1 6 D O C U M E N T 1 9 J A N U A R Y 1 9 2 1
is on the right track in the manner of caring for these children. We check this
against the result; the calm steadiness of both children’s emotional development,
their firm sense of will, and the fine intellectual maturity toward which they are
advancing. I believe this tranquil continuity is of greatest importance, and I would
really fear seeing this continuity interrupted now; I do not believe that Albert could
be removed from the Zurich preparatory school and thrown into an entirely new
milieu, in a new school environment, without risking an important part of his emo-
tional life, and cause his fine receptiveness to harden or develop in an undesirable
way.[5]
I think, if ever possible, he should finish preparatory school here, at least to
avoid risk, if not harm. Little Tete’s health is not very stable; I have a feeling,
though, that he has adjusted well to our climate now and you should only in the dir-
est emergency conduct the experiment of removal into an entirely different
air.[6]
You must forgive my impositions into your affairs, but as a kind of watchman we
must report to
you,[7]
while it is completely clear to us how difficult any reflection
is, because of the money issue. My Berlin friends (Dr. Ernst
Hoffmann)[8]
told me:
if I had children, they would have to stay as long as possible in Switzerland to be
raised in the Swiss mentality which is so important for children. I particularly think
highly of Dr. Hoffmann’s advice, because he is considered an important educator.
We send you our most respectful greetings, with warm regards from your
Zürchers.
I happily confirm every one of my husband’s words and send you my wishes with
the same cordial remembrances.
Johanna Zürcher-Siebel.
18. To Friedrich Michael[1]
Berlin, den 17. 1. 21
[Not selected for translation.]
19. From Arnold Berliner[1]
Berlin W9, 23/24 Link St., 17 January 1921
Dear Mr. Einstein,
The report by the Physikalische Zeitschrift about the [Bad] Nauheim discussion
is so fragmentary and in places so garbled that, without attacking
Debye,[2]
one can
describe it as
worthless.[3]
The fault also ought to be directed less at Debye than at
Hirzel, who did not make the necessary space
available.[4]
In the interest of the