WAGNER AND HIS WAYS

Evening Post, Volume LXXXIV, Issue 138, 7 December 1912, Page 16

WAGNER AND HIS WAYS

It is well known' that Wagner was of a very freakish disposition, and that almost to the end of his life he retained a marvellously juvenile elasticity of body as well as of mind. He would turn (somersaults, perform various antics^ and walk on the floor on his hands to the delight of his intimate friends. One day Herr yon Ruelsen, the director of the tloyal Berlin Opera House, was announced. What was his surprise on entering the room to see the great composer standing slantwise on his head at the corner of the grand piano Another instance of Wagner's ways is the following :—: — The old Emperor William cared little for Wagner's music, but he. nevei'theless, paid a visit to Bayreuth out of compliment to tho composer, and patiently sat in his box through the performance. Between the acts the Emperor's aide-de-camp. Count X., went behind the scenes and told Wagner that His Majesty would like to speak to him. Wagner, who, as Usual on such occasions, was in a state of great excitement) and bustling about among tho scene-shifters, asked the Count to excuse him as he was busy arranging matters for the next 'act. The Count, in a somewhat peremptory tone, replied : "Herr Wagner, a wish of His Majesty is a commahd !" "What !"' replied Wagner, in a towering passion, "how dare you to command me here in my own house ! Clear our immediately !"