2 7 4 D O C U M E N T S 1 5 1 , 1 5 2 S E P T E M B E R 1 9 2 0
151. From Minna Cauer[1]
Berlin W. 62, 5 Wormser St., 19 September 1920
Highly esteemed Professor,
You probably don’t remember me. During the raging war years, I met you a few
times at conferences of the New Fatherland League. The impression you made on
me is unforgettable.
Now the whole world is talking about you; naturally, the envious and the bick-
erers are also putting in their
word.[2]
That is human, all too human of those base
elements who are dominating more than ever before. I was away for a long time
and heard only now that there are men in Germany who do not bow in grateful ac-
knowledgment of the work and knowledge of researchers and
genius.[3]
I perceive
it as a humiliation affecting the whole nation.
You, highly esteemed Professor, are not touched by it. But we suffer painfully
that even these most severe and difficult times we are living through do not have
enough effect to suppress such base mentalities at all.
It will be a matter of indifference to you, highly esteemed Professor, that a wom-
an, who marvels at the abundance of your knowledge, is writing you. Nevertheless,
I cannot but thank you for having brought such a victory of science to mankind.
In expression of my special admiration,
Minna Cauer.
152. From Stefan Zweig
Salzburg, 22 September 1920
Highly esteemed Professor,
I think I did not go against your inner convictions by publishing the enclosed
statement (in a Viennese paper). I had signed this telegram from Salzburg only with
the explicit proviso that it be directed to you personally and not be published,
which, however, evidently did happen before it reached you
personally.[1]
Undoubtedly, you will perceive such a public display of genuine sympathy as em-
barrassing as I do, and regard this explanation merely as clarification of the circum-
stances—onlookers could well have thought that the publication originated from
you—.
I can imagine how much you must be suffering from the current importunity, as
well as hostile malice: may calm, in which you are able to continue to develop your
work, soon be restored to you. I welcome this opportunity to express to you my
humble but very sincere respect. Most faithfully,
Stefan Zweig