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in every low spot in the mountains, like the area up behind Fallen Leaf which we so love;
but these lakes were a dazzling aqua-blue, almost turquoise color). The campers
and swimmers and sunbathers were out in force to enjoy the holiday and lovely
weather (today in Fingsten, a religious holiday in Europe). Finally got toVienna about
4:30, just in time to stop by the Austrian Travel Bureau to get my music festival
tickets. I had wonderful luck - got the ticket for the Mozart opera (tonight) and even
one for a performance they had said was sold out - a memorial concert of Robert
Schumann songs sung by Dietrich Fischer-Dieskau, one of Europe's best (Wed. night).
The prices averaged out at $2.20 over all 5 performances.

Last night was the Vienna Choir Boys Concert - Verdi + Haendel music. It was
simply wonderful, almost too good for words. I enjoyed both pieces very much, perhaps
the Verdi a little more, since it's dynamics and form were more expressive, vividly
portraying the feeling of the text. The singing was flawless, beautifully clear and pure
in tone and masterfully directed to blend and fit perfectly. They sing as one voice, and
it showed endless long hours of practice, well rewarded. They are well worthy of
their world-wide reputation. The concert hall itself is unbelievable - a baroque
style chamber - center floor with slightly elevated stage at one end, a ring of
balcony (2 decks) all around. The walls are gold, with rich draperies hanging,
the ceiling also gold (carved wood, guilded) with large paintings in it.
There are statues on the capitals over the windows, etc. Just like being at a
concert in a royal palace 200 years ago, except for the absence of the huge ball gowns.
Boy if the rest of my evenings are as wonderful as last night Vienna will be a
tremendous finish for the six months.

I still can't quite believe that I'll be holding you close to me in just 5 days! Now,
that it's finally coming it doesn't seem real; but I'm sure by the time I go to pick
up the plan on Saturday morning it will seem very real, and I won't be able to
sit still for the excitement. I love you very, very much, my sweetheart, and I'll
see you in just a few hours now. HOT DOG!!! Always + forever,
Your George