Wednesday, January 6:
Evchen still somewhat indisposed. Spent the morning with the children. Both good and in high spirits. Richard is copying out his essay. Apprehensive afternoon caused by a visit of the Bassenheims’ servants to our servants. Since the former are in contact with Munich, and I can expect nothing but evil from there, I have the feeling that malicious curiosity has driven them here in the worst of weathers to find out whether I and the children are here.
My imaginings upset Richard, since there is nothing he can do to help, but he is soon back in good spirits, and I console myself with the thought that in concealing my whereabouts I intended no harm to the world and acted only out of consideration for others. And if the trials I am expecting are to begin here and in this way, then in God’s name I shall tell you, my children, how it all came about and how I am bearing it.
Evening with the children; both full of fun. God give Eva a good night. In the evening two cantos from the Odyssey, Odysseus and the Swineherd, Telemachus’s Return; the former splendid in every detail, the second rather wearisome. Richard has finished copying his essay and is satisfied with it.
Today I imagined myself in the children’s room in Munich, unrecognized, but I did not wish to remain unrecognized; yet, recognized, I could not go. And so it is best as it is. May the gods but give us friendly guidance!