Rosalie’s Diary - 20 April 1907
Rosalie’s Diary
The apartment, the voice lessons, and now a chance to sing onstage.
Charles hasn’t pressed me at all to be his mistress. He would like it, of course, but avoids pushing. I think he really means
it when he says he loves me. And despite promising myself I would not fall in love with him, I am. He is generous and thoughtful
and believes in my talent.
Madame Taddeo has arranged for me to sing in front of Rudolph Buck. It’s too much to hope for. I must prepare. She is giving
me extra lessons. I will sing an aria from Tosca—which Madame says is Buck’s favorite opera.
22 April 1907
I’m so happy—my audition was successful!! I’m going to be a guest artist with the Town Band, conducted by Rudolph Buck! One
performance only but it means a lot of preparation! Charles is paying for my costume, jewelry, extra voice lessons. And of
course, he paid to put me onstage. It’s not a bribe, he assures me—these touring companies need to turn a profit any way they
can and it’s common practice. I’m so happy. Afterward, Charles is going to commission my portrait, dressed as Tosca. Vissi
d’arte. Vissi d’arte!