worth of the man, that he was sure to turn up again the next
evening at the accustomed hour, when we both felt as though
nothing whatever had passed between us. But when certain bodily
ailments compelled him to remain indoors for many days, it was
difficult to gain access to him, for he was apt to become furious
when any one inquired about his health. On these occasions there
was only one way of putting him in a good temper, and that was to
say that one had called to ask a favour of him. Thereupon he was
pleasantly surprised, and would not only declare himself ready to
oblige in any way that was in his power, but would assume a
really cheerful and benevolent demeanour.

A remarkable contrast to him was presented by the musician
Wilhelm Baumgartner, a merry, jovial fellow, without any aptitude
for concentration, who had learned just enough about the piano to
be able, as teacher at so much an hour, to earn what he required
for a living. He had a taste for what was beautiful, provided it
did not soar too high, and possessed a true and loyal heart, full
of a great respect for Sulzer, which unfortunately could not cure
him of a craving for the public-house.

Besides this man, there were two others who had also from the
very first formed part of our circle. Both of them were friends
of the pair I have already mentioned; their names were Hagenbuch,
a worthy and respectable deputy cantonal secretary; and Bernhard
Spyri, a lawyer, and at that time editor of the Eidgenossische
Zeitung. The latter was a singularly good-tempered man, but not
overburdened with intellect, for which reason Sulzer always
treated him with special consideration.