2 1 2 D O C . 2 5 4 J A N U A R Y 1 9 2 0 very sorry not to have been there myself. I miss such opportunities and events here very much! Well, in spring I hope I can “join in” again and be able to exchange ideas with you again, dear Professor, about the follies and ideals of humanity! “A broad field,” as good old Fontane says.[8] Here, in this out-of-the-way corner, we observe much of the bustle of modern times from farther afield, but for it more ob- jectively as well. With a quite hopeless telephone strike we are now paying tribute to time!– Otherwise, I am still the only one to lecture here in German and, through the foolish politics, it’s come that far that our fine language is for many (not of the noble race either, of course!) an obstacle to listening to lectures otherwise of inter- est to them! I am all the more thankful for the little circle from which now, alas, my best “fluidum,” my poet-friend Sophus Michaëlis, has vanished. Yet for him, the creative toiler, I am happy that Rome will welcome him as a guest.[9] — Won’t you come here once? Apparently, Prof. Bohr wishes so much to make your acquaintance![10] He is profoundly inspired by you!– 1920 will, I hope, be a healthy and productive year for you, esteemed Professor. As always, I wish you and your wife Elsa all the best! With many amicable good wishes to you all, I am ever grate- fully yours, Lotte Weigert If you would give me a brief sign of life sometime, that would be nice! 254. To Paul Ehrenfest [Berlin,] Monday. 12 January [1920][1] Dear Ehrenfest, The piano has finally left. It took that long for the export permit to be issued. It really was high time. Now I’m looking forward to the arrival of the thing and hope (and do not doubt) that it will meet with your approval.[2] The Basle conference has now been delayed for at least half a year. There are still a few hitches.[3] Your plan appeals to me very much, especially if there is time for the untertaking.[4] One thing must nevertheless be taken into account. The uni- versity is destined not just for Palestine but also for the many Eastern Jews who cur- rently have virtually no opportunity to study at college.[5] You should send your viewpoint to Dr. Bergmann (from Prague) in London he is working permanently for the nascent university.[6] My Leyden position pleases me immensely. I hope it comes about.[7] Now I want to show something for it as well. What should I lecture on? I’m a little afraid that I