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diff --git a/.gitattributes b/.gitattributes new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6833f05 --- /dev/null +++ b/.gitattributes @@ -0,0 +1,3 @@ +* text=auto +*.txt text +*.md text diff --git a/13065-0.txt b/13065-0.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..fea24f6 --- /dev/null +++ b/13065-0.txt @@ -0,0 +1,7577 @@ +*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 13065 *** + +BEETHOVEN'S LETTERS. + +(1790-1826.) + +FROM THE COLLECTION OF DR. LUDWIG NOHL. + + +ALSO HIS + +LETTERS TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH, CARDINAL-ARCHBISHOP +OF OLMÃœTZ, K.W., FROM THE COLLECTION OF DR. +LUDWIG RITTER VON KÖCHEL. + + +TRANSLATED BY +LADY WALLACE. + + +_WITH A PORTRAIT AND FAC-SIMILE._ + + +IN TWO VOLUMES. + +VOL. I. + + +BOSTON: + +OLIVER DITSON & CO., 277 WASHINGTON STREET. + +NEW YORK: C.H. DITSON & CO. + + + + +TRANSLATOR'S PREFACE. + + +Since undertaking the translation of Dr. Ludwig Nohl's valuable edition of +"Beethoven's Letters," an additional collection has been published by Dr. +Ludwig Ritter von Köchel, consisting of many interesting letters addressed +by Beethoven to his illustrious pupil, H.R.H. the Archduke Rudolph, +Cardinal-Archbishop of Olmütz. These I have inserted in chronological +order, and marked with the letter K., in order to distinguish them from the +correspondence edited by Dr. Nohl. I have only omitted a few brief notes, +consisting merely of apologies for non-attendance on the Archduke. + +The artistic value of these newly discovered treasures will no doubt be as +highly appreciated in this country as in the great _maestro's_ Father-land. + +I must also express my gratitude to Dr. Th.G. v. Karajan, for permitting an +engraving to be made expressly for this work, from an original Beethoven +portrait in his possession, now for the first time given to the public. The +grand and thoughtful countenance forms a fitting introduction to letters so +truly depicting the brilliant, fitful genius of the sublime master, as well +as the touching sadness and gloom pervading his life, which his devotion to +Art alone brightened, through many bitter trials and harassing cares. + +The love of Beethoven's music is now become so universal in England, that I +make no doubt his Letters will receive a hearty welcome from all those +whose spirits have been elevated and soothed by the genius of this +illustrious man. + +GRACE WALLACE. + +AINDERBY HALL, March 28, 1866. + + + + +PREFACE + +BY DR. LUDWIG NOHL + +TO THE + +LETTERS OF LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +In accompanying the present edition of the Letters of Ludwig van Beethoven +with a few introductory remarks, I at once acknowledge that the compilation +of these letters has cost me no slight sacrifices. I must also, however, +mention that an unexpected Christmas donation, generously bestowed on me +with a view to further my efforts to promote the science of music, enabled +me to undertake one of the journeys necessary for my purpose, and also to +complete the revision of the Letters and of the press, in the milder air +and repose of a country residence, long since recommended to me for the +restoration of my health, undermined by overwork. + +That, in spite of every effort, I have not succeeded in seeing the original +of each letter, or even discovering the place where it exists, may well be +excused, taking into consideration the slender capabilities of an +individual, and the astonishing manner in which Beethoven's Letters are +dispersed all over the world. At the same time, I must state that not only +have the hitherto inaccessible treasures of Anton Schindler's "Beethoven's +Nachlass" been placed at my disposal, but also other letters from private +sources, owing to various happy chances, and the kindness and complaisance +of collectors of autographs. I know better, however, than most +people--being in a position to do so--that in the present work there can be +no pretension to any thing approaching to a complete collection of +Beethoven's Letters. The master, so fond of writing, though he often rather +amusingly accuses himself of being a lazy correspondent, may very probably +have sent forth at least double the amount of the letters here given, and +there is no doubt whatever that a much larger number are still extant in +the originals. The only thing that can be done at this moment, however, is +to make the attempt to bring to light, at all events, the letters that +could be discovered in Germany. The mass of those which I gradually +accumulated, and now offer to the public (with the exception of some +insignificant notes), appeared to me sufficiently numerous and important to +interest the world, and also to form a substantial nucleus for any letters +that may hereafter be discovered. On the other hand, as many of Beethoven's +Letters slumber in foreign lands, especially in the unapproachable cabinets +of curiosities belonging to various close-fisted English collectors, an +entire edition of the correspondence could only be effected by a most +disproportionate outlay of time and expense. + +When revising the text of the Letters, it seemed to me needless perpetually +to impair the pleasure of the reader by retaining the mistakes in +orthography; but enough of the style of writing of that day is adhered to, +to prevent its peculiar charm being entirely destroyed. Distorted and +incorrect as Beethoven's mode of expression sometimes is, I have not +presumed to alter his grammar, or rather syntax, in the smallest degree: +who would presume to do so with an individuality which, even amid startling +clumsiness of style, displays those inherent intellectual powers that often +did violence to language as well as to his fellow-men? Cyclopean masses of +rock are here hurled with Cyclopean force; but hard and massive as they +are, the man is not to be envied whose heart is not touched by these +glowing fragments, flung apparently at random right and left, like meteors, +by a mighty intellectual being, however perverse the treatment language may +have received from him. + +The great peculiarity, however, in this strange mode of expression is, that +even such incongruous language faithfully reflects the mind of the man +whose nature was of prophetic depth and heroic force; and who that knows +anything of the creative genius of a Beethoven can deny him these +attributes? + +The antique dignity pervading the whole man, the ethical contemplation of +life forming the basis of his nature, prevented even a momentary wish on my +part to efface a single word of the oft-recurring expressions so painfully +harsh, bordering on the unaesthetic, and even on the repulsive, provoked by +his wrath against the meanness of men. In the last part of these genuine +documents, we learn with a feeling of sadness, and with almost a tragic +sensation, how low was the standard of moral worth, or rather how great was +the positive unworthiness, of the intimate society surrounding the master, +and with what difficulty he could maintain the purity of the nobler part of +his being in such an atmosphere. The manner, indeed, in which he strives to +do so, fluctuating between explosions of harshness and almost weak +yieldingness, while striving to master the base thoughts and conduct of +these men, though never entirely succeeding in doing so, is often more a +diverting than an offensive spectacle. In my opinion, nevertheless, even +this less pleasing aspect of the Letters ought not to be in the slightest +degree softened (which it has hitherto been, owing to false views of +propriety and morality), for it is no moral deformity here displayed. +Indeed, even when the irritable master has recourse to expressions +repugnant to our sense of conventionality, and which may well be called +harsh and rough, still the wrath that seizes on our hero is a just and +righteous wrath, and we disregard it, just as in Nature, whose grandeur +constantly elevates us above the inevitable stains of an earthly soil. The +coarseness and ill-breeding, which would claim toleration because this +great man now and then showed such feelings, must beware of doing so, being +certain to make shipwreck when coming in contact with the massive rock of +true morality on which, with all his faults and deficiencies, Beethoven's +being was surely grounded. Often, indeed, when absorbed in the +unsophisticated and genuine utterances of this great man, it seems as if +these peculiarities and strange asperities were the results of some +mysterious law of Nature, so that we are inclined to adopt the paradox by +which a wit once described the singular groundwork of our nature,--"The +faults of man are the night in which he rests from his virtues." + +Indeed, I think that the lofty morality of such natures is not fully +evident until we are obliged to confess with regret, that even the great +ones of the earth must pay their tribute to humanity, and really do pay it +(which is the distinction between them and base and petty characters), +without being ever entirely hurled from their pedestal of dignity and +virtue. The soul of that man cannot fail to be elevated, who can seize the +real spirit of the scattered pages that a happy chance has preserved for +us. If not fettered by petty feelings, he will quickly surmount the casual +obstacles and stumbling-blocks which the first perusal of these Letters may +seem to present, and quickly feel himself transported at a single stride +into a stream, where a strange roaring and rushing is heard, but above +which loftier tones resound with magic and exciting power. For a peculiar +life breathes in these lines; an under-current runs through their +apparently unconnected import, uniting them as with an electric chain, and +with firmer links than any mere coherence of subjects could have effected. +I experienced this myself, to the most remarkable degree, when I first made +the attempt to arrange, in accordance with their period and substance, the +hundreds of individual pages bearing neither date nor address, and I was +soon convinced that a connecting text (such as Mozart's Letters have, and +ought to have) would be here entirely superfluous, as even the best +biographical commentary would be very dry work, interrupting the electric +current of the whole, and thus destroying its peculiar effect. + +And now, what is this spirit which, for an intelligent mind, binds together +these scattered fragments into a whole, and what is its actual power? I +cannot tell; but I feel to this day just as I felt to the innermost depths +of my heart in the days of my youth when I first heard a symphony of +Beethoven's,--that a spirit breathes from it bearing us aloft with giant +power out of the oppressive atmosphere of sense, stirring to its inmost +recesses the heart of man, bringing him to the full consciousness of his +loftier being, and of the undying within him. And even more distinctly than +when a new world was thus disclosed to his youthful feelings is the _man_ +fully conscious that not only was this a new world to him, but a new world +of feeling in itself, revealing to the spirit phases of its own, which, +till Beethoven appeared, had never before been fathomed. Call it by what +name you will, when one of the great works of the sublime master is heard, +whether indicative of proud self-consciousness, freedom, spring, love, +storm, or battle, it grasps the soul with singular force, and enlarges the +laboring breast. Whether a man understands music or not, every one who has +a heart beating within his breast will feel with enchantment that here is +concentrated the utmost promised to us by the most imaginative of our +poets, in bright visions of happiness and freedom. Even the only great hero +of action, who in those memorable days is worthy to stand beside the great +master of harmony, having diffused among mankind new and priceless earthly +treasures, sinks in the scale when we compare these with the celestial +treasures of a purified and deeper feeling, and a more free, enlarged, and +sublime view of the world, struggling gradually and distinctly upwards out +of the mere frivolity of an art devoid of words to express itself, and +impressing its stamp on the spirit of the age. They convey, too, the +knowledge of this brightest victory of genuine German intellect to those +for whom the sweet Muse of Music is as a book with seven seals, and reveal, +likewise, a more profound sense of Beethoven's being to many who already, +through the sweet tones they have imbibed, enjoy some dawning conviction of +the master's grandeur, and who now more and more eagerly lend a listening +ear to the intellectual clearly worded strains so skilfully interwoven, +thus soon to arrive at the full and blissful comprehension of those grand +outpourings of the spirit, and finally to add another bright delight to the +enjoyment of those who already know and love Beethoven. All these may be +regarded as the objects I had in view when I undertook to edit his Letters, +which have also bestowed on myself the best recompense of my labors, in the +humble conviction that by this means I may have vividly reawakened in the +remembrance of many the mighty mission which our age is called on to +perform for the development of our race, even in the realm of +harmony,--more especially in our Father-land. + +LUDWIG NOHL. + +LA TOUR DE PERLZ--LAKE OF GENEVA, +March, 1865. + + + + +CONTENTS OF VOLUME I. + + +FIRST PART. + +LIFE'S JOYS AND SORROWS +1783-1816. + + + 1. To the Elector of Cologne, Frederick Maximilian. + 2. To Dr. Schade, Augsburg + 3. To the Elector Maximilian Francis + 4. To Eleonore von Breuning, Bonn + 5. To the Same + 6. To Herr Schenk + 7. To Dr. Wegeler, Vienna + 8. To the Same + 9. Lines written in the Album of L. von Breuning + 10. To Baron Zmeskall von Domanowecz + 11. Ukase to Zmeskall, Schuppanzigh, and Lichnowsky + 12. To Pastor Amenda, Courland + 13. To the Same + 14. To Wegeler + 15. To Countess Giulietta Guicciardi + 16. To Matthisson + 17. To Frau Frank, Vienna + 18. To Wegeler + 19. To Kapellmeister Hofmeister, Leipzig + 20. To the Same + 21. To the Same + 22. To the Same + 23. Dedication to Dr. Schmidt + 24. To Ferdinand Ries + 25. To Herr Hofmeister, Leipzig + 26. To Carl and Johann Beethoven + 27. Notice + 28. To Ferdinand Ries + 29. To Herr Hofmeister, Leipzig + 30. Caution + 31. To Ries + 32. To the Same + 33. To the Same + 34. To the Same + 35. To the Composer Leidesdorf, Vienna + 36. To Ries + 37. To the Same + 38. To the Same + 39. To Messrs. Artaria & Co. + 40. To Princess Liechtenstein + 41. To Herr Meyer + 42. Testimonial for C. Czerny + 43. To Herr Röckel + 44. To Herr Collin, Court Secretary and Poet + 45. To Herr Gleichenstein + 46. To the Directors of the Court Theatre + 47. To Count Franz von Oppersdorf + 48. Notice of a Memorial to the Archduke Rudolph, Prince Kinsky, + and Prince Lobkowitz + 49. Memorial to the Same + 50. To Zmeskall + 51. To Ferdinand Ries + 52. To Zmeskall + 53. To the Same + 54. To the Same + 55. To the Same + 56. To the Same + 57. To the Same + 58. To the Same + 59. To Freiherr von Hammer-Purgstall + 60. To the Same + 61. To Baroness von Drossdick + 62. To Mdlle. de Gerardi + 63. To Zmeskall + 64. To Wegeler + 65. To Zmeskall + 66. To Bettina Brentano + 67. To the Same + 68. To Zmeskall + 69. To the Same + 70. To the Archduke Rudolph + 71. To a Dear Friend + 72. To the Dramatic Poet Treitschke + 73. To Zmeskall + 74. To the Same + 75. To the Same + 76. To the Same + 77. To the Same + 78. To the Same + 79. To the Same + 80. To Kammerprocurator Varenna, Gratz + 81. To Zmeskall + 82. To the Same + 83. To Varenna, Gratz + 84. To Zmeskall + 85. To Varenna + 86. To Archduke Rudolph + 87. To the Same + 88. To Varenna, Gratz + 89. To Joseph Freiherr von Schweiger + 90. To Varenna, Gratz + 91. Lines written in the Album of Mdme. Auguste Sebald + 92. To Archduke Rudolph + 93. To Bettina von Arnim + 94. To Princess Kinsky + 95. To Archduke Rudolph + 96. To the Same + 97. To the Same + 98. To Princess Kinsky + 99. To the Same +100. To Zmeskall +101. To Herr Joseph Varenna, Gratz +102. To the Same +103. To Zmeskall +104. To the Same +105. To the Same +106. To the Same +107. To the Same +108. To the Same +109. To the Same +110. To Archduke Rudolph +111. To the Same +112. To the Same +113. To Freiherr Josef von Schweiger +114. To Herr von Baumeister +115. To Zmeskall +116. Letter of Thanks +117. To the Archduke Rudolph +118. To the Same +119. To the Same +120. To Treitschke +121. To the Same +122. To the Same +123. To Count Lichnowsky. +124. To the Same +125. To the Archduke Rudolph +126. To the Same +127. Deposition +128. To Dr. Kauka, Prague. +129. Address and Appeal to London Artists +130. To Dr. Kauka +131. To Count Moritz Lichnowsky +132. To the Archduke Rudolph +133. To the Same +134. To the Same +135. To the Same +136. To the Same +137. To the Same +138. To the Same +139. To the Same +140. To Dr. Kauka +141. To the Same +142. To the Same +143. To the Members of the Landrecht +144. To Baron von Pasqualati +145. To Dr. Kauka +146. To the Archduke Rudolph + + + + +SECOND PART. + +LIFE'S MISSION. +1815-1822. + + +147. Music written in Spohr's Album +148. To Dr. Kauka +149. To the Same +150. To the Same +151. To Mr. Salomon, London +152. To the Archduke Rudolph +153. To the Same +154. To the Same +155. To the Same +156. To the Same +157. To the Same +158. To Mr. Birchall, Music Publisher, London +159. To Zmeskall +160. To the Archduke Rudolph +161. To Messrs. Birchall, London +162. To Herr Ries +163. To Zmeskall +164. To Mdlle. Milder-Hauptmann +165. To Ries +166. To Mr. Birchall, London +167. To Czerny +168. To the Same +169. To Ries, London +170. To Giannatasio del Rio, Vienna +171. To the Same +172. To the Same +173. To the Same +174. To Ferdinand Ries, London +175. To the Same +176. Power of Attorney +177. To Ferdinand Ries +178. To Giannatasio del Rio +179. To the Same +180. To the Archduke Rudolph +181. To Mr. Birchall London +182. To the Same +183. To Giannatasio del Rio +184. To the Same +185. To Zmeskall +186. To Dr. Kauka +187. Query +188. To Giannatasio del Rio +189. To the Same +190. To Wegeler +191. To Mr. Birchall, London +192. To Zmeskall +193. To the Archduke Rudolph +194. To Freiherr von Schweiger +195. To Giannatasio del Rio +196. To the Same +197. To the Same +198. To the Same +199. To Herr Tschischka +200. To Mr. Birchall +201. To Zmeskall +202. To Frau von Streicher +203. To the Same +204. To the Same +205. To the Same +206. To the Same +207. To the Archduke Rudolph +208. To Giannatasio del Rio +209. To the Same +210. To the Same +211. To Hofrath von Mosel +212. To S.A. Steiner, Music Publisher, Vienna +213. To the Same +214. To the Same +215. To Zmeskall + + + + +FIRST PART. + + +LIFE'S JOYS AND SORROWS. +1783 TO 1815. + + + + +BEETHOVEN'S LETTERS. + + +PART I. + + +1. + +TO THE ELECTOR OF COLOGNE, FREDERICK MAXIMILIAN.