Letter Dated 13 January 1877, Gohra, Prussia

Liebe Berta,

Do you remember the polkas we played together? And the mazurkas? You on piano, me on violin?

Well, I cannot play them since you left! When I do, it sounds like weasels fighting. My attempts send Papa outdoors and make Karl shriek!

Mama says it could be years before we come to Parisville. Until then, she says, I must find my own beautiful voice as a solo violinist. We all hope that day comes soon.

Dein Bruder, 
August