused by a reply made by Frederick the Great to a clergyman.
The weather is fine but fresh, and he just walks to and fro in the little garden. We spend a peaceful evening chatting. I hardly dare to say it, but things seem to me to be taking a turn for the better. The distribution of roles among the singers is keeping R. much occupied; he fears there will be disputes about precedence, and that they will all want to take part in the first performance. I, on the other hand, believe that they will all behave well.