[1] + +ILLUSTRIOUS PRINCE,-- + +Music from my fourth year has ever been my favorite pursuit. Thus early +introduced to the sweet Muse, who attuned my soul to pure harmony, I loved +her, and sometimes ventured to think that I was beloved by her in return. I +have now attained my eleventh year, and my Muse often whispered to me in +hours of inspiration,--Try to write down the harmonies in your soul. Only +eleven years old! thought I; does the character of an author befit me? and +what would more mature artists say? I felt some trepidation; but my Muse +willed it--so I obeyed, and wrote. + +May I now, therefore, Illustrious Prince, presume to lay the first-fruits +of my juvenile labors at the foot of your throne? and may I hope that you +will condescend to cast an encouraging and kindly glance on them? You will; +for Art and Science have ever found in you a judicious protector and a +generous patron, and rising talent has always prospered under your +fostering and fatherly care. Encouraged by this cheering conviction, I +venture to approach you with these my youthful efforts. Accept them as the +pure offering of childlike reverence, and graciously vouchsafe to regard +with indulgence them and their youthful composer, + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: The dedication affixed to this work, "Three Sonatas for the +Piano, dedicated to my illustrious master, Maximilian Friedrich, Archbishop +and Elector of Cologne, by Ludwig van Beethoven in his eleventh year," is +probably not written by the boy himself, but is given here as an amusing +contrast to his subsequent ideas with regard to the homage due to rank.] + + +2. + +TO DR. SCHADE,--AUGSBURG. + +Bonn, 1787. Autumn. + +MY MOST ESTEEMED FRIEND,-- + +I can easily imagine what you must think of me, and I cannot deny that you +have too good grounds for an unfavorable opinion. I shall not, however, +attempt to justify myself, until I have explained to you the reasons why my +apologies should be accepted. I must tell you that from the time I left +Augsburg[1] my cheerfulness, as well as my health, began to decline; the +nearer I came to my native city, the more frequent were the letters from my +father, urging me to travel with all possible speed, as my mother's health +was in a most precarious condition. I therefore hurried forwards as fast as +I could, although myself far from well. My longing once more to see my +dying mother overcame every obstacle, and assisted me in surmounting the +greatest difficulties. I found my mother indeed still alive, but in the +most deplorable state; her disease was consumption, and about seven weeks +ago, after much pain and suffering, she died [July 17]. She was indeed a +kind, loving mother to me, and my best friend. Ah! who was happier than I, +when I could still utter the sweet name of mother, and it was heard? But to +whom can I now say it? Only to the silent form resembling her, evoked by +the power of imagination. I have passed very few pleasant hours since my +arrival here, having during the whole time been suffering from asthma, +which may, I fear, eventually turn to consumption; to this is added +melancholy,--almost as great an evil as my malady itself. Imagine yourself +in my place, and then I shall hope to receive your forgiveness for my long +silence. You showed me extreme kindness and friendship by lending me three +Carolins in Augsburg, but I must entreat your indulgence for a time. My +journey cost me a great deal, and I have not the smallest hopes of earning +anything here. Fate is not propitious to me in Bonn. Pardon my intruding on +you so long with my affairs, but all that I have said was necessary for my +own justification. + +I do entreat you not to deprive me of your valuable friendship; nothing do +I wish so much as in any degree to become worthy of your regard. I am, with +all esteem, your obedient servant and friend, + +L. V. BEETHOVEN, + +_Cologne Court Organist._ + +[Footnote 1: On his return from Vienna, whither Max Franz had sent him for +the further cultivation of his talents.] + + +3. + +TO THE ELECTOR MAXIMILIAN FRANCIS.[1] + +1793. + +MOST ILLUSTRIOUS AND GRACIOUS PRINCE,-- + +Some years ago your Highness was pleased to grant a pension to my father, +the Court tenor Van Beethoven, and further graciously to decree that 100 R. +Thalers of his salary should be allotted to me, for the purpose of +maintaining, clothing, and educating my two younger brothers, and also +defraying the debts incurred by our father. It was my intention to present +this decree to your Highness's treasurer, but my father earnestly implored +me to desist from doing so, that he might not be thus publicly proclaimed +incapable himself of supporting his family, adding that he would engage to +pay me the 25 R.T. quarterly, which he punctually did. After his death, +however (in December last), wishing to reap the benefit of your Highness's +gracious boon, by presenting the decree, I was startled to find that my +father had destroyed it. + +I therefore, with all dutiful respect, entreat your Highness to renew this +decree, and to order the paymaster of your Highness's treasury to grant me +the last quarter of this benevolent addition to my salary (due the +beginning of February). I have the honor to remain, + +Your Highness's most obedient and faithful servant, + +LUD. V. BEETHOVEN, + +_Court Organist._ + +[Footnote 1: An electoral decree was issued in compliance with this request +on May 3, 1793.] + + +4. + +TO ELEONORE VON BREUNING,--BONN. + +Vienna, Nov. 2, 1793. + +MY HIGHLY ESTEEMED ELEONORE, MY DEAREST FRIEND,-- + +A year of my stay in this capital has nearly elapsed before you receive a +letter from me, and yet the most vivid remembrance of you is ever present +with me. I have often conversed in thought with you and your dear family, +though not always in the happy mood I could have wished, for that fatal +misunderstanding still hovered before me, and my conduct at that time is +now hateful in my sight. But so it was, and how much would I give to have +the power wholly to obliterate from my life a mode of acting so degrading +to myself, and so contrary to the usual tenor of my character! + +Many circumstances, indeed, contributed to estrange us, and I suspect that +those tale-bearers who repeated alternately to you and to me our mutual +expressions were the chief obstacles to any good understanding between us. +Each believed that what was said proceeded from deliberate conviction, +whereas it arose only from anger, fanned by others; so we were both +mistaken. Your good and noble disposition, my dear friend, is sufficient +security that you have long since forgiven me. We are told that the best +proof of sincere contrition is to acknowledge our faults; and this is what +I wish to do. Let us now draw a veil over the whole affair, learning one +lesson from it,--that when friends are at variance, it is always better to +employ no mediator, but to communicate directly with each other. + +With this you will receive a dedication from me [the variations on "Se vuol +ballare"]. My sole wish is that the work were greater and more worthy of +you. I was applied to here to publish this little work, and I take +advantage of the opportunity, my beloved Eleonore, to give you a proof of +my regard and friendship for yourself, and also a token of my enduring +remembrance of your family. Pray then accept this trifle, and do not forget +that it is offered by a devoted friend. Oh! if it only gives you pleasure, +my wishes will be fulfilled. May it in some degree recall the time when I +passed so many happy hours in your house! Perhaps it may serve to remind +you of me till I return, though this is indeed a distant prospect. Oh! how +we shall then rejoice together, my dear Eleonore! You will, I trust, find +your friend a happier man, all former forbidding, careworn furrows smoothed +away by time and better fortune. + +When you see B. Koch [subsequently Countess Belderbusch], pray say that it +is unkind in her never once to have written to me. I wrote to her twice, +and three times to Malchus (afterwards Westphalian Minister of Finance), +but no answer. Tell her that if she does not choose to write herself, I beg +that she will at least urge Malchus to do so. At the close of my letter I +venture to make one more request--I am anxious to be so fortunate as again +to possess an Angola waistcoat knitted by your own hand, my dear friend. +Forgive my indiscreet request; it proceeds from my great love for all that +comes from you; and I may privately admit that a little vanity is connected +with it, namely, that I may say I possess something from the best and most +admired young lady in Bonn. I still have the one you were so good as to +give me in Bonn; but change of fashion has made it look so antiquated, that +I can only treasure it in my wardrobe as your gift, and thus still very +dear to me. You would make me very happy by soon writing me a kind letter. +If mine cause you any pleasure, I promise you to do as you wish, and write +as often as it lies in my power; indeed everything is acceptable to me that +can serve to show you how truly I am your admiring and sincere friend, + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + +P.S. The variations are rather difficult to play, especially the shake in +the _Coda_; but do not be alarmed at this, being so contrived that you only +require to play the shake, and leave out the other notes, which also occur +in the violin part. I never would have written it in this way, had I not +occasionally observed that there was a certain individual in Vienna who, +when I extemporized the previous evening, not unfrequently wrote down next +day many of the peculiarities of my music, adopting them as his own [for +instance, the Abbé Gelinek]. Concluding, therefore, that some of these +things would soon appear, I resolved to anticipate this. Another reason +also was to puzzle some of the pianoforte teachers here, many of whom are +my mortal foes; so I wished to revenge myself on them in this way, knowing +that they would occasionally be asked to play the variations, when these +gentlemen would not appear to much advantage. + +BEETHOVEN. + + +5. + +TO ELEONORE VON BREUNING,--BONN. + +The beautiful neckcloth, embroidered by your own hand, was the greatest +possible surprise to me; yet, welcome as the gift was, it awakened within +me feelings of sadness. Its effect was to recall former days, and to put me +to shame by your noble conduct to me. I, indeed, little thought that you +still considered me worthy of your remembrance. + +Oh! if you could have witnessed my emotions yesterday when this incident +occurred, you would not think that I exaggerate in saying that such a token +of your recollection brought tears to my eyes, and made me feel very sad. +Little as I may deserve favor in your eyes, believe me, my dear _friend_, +(let me still call you so,) I have suffered, and still suffer severely from +the privation of your friendship. Never can I forget you and your dear +mother. You were so kind to me that your loss neither can nor will be +easily replaced. I know what I have forfeited, and what you were to me, but +in order to fill up this blank I must recur to scenes equally painful for +you to hear and for me to detail. + +As a slight requital of your kind _souvenir_, I take the liberty to send +you some variations, and a Rondo with violin accompaniment. I have a great +deal to do, or I would long since have transcribed the Sonata I promised +you. It is as yet a mere sketch in manuscript, and to copy it would be a +difficult task even for the clever and practised Paraquin [counter-bass in +the Electoral orchestra]. You can have the Rondo copied, and return the +score. What I now send is the only one of my works at all suitable for you; +besides, as you are going to Kerpen [where an uncle of the family lived], I +thought these trifles might cause you pleasure. + +Farewell, my friend; for it is impossible for me to give you any other +name. However indifferent I may be to you, believe me, I shall ever +continue to revere you and your mother as I have always done. If I can in +any way contribute to the fulfilment of a wish of yours, do not fail to let +me know, for I have no other means of testifying my gratitude for past +friendship. + +I wish you an agreeable journey, and that your dear mother may return +entirely restored to health! Think sometimes of your affectionate friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +6. + +TO HERR SCHENK. + +June, 1794. + +DEAR SCHENK,[1]-- + +I did not know that I was to set off to-day to Eisenstadt. I should like to +have talked to you again. In the mean time rest assured of my gratitude for +your obliging services. I shall endeavor, so far as it lies in my power, to +requite them. I hope soon to see you, and once more to enjoy the pleasure +of your society. Farewell, and do not entirely forget your + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Schenk, afterwards celebrated as the composer of the "Dorf +Barbier," was for some time Beethoven's teacher in composition. This note +appears to have been written in June, 1794, and first printed in the +"Freischütz," No. 183, about 1836, at the time of Schenk's death, when his +connection with Beethoven was mentioned.] + + +7. + +TO DR. WEGELER,--VIENNA.[1] + +... In what an odious light have you exhibited me to myself! Oh! I +acknowledge it, I do not deserve your friendship. It was no intentional or +deliberate malice that induced me to act towards you as I did, but +inexcusable thoughtlessness alone. + +I say no more. I am coming to throw myself into your arms, and to entreat +you to restore me my lost friend; and you will give him back to me, to your +penitent, loving, and ever-grateful + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Dr. Wegeler, in answer to my request that he would send me the +entire letter, replied that "the passages omitted in the letter consisted +chiefly in eulogiums of his father, and enthusiastic expressions of +friendship, which did not seem to him to be of any value; but besides this, +the same reasons that induced his father to give only a portion of the +letter were imperative with him also." I do not wish to contest the point +with the possessor of the letter; still I may remark that all the +utterances and letters of a great man belong to the world at large, and +that in a case like the present, the conscientious biographer, who strives +faithfully to portray such a man, is alone entitled to decide what portion +of these communications is fitted for publication, and what is not. Any +considerations of a personal character seem to me very trivial.] + + +8. + +TO DR. WEGELER,--VIENNA. + +Vienna, May 1797. + +God speed you, my dear friend! I owe you a letter which you shall shortly +have, and my newest music besides, _I am going on well; indeed, I may say +every day better._ Greet those to whom it will give pleasure from me. +Farewell, and do not forget your + +BEETHOVEN. + + +9. + +WRITTEN IN THE ALBUM OF LENZ VON BREUNING. + +Vienna, Oct. 1, 1797. + + Truth for the wise, + Beauty for a feeling heart, + And both for each other. + +MY DEAR, GOOD BREUNING,-- + +Never can I forget the time I passed with you, not only in Bonn, but here. +Continue your friendship towards me, for you shall always find me the same +true friend, + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + + +10. + +TO BARON ZMESKALL VON DOMANOWECZ. + +1800.[1] + +[Music: Alto, Tenor, Bass clefs, C Major, 4/4 time, Grave. +ALTO. Ba-ron. +TENORE. Ba-ron. +BASSO. Ba-ron. Ba-ron. Ba-ron.] + +MY CHEAPEST (NOT DEAREST) BARON,-- + +Desire the guitar-player to come to me to-day. Amenda (instead of an +_amende_ [fine], which he sometimes deserves for not observing his rests +properly) must persuade this popular guitarist to visit me, and if possible +to come at five o'clock this evening; if not then, at five or six o'clock +to-morrow morning; but he must not waken me if I chance to be still asleep. +_Adieu, mon ami à bon marché._ Perhaps we may meet at the "Swan"? + +[Footnote 1: As it appears from the following letters that Amenda was again +at home in 1800, the date of this note is thus ascertained. It is +undoubtedly addressed to Baron Zmeskall von Domanowecz, Royal Court +Secretary, a good violoncello-player, and one of Beethoven's earliest +friends in Vienna. The "guitarist" was probably the celebrated Giuliani, +who lived in Vienna.] + + +11. + +The musical Count is from this day forth _cashiered_ with infamy. The first +violin [Schuppanzigh] ruthlessly transported to _Siberia_. The Baron [see +No. 10] for a whole month _strictly interdicted from asking questions_; no +longer to be so hasty, and to devote himself exclusively to his _ipse +miserum_.[1] + +B. + +[Footnote 1: Written in gigantic characters in pencil on a large sheet of +paper. The "musical Count" is probably Count Moritz Lichnowsky, brother of +Prince Carl Lichnowsky, in whose house were held those musical performances +in which Beethoven's works were first produced. Even at that time he +behaved in a very dictatorial manner to those gentlemen when his +compositions were badly executed. Thence the name given him by Haydn of +"The Great Mogul."] + + +12. + +TO PASTOR AMENDA,--COURLAND. + +Does Amenda think that I can ever forget him, because I do not write? in +fact, never have written to him?--as if the memory of our friends could +only thus be preserved! The _best man I ever knew_ has a thousand times +recurred to my thoughts! Two persons alone once possessed my whole love, +one of whom still lives, and you are now the third. How can my remembrance +of you ever fade? You will shortly receive a long letter about my present +circumstances and all that can interest you. Farewell, beloved, good, and +noble friend! Ever continue your love and friendship towards me, just as I +shall ever be your faithful + +BEETHOVEN. + + +13. + +TO PASTOR AMENDA. + +1800. + +MY DEAR, MY GOOD AMENDA, MY WARM-HEARTED FRIEND,-- + +I received and read your last letter with deep emotion, and with mingled +pain and pleasure. To what can I compare your fidelity and devotion to me? +Ah! it is indeed delightful that you still continue to love me so well. I +know how to prize you, and to distinguish you from all others; you are not +like my Vienna friends. No! you are one of those whom the soil of my +fatherland is wont to bring forth; how often I wish that you were with me, +for your Beethoven is very unhappy. You must know that one of my most +precious faculties, that of hearing, is become very defective; even while +you were still with me I felt indications of this, though I said nothing; +but it is now much worse. Whether I shall ever be cured remains yet to be +seen; it is supposed to proceed from the state of my digestive organs, but +I am almost entirely recovered in that respect. I hope indeed that my +hearing may improve, but I scarcely think so, for attacks of this kind are +the most incurable of all. How sad my life must now be!