You could only understand my position if you were actually present. Therefore only this much by letter. For weeks I have been yearning for the day of my departure hence. I can leave on the 14th, which is as much as to say I must leave. I shall write to you again from wherever I first settle temporarily. It was very painful not to have you beside me at this important crisis in my life.
Richard Wagner
Source: Letters of Richard Wagner, Volume 1, ed. Altmann/Hull (London: Dent, 1927), No. 360