Cosima's Diaries

Diary Entry of May 11, 1882

Overview

R.'s low spirits are only partly relieved by Gobineau's sudden arrival, which gives the household a new topic and a more serious atmosphere. The next day's discussions of religion and Asia continue that companionship, though melancholy returns as soon as they are alone again.

Content

Thursday, May 11:

R. is not well, and we have a gloomy lunch with our friends the Grosses. A drive in the “strapontin,” suggested by me, does not cheer him up, either. However, he makes an effort to pull himself together when our friend Count Gobineau arrives unexpectedly. We chat about all his travel adventures, and the ill-humored mood is overcome to some extent.

Friday, May 12:

R. had a good night’s rest, he finishes his letter to the King. The subjects of our conversation with the Count are Catholicism, Christianity, also Asia. Alone again, we are overtaken by a mood of melancholy.