--forced to shun all +that is most dear and precious to me, and to live with such miserable +egotists as ----, &c. I can with truth say that of all my friends +Lichnowsky [Prince Carl] is the most genuine. He last year settled 600 +florins on me, which, together with the good sale of my works, enables me +to live free from care as to my maintenance. All that I now write I can +dispose of five times over, and be well paid into the bargain. I have been +writing a good deal latterly, and as I hear that you have ordered some +pianos from ----, I will send you some of my compositions in the +packing-case of one of these instruments, by which means they will not cost +you so much. + +To my great comfort, a person has returned here with whom I can enjoy the +pleasures of society and disinterested friendship,--one of the friends of +my youth [Stephan von Breuning]. I have often spoken to him of you, and +told him that since I left my fatherland, you are one of those to whom my +heart specially clings. Z. [Zmeskall?] does not seem quite to please him; +he is, and always will be, too weak for true friendship, and I look on him +and ---- as mere instruments on which I play as I please, but never can +they bear noble testimony to my inner and outward energies, or feel true +sympathy with me; I value them only in so far as their services deserve. +Oh! how happy should I now be, had I my full sense of hearing; I would then +hasten to you; whereas, as it is, I must withdraw from everything. My best +years will thus pass away, without effecting what my talents and powers +might have enabled me to perform. How melancholy is the resignation in +which I must take refuge! I had determined to rise superior to all this, +but how is it possible? If in the course of six months my malady be +pronounced incurable then, Amenda! I shall appeal to you to leave all else +and come to me, when I intend to travel (my affliction is less distressing +when playing and composing, and most so in intercourse with others), and +you must be my companion. I have a conviction that good fortune will not +forsake me, for to what may I not at present aspire? Since you were here I +have written everything except operas and church music. You will not, I +know, refuse my petition; you will help your friend to bear his burden and +his calamity. I have also very much perfected my pianoforte playing, and I +hope that a journey of this kind may possibly contribute to your own +success in life, and you would thenceforth always remain with me. I duly +received all your letters, and though I did not reply to them, you were +constantly present with me, and my heart beats as tenderly as ever for you. +I beg you will keep the fact of my deafness a profound secret, and not +confide it to any human being. Write to me frequently; your letters, +however short, console and cheer me; so I shall soon hope to hear from you. + +Do not give your quartet to any one [in F, Op. 18, No. 1], as I have +altered it very much, having only now succeeded in writing quartets +properly; this you will at once perceive when you receive it. Now, +farewell, my dear kind friend! If by any chance I can serve you here, I +need not say that you have only to command me. + +Your faithful and truly attached + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + + +14. + +TO WEGELER. + +Vienna, June 29, 1800. + +MY DEAR AND VALUED WEGELER,-- + +How much I thank you for your remembrance of me, little as I deserve it, or +have sought to deserve it; and yet you are so kind that you allow nothing, +not even my unpardonable neglect, to discourage you, always remaining the +same true, good, and faithful friend. That I can ever forget you or yours, +once so dear and precious to me, do not for a moment believe. There are +times when I find myself longing to see you again, and wishing that I could +go to stay with you. My father-land, that lovely region where I first saw +the light, is still as distinct and beauteous in my eyes as when I quitted +you; in short, I shall esteem the time when I once more see you, and again +greet Father Rhine, as one of the happiest periods of my life. When this +may be I cannot yet tell; but at all events I may say that you shall not +see me again till I have become eminent, not only as an artist, but better +and more perfect as a man; and if the condition of our father-land be then +more prosperous, my art shall be entirely devoted to the benefit of the +poor. Oh, blissful moment!--how happy do I esteem myself that I can +expedite it and bring it to pass! + +You desire to know something of my position; well! it is by no means bad. +However incredible it may appear, I must tell you that Lichnowsky has been, +and still is, my warmest friend (slight dissensions occurred occasionally +between us, and yet they only served to strengthen our friendship). He +settled on me last year the sum of 600 florins, for which I am to draw on +him till I can procure some suitable situation. My compositions are very +profitable, and I may really say that I have almost more commissions than +it is possible for me to execute. I can have six or seven publishers or +more for every piece, if I choose; they no longer bargain with me--I +demand, and they pay--so you see this is a very good thing. For instance, I +have a friend in distress, and my purse does not admit of my assisting him +at once; but I have only to sit down and write, and in a short time he is +relieved. I am also become more economical than formerly. If I finally +settle here, I don't doubt I shall be able to secure a particular day every +year for a concert, of which I have already given several. That malicious +demon, however, bad health, has been a stumbling-block in my path; my +hearing during the last three years has become gradually worse. The chief +cause of this infirmity proceeds from the state of my digestive organs, +which, as you know, were formerly bad enough, but have latterly become much +worse, and being constantly afflicted with diarrhoea, has brought on +extreme weakness. Frank [Director of the General Hospital] strove to +restore the tone of my digestion by tonics, and my hearing by oil of +almonds; but alas! these did me no good whatever; my hearing became worse, +and my digestion continued in its former plight. This went on till the +autumn of last year, when I was often reduced to utter despair. Then some +medical _asinus_ recommended me cold baths, but a more judicious doctor the +tepid ones of the Danube, which did wonders for me; my digestion improved, +but my hearing remained the same, or in fact rather got worse. I did indeed +pass a miserable winter; I suffered from most dreadful spasms, and sank +back into my former condition. Thus it went on till about a month ago, when +I consulted Vering [an army surgeon], under the belief that my maladies +required surgical advice; besides, I had every confidence in him. He +succeeded in almost entirely checking the violent diarrhoea, and ordered me +the tepid baths of the Danube, into which I pour some strengthening +mixture. He gave me no medicine, except some digestive pills four days ago, +and a lotion for my ears. I certainly do feel better and stronger, but my +ears are buzzing and ringing perpetually, day and night. I can with truth +say that my life is very wretched; for nearly two years past I have avoided +all society, because I find it impossible to say to people, _I am deaf!_ In +any other profession this might be more tolerable, but in mine such a +condition is truly frightful. Besides, what would my enemies say to +this?--and they are not few in number. + +To give you some idea of my extraordinary deafness, I must tell you that in +the theatre I am obliged to lean close up against the orchestra in order to +understand the actors, and when a little way off I hear none of the high +notes of instruments or singers. It is most astonishing that in +conversation some people never seem to observe this; being subject to fits +of absence, they attribute it to that cause. I often can scarcely hear a +person if speaking low; I can distinguish the tones, but not the words, and +yet I feel it intolerable if any one shouts to me. Heaven alone knows how +it is to end! Vering declares that I shall certainly improve, even if I be +not entirely restored. How often have I cursed my existence! Plutarch led +me to resignation. I shall strive if possible to set Fate at defiance, +although there must be moments in my life when I cannot fail to be the most +unhappy of God's creatures. I entreat you to say nothing of my affliction +to any one, not even to Lorchen [see Nos. 4 and 5]. I confide the secret to +you alone, and entreat you some day to correspond with Vering on the +subject. If I continue in the same state, I shall come to you in the +ensuing spring, when you must engage a house for me somewhere in the +country, amid beautiful scenery, and I shall then become a rustic for a +year, which may perhaps effect a change. Resignation!--what a miserable +refuge! and yet it is my sole remaining one. You will forgive my thus +appealing to your kindly sympathies at a time when your own position is sad +enough. Stephan Breuning is here, and we are together almost every day; it +does me so much good to revive old feelings! He has really become a capital +good fellow, not devoid of talent, and his heart, like that of us all, +pretty much in the right place. [See No. 13.] + +I have very charming rooms at present, adjoining the Bastei [the ramparts], +and peculiarly valuable to me on account of my health [at Baron +Pasqualati's]. I do really think I shall be able to arrange that Breuning +shall come to me. You shall have your Antiochus [a picture], and plenty of +my music besides--if, indeed, it will not cost you too much. Your love of +art does honestly rejoice me. Only say how it is to be done, and I will +send you all my works, which now amount to a considerable number, and are +daily increasing. I beg you will let me have my grandfather's portrait as +soon as possible by the post, in return for which I send you that of his +grandson, your loving and attached Beethoven. It has been brought out here +by Artaria, who, as well as many other publishers, has often urged this on +me. I intend soon to write to Stoffeln [Christoph von Breuning], and +plainly admonish him about his surly humor. I mean to sound in his ears our +old friendship, and to insist on his promising me not to annoy you further +in your sad circumstances. I will also write to the amiable Lorchen. Never +have I forgotten one of you, my kind friends, though you did not hear from +me; but you know well that writing never was my _forte_, even my best +friends having received no letters from me for years. I live wholly in my +music, and scarcely is one work finished when another is begun; indeed, I +am now often at work on three or four things at the same time. Do write to +me frequently, and I will strive to find time to write to you also. Give my +remembrances to all, especially to the kind Frau Hofräthin [von Breuning], +and say to her that I am still subject to an occasional _raptus_. As for +K----, I am not at all surprised at the change in her: Fortune rolls like a +ball, and does not always stop before the best and noblest. As to Ries +[Court musician in Bonn], to whom pray cordially remember me, I must say +one word. I will write to you more particularly about his son [Ferdinand], +although I believe that he would be more likely to succeed in Paris than in +Vienna, which is already overstocked, and where even those of the highest +merit find it a hard matter to maintain themselves. By next autumn or +winter, I shall be able to see what can be done for him, because then all +the world returns to town. Farewell, my kind, faithful Wegeler! Rest +assured of the love and friendship of your + +BEETHOVEN. + + +15. + +TO COUNTESS GIULIETTA GUICCIARDI.[1] + +Morning, July 6, 1800. + +MY ANGEL! MY ALL! MY SECOND SELF! + +Only a few words to-day, written with a pencil (your own). My residence +cannot be settled till to-morrow. What a tiresome loss of time! Why this +deep grief when necessity compels?--can our love exist without sacrifices, +and by refraining from desiring all things? Can you alter the fact that you +are not wholly mine, nor I wholly yours? Ah! contemplate the beauties of +Nature, and reconcile your spirit to the inevitable. Love demands all, and +has a right to do so, and thus it is _I feel towards you_ and _you towards +me_; but you do not sufficiently remember that I must live both _for you_ +and _for myself_. Were we wholly united, you would feel this sorrow as +little as I should. My journey was terrible. I did not arrive here till +four o'clock yesterday morning, as no horses were to be had. The drivers +chose another route; but what a dreadful one it was! At the last stage I +was warned not to travel through the night, and to beware of a certain +wood, but this only incited me to go forward, and I was wrong. The carriage +broke down, owing to the execrable roads, mere deep rough country lanes, +and had it not been for the postilions I must have been left by the +wayside. Esterhazy, travelling the usual road, had the same fate with eight +horses, whereas I had only four. Still I felt a certain degree of pleasure, +which I invariably do when I have happily surmounted any difficulty. But I +must now pass from the outer to the inner man. We shall, I trust, soon meet +again; to-day I cannot impart to you all the reflections I have made, +during the last few days, on my life; were our hearts closely united +forever, none of these would occur to me. My heart is overflowing with all +I have to say to you. Ah! there are moments when I find that speech is +actually nothing. Take courage! Continue to be ever my true and only love, +my all! as I am yours. The gods must ordain what is further to be and shall +be! + +Your faithful + +LUDWIG. + +Monday Evening, July 6. + +You grieve! dearest of all beings! I have just heard that the letters must +be sent off very early. Mondays and Thursdays are the only days when the +post goes to K. from here. You grieve! Ah! where I am, there you are ever +with me; how earnestly shall I strive to pass my life with you, and what a +life will it be!!! Whereas now!! without you!! and persecuted by the +kindness of others, which I neither deserve nor try to deserve! The +servility of man towards his fellow-man pains me, and when I regard myself +as a component part of the universe, what am I, what is he who is called +the greatest?--and yet herein are displayed the godlike feelings of +humanity!--I weep in thinking that you will receive no intelligence from me +till probably Saturday. However dearly you may love me, I love you more +fondly still. Never conceal your feelings from me. Good-night! As a patient +at these baths, I must now go to rest [a few words are here effaced by +Beethoven himself]. Oh, heavens! so near, and yet so far! Is not our love a +truly celestial mansion, but firm as the vault of heaven itself? + +July 7. + +GOOD-MORNING! + +Even before I rise, my thoughts throng to you, my immortal +beloved!--sometimes full of joy, and yet again sad, waiting to see whether +Fate will hear us. I must live either wholly with you, or not at all. +Indeed I have resolved to wander far from you [see No. 13] till the moment +arrives when I can fly into your arms, and feel that they are my home, and +send forth my soul in unison with yours into the realm of spirits. Alas! it +must be so! You will take courage, for you know my fidelity. Never can +another possess my heart--never, never! Oh, heavens! Why must I fly from +her I so fondly love? and yet my existence in W. was as miserable as here. +Your love made me the most happy and yet the most unhappy of men. At my +age, life requires a uniform equality; can this be found in our mutual +relations? My angel! I have this moment heard that the post goes every day, +so I must conclude, that you may get this letter the sooner. Be calm! for +we can only attain our object of living together by the calm contemplation +of our existence. Continue to love me. Yesterday, to-day, what longings for +you, what tears for you! for you! for you! my life! my all! Farewell! Oh! +love me forever, and never doubt the faithful heart of your lover, L. + +Ever thine. +Ever mine. +Ever each other's. + +[Footnote 1: These letters to his "immortal beloved," to whom the C sharp +minor Sonata is dedicated, appear here for the first time in their +integrity, in accordance with the originals written in pencil on fine +notepaper, and given in Schindler's _Beethoven's Nachlass_. There has been +much discussion about the date. It is certified, in the first place, in the +church register which Alex. Thayer saw in Vienna, that Giulietta was +married to Count Gallenberg in 1801; and in the next place, the 6th of July +falls on a Monday in 1800. The other reasons which induce me decidedly to +fix this latter year as the date of the letter, I mean to give at full +length in the second volume of _Beethoven's Biography_. I may also state +that Beethoven was at baths in Hungary at that time. Whether the K---- in +the second letter means Komorn, I cannot tell.] + + +16. + +TO MATTHISSON. + +Vienna, August 4, 1800. + +MOST ESTEEMED FRIEND,-- + +You will receive with this one of my compositions published some years +since, and yet, to my shame, you probably have never heard of it. I cannot +attempt to excuse myself, or to explain why I dedicated a work to you which +came direct from my heart, but never acquainted you with its existence, +unless indeed in this way, that at first I did not know where you lived, +and partly also from diffidence, which led me to think I might have been +premature in dedicating a work to you before ascertaining that you approved +of it. Indeed, even now I send you "Adelaide" with a feeling of timidity. +You know yourself what changes the lapse of some years brings forth in an +artist who continues to make progress; the greater the advances we make in +art, the less are we satisfied with our works of an earlier date. My most +ardent wish will be fulfilled if you are not dissatisfied with the manner +in which I have set your heavenly "Adelaide" to music, and are incited by +it soon to compose a similar poem; and if you do not consider my request +too indiscreet, I would ask you to send it to me forthwith, that I may +exert all my energies to approach your lovely poetry in merit. Pray regard +the dedication as a token of the pleasure which your "Adelaide" conferred +on me, as well as of the appreciation and intense delight your poetry +always has inspired, and _always will inspire in me_. + +When playing "Adelaide," sometimes recall + +Your sincere admirer, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +17. + +TO FRAU FRANK,--VIENNA + +October, 1800. + +DEAR LADY,-- + +At the second announcement of our concert, you must remind your husband +that the public should be made acquainted with the names of those whose +talents are to contribute to this concert. Such is the custom here; and +indeed, were it not so, what is there to attract a larger audience? which +is after all our chief object. Punto [the celebrated horn-player, for whom +Beethoven wrote Sonata 17] is not a little indignant about the omission, +and I must say he has reason to be so; but even before seeing him it was my +intention to have reminded you of this, for I can only explain the mistake +by great haste or great forgetfulness. Be so good, then, dear lady, as to +attend to my hint; otherwise you will certainly expose yourself to _many +annoyances_. Being at last convinced in my own mind, and by others, that I +shall not be quite superfluous in this concert, I know that not only I, but +also Punto, Simoni [a tenorist], and Galvani will demand that the public +should be apprised of our zeal for this charitable object; otherwise we +must all conclude that we are not wanted. + +Yours, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +18. + +TO HERR VON WEGELER. + +Vienna, Nov. 16, 1800. + +MY DEAR WEGELER,-- + +I thank you for this fresh proof of your interest in me, especially as I so +little deserve it. You wish to know how I am, and what remedies I use. +Unwilling as I always feel to discuss this subject, still I feel less +reluctant to do so with you than with any other person. For some months +past Vering has ordered me to apply blisters on both arms, of a particular +kind of bark, with which you are probably acquainted,--a disagreeable +remedy, independent of the pain, as it deprives me of the free use of my +arms for a couple of days at a time, till the blisters have drawn +sufficiently. The ringing and buzzing in my ears have certainly rather +decreased, particularly in the left ear, in which the malady first +commenced, but my hearing is not at all improved; in fact I fear that it is +become rather worse. My health is better, and after using the tepid baths +for a time, I feel pretty well for eight or ten days. I seldom take tonics, +but I have begun applications of herbs, according to your advice. Vering +will not hear of plunge baths, but I am much dissatisfied with him; he is +neither so attentive nor so indulgent as he ought to be to such a malady; +if I did not go to him, which is no easy matter, I should never see him at +all. What is your opinion of Schmidt [an army surgeon]? I am unwilling to +make any change, but it seems to me that Vering is too much of a +practitioner to acquire new ideas by reading. On this point Schmidt appears +to be a very different man, and would probably be less negligent with +regard to my case. I hear wonders of galvanism; what do you say to it? A +physician told me that he knew a deaf and dumb child whose hearing was +restored by it (in Berlin), and likewise a man who had been deaf for seven +years, and recovered his hearing. I am told that your friend Schmidt is at +this moment making experiments on the subject. + +I am now leading a somewhat more agreeable life, as of late I have been +associating more with other people. You could scarcely believe what a sad +and dreary life mine has been for the last two years; my defective hearing +everywhere pursuing me like a spectre, making me fly from every one, and +appear a misanthrope; and yet no one is in reality less so! This change has +been wrought by a lovely fascinating girl [undoubtedly Giulietta], who +loves me and whom I love. I have once more had some blissful moments during +the last two years, and it is the first time I ever felt that marriage +could make me happy. Unluckily, she is not in my rank of life, and indeed +at this moment I can marry no one; I must first bestir myself actively in +the world. Had it not been for my deafness, I would have travelled half +round the globe ere now, and this I must still do. For me there is no +pleasure so great as to promote and to pursue my art. + +Do not suppose that I could be happy with you. What indeed could make me +happier? Your very solicitude would distress me; I should read your +compassion every moment in your countenance, which would make me only still +more unhappy. What were my thoughts amid the glorious scenery of my +father-land? The hope alone of a happier future, which would have been mine +but for this affliction! Oh! I could span the world were I only free from +this! I feel that my youth is only now commencing. Have I not always been +an infirm creature? For some time past my bodily strength has been +increasing, and it is the same with my mental powers. I feel, though I +cannot describe it, that I daily approach the object I have in view, in +which alone can your Beethoven live. No rest for him!