Richard Wagner to Mathilde Wesendonck

\"My dear Kläre, I promised you something more detailed about the true causes of the serious step in which you now see me engaged. I will tell you what is needful, that you may also be able to refute any other gossip; toward which, however, I am most indifferent myself. What for six years past has supported, comforted, and strengthened me withal to stay by Minna\'s side despite the enormous differences of our character and disposition, is the love of that young gentlewoman who at first and ...