Kurhaus Semmering,
March 24, 1917

Dear Professor,

I didn't want to write before I was in a position to report significant improvement. I must confess that a kind of being ashamed of being ill has contributed to that. Well, I have certainly also not now reached the point where I can report myself as healthy—my condition fluctuates constantly—, nevertheless, I will use my good mood of today (after a better night) to resume my correspondence with you.

It would naturally be much more pleasant—and easier—to talk things out personally about everything that pertains to me. But since I am staying here over Easter (my leave expires after April 12), my wish (which is based on a promise of yours) to see you here can still be fulfilled.—(Of course, you must soon come to an understanding with me on this, so that I can have a room reserved for you in the cure house.)

Now to the matter at hand. The success of my stay in the Semmering is