--I know of none but +in sleep, and I do grudge being obliged to sacrifice more time to it than +formerly.[1] Were I only half cured of my malady, then I would come to you, +and, as a more perfect and mature man, renew our old friendship. + +You should then see me as happy as I am ever destined to be here below--not +unhappy. No! that I could not endure; I will boldly meet my fate, never +shall it succeed in crushing me. Oh! it is so glorious to live one's life a +thousand times over! I feel that I am no longer made for a quiet existence. +You will write to me as soon as possible? Pray try to prevail on Steffen +[von Breuning] to seek an appointment from the Teutonic Order somewhere. +Life here is too harassing for his health; besides, he is so isolated that +I do not see how he is ever to get on. You know the kind of existence here. +I do not take it upon myself to say that society would dispel his +lassitude, but he cannot be persuaded to go anywhere. A short time since, I +had some music in my house, but our friend Steffen stayed away. Do +recommend him to be more calm and self-possessed, which I have in vain +tried to effect; otherwise he can neither enjoy health nor happiness. Tell +me in your next letter whether you care about my sending you a large +selection of music; you can indeed dispose of what you do not want, and +thus repay the expense of the carriage, and have my portrait into the +bargain. Say all that is kind and amiable from me to Lorchen, and also to +mamma and Christoph. You still have some regard for me? Always rely on the +love as well as the friendship of your + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: "Too much sleep is hurtful" is marked by a thick score in the +Odyssey (45, 393) by Beethoven's hand. See Schindler's _Beethoven's +Nachlass_.] + + +19. + +TO KAPELLMEISTER HOFMEISTER,--LEIPZIG.[1] + +Vienna, Dec. 15, 1800. + +MY DEAR BROTHER IN ART,-- + +I have often intended to answer your proposals, but am frightfully lazy +about all correspondence; so it is usually a good while before I can make +up my mind to write dry letters instead of music. I have, however, at last +forced myself to answer your application. _Pro primo_, I must tell you how +much I regret that you, my much-loved brother in the science of music, did +not give me some hint, so that I might have offered you my quartets, as +well as many other things that I have now disposed of. But if you are as +conscientious, my dear brother, as many other publishers, who grind to +death us poor composers, you will know pretty well how to derive ample +profit when the works appear. I now briefly state what you can have from +me. 1st. A Septet, _per il violino, viola, violoncello, contra-basso, +clarinetto, corno, fagotto;--tutti obbligati_ (I can write nothing that is +not _obbligato_, having come into the world with an _obbligato_ +accompaniment!) This Septet pleases very much. For more general use it +might be arranged for one more _violino, viola_, and _violoncello_, instead +of the three wind-instruments, _fagotto, clarinetto_, and _corno_.[2] 2d. A +Grand Symphony with full orchestra [the 1st]. 3rd. A pianoforte Concerto +[Op. 19], which I by no means assert to be one of my best, any more than +the one Mollo is to publish here [Op. 15], (this is for the benefit of the +Leipzig critics!) because _I reserve the best for myself_ till I set off on +my travels; still the work will not disgrace you to publish. 4th. A Grand +Solo Sonata [Op. 22]. These are all I can part with at this moment; a +little later you can have a quintet for stringed instruments, and probably +some quartets also, and other pieces that I have not at present beside me. +In your answer you can yourself fix the prices; and as you are neither an +_Italian_ nor a _Jew_, nor am I either, we shall no doubt quickly agree. +Farewell, and rest assured, + +My dear brother in art, of the esteem of your + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: The letters to Hofmeister, formerly of Vienna, who conducted +the correspondence with Beethoven in the name of the firm of "Hofmeister & +Kühnel, Bureau de Musique," are given here as they first appeared in 1837 +in the _Neue Zeitschrift für Musik_. On applying to the present +representative of that firm, I was told that those who now possess these +letters decline giving them out of their own hands, and that no copyist can +be found able to decipher or transcribe them correctly.] + +[Footnote 2: This last phrase is not in the copy before me, but in Marx's +_Biography_, who appears to have seen the original.] + + +20. + +TO KAPELLMEISTER HOFMEISTER. + +Vienna, Jan. 15 (or thereabouts), 1801. + +I read your letter, dear brother and friend, with much pleasure, and I +thank you for your good opinion of me and of my works, and hope I may +continue to deserve it. I also beg you to present all due thanks to Herr K. +[Kühnel] for his politeness and friendship towards me. I, on my part, +rejoice in your undertakings, and am glad that when works of art do turn +out profitable, they fall to the share of true artists, rather than to that +of mere tradesmen. + +Your intention to publish Sebastian Bach's works really gladdens my heart, +which beats with devotion for the lofty and grand productions of this our +father of the science of harmony, and I trust I shall soon see them appear. +I hope when golden peace is proclaimed, and your subscription list opened, +to procure you many subscribers here.[1] + +With regard to our own transactions, as you wish to know my proposals, they +are as follows. I offer you at present the following works:--The Septet +(which I already wrote to you about), 20 ducats; Symphony, 20 ducats; +Concerto, 10 ducats; Grand Solo Sonata, _allegro, adagio, minuetto, rondo_, +20 ducats. This Sonata [Op. 22] is well up to the mark, my dear brother! + +Now for explanations. You may perhaps be surprised that I make no +difference of price between the sonata, septet, and symphony. I do so +because I find that a septet or a symphony has not so great a sale as a +sonata, though a symphony ought unquestionably to be of the most value. +(N.B. The septet consists of a short introductory _adagio_, an _allegro, +adagio, minuetto, andante_, with variations, _minuetto_, and another short +_adagio_ preceding a _presto_.) I only ask ten ducats for the concerto, +for, as I already wrote to you, I do not consider it one of my best. I +cannot think that, taken as a whole, you will consider these prices +exorbitant; at least, I have endeavored to make them as moderate as +possible for you. + +With regard to the banker's draft, as you give me my choice, I beg you will +make it payable by Germüller or Schüller. The entire sum for the four works +will amount to 70 ducats; I understand no currency but Vienna ducats, so +how many dollars in gold they make in your money is no affair of mine, for +really I am a very bad man of business and accountant. Now this +_troublesome_ business is concluded;--I call it so, heartily wishing that +it could be otherwise here below! There ought to be only one grand _dépôt_ +of art in the world, to which the artist might repair with his works, and +on presenting them receive what he required; but as it now is, one must be +half a tradesman besides--and how is this to be endured? Good heavens! I +may well call it _troublesome_! + +As for the Leipzig oxen,[2] let them talk!--they certainly will make no man +immortal by their prating, and as little can they deprive of immortality +those whom Apollo destines to attain it. + +Now may Heaven preserve you and your colleagues! I have been unwell for +some time; so it is rather difficult for me at present to write even music, +much more letters. I trust we shall have frequent opportunities to assure +each other how truly you are my friend, and I yours. + +I hope for a speedy answer. Adieu! + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: I have at this moment in my hands this edition of Bach, bound +in one thick volume, together with the first part of Nägeli's edition of +the _Wohltemperirtes Clavier_, also three books of exercises (D, G, and C +minor), the _Toccata in D Minor_, and _Twice Fifteen Inventions_.] + +[Footnote 2: It is thus that Schindler supplies the gap. It is probably an +allusion to the _Allgemeine Musikalische Zeitung_, founded about three +years previously.] + + +21. + +TO HERR HOFMEISTER. + +Vienna, April 22, 1801. + +You have indeed too good cause to complain not a little of me. My excuse is +that I have been ill, and in addition had so much to do, that I could +scarcely even think of what I was to send you. Moreover, the only thing in +me that resembles a genius is, that my papers are never in very good order, +and yet no one but myself can succeed in arranging them. For instance, in +the score of the concerto, the piano part, according to my usual custom, +was not yet written down; so, owing to my hurry, you will receive it in my +own very illegible writing. In order that the works may follow as nearly as +possible in their proper order, I have marked the numbers to be placed on +each, as follows:-- + +Solo Sonata, Op. 22. +Symphony, Op. 21. +Septet, Op. 20. +Concerto, Op. 19. + +I will send you their various titles shortly. + +Put me down as a subscriber to Sebastian Bach's works [see Letter 20], and +also Prince Lichnowsky. The arrangement of Mozart's Sonatas as quartets +will do you much credit, and no doubt be profitable also. I wish I could +contribute more to the promotion of such an undertaking, but I am an +irregular man, and too apt, even with the best intentions, to forget +everything; I have, however, mentioned the matter to various people, and I +everywhere find them well disposed towards it. It would be a good thing if +you would arrange the septet you are about to publish as a quintet, with a +flute part, for instance; this would be an advantage to amateurs of the +flute, who have already importuned me on the subject, and who would swarm +round it like insects and banquet on it. + +Now to tell you something of myself. I have written a ballet +["Prometheus"], in which the ballet-master has not done his part so well as +might be. The F---- von L---- has also bestowed on us a production which by +no means corresponds with the ideas of his genius conveyed by the newspaper +reports. F---- seems to have taken Herr M---- (Wenzel Müller?) as his ideal +at the Kusperle, yet without even rising to his level. Such are the fine +prospects before us poor people who strive to struggle upwards! My dear +friend, pray lose no time in bringing the work before the notice of the +public, and write to me soon, that I may know whether by my delay I have +entirely forfeited your confidence for the future. Say all that is civil +and kind to your partner, Kühnel. Everything shall henceforth be sent +finished, and in quick succession. So now farewell, and continue your +regards for + +Your friend and brother, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +22. + +TO HERR HOFMEISTER. + +Vienna, June, 1801. + +I am rather surprised at the communication you have desired your business +agent here to make to me; I may well feel offended at your believing me +capable of so mean a trick. It would have been a very different thing had I +sold my works to rapacious shopkeepers, and then secretly made another good +speculation; but, from _one artist to another_, it is rather a strong +measure to suspect me of such a proceeding! The whole thing seems to be +either a device to put me to the test, or a mere suspicion. In any event I +may tell you that before you received the septet from me I had sent it to +Mr. Salomon in London (to be played at his own concert, which I did solely +from friendship), with the express injunction to beware of its getting into +other hands, as it was my intention to have it engraved in Germany, and, if +you choose, you can apply to him for the confirmation of this. But to give +you a further proof of my integrity, "I herewith give you the faithful +assurance that I have neither sold the septet, the symphony, the concerto, +nor the sonata to any one but to Messrs. Hofmeister and Kühnel, and that +they may consider them to be their own exclusive property. And to this I +pledge my honor." You may make what use you please of this guarantee. + +Moreover, I believe Salomon to be as incapable of the baseness of engraving +the septet as I am of selling it to him. I was so scrupulous in the matter, +that when applied to by various publishers to sanction a pianoforte +arrangement of the septet, I at once declined, though I do not even know +whether you proposed making use of it in this way. Here follow the +long-promised titles of the works. There will no doubt be a good deal to +alter and to amend in them; but this I leave to you. I shall soon expect a +letter from you, and, I hope, the works likewise, which I wish to see +engraved, as others have appeared, and are about to appear, in connection +with these numbers. I look on your statement as founded on mere rumors, +which you have believed with too much facility, or based entirely on +supposition, induced by having perchance heard that I had sent the work to +Salomon; I cannot, therefore, but feel some coolness towards such a +credulous friend, though I still subscribe myself + +Your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +23. + +DEDICATION TO DR. SCHMIDT.[1] + +1801. + +MONSIEUR,-- + +Je sens parfaitement bien, que la Celebrité de Votre nom ainsi que l'amitié +dont Vous m'honorez, exigeroient de moi la dédicace d'un bien plus +important ouvrage. La seule chose qui a pu me déterminer à Vous offrir +celui-ci de préférence, c'est qu'il me paroît d'une exécution plus facile +et par la même plus propre à contribuer à la Satisfaction dont Vous +jouissez dans l'aimable Cercle de Votre Famille.--C'est surtout, lorsque +les heureux talents d'une fille chérie se seront developpés davantage, que +je me flatte de voir ce but atteint. Heureux si j'y ai réussi et si dans +cette faible marque de ma haute estime et de ma gratitude Vous reconnoissez +toute la vivacité et la cordialité de mes sentiments. + +LOUIS VAN BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Grand Trio, Op. 38.] + + +24. + +TO HIS SCHOLAR, FERDINAND RIES.[1] + +1801. + +DEAR RIES,-- + +I send you herewith the four parts corrected by me; please compare the +others already written out with these. I also enclose a letter to Count +Browne. I have told him that he must make an advance to you of fifty +ducats, to enable you to get your outfit. This is absolutely necessary, so +it cannot offend him; for after being equipped, you are to go with him to +Baden on the Monday of the ensuing week. I must, however, reproach you for +not having had recourse to me long ago. Am I not your true friend? Why did +you conceal your necessities from me? No friend of mine shall ever be in +need, so long as I have anything myself. I would already have sent you a +small sum, did I not rely on Browne; if he fails us, then apply at once to +your + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Ries names 1801 as the date of this letter, and it was no +doubt during that summer that Count Browne was in Baden. Ries's father had +assisted the Beethoven family in every way in his power at the time of the +mother's death.] + + +25. + +TO HERR HOFMEISTER,--LEIPZIG. + +Vienna, April 8, 1802. + +Do you mean to go post-haste to the devil, gentlemen, by proposing that I +should write _such_ a _sonata_? During the revolutionary fever, a thing of +the kind might have been appropriate, but now, when everything is falling +again into the beaten track, and Bonaparte has concluded a _Concordat_ with +the Pope--such a sonata as this? If it were a _missa pro Sancta Maria à tre +voci_, or a _vesper_, &c., then I would at once take up my pen and write a +_Credo in unum_, in gigantic semibreves. But, good heavens! such a sonata, +in this fresh dawning Christian epoch. No, no!--it won't do, and I will +have none of it. + +Now for my answer in quickest _tempo_. The lady can have a sonata from me, +and I am willing to adopt the general outlines of her plan in an +_aesthetical_ point of view, without adhering to the keys named. The price +to be five ducats; for this sum she can keep the work a year for her own +amusement, without either of us being entitled to publish it. After the +lapse of a year, the sonata to revert to me--that is, I can and will then +publish it, when, if she considers it any distinction, she may request me +to dedicate it to her. + +I now, gentlemen, commend you to the grace of God. My Sonata [Op. 22] is +well engraved, but you have been a fine time about it! I hope you will +usher my Septet into the world a little quicker, as the P---- is waiting +for it, and you know the Empress has it; and when there are in this +imperial city people like ----, I cannot be answerable for the result; so +lose no time! + +Herr ---- [Mollo?] has lately published my Quartets [Op. 18] full of faults +and _errata_, both large and small, which swarm in them like fish in the +sea; that is, they are innumerable. _Questo è un piacere per un +autore_--this is what I call engraving [_stechen_, stinging] with a +vengeance.[1] In truth, my skin is a mass of punctures and scratches from +this fine edition of my Quartets! Now farewell, and think of me as I do of +you. Till death, your faithful + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: In reference to the musical piracy at that time very prevalent +in Austria.] + + +26.[1] + +TO MY BROTHERS CARL AND JOHANN BEETHOVEN. + +Heiligenstadt, Oct. 6, 1802. + +Oh! ye who think or declare me to be hostile, morose, and misanthropical, +how unjust you are, and how little you know the secret cause of what +appears thus to you! My heart and mind were ever from childhood prone to +the most tender feelings of affection, and I was always disposed to +accomplish something great. But you must remember that six years ago I was +attacked by an incurable malady, aggravated by unskilful physicians, +deluded from year to year, too, by the hope of relief, and at length forced +to the conviction of a _lasting affliction_ (the cure of which may go on +for years, and perhaps after all prove impracticable). + +Born with a passionate and excitable temperament, keenly susceptible to the +pleasures of society, I was yet obliged early in life to isolate myself, +and to pass my existence in solitude. If I at any time resolved to surmount +all this, oh! how cruelly was I again repelled by the experience, sadder +than ever, of my defective hearing!