In 1883, shortly after the New Year, Smetana resumed work on his Second String Quartet, though only in short bursts. He was becoming increasingly fatigued, and his memory occasionally failed him. Even minor everyday frustrations felt overwhelming. The previous summer, he had entrusted all publisher negotiations to Srb- Debrnov, telling him he would eventually grant him written power of attorney to handle all financial matters. Smetana's main concern was securing his family's financial future, as they were deeply worried about his health and doubtful of his capacity to manage business affairs effectively in his fragile, irritable state. Family members attempted to intervene, but even their slightest involvement irritated Smetana. They began to question Srb-Debrnov's effectiveness as well, while Smetana continued to trust him completely and did not want his son-in-law Schwarz involved, despite holding him in high regard.

Smetana frequently discussed these family tensions in his letters to Srb-Debrnov. His letters hint at Bettina's growing anxiety over her and their daughters’ future. Although their finances had improved slightly after Smetana received the prize for Libuše and a monetary gift at the 100th performance of The Bartered Bride, Bettina had taken control of the family's savings. On January 24, 1883, while contemplating another visit to Prague, Smetana referred to “distressing family matters” involving his wife. During a heated argument, she refused to show Smetana the bankbook, and his agitation escalated to the point where he considered seeking legal advice. In the letter, he implores Srb-Debrnov not to share the details of the dispute with anyone else, asking him to be his “trusted advisor in this fresh crisis.”