My mother at that time had only the slight mastery of German acquired during hours of industrious study for her future husband's sake.

She did not possess in all Berlin a single friend or relative of her own family, yet she soon felt at home in the capital.

She loved my father.

Heaven gave her children, and her rare beauty, her winning charm, and the receptivity of her mind quickly opened all hearts to her in circles even wider than her husband's large family connection.

The latter included many households whose guests numbered every one whose achievements in science or art, or possession of large wealth, had rendered them prominent in Berlin, and the "beautiful Hollander," as my mother was then called, became one of the most courted women in society.
Holtei had made her acquaintance at this time, and it was a delight to hear her speak of those gay, brilliant days.