--and yet I found it impossible to say +to others: Speak louder; shout! for I am deaf! Alas! how could I proclaim +the deficiency of a sense which ought to have been more perfect with me +than with other men,--a sense which I once possessed in the highest +perfection, to an extent, indeed, that few of my profession ever enjoyed! +Alas, I cannot do this! Forgive me therefore when you see me withdraw from +you with whom I would so gladly mingle. My misfortune is doubly severe from +causing me to be misunderstood. No longer can I enjoy recreation in social +intercourse, refined conversation, or mutual outpourings of thought. +Completely isolated, I only enter society when compelled to do so. I must +live like an exile. In company I am assailed by the most painful +apprehensions, from the dread of being exposed to the risk of my condition +being observed. It was the same during the last six months I spent in the +country. My intelligent physician recommended me to spare my hearing as +much as possible, which was quite in accordance with my present +disposition, though sometimes, tempted by my natural inclination for +society, I allowed myself to be beguiled into it. But what humiliation when +any one beside me heard a flute in the far distance, while I heard +_nothing_, or when others heard _a shepherd singing_, and I still heard +_nothing_! Such things brought me to the verge of desperation, and wellnigh +caused me to put an end to my life. _Art! art_ alone, deterred me. Ah! how +could I possibly quit the world before bringing forth all that I felt it +was my vocation to produce?[2] And thus I spared this miserable life--so +utterly miserable that any sudden change may reduce me at any moment from +my best condition into the worst. It is decreed that I must now choose +_Patience_ for my guide! This I have done. I hope the resolve will not fail +me, steadfastly to persevere till it may please the inexorable Fates to cut +the thread of my life. Perhaps I may get better, perhaps not. I am prepared +for either. Constrained to become a philosopher in my twenty-eighth +year![3] This is no slight trial, and more severe on an artist than on any +one else. God looks into my heart, He searches it, and knows that love for +man and feelings of benevolence have their abode there! Oh! ye who may one +day read this, think that you have done me injustice, and let any one +similarly afflicted be consoled, by finding one like himself, who, in +defiance of all the obstacles of Nature, has done all in his power to be +included in the ranks of estimable artists and men. My brothers Carl and +Johann, as soon as I am no more, if Professor Schmidt [see Nos. 18 and 23] +be still alive, beg him in my name to describe my malady, and to add these +pages to the analysis of my disease, that at least, so far as possible, the +world may be reconciled to me after my death. I also hereby declare you +both heirs of my small fortune (if so it may be called). Share it fairly, +agree together and assist each other. You know that anything you did to +give me pain has been long forgiven. I thank you, my brother Carl in +particular, for the attachment you have shown me of late. My wish is that +you may enjoy a happier life, and one more free from care, than mine has +been. Recommend _Virtue_ to your children; that alone, and not wealth, can +ensure happiness. I speak from experience. It was _Virtue_ alone which +sustained me in my misery; I have to thank her and Art for not having ended +my life by suicide. Farewell! Love each other. I gratefully thank all my +friends, especially Prince Lichnowsky and Professor Schmidt. I wish one of +you to keep Prince L----'s instruments; but I trust this will give rise to +no dissension between you. If you think it more beneficial, however, you +have only to dispose of them. How much I shall rejoice if I can serve you +even in the grave! So be it then! I joyfully hasten to meet Death. If he +comes before I have had the opportunity of developing all my artistic +powers, then, notwithstanding my cruel fate, he will come too early for me, +and I should wish for him at a more distant period; but even then I shall +be content, for his advent will release me from a state of endless +suffering. Come when he may, I shall meet him with courage. Farewell! Do +not quite forget me, even in death; I deserve this from you, because during +my life I so often thought of you, and wished to make you happy. Amen! + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + +(_Written on the Outside._) + +Thus, then, I take leave of you, and with sadness too. The fond hope I +brought with me here, of being to a certain degree cured, now utterly +forsakes me. As autumn leaves fall and wither, so are my hopes blighted. +Almost as I came, I depart. Even the lofty courage that so often animated +me in the lovely days of summer is gone forever. O Providence! vouchsafe me +one day of pure felicity! How long have I been estranged from the glad echo +of true joy! When! O my God! when shall I again feel it in the temple of +Nature and of man?--never? Ah! that would be too hard! + +(_Outside._) + +To be read and fulfilled after my death by my brothers Carl and Johann. + +[Footnote 1: This beautiful letter I regret not to have seen in the +original, it being in the possession of the violin _virtuoso_ Ernst, in +London. I have adhered to the version given in the Leipzig _Allgemeine +Musikalische Zeitung_, Oct. 1827.] + +[Footnote 2: A large portion of the _Eroica_ was written in the course of +this summer, but not completed till August, 1804.] + +[Footnote 3: Beethoven did not at that time know in what year he was born. +See the subsequent letter of May 2, 1810. He was then far advanced in his +thirty-third year.] + + +27. + +NOTICE. + +November, 1802. + +I owe it to the public and to myself to state that the two quintets in C +and E flat major--one of these (arranged from a symphony of mine) published +by Herr Mollo in Vienna, and the other (taken from my Septet, Op. 20) by +Herr Hofmeister in Leipzig--are not original quintets, but only versions of +the aforesaid works given by the publishers. Arrangements in these days (so +fruitful in--arrangements) an author will find it vain to contend against; +but we may at least justly demand that the fact should be mentioned in the +title-page, neither to injure the reputation of the author nor to deceive +the public. This notice is given to prevent anything of the kind in future. +I also beg to announce that shortly a new original quintet of my +composition, in C major, Op. 29, will appear at Breitkopf & Härtel's in +Leipzig. + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +28. + +TO FERDINAND RIES. + +Summer of 1803. + +You no doubt are aware that I am here. Go to Stein, and ask if he can send +me an instrument, on hire. I am afraid of bringing mine here. Come to me +this evening about seven o'clock. I lodge in Oberdöbling, on the left side +of the street, No. 4, going down the hill towards Heiligenstadt. + + +29. + +TO HERR HOFMEISTER,--LEIPZIG. + +Vienna, Sept. 22, 1803. + +I hereby declare all the works you have ordered to be your property. The +list of these shall be made out and sent to you with my signature, as the +proof of their being your own. I also agree to accept the sum of fifty +ducats for them. Are you satisfied? + +Perhaps, instead of the variations with violoncello and violin,[1] I may +send you variations for the piano, arranged as a duet on a song of mine; +but Goethe's poetry must also be engraved, as I wrote these variations in +an album, and consider them better than the others. Are you satisfied? + +The arrangements are not by me, though I have revised and much improved +various passages; but I do not wish you to say that I have arranged them, +for it would be false, and I have neither time nor patience to do so. Are +you satisfied? + +Now farewell! I sincerely wish that all may go well with you. I would +gladly make you a present of all my works, if I could do so and still get +on in the world; but--remember most people are provided for, and know what +they have to live on, while, good heavens! where can an appointment be +found at the Imperial Court for such a _parvum talentum com ego_? + +Your friend, + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: These are the six variations in D, on the air _Ich denke Dein_ +written in 1800 in the album of the Countesses Josephine Deym and Thérèse +of Brunswick.] + + +30. + +CAUTION. + +November, 1803. + +Herr Carl Zulehner, a piratical engraver in Mayence, has announced an +edition of my collected works for the pianoforte and also stringed +instruments. I consider it my duty publicly to inform all friends of music +that I have no share whatever in this edition. + +I would never have in any way authorized any collection of my works (which, +moreover, I consider premature) without previously consulting the +publishers of single pieces, and ensuring that correctness in which +editions of my individual works are so deficient. I must also observe that +this illegal edition cannot be complete, as several new works of mine are +shortly to appear in Paris, and these Herr Zulehner, being a French +subject, dare not pirate. I intend to take another opportunity of +enumerating the details of the collection of my works to be brought out +under my own auspices and careful revision. + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +31. + +TO HERR RIES.[1] + +1804. + +Be so good as to make out a list of the mistakes and send it at once to +Simrock, and say that the work must appear as soon as possible. I will send +him the Sonata [Op. 47] and the Concerto the day after to-morrow. + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Ries relates that the three following notes refer to the +pianoforte Sonata, Op. 31, No. 1, carefully engraved by Nägeli in Zurich, +which Beethoven consequently sent forthwith to Simrock in Bonn, desiring +him to bring out "_une édition très-correcte_" of the work. He also states +that Beethoven was residing in Heiligenstadt at the time the work was first +sent [see No. 26]. In Nottebohm's _Skizzenbuch von Beethoven_, he says (p. +43) that the first notice of the appearance of this sonata was on May 21st, +1803; but Simrock writes to me that the date of the document making over +the sonata to him is 1804.] + + +32. + +TO HERR RIES. + +I must again ask you to undertake the disagreeable task of making a fair +copy of the errors in the Zurich Sonata. I have got your list of _errata_ +"_auf der Wieden_." + + +33. + +TO HERR RIES. + +DEAR RIES,-- + +The signs are wrongly marked, and many of the notes misplaced; so be +careful! or your labor will be vain. _Ch' a detto l' amato bene?_ + + +34. + +TO HERR RIES. + +DEAR RIES,-- + +May I beg you to be so obliging as to copy this _andante_ [in the Kreuzer +Sonata] for me, however indifferently? I must send it off to-morrow, and as +Heaven alone knows what its fate may then be, I wish to get it transcribed. +But I must have it back to-morrow about one o'clock. The cause of my +troubling you is that one of my copyists is already very much occupied with +various things of importance, and the other is ill. + + +35. + +TO THE COMPOSER LEIDESDORF,--VIENNA.[1] + +DORF DES LEIDES [VILLAGE OF SORROW--LEIDESDORF],-- + +Let the bearer of this, Herr Ries, have some easy duets, and, better still, +let him have them for nothing. Conduct yourself in accordance with the +reformed doctrines. Farewell! + +BEETHOVEN + +_Minimus._ + +[Footnote 1: Date unknown. Leidesdorf was also a music-seller.] + + +36. + +TO HERR RIES. + +Baden, July 14, 1804. + +DEAR RIES,-- + +If you can find me better lodgings, I shall be very glad. Tell my brothers +not to engage these at once; I have a great desire to get one in a +spacious, quiet square or on the Bastei. It it really inexcusable in my +brother not to have provided wine, as it is so beneficial and necessary to +me. I shall take care to be present at the rehearsal on Wednesday. I am not +pleased to hear that it is to be at Schuppanzigh's. He may well be grateful +to me if my impertinences make him thinner! Farewell, dear Ries! We have +bad weather here, and I am not safe from visitors; so I must take flight in +order to be alone. + +Your true friend, + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + + +37. + +TO HERR RIES. + +Baden, July, 1804. + +DEAR RIES,-- + +As Breuning [see Nos. 13, 14, and 18] by his conduct has not scrupled to +display my character to you and the house-steward as that of a mean, petty, +base man, I beg you will convey my reply at once in person to Breuning. I +answer only one point, the first in his letter, and I do so solely because +it is the only mode of justifying myself in your eyes. Say also to him that +I had no intention of reproaching him on account of the delay of the notice +to quit, and even if Breuning were really to blame for this, our harmonious +relations are so dear and precious in my sight, that, for the sake of a few +hundreds more or less, I would never subject any friend of mine to +vexation. You are aware, indeed, that I jestingly accused you as the cause +of the notice arriving too late. I am quite sure that you must remember +this. I had entirely forgotten the whole matter, but at dinner my brother +began to say that he thought Breuning was to blame in the affair, which I +at once denied, saying that you were in fault. I think this shows plainly +enough that I attributed no blame to Breuning; but on this he sprang up +like a madman, and insisted on sending for the house-steward. Such +behavior, in the presence of all those with whom I usually associate, and +to which I am wholly unaccustomed, caused me to lose all self-control; so I +also started up, upset my chair, left the room, and did not return. This +conduct induced Breuning to place me in a pretty light to you and the +house-steward, and also to send me a letter which I only answered by +silence. I have not another word to say to Breuning. His mode of thinking +and of acting, with regard to me, proves that there never ought to have +been such friendly intimacy between us, and assuredly it can never more be +restored. I wished to make you acquainted with this, as your version of the +occurrence degraded both my words and actions. I know that, had you been +aware of the real state of the affair, you would not have said what you +did, and with this I am satisfied. + +I now beg of you, dear Ries, to go to my brother, the apothecary, as soon +as you receive this letter, and say to him that I mean to leave Baden in +the course of a few days, and that he is to engage the lodging in Döbling +as soon as you have given him this message. I had nearly left this to-day; +I detest being here--I am sick of it. For Heaven's sake urge him to close +the bargain at once, for I want to take possession immediately. Neither +show nor speak to any one of what is written in the previous page of this +letter. I wish to prove to him in every respect that I am not so meanly +disposed as he is. Indeed I have written to him, although my resolve as to +the dissolution of our friendship remains firm and unchangeable. + +Your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +38. + +TO HERR RIES. + +Berlin, July 24, 1804. + +... You were no doubt not a little surprised about the affair with +Breuning; believe me, my dear friend, that the ebullition on my part was +only an outbreak caused by many previous scenes of a disagreeable nature. I +have the gift of being able to conceal and to repress my susceptibility on +many occasions; but if attacked at a time when I chance to be peculiarly +irritable, I burst forth more violently than any one. Breuning certainly +possesses many admirable qualities, but he thinks himself quite faultless; +whereas the very defects that he discovers in others are those which he +possesses himself to the highest degree. From my childhood I have always +despised his petty mind. My powers of discrimination enabled me to foresee +the result with Breuning, for our modes of thinking, acting, and feeling +are entirely opposite; and yet I believed that these difficulties might be +overcome, but experience has disproved this. So now I want no more of his +friendship! I have only found two friends in the world with whom I never +had a misunderstanding; but what men these were! One is dead, the other +still lives. Although for nearly six years past we have seen nothing of +each other, yet I know that I still hold the first place in his heart, as +he does in mine [see No. 12]. The true basis of friendship is to be found +in sympathy of heart and soul. I only wish you could have read the letter I +wrote to Breuning, and his to me. No! never can he be restored to his +former place in my heart. The man who could attribute to his friend so base +a mode of thinking, and could himself have recourse to so base a mode of +acting towards him, is no longer worthy of my friendship. + +Do not forget the affair of my apartments. Farewell! Do not be too much +addicted to tailoring,[1] remember me to the fairest of the fair, and send +me half a dozen needles. + +I never could have believed that I could be so idle as I am here. If this +be followed by a fit of industry, something worth while may be produced. + +_Vale!_ Your + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Ries says, in Wegeler's _Biographical Notices_:--"Beethoven +never visited me more frequently than when I lived in the house of a +tailor, with three very handsome but thoroughly respectable daughters."] + + +39. + +TO MESSRS. ARTARIA & CO.[1] + +Vienna, June 1, 1805. + +I must inform you that the affair about the new quintet is settled between +Count Fries and myself. + +The Count has just assured me that he intends to make you a present of it; +it is too late to-day for a written agreement on the subject, but one shall +be sent early in the ensuing week. This intelligence must suffice for the +present, and I think I at all events deserve your thanks for it. + +Your obedient servant, + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: The quintet is probably not that in C, Op. 29, dedicated to +Count v. Fries, previously published in 1803 by Breitkopf & Härtel [see No. +27]. It is more likely that he alludes to a new quintet which the Count had +no doubt ordered.] + + +40. + +TO MADAME LA PRINCESSE LIECHTENSTEIN, &C.[1] + +November, 1805. + +Pray pardon me, illustrious Princess, if the bearer of this should cause +you an unpleasant surprise. Poor Ries, my scholar, is forced by this +unhappy war to shoulder a musket, and must moreover leave this in a few +days, being a foreigner. He has nothing, literally nothing, and is obliged +to take a long journey. All chance of a concert on his behalf is thus +entirely at an end, and he must have recourse to the benevolence of others. +I recommend him to you. I know you will forgive the step I have taken. A +noble-minded man would only have recourse to such measures in the most +utter extremity. Confident of this, I send the poor youth to you, in the +hope of somewhat improving his circumstances. He is forced to apply to all +who know him. + +I am, with the deepest respect, yours, + +L. VAN BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Communicated by Ries himself, who, to Beethoven's extreme +indignation, did not deliver the note. See Wegeler's work, p. 134. The +following remark is added:--"Date unknown; written a few days before the +entrance of the French in 1805" (which took place Nov. 13). Ries, a native +of Bonn, was now a French subject, and recalled under the laws of +conscription. The Sonata, Op. 27, No. 1, is dedicated to Princess +Liechtenstein.] + + +41. + +TO HERR MEYER.