Finally, the following letter is enclosed, addressed to Jette's daughter‐in‐law, Mary, who was visiting her parents in Bayreuth:

Bamberg, in 1878.

My dear Mary!

A letter has just arrived from Berthold and this prevented me from answering your writing for so long, as I was already somewhat embarrassed. He is not dissatisfied with the business, but the money is not coming in well, which was to be expected. Who doesn't like to stay where his cradle was? I have been away from my home for some time now and today I am interested in everything that goes on in and with my parents' house. It goes without saying that you remember Berthold from time to time, he and his wife are also remembered here with love, and I am certainly not the last to occupy myself pleasantly with you. My little son is happy and since I have always been a mother to him, nothing can please me more in the last quarter of my life than his well‐being.

I can tell you something bearable about all my surroundings. Hugo's suffering is changing, limb by limb the pain must be filed away, and God knows when the poor boy will be freed.

Simon left yesterday, the good, the most well‐behaved of my children is missed in all my rooms. God be with him! and let him soon return home in good health. Hedwig will add her greetings if there is still room. It is nice that you are attending a wedding, do you have enough gowns with you? If you need anything, we will be happy to provide it. You may only write and this would be an opportunity to remember us and not only your husband. I am very pleased that you are satisfied with your cook, since it was my work and I have seldom chosen happily in this matter. Greetings to your dear parents and brothers and sisters and from your loving mother

Jette.

Enclosing my cordial greetings from all sides, I was very pleased with both yours and Berthold's letter and if he also complains about the taking of money (which is happening generally now), this is not the worst, for there is now a money crisis that must be fought through, I am of a different opinion and only have the wish if only the outstanding debts remain good. I have already taken care of your order to clean your furniture once and will have it done every week, you can be sure of that.

Live well and happily according to your father's wishes.

H. Reitzenberger.

My special greetings to your dear parents.

I also send you my best regards and am glad that you are well and happy. Let me hear from you again soon. In this way you will please

your sister‐in‐law Lenchen.

Your kindest greetings are followed by my warmest reply.

Yours, Hedwig.

Emma sends me her best greetings, and I ask you to pass on my greetings to your loved ones as well.