My very best Mietze!
Uhlig arrived in Rorschach only this morning (Saturday). He had a slight accident. This afternoon we are to start for Appenzell. I learned, however, that the trip will cost us another day, for we want to go from Weissbad across the Säntis to Wildhaus, and this can't be done in one day: we'll have to stay overnight in an Alpine hut. So we can't reach Zürich until Wednesday night, by steamer. I tell you this so that you won't be anxious and so that you may meet us with a rowboat. I'm telling nobody so as to surprise them (Karl had already intended to come along). Where will you put him up at first?
It is clearing up and the forecast announces the finest weather. I have been at the Lindemanns' several times. She and cousin Roth send you their best greetings. I for one am a little out of sorts and now hope the mountain climb will strengthen me.
Uhlig's trunk will go by post and has been addressed to Zürich by us: be so kind as to keep it if it arrives ahead of us.
Meanwhile, behave yourself—I mean, keep nice and quiet and take your cure. Peps must behave too: give him a beating from me. I hope Natalie will be less excitable. So! I have put the house in order, and we are off for the Alps. Therefore, may God in His mercy protect you and avert all evil! (Don't cry too much when the Vreneli girl leaves!) Goodbye! and as you lie in your soft bed, think of your poor husband who must get along in a poor Alpine shack. Greetings to our friends and be there to meet us on Wednesday night!
Your
Richard the Fat
Source: Letters of Richard Wagner: The Burrell Collection, ed. John N. Burk (Macmillan, 1950), No. 104