Diary Entry of January 25, 1872
A telegram from R. reports that he is in good spirits, which steadies the day somewhat. The narrator keeps busy with writing, teaching, and walking with the children, trying to think as little as possible about the separation. A sympathetic note from Prof. N. in Basel brings a bit of outside support, and the evening is spent quietly alone upstairs. The whole day has the feeling of careful restraint after an emotional strain.
Thursday, January 25:
Telegram from R.; he is in good heart! I write, ink in, teach, go for a walk with the children, and think as little as possible. Prof. N. writes sympathetically from Basel, where he saw R. I write to Marie M. and spend the evening alone in the upstairs salon.