Cosima's Diaries

Diary Entry of March 3, 1871

Overview

Peace terms, wounded French correspondents, and Schure's declared break with Germany make the aftermath of war personally complicated. Richard asks Cosima to end correspondence with Schure, and their attempt to continue Carlyle finally collapses. The day returns to the shared grave inscription from Brunnhilde and Sigurd, while the children's illnesses remain a household concern.

Content

Friday, March 3:

Thiers has put forward the peace terms, with tears and the usual protestations of helplessness! The same terms which he has spent so many weeks in negotiating!

Letter from Judith Mendes, suggesting that my letter has hurt her; I don't know why it should. They appear to have suffered very much. Friend Schure informs us that he is definitely breaking with Germany and now regards Paris as his home, whereupon R. asks me not to write to him any more.

Visit to Countess B. In the evening, Carlyle; decided not to continue reading it.

In the evening R. and I: "I and Sigurd, we stay together; that shall be the inscription on our grave."

Fidi somewhat better. Lulu still unwell.