[1] + +1805. + +DEAR MEYER,-- + +Pray try to persuade Herr v. Seyfried to direct my Opera, as I wish on this +occasion to see and hear it myself _from a distance_; in this way my +patience will at all events not be so severely tried as when I am close +enough to hear my music so bungled. I really do believe that it is done on +purpose to annoy me! I will say nothing of the wind-instruments; but all +_pp._'s, _cresc._, _discresc._, and all _f._'s and _ff._'s may as well be +struck out of my Opera, for no attention whatever is paid to them. I shall +lose all pleasure in composing anything in future, if I am to hear it given +thus. To-morrow or the day after I will come to fetch you to dinner. To-day +I am again unwell. + +Your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +If the Opera is to be performed the day after to-morrow, there must be +another private rehearsal to-morrow, or _each time it will be given worse +and worse_. + +[Footnote 1: Meyer, the husband of Mozart's eldest sister-in-law, Josepha +(Hofer's widow), sang the part of Pizarro at the first performance of +_Fidelio_, Nov. 20, 1805, and also at a later period. Seyfried was at that +time Kapellmeister at the Theatre "an der Wien."] + + +42. + +TESTIMONIAL FOR C. CZERNY. + +Vienna, Dec. 7, 1805. + +I, the undersigned, am glad to bear testimony to young Carl Czerny having +made the most extraordinary progress on the pianoforte, far beyond what +might be expected at the age of fourteen. I consider him deserving of all +possible assistance, not only from what I have already referred to, but +from his astonishing memory, and more especially from his parents having +spent all their means in cultivating the talent of their promising son. + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +43. + +TO HERR RÖCKEL.[1] + +DEAR RÖCKEL,-- + +Be sure that you arrange matters properly with Mdlle. Milder, and say to +her previously from me, that I hope she will not sing anywhere else. I +intend to call on her to-morrow, to kiss the hem of her garment. Do not +also forget Marconi, and forgive me for giving you so much trouble. + +Yours wholly, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Röckel, in 1806 tenor at the Theatre "an der Wien," sang the +part of Florestan in the spring of that year, when _Fidelio_ was revived. +Mdlle. Milder, afterwards Mdme. Hauptmann, played Leonore; Mdme. Marconi +was also prima donna.] + + +44. + +TO HERR COLLIN,[1] COURT SECRETARY AND POET. + +MY ESTEEMED COLLIN,-- + +I hear that you are about to fulfil my greatest wish and your own purpose. +Much as I desire to express my delight to you in person, I cannot find time +to do so, having so much to occupy me. Pray do not then ascribe this to any +want of proper attention towards you. I send you the "Armida"; as soon as +you have entirely done with it, pray return it, as it does not belong to +me. I am, with sincere esteem, + +Yours, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Collin, Court Secretary, was the author of _Coriolanus_, a +tragedy for which Beethoven in 1807 wrote the celebrated Overture dedicated +to that poet. According to Reichardt, Collin offered the libretto of +_Bradamante_ to Beethoven in 1808, which Reichardt subsequently composed. +This note evidently refers to a _libretto_.] + + +45. + +TO HERR GLEICHENSTEIN.[1] + +I should like very much, my good Gleichenstein, to speak to you this +forenoon between one and two o'clock, or in the afternoon, and where you +please. To-day I am too busy to call early enough to find you at home. Give +me an answer, and don't forget to appoint the place for us to meet. +Farewell, and continue your regard for your + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Probably in reference to a conference with regard to a +contract for the publication of his works, Op. 58, 59, 60, 61, and 62, that +Beethoven had made on the 20th April, 1807, with Muzio Clementi, who had +established a large music firm in London; it was also signed by Baron +Gleichen. + +Beethoven's first intention was to dedicate Op. 58 to him, which is evident +from a large page in Schindler's work, on which is written in bold +characters, by the master's own hand, "_Quatrième Concerto pour le Piano, +avec accompagnement, etc., dédié à son ami Gleichenstein_," &c. The name of +the Archduke Rudolph had been previously written, and was eventually +adopted, and Gleichenstein afterwards received the dedication of the Grand +Sonata with violoncello, Op. 69.] + + +46. + +TO THE DIRECTORS OF THE COURT THEATRE.[1] + +Vienna, December, 1807. + +The undersigned has cause to flatter himself that during the period of his +stay in Vienna he has gained some favor and approbation from the highest +nobility, as well as from the public at large, his works having met with an +honorable reception both in this and other countries. Nevertheless he has +had difficulties of every kind to contend against, and has not hitherto +been so fortunate as to acquire a position that would enable him _to live +solely for art_, and to develop his talents to a still higher degree of +perfection, which ought to be the aim of every artist, thus ensuring future +independence instead of mere casual profits. + +The mere wish _to gain a livelihood_ has never been the leading clew that +has hitherto guided the undersigned on his path. His great aim has been the +_interest of art_ and the ennobling of taste, while his genius, soaring to +a higher ideal and greater perfection, frequently compelled him to +sacrifice his talents and profits to the Muse. Still works of this kind won +for him a reputation in distant lands, securing him the most favorable +reception in various places of distinction, and a position befitting his +talents and acquirements. + +The undersigned does not, however, hesitate to say that this city is above +all others the most precious and desirable in his eyes, owing to the number +of years he has lived here, the favor and approval he has enjoyed from both +high and low, and his wish fully to realize the expectations he has had the +good fortune to excite, but most of all, he may truly say, from his +_patriotism as a German_. Before, therefore, making up his mind to leave a +place so dear to him, he begs to refer to a hint which the reigning Prince +Lichnowsky was so kind as to give him, to the effect that the directors of +the theatre were disposed to engage the undersigned on reasonable +conditions in the service of their theatre, and to ensure his remaining in +Vienna by securing to him a permanent position, more propitious to the +further exercise of his talents. As this assurance is entirely in +accordance with the wishes of the undersigned, he takes the liberty, with +all due respect, to place before the directors his readiness to enter into +such an engagement, and begs to state the following conditions for their +gracious consideration. + +1. The undersigned undertakes and pledges himself to compose each year at +least _one grand opera_, to be selected by the directors and himself; in +return for this he demands a _fixed salary_ of 2400 florins a year, and +also a free benefit at the third performance of each such opera. + +2. He also agrees to supply the directors annually with a little _operetta_ +or a _divertissement_, with choruses or occasional music of the kind, as +may be required, _gratis_; he feels confident that on the other hand the +directors will not refuse, in return for these various labors, to grant him +_a benefit concert_ at all events once a year in one of the theatres. +Surely the above conditions cannot be thought exorbitant or unreasonable, +when the expenditure of time and energy entailed by the production of an +_opera_ is taken into account, as it entirely excludes the possibility of +all other mental exertion; in other places, too, the author and his family +have a share in the profits of every individual performance, so that even +_one_ successful work at once ensures the future fortunes of the composer. +It must also be considered how prejudicial the present rate of exchange is +to artists here, and likewise the high price of the necessaries of life, +while a residence in foreign countries is open to them. + +But in any event, whether the directors accede to or decline this present +proposal, the undersigned ventures to request that he may be permitted to +give a concert for his own benefit in one of the theatres. For if his +conditions be accepted, the undersigned must devote all his time and +talents to the composition of such an opera, and thus be prevented working +in any other way for profit. In case of the non-acceptance of these +proposals, as the concert he was authorized to give last year did not take +place owing to various obstacles, he would entreat, as a parting token of +the favor hitherto vouchsafed to him, that the promise of last year may now +be fulfilled. In the former case, he would beg to suggest _Annunciation +Day_ [March 25.] for his concert, and in the latter a day during the +ensuing Christmas vacation. + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN, M.P. + +[_Manu propria._] + +[Footnote 1: This application was fruitless. See Reichardt's _Vertraute +Briefe_. "These two (Lobkowitz and Esterhazy) are the heads of the great +theatrical direction, which consists entirely of princes and counts, who +conduct all the large theatres on their own account and at their own risk." +The close of this letter shows that it was written in December.] + + +47. + +TO COUNT FRANZ VON OPPERSDORF.[1] + +Vienna, Nov. 1, 1808 [_sic!_]. + +MY DEAR COUNT,-- + +I fear you will look on me with displeasure when I tell you that necessity +compelled me not only to dispose of the symphony I wrote for you, but to +transfer another also to some one else. Be assured, however, that you shall +soon receive the one I intend for you. I hope that both you and the +Countess, to whom I beg my kind regards, have been well since we met. I am +at this moment staying with Countess Erdödy in the apartments below those +of Prince Lichnowsky. I mention this in case you do me the honor to call on +me when you are in Vienna. My circumstances are improving, without having +recourse to the intervention of people _who treat their friends +insultingly_. I have also the offer of being made _Kapellmeister_ to the +King of Westphalia, and it is possible that I may accept the proposal. +Farewell, and sometimes think of your attached friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: The fourth Symphony is dedicated to Count Oppersdorf.] + + +48.[1] + +I fear I am too late for to-day, but I have only now been able to get back +your memorial from C----, because H---- wished to add various items here +and there. I do beg of you to dwell chiefly on the great importance to me +of adequate opportunities to exercise my art; by so doing you will write +what is most in accordance with my head and my heart. The preamble must set +forth what I am to have in Westphalia--600 ducats in gold, 150 ducats for +travelling expenses; all I have to do in return for this sum being to +direct the King's [Jerome's] concerts, which are short and few in number. I +am not even bound to direct any opera I may write. So, thus freed from all +care, I shall be able to devote myself entirely to the most important +object of my art--to write great works. An orchestra is also to be placed +at my disposition. + +N.B. As member of a theatrical association, the title need not be insisted +on, as it can produce nothing but annoyance. With regard to the _Imperial +service_, I think that point requires delicate handling, and not less so +the solicitation for the title of _Imperial Kapellmeister_. It must, +however, be made quite clear that I am to receive a sufficient salary from +the Court to enable me to renounce the annuity which I at present receive +from the gentlemen in question [the Archduke Rudolph, Prince Kinsky, and +Prince Lobkowitz], which I think will be most suitably expressed by my +stating that it is my hope, and has ever been my most ardent wish, to enter +the Imperial service, when I shall be ready to give up as much of the above +salary as the sum I am to receive from His Imperial Majesty amounts to. +(N.B. We must have it to-morrow at twelve o'clock, as we go to Kinsky then. +I hope to see you to-day.) + +[Footnote 1: This note, now first published, refers to the call Beethoven +had received, mentioned in the previous No. The sketch of the memorial that +follows is not, however, in Beethoven's writing, and perhaps not even +composed by him [see also No. 46]. It is well known that the Archduke +Rudolph, Prince Kinsky, and Prince Lobkowitz had secured to the _maestro_ a +salary of 4000 gulden.] + + +49. + +The aim and endeavor of every true artist must be to acquire a position in +which he can occupy himself exclusively with the accomplishment of great +works, undisturbed by other avocations or by considerations of economy. A +composer, therefore, can have no more ardent wish than to devote himself +wholly to the creation of works of importance, to be produced before the +public. He must also keep in view the prospect of old age, in order to make +a sufficient provision for that period. + +The King of Westphalia has offered Beethoven a salary of 600 gold ducats +for life, and 150 ducats for travelling expenses, in return for which his +sole obligations are, occasionally to play before His Majesty, and to +conduct his chamber concerts, which are both few and short. This proposal +is of a most beneficial nature both to art and the artist. + +Beethoven, however, much prefers a residence in this capital, feeling so +much gratitude for the many proofs of kindness he has received in it, and +so much patriotism for his adopted father-land, that he will never cease to +consider himself an Austrian artist, nor take up his abode elsewhere, if +anything approaching to the same advantages are conferred on him here. + +As many persons of high, indeed of the very highest rank, have requested +him to name the conditions on which he would be disposed to remain here, in +compliance with their wish he states as follows:-- + +1. Beethoven must receive from some influential nobleman security for a +permanent salary for life: various persons of consideration might +contribute to make up the amount of this salary, which, at the present +increased price of all commodities, must not consist of less than 4000 +florins _per annum_. Beethoven's wish is that the donors of this sum should +be considered as cooperating in the production of his future great works, +by thus enabling him to devote himself entirely to these labors, and by +relieving him from all other occupations. + +2. Beethoven must always retain the privilege of travelling in the +interests of art, for in this way alone can he make himself known, and +acquire some fortune. + +3. His most ardent desire and eager wish is to be received into the +Imperial service, when such an appointment would enable him partly or +wholly to renounce the proposed salary. In the mean time the title of +_Imperial Kapellmeister_ would be very gratifying to him; and if this wish +could be realized, the value of his abode here would be much enhanced in +his eyes. + +If his desire be fulfilled, and a salary granted by His Majesty to +Beethoven, he will renounce so much of the said 4000 florins as the +Imperial salary shall amount to; or if this appointment be 4000 florins, he +will give up the whole of the former sum. + +4. As Beethoven wishes from time to time to produce before the public at +large his new great works, he desires an assurance from the present +directors of the theatre on their part, and that of their successors, that +they will authorize him to give a concert for his own benefit every year on +Palm Sunday, in the Theatre "an der Wien." In return for which Beethoven +agrees to arrange and direct an annual concert for the benefit of the poor, +or, if this cannot be managed, at all events to furnish a new work of his +own for such a concert. + + +50. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +December, 1808. + +MY EXCELLENT FRIEND,-- + +All would go well now if we had only a curtain, without it the _Aria_ ["Ah! +Perfido"] _will be a failure_.[1] I only heard this to-day from S. +[Seyfried], and it vexes me much: a curtain of any kind will do, even a +bed-curtain, or merely a _kind of gauze screen_, which could be instantly +removed. There must be something; for the Aria is in the _dramatic style_, +and better adapted for the stage than for effect in a concert-room. +_Without a curtain, or something of the sort, the Aria will be devoid of +all meaning, and ruined! ruined! ruined!! Devil take it all!_ The Court +will probably be present. Baron Schweitzer [Chamberlain of the Archduke +Anton] requested me earnestly to make the application myself. Archduke Carl +granted me an audience and promised to come. The Empress _neither promised +nor refused_. + +A hanging curtain!!!! or the Aria and I will both be hanged to-morrow. +Farewell! I embrace you as cordially on this new year as in the old one. +_With or without a curtain!_ Your + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Reichardt, in his _Vertraute Briefe_ relates among other +things about the concert given by Beethoven in the Royal Theatre "an der +Wien," Oct. 22, 1808, as follows:--"Poor Beethoven, who derived from this +concert the first and only net profits which accrued to him during the +whole year, met with great opposition and very slender support in arranging +and carrying it out. First came the _Pastoral Symphony; or, Reminiscences +of Rural Life_; then followed, as the sixth piece, a long Italian _scena_, +sung by Demoiselle Killitzky, a lovely Bohemian with a lovely voice." The +above note [to Zmeskall?] certainly refers to this concert.] + + +51. + +TO FERDINAND RIES.[1] + +1809. + +MY DEAR FELLOW,-- + +Your friends have at any rate given you very bad advice; but I know all +about them: they are the very same to whom you sent that fine news about me +from Paris; the very same who inquired about my age--information that you +contrived to supply so correctly!--the very same who have often before +injured you in my opinion, but now permanently. Farewell! + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Ries himself gives the date of this note as 1809, though he +cannot recall what gave rise to it. It is probably connected with a fact +mentioned by Wegeler, p. 95, that Reichardt, who was at that time in +Vienna, had advised Beethoven's young pupil, Ries, to apply to the King of +Westphalia for the appointment of Kapellmeister, which he had recently +given up. This was reported to Beethoven, and roused his ire. Ries, too, +had written from Paris that the taste in music there was very indifferent; +that Beethoven's works were little known or played in that city. Beethoven +was also very susceptible with regard to his age. At the request of some of +Beethoven's friends, Ries, in 1806, obtained Beethoven's baptismal +certificate, and sent it to Vienna. But the _maestro's_ wrath on this +occasion passed away as quickly as usual.] + + +52. + +TO ZMESKALL.[1] + +March 7, 1809. + +It is just what I expected! As to the blows, that is rather far-fetched. +The story is at least three months' old, and very different from what he +now makes it out to be. The whole stupid affair was caused by a female +huckster and a couple of low fellows. I lose very little. He no doubt was +corrupted in the very house where I am now living. + +[Footnote 1: [See No. 10.] The notes to Zmeskall generally have the dates +written by himself. This one bears the date March 7, 1809. In all points +connected with domestic life, and especially in household matters and +discords, Zmeskall was always a kind and consolatory friend. Beethoven at +that time lived in the same house with Countess Erdödy. [See No. 74.]] + + +53. