A day of torment; the packing away of the winter things brings the troubles of the household to light! … In addition, an evening conference with gloomy reports. Our friend Feustel believes that war is imminent; the rebels, it is said, have taken the fortress of N. Added to this is the utterly bizarre demand made upon R., that he should put himself behind Scheffsky who arrives—next Monday—and is a favourite with the King, in order that the monies may not have to be returned. —
It would be outrageous, were it not so childish; yet it makes a peculiar impression upon R.
Revised English translation by Jo Cousins [© Jo Cousins | WAGNER Salon]