At first light, the children offer their congratulations, Venetian glass (if the glass breaks, good fortune will continue); at eleven, a second greeting, Faith, Love, Hope (Fidi, Loldi, Eva), 62 light balloons lit in the hall, with the “Huldigungsmarsch” played alongside. R. says to me that I have given him everything, that I have cared for him like a mother — the children were very solemn and earnest, reciting their verses sweetly; Eva was deeply moved. —
In the evening, Wahnfried illuminated, fireworks, Strauss waltzes, a torchlight procession of the children; all turned out beautifully, the weather was favourable, R. cheerful and touched. I inwardly wistful, as ever on such occasions — may Heaven bless him. (Many telegrams received, among them one from the King.)
Revised English translation by Jo Cousins.