Monday, August 7:
First thing in the morning R. begs my pardon in his touchingly humble way for yesterday’s irritable mood. He begins by asking me very gently how I am, whether I am still alive! Wilhelmj comes for lunch, very refreshing, with all sorts of stories and accounts; Malwida and Stein are also our guests. The conductor appears for coffee, and the casts for the next performances are determined. A letter from Herr Reichmann, whom the conductor has offended, is answered in a conciliatory way. At 5 o’clock Herr Neumann is with R. for negotiations regarding his forthcoming tour (Reise des N.). Then the sun shines, and it is possible to stroll a little in the garden, where I show R. a telegram from Biagino giving favorable news about the Palazzo Vendramin — I had sent him to Venice with some anxiety, because of a misunderstanding which suddenly arose. Also a word of praise for my humble self in the Independance, which has been sent to me, amuses R. And the reception goes off very well.