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +My most excellent, high, and well-born Herr v. Zmeskall, Court Secretary +and Member of the Society of the Single Blessed,--If I come to see you +to-day, ascribe it to the fact that a person wishes to speak to me at your +house whom I could not refuse to see. I come without any _card_ from you, +but I hope you will not on that account _discard_ me. + +Yours truly--most truly, + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + + +54. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +It seems to me, dear Zmeskall, if war really does break out, when it comes +to an end you will be the very man for an appointment in the Peace +Legation. What a glorious office!!! I leave it entirely to you to do the +best you can about my servant, only henceforth Countess Erdödy must not +attempt to exercise the smallest influence over him. She says she made him +a present of twenty-five florins, and gave him five florins a month, solely +to induce him to stay with me. I cannot refuse to believe this trait of +generosity, but I do not choose that it should be repeated. Farewell! I +thank you for your friendship, and hope soon to see you. + +Yours ever, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +55. + +TO ZMESKALL.[1] + +April 16, 1809. + +If I cannot come to-day, dear Zmeskall which is very possible, ask Baroness +von ---- [name illegible] to give you the pianoforte part of the Trios, and +be so good as to send them and the other parts to me to-day. + +In haste, your + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: April 16, 1809. By the Terzetts he no doubt means the Trios, +Op. 70, dedicated to Countess Erdödy.] + + +56. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +April 17, 1809. + +DEAR Z.,-- + +A suitable lodging has just been found out for me, but I need some one to +help me in the affair. I cannot employ my brother, because he only +recommends what costs least money. Let me know, therefore, if we can go +together to look at the house. It is in the Klepperstall.[1] + +[Footnote 1: An der Mölker Bastei.] + + +57. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +April 25, 1809. + +I shall be glad, right glad, to play. I send you the violoncello part; if +you find that you can manage it, play it yourself, or let old Kraft[1] do +so. I will tell you about the lodging when we meet. + +Your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Anton Kraft (and likewise his son, Nicolaus Kraft) was a most +admirable violoncello-player, with whom Beethoven from the earliest days of +his residence in Vienna had played a great deal at Prince Lichnowsky's. +Kraft was at that time in Prince Lobkowitz's band.] + + +58. + +TO ZMESKALL.[1] + +May 14, 1809. + +MY DEAR LITTLE MUSICAL OLD COUNT!-- + +I think after all it would be advisable to let old Kraft play, as the trios +are to be heard for the first time (in society), and you can play them +afterwards; but I leave it all to your own option. If you meet with any +difficulties, one of which may possibly be that Kraft and S. [Schuppanzigh] +do not harmonize well together, then Herr v. Zmeskall must distinguish +himself, not as a mere musical Count, but as an energetic musician. + +Your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Kraft and Schuppanzigh were then each giving quartet +_soirées_.] + + +59. + +TO FREIHERR V. HAMMER-PURGSTALL.[1] + +1809. + +I feel almost ashamed of your complaisance and kindness in permitting me to +see the MS. of your as yet unknown literary treasures. Pray receive my +sincere thanks. I also beg to return both your operettas. Wholly engrossed +by my professional avocations, it is impossible for me to give an opinion, +especially with regard to the Indian Operetta; as soon as time permits, I +will call on you for the purpose of discussing this subject, and also the +Oratorio of "The Deluge." Pray always include me among the warm admirers of +your great talents. + +I am, sir, with sincere esteem, your obedient + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: I see in Schindler's _Beethoven_, that he wished to have "an +Indian Chorus of a religious character" from this renowned Orientalist, +who, in sending his _Persian Operetta_, written "rather with an ideal than +a musical object," and likewise an oratorio, _The Deluge_, +remarks:--"Should you not find these works in all respects executed quite +to your taste, still I feel convinced that through the genius of a +Beethoven alone can music portray the rising of the great flood and the +pacifying of the surging waters."] + + +60. + +TO FREIHERR V. HAMMER-PURGSTALL.[1] + +1809. + +Forgive me, my dear H----, for not having brought you the letter for Paris. +I have been, and still am, so much occupied, that day after day I am +obliged to delay writing it, but you shall have it to-morrow, even if I am +unable to come myself to see you, which I am most anxious to do. + +There is another matter that I would most earnestly press on you; perhaps +you might succeed in doing something for a _poor unfortunate man_. I allude +to Herr Stoll, son of the celebrated physician. With many persons the +question is whether a man has been ruined by his own fault or by that of +others, but this is not so with either you or me; it is sufficient that +Stoll is unfortunate, and looks on a journey to Paris as his sole resource, +having last year made many influential acquaintances, who, when he goes +there, are to endeavor to procure him a professorship in Westphalia. Stoll +has therefore applied to Herr v. Neumann, in the State Chancery Office, to +send him with a government courier to Paris, but the latter refuses to take +him for less than twenty-five louis d'or. Now I request you, my dear +friend, to speak to Herr v. Neumann to arrange, if possible, that the +courier should either take Stoll _gratis_, or for a small sum. I am +persuaded that if there is nothing particular against it, you will be glad +to interest yourself in poor Stoll. I return to the country to-day, but +hope soon to be so fortunate as to enjoy an hour of your society. In the +mean time I send you my best wishes, and beg you will believe in the +sincere esteem of + +Your obedient + +LUDWIG v. BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Reichardt states that Stoll was in Vienna in the spring of +1809, which fixes the date of this letter. Napoleon bestowed a pension on +the young poet (who appears to have gone to Paris), mistaking him for his +father, the celebrated physician.] + + +61. + +TO BARONESS VON DROSSDICK. + +MY ESTEEMED THÉRÈSE,-- + +You will receive with this what I promised. Had not many serious obstacles +intervened, I would have sent you more, in order to show you that where my +friends are concerned _I always perform more than I promise_. I hope, and +do not doubt, that you are agreeably occupied and enjoying society, but not +too much, I trust, to prevent your thinking of us. It would show too much +confidence in you, or too high an estimation of my own merits, were I to +attribute the sentiment to you, "That people are not together only when +present, but that the absent and the dead also live with us." Who could +ascribe such a thought to the volatile Thérèse, who takes the world so +lightly? Among your various occupations, do not forget the piano, or +rather, music in general, for which you have so fine a talent: why not then +seriously cultivate it? You, who have so much feeling for the good and the +beautiful, should strive to recognize the perfections of so charming an +art, which in return always casts so bright a reflection on us. + +I live in entire quiet and solitude, and even though occasional flashes of +light arouse me, still since you all left this I feel a hopeless void which +even my art, usually so faithful to me, has not yet triumphed over. Your +pianoforte is ordered, and you shall soon have it. What a difference you +must have discovered between the treatment of the theme I extemporized on +the other evening and the mode in which I have recently written it out for +you? You must explain this yourself, only do not find the solution in the +punch! How happy you are to get away so soon to the country! I cannot enjoy +this luxury till the 8th. I look forward to it with the delight of a child. +What happiness I shall feel in wandering among groves and woods, and among +trees, and plants, and rocks! No man on earth can love the country as I do! +Thickets, trees, and rocks supply the echo man longs for! + +You shall soon receive some more of my compositions, which will not cause +you to complain so much of difficulties. Have you read Goethe's "Wilhelm +Meister," and Schlegel's "Translations of Shakspeare"? People have so much +leisure in the country, that perhaps you would like me to send you these +works? It happens that I have an acquaintance in your neighborhood; so +perhaps you may see me some morning early for half an hour, after which I +must be off again. You will also observe that I intend to bore you for as +short a time as possible.[1] + +Commend me to the regard of your father and mother, though I have as yet no +right to claim it. Remember me also to your cousin M. [Mathilde]. Farewell, +my esteemed Thérèse; I wish you all the good and charm that life can offer. +Think of me kindly, and forget my follies. Rest assured that no one would +more rejoice to hear of your happiness, even were you to feel no interest +in your devoted servant and friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +N.B. It would be very amiable in you to write me a few lines, to say if I +can be of any use to you here. + +[Footnote 1: Herr v. Malfatti Rohrenbach, nephew of the renowned physician +who was so prominent in Beethoven's last illness, lately related to me in +Vienna as follows:--Beethoven went to pay a visit to young Frau Thérèse, +Baroness Drossdick, at Mödling, but not finding her at home, he tore a +sheet of music-paper out of a book, and wrote some music to a verse of +Matthisson's, and on the other side, inscribed, in large letters, "To my +dear Thérèse." The "Mathilde" mentioned farther on was, according to +Bärmann, a Baroness Gleichenstein. [See No. 45.]] + + +62. + +À MDLLE. MDLLE. DE GERARDI.[1] + +DEAR MDLLE. G.,-- + +I cannot with truth deny that the verses you sent have considerably +embarrassed me. It causes a strange sensation to see and hear yourself +praised, and yet to be conscious of your own defects, as I am. I consider +such occurrences as mere incitements to strive to draw nearer the +unattainable goal set before us by Art and Nature, difficult as it may be. +These verses are truly beautiful, with the exception of one fault that we +often find in poets, which is, their being misled by Fancy to believe that +they really do see and hear _what they wish to see and hear_, and yet even +this is far below their ideal. You may well believe that I wish to become +acquainted with the poet or poetess; pray receive also yourself my thanks +for the kindly feeling you show towards your sincere friend, + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Nothing has hitherto been ascertained respecting either the +date of this note, or the lady to whom it is addressed.] + + +63. + +TO ZMESKALL.[1] + +January 23, 1810. + +What are you about? My gayety yesterday, though only assumed, has not only +vexed but offended you. The _uninvited guests_ seemed so little to deserve +your ill-humor, that I endeavored to use all my friendly influence to +prevent your giving way to it, by my pretended flow of spirits. I am still +suffering from indigestion. Say whether you can meet me at the "Swan" +to-day. + +Your true friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: The cause that gave rise to this note is not known.] + + +64. + +TO WEGELER. + +Vienna, May 2, 1810. + +MY DEAR OLD FRIEND,-- + +These lines may very possibly cause you some surprise, and yet, though you +have no written proof of it, I always retain the most lively remembrance of +you. Among my MSS. is one that has long been destined for you, and which +you shall certainly receive this summer. For the last two years my secluded +and quiet life has been at an end, and I have been forcibly drawn into the +vortex of the world; though as yet I have attained no good result from +this,--nay, perhaps rather the reverse,--but who has not been affected by +the storms around us? Still I should not only be happy, but the happiest of +men, if a demon had not taken up his settled abode in my ears. Had I not +somewhere read that man must not voluntarily put an end to his life while +he can still perform even one good deed, I should long since have been no +more, and by my own hand too! Ah! how fair is life; but for me it is +forever poisoned! + +You will not refuse me one friendly service, which is to procure me my +baptismal certificate. As Steffen Breuning has an account with you, he can +pay any expenses you may incur, and I will repay him here. If you think it +worth while to make the inquiry in person, and choose to make a journey +from Coblenz to Bonn, you have only to charge it all to me. I must, +however, warn you that I had an _elder brother_ whose name was also Ludwig, +with the second name of _Maria_, who died. In order to know my precise age, +the date of my birth must be first ascertained, this circumstance having +already led others into error, and caused me to be thought older than I +really am. Unluckily, I lived for some time without myself knowing my age +[see Nos. 26 and 51]. I had a book containing all family incidents, but it +has been lost, Heaven knows how! So pardon my urgently requesting you to +try to discover _Ludwig Maria's_ birth, as well as that of the present +Ludwig. The sooner you can send me the certificate of baptism the more +obliged shall I be.[1] I am told that you sing one of my songs in your +Freemason Lodge, probably the one in E major, which I have not myself got; +send it to me, and I promise to compensate you threefold and fourfold.[2] +Think of me with kindness, little as I apparently deserve it. Embrace your +dear wife and children, and all whom you love, in the name of your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Wegeler says:--"I discovered the solution of the enigma (why +the baptismal certificate was so eagerly sought) from a letter written to +me three months afterwards by my brother-in-law, Stephan von Breuning, in +which he said: 'Beethoven tells me at least once a week that he means to +write to you; but I believe his _intended marriage is broken off_; he +therefore feels no ardent inclination to thank you for having procured his +baptismal certificate.'"] + +[Footnote 2: Beethoven was mistaken; Wegeler had only supplied other music +to the words of Matthisson's _Opfer Lied_.] + + +65. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +July 9, 1810. + +DEAR Z.,-- + +You are about to travel, and so am I on account of my health. In the mean +time all goes topsy-turvy with me. The _Herr_[1] wants to have me with him, +and Art is not less urgent in her claims. I am partly in Schönbrunn and +partly here; every day assailed by messages from strangers and new +acquaintances, and even as regards art I am often driven nearly distracted +by my undeserved fame. Fortune seeks me, and for that very reason I almost +dread some new calamity. As for your "Iphigénie," the facts are these. I +have not seen it for the last two years and a half, and have no doubt lent +it to some one; but to whom?--that is the question. I have sent in all +directions, and have not yet discovered it, but hope still to find it. If +lost, you shall be indemnified. Farewell, my dear Z. I trust that when we +meet again you will find that my art has made some progress in the interim. + +Ever remain my friend, as much as I am yours, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: The "Herr" is his pupil, the Archduke Rudolph.] + + +66. + +TO BETTINA BRENTANO.[1] + +Vienna, August 11, 1810. + +MY DEAREST FRIEND,-- + +Never was there a lovelier spring than this year; I say so, and feel it +too, because it was then I first knew you. You have yourself seen that in +society I am like a fish on the sand, which writhes and writhes, but cannot +get away till some benevolent Galatea casts it back into the mighty ocean. +I was indeed fairly stranded, dearest friend, when surprised by you at a +moment in which moroseness had entirely mastered me; but how quickly it +vanished at your aspect! I was at once conscious that you came from another +sphere than this absurd world, where, with the best inclinations, I cannot +open my ears. I am a wretched creature, and yet I complain of others!! You +will forgive this from the goodness of heart that beams in your eyes, and +the good sense manifested by your ears; at least they understand how to +flatter, by the mode in which they listen. My ears are, alas! a +partition-wall, through which I can with difficulty hold any intercourse +with my fellow-creatures. Otherwise, perhaps, I might have felt more +assured with you; but I was only conscious of the full, intelligent glance +from your eyes, which affected me so deeply that never can I forget it. My +dear friend! dearest girl!--Art! who comprehends it? with whom can I +discuss this mighty goddess? How precious to me were the few days when we +talked together, or, I should rather say, corresponded! I have carefully +preserved the little notes with your clever, charming, most charming +answers; so I have to thank my defective hearing for the greater part of +our fugitive intercourse being written down. Since you left this I have had +some unhappy hours,--hours of the deepest gloom, when I could do nothing. +I wandered for three hours in the Schönbrunn Allée after you left us, but +no _angel_ met me there to take possession of me as you did. Pray forgive, +my dear friend, this deviation from the original key, but I must have such +intervals as a relief to my heart. You have no doubt written to Goethe +about me? I would gladly bury my head in a sack, so that I might neither +see nor hear what goes on in the world, because I shall meet you there no +more; but I shall get a letter from you? Hope sustains me, as it does half +the world; through life she has been my close companion, or what would have +become of me? I send you "Kennst Du das Land," written with my own hand, as +a remembrance of the hour when I first knew you; I send you also another +that I composed since I bade you farewell, my dearest, fairest sweetheart! + + Herz, mein Herz, was soll das geben, + Was bedränget dich so sehr; + Welch ein neues fremdes Leben, + Ich erkenne dich nicht mehr. + +Now answer me, my dearest friend, and say what is to become of me since my +heart has turned such a rebel. Write to your most faithful friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: The celebrated letters to Bettina are given here exactly as +published in her book, _Ilius Pamphilius und die Ambrosia_ (Berlin, Arnim, +1857) in two volumes. I never myself had any doubts of their being genuine +(with the exception of perhaps some words in the middle of the third +letter), nor can any one now distrust them, especially after the +publication of _Beethoven's Letters_. But for the sake of those for whom +the weight of innate conviction is not sufficient proof, I may here mention +that in December, 1864, Professor Moritz Carrière, in Munich, when +conversing with me about _Beethoven's Letters_, expressly assured me that +these three letters were genuine, and that he had seen them in Berlin at +Bettina v. Arnim's in 1839, and read them most attentively and with the +deepest interest. From their important contents, he urged their immediate +publication; and when this shortly after ensued, no change whatever struck +him as having been made in the original text; on the contrary, he still +perfectly remembered that the much-disputed phraseology (and especially the +incident with Goethe) was precisely the same as in the originals. This +testimony seems to me the more weighty, as M. Carrière must not in such +matters be looked on as a novice, but as a competent judge, who has +carefully studied all that concerns our literary heroes, and who would not +permit anything to be falsely imputed to Beethoven any more than to Goethe. +Beethoven's biography is, however, the proper place to discuss more closely +such things, especially his character and his conduct in this particular +case. At present we only refer in general terms to the first chapter of +_Beethoven's Jugend_, which gives all the facts connected with these +letters to Bettina and the following ones--a characteristic likeness of +Beethoven thus impressed itself on the mind of the biographer, and was +reproduced in a few bold outlines in his _Biography_. These letters could +not, however, possibly be given _in extenso_ in a general introduction to a +comprehensive biography.] + + +67. + +TO BETTINA BRENTANO. + +Vienna, Feb. 10, 1811. + +DEAR AND BELOVED FRIEND,-- + +I have now received two letters from you, while those to Tonie show that +you still remember me, and even too kindly. I carried your letter about +with me the whole summer, and it often made me feel very happy; though I do +not frequently write to you, and you never see me, still I write you +letters by thousands in my thoughts. I can easily imagine what you feel at +Berlin in witnessing all the noxious frivolity of the world's rabble,[1] +even had you not written it to me yourself. Such prating about art, and yet +no results!!! The best description of this is to be found in Schiller's +poem "Die Flüsse," where the river Spree is supposed to speak. You are +going to be married, my dear friend, or are already so, and I have had no +chance of seeing you even once previously. May all the felicity that +marriage ever bestowed on husband and wife attend you both! What can I say +to you of myself? I can only exclaim with Johanna, "Compassionate my fate!" +If I am spared for some years to come, I will thank the Omniscient, the +Omnipotent, for the boon, as I do for all other weal and woe. If you +mention me when you write to Goethe, strive to find words expressive of my +deep reverence and admiration. I am about to write to him myself with +regard to "Egmont," for which I have written some music solely from my love +for his poetry, which always delights me. Who can be sufficiently grateful +to a great poet,--the most precious jewel of a nation! Now no more, my dear +sweet friend! I only came home this morning at four o'clock from an orgy, +where I laughed heartily, but to-day I feel as if I could weep as sadly; +turbulent pleasures always violently recoil on my spirits. As for Clemens +[Brentano, her brother], pray thank him for his complaisance; with regard +to the Cantata, the subject is not important enough for us here--it is very +different in Berlin; and as for my affection, the sister engrosses so large +a share, that little remains for the brother. Will he be content with this? + +Now farewell, my dear, dear friend; I imprint a sorrowful kiss on your +forehead, thus impressing my thoughts on it as with a seal. Write soon, +very soon, to your brother, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: An expression which, as well as many others, he no doubt +borrowed from Bettina, and introduced to please her.] + + +68. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +1811. + +I am disposed to engage a man who has just offered me his services,--a +music-copyist. His parents live in Vienna, which might be convenient in +many respects, but I first wish to speak to you about the terms; and as you +are disengaged to-morrow, which I, _alas_! am every day, I beg you will +take coffee with me in the afternoon, when we can discuss the matter, and +then proceed from _words to deeds_. We have also the honor to inform you +that we intend shortly to confer on you some of the decorations of the +Order of our Household,--the first class for yourself, the others for any +one you choose, except a priest. We shall expect your answer early +to-morrow. We now present you with some blotches of ink. Your + +BEETHOVEN. + + +69. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +1811. + +MOST HIGH-BORN OF MEN!-- + +We beg you to confer some goose-quills on us; we will in return send you a +whole bunch of the same sort, that you may not be obliged to pluck out your +own. It is just possible that you may yet receive the Grand Cross of the +Order of the Violoncello. We remain your gracious and most friendly of all +friends, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +70. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.[1] + +The Spring of 1811. + +YOUR ROYAL HIGHNESS,-- + +As in spite of every effort I can find no copyist to write in my house, I +send you my own manuscript; all you have to do is to desire Schlemmer to +get you an efficient copyist, who must, however, write out the Trio in your +palace, otherwise there would be no security against piracy. I am better, +and hope to have the honor of waiting on you in the course of a few days, +when we must strive to make up for lost time. I always feel anxious and +uneasy when I do not attend your Royal Highness as often or as assiduously +as I wish. It is certainly the truth when I say that the loss is mine, but +I trust I shall not soon again be so unwell. Be graciously pleased to +remember me; the time may yet come when I shall be able to show you doubly +and trebly that I deserve this more than ever. + +I am your Royal Highness's devoted servant, + +LUDWIG V. BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Schlemmer was for many years Beethoven's copyist.] + + +71. + +MY DEAR FRIEND,--[1] + +I have taken this trouble only that I might figure correctly, and thus be +able sometimes to lead others. As for mistakes, I scarcely ever required to +have them pointed out to me, having had from my childhood such a quick +perception, that I exercised it unconscious that it ought to be so, or in +fact could be otherwise. + +[Footnote 1: Written on a sheet of music-paper (oblong folio) numbered 22, +and evidently torn out of a large book. On the other side (21) is written, +in Beethoven's hand, instructions on the use of the fourth in retardations, +with five musical examples. The leaf is no doubt torn from one of the books +that Beethoven had compiled from various text-books, for the instruction of +the Archduke Rudolph. I have therefore placed Beethoven's remark here.] + + +72. + +TO THE DRAMATIC POET TREITSCHKE. + +June 6, 1811. + +DEAR TREITSCHKE,-- + +Have you read the book, and may I venture to hope that you will be +persuaded to undertake it? Be so good as to give me an answer, as I am +prevented going to you myself. If you have already read it, then send it +back to me, that I may also look over it again before you begin to work at +it. Above all, if it be your good pleasure that I should soar to the skies +on the wings of your poetry, I entreat you to effect this as soon as +possible. + +Your obedient servant, + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + + +73. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +Sept. 10, 1811. + +DEAR ZMESKALL,-- + +Let the rehearsal stand over for the present. I must see my doctor again +to-day, of whose bungling I begin to tire. Thanks for your metronome; let +us try whether we can measure Time into Eternity with it, for it is so +_simple_ and _easily managed_ that there seems to be no impediment to this! +In the mean time we will have a conference on the subject. The mathematical +precision of clockwork is of course greater; yet formerly, in watching the +little experiments you made in my presence, I thought there was something +worthy of notice in your metronome, and I hope we shall soon succeed in +_setting it thoroughly right_. Ere long I hope to see you. + +Your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +74. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +Oct. 26, 1811. + +I shall be at the "Swan" to-day, and hope to meet you there _to a +certainty_, but don't come too late. My foot is better; the author of so +many poetical _feet_ promises the _head_ author a sound foot within a +week's time. + + +75. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +Nov. 20, 1811. + +We are deucedly obliged to you. We beg you to be careful not to lose your +well-earned fame. You are exhorted to pursue the same course, and we remain +once more your deucedly attached + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +76. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +Jan. 19, 1812. + +I shall be at the "Swan" to-day, dear Z. I have, alas! _too much_ leisure, +and you _none_! Your + +BEETHOVEN. + + +77. + +TO ZMESKALL.[1] + +1812. + +CONFOUNDED LITTLE QUONDAM MUSICAL COUNT! + +What the deuce has become of you? Are you to be at the "Swan" to-day? No? +... Yes! See from this enclosure what I have done for Hungary. When a +German undertakes a thing, even without pledging his word, he acts very +differently from one of those Hungarian Counts, such as B. [Brunswick], who +allowed me to travel by myself--from what paltry, miserable motive who can +tell?--and kept me waiting, though he did not wait for me! + +My excellent little quondam musical Count, + +I am now, as ever, your attached + +BEETHÖVERL. + +Return the enclosure, for we wish to bring it, and something else, pretty +forcibly under the notice of the Count. + +[Footnote 1: The date of this and the following note is decided by the +allusion to his compositions written for Hungary (Pesth). See the +subsequent letter to Varenna.] + + +78. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +You are summoned to appear to-day at the "Swan;" Brunswick also comes. If +you do not appear, you are henceforth excluded from all that concerns us. +Excuses _per excellentiam_ cannot be accepted. Obedience is enjoined, +knowing that we are acting for your benefit, and that our motive is to +guard you against temptations and faithlessness _per excellentiam--dixi_. + +BEETHOVEN. + + +79. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +DEAR ZMESKALL,-- + +The well-known watchmaker who lives close to the Freiung is to call on you. +I want a first-rate repeater, for which he asks forty ducats. As you like +that kind of thing, I beg you will exert yourself on my behalf, and select +a really good watch for me. + +With the most enthusiastic admiration for a man like yourself, who is soon +to give me an opportunity of displaying in his favor my particular +knowledge of horn-playing, I am your + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +80. + +TO KAMMERPROCURATOR VARENNA,--GRATZ.[1] + +1812. + +If the wish to benefit the poor were not so evident in your letter, I +should have felt not a little offended by your accompanying your request to +me by the offer of payment. From my childhood, whenever my art could be +serviceable to poor suffering humanity, I have never allowed any other +motive to influence me, and never required anything beyond the heartfelt +gratification that it always caused me. With this you will receive an +Oratorio--(A), the performance of which occupies half an evening, also an +Overture and a Fantasia with Chorus--(B). If in your benevolent institution +you possess a _dépôt_ for such things, I beg you will deposit these three +works there, as a mark of my sympathy for the destitute; to be considered +as their property, and to be given at any concerts intended for their sole +benefit. In addition to these, you will receive an Introduction to the +"Ruins of Athens," the score of which shall be written out for you as soon +as possible. Likewise a Grand Overture to "Ungarn's erste Wohlthäter" +[Hungary's First Benefactors]. + +Both form part of two works that I wrote for the Hungarians at the opening +of their new theatre [in Pesth]. Pray give me, however, your written +assurance that these works shall not be performed elsewhere, as they are +not published, nor likely to be so for some time to come. You shall receive +the latter Grand Overture as soon as it is returned to me from Hungary, +which it will be in the course of a few days. + +The engraved Fantasia with Chorus could no doubt be executed by a lady, an +amateur, mentioned to me here by Professor Schneller.[2] The words after +the Chorus No. 4, in C major, were altered by the publishers, and are now +quite contrary to the musical expression; those written in _pencil_, +therefore, on the music must be sung. If you can make use of the Oratorio, +I can send you _all the parts written out_, so that the outlay may be less +for the poor. Write to me about this. + +Your obedient + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: The correspondence with Varenna, consisting of fourteen +letters and four notes, was purchased some years ago by a collector of +autographs in Leipzig, and sold again by public auction, probably to +different persons. It would be like pursuing leaves scattered by the wind +to try to recover these letters. Those here given have for the most part +appeared in newspapers; I cannot, therefore, be responsible for the text, +farther than their publication goes, which, however, has evidently been +conducted by a clever hand. The date of the first letter is to be gleaned +from the second, and we also learn from them that _The Ruins of Athens_ and +_King Stephen_ (or at all events the Overture) were already finished in +January, 1812.] + +[Footnote 2: This _dilettante_ was Mdlle. Marie Koschak, subsequently the +wife of Dr. Pachler, an advocate in Gratz, from whom two letters are given +by Schindler of the dates of August 15th, 1825, and November 5th, 1826, in +which she invites Beethoven to visit her in Gratz. Schindler considers as +applicable to this lady the words of a note in Beethoven's writing of which +he has given a fac-simile in his _Biography_, I. 95; the date 1817 or 1818. +They are as follows:--"Love alone, yes! love alone can make your life +happier. O God! grant that I may at last find her who can strengthen me in +virtue, whom I can legitimately call my own. On July 27th, when she drove +past me in Baden, she seemed to gaze at me." This lady also plays a +friendly part in Franz Schubert's _Life_. See her _Biography_ by Dr. +Kreissle.] + + +81. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +Feb. 2, 1812. + +By no means _extraordinary_, but _very ordinary_ mender of pens! whose +talent has failed on this occasion (for those I send require to be fresh +mended), when do you intend at last to cast off your fetters?--when? You +never for a moment think of me; accursed to me is life amid this Austrian +barbarism. I shall go now chiefly to the "Swan," as in other taverns I +cannot defend myself against intrusion. Farewell! that is, _fare as well_ +as I wish you to do without + +Your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +Most wonderful of men! We beg that your servant will engage a person to fit +up my apartment; as he is acquainted with the lodgings, he can fix the +proper price at once. Do this soon, you Carnival scamp!!!!!!! + +The enclosed note is at least a week old. + + +82. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +Feb. 8, 1812. + +Most extraordinary and first and foremost man of the pendulum in the world, +and without a lever too!!! + +I am much indebted to you for having imparted to me some share of your +motive power. I wish to express my gratitude in person, and therefore +invite you this morning to come to the "Swan,"--a tavern, the name of which +itself shows that it is a fitting place when such a subject is in question, + +Yours ever, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +83. + +TO VARENNA,--GRATZ. + +Vienna, Feb. 8, 1812. + +Herr Rettich has already got the parts of the Oratorio, and when you no +longer require them I beg you will send them back to me. It is not probable +that anything is wanting, but even in that case, as you have the score, you +can easily remedy this. I only yesterday received the Overtures from +Hungary, and shall have them copied and forwarded to you as soon as +possible. I likewise send a March with a vocal Chorus, also from the "Ruins +of Athens." Altogether you will now have sufficient to fill up the time. + +As these pieces are only in manuscript, I shall let you know at the time I +send them what precautions I wish you to take with regard to the Overtures +and the March with Chorus. + +As I do not publish any new work until a year after its composition, and, +when I do so, am obliged invariably to give a written assurance to the +publisher that no one is in possession of it, you can yourself perceive +that I must carefully guard against any possible contingency or casualty as +to these pieces. I must, however, assure you that I shall always be +disposed to show the warmest zeal in aid of your charity, and I here pledge +myself to send you every year works that exist solely in manuscript, or +compositions written expressly for this charitable purpose. I beg you will +also let me know what your future plans are with regard to your +institution, that I may act accordingly. + +Farewell! I remain, with the highest consideration, + +Your obedient + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +84. + +TO ZMESKALL.[1] + +Feb. 19, 1812. + +DEAR Z.,-- + +I only yesterday received the written information that the Archduke pays +his share in the new paper-money of the full value [_Einlösungsschein_]. I +beg you will write out for me, as nearly as you can, the substance of what +you said on Sunday, and which we thought it advisable to send to the other +two. I am offered a certificate that the Archduke is to pay in +_Einlösungsschein_, but I think this unnecessary, more especially as the +people about Court, in spite of all their apparent friendship for me, +declare that my demands are _not just_!!!! O Heaven! aid me in enduring +this! I am no Hercules, to help Atlas in carrying the world, or to strive +to do so in his place. It was only yesterday that I heard the particulars +of the handsome manner in which Baron von Kraft had judged and spoken of me +to Zisius! But never mind, dear Z.! My endurance of these shameful attacks +cannot continue much longer; persecuted art will everywhere find an +asylum--Daedalus, though imprisoned in a labyrinth, found wings to carry +him aloft. Oh! I too shall find wings! + +Yours ever, + +BEETHOVEN. + +If you have time, send me this morning the draft of the memorial;--probably +for nothing, and to receive nothing! so much time is already lost, and only +to be kept in suspense by civil words! + +[Footnote 1: The Finance Patent appeared in Austria in 1811, by which the +value of money was depreciated by a fifth. This also affected the salary +that Beethoven drew from the Archduke Rudolph, Prince Kinsky, and Prince +Lobkowitz. The first of these gentlemen paid his full share in +_Einlösungsschein_. Lobkowitz, at the request of Beethoven, soon after did +the same; with Kinsky's share alone difficulties arose subsequently, owing +to his death.] + + +85. + +TO VARENNA. + +Lent, 1812. + +In spite of my anxiety to serve the cause of your charity, I have been +quite unable to do so. I have no copyist of my own to write for me as +formerly, and the limited time renders it impossible for me to do so +myself; thus I am obliged to have recourse to strangers as copyists. One of +these promised to write out the Overtures, &c., &c., for you; but Passion +Week intervening, when there are so many concerts, prevented his being able +to keep his word, in spite of every effort on my part. Even if the +Overtures and the March with Chorus were transcribed, it would not be +possible to send them by this post, and if we wait for the next, the music +will arrive too late for Easter Sunday. Let me know if there are any means +you could adopt to gain a little more time, or any chance opportunity of +sending these works to you, and I will do all that lies in my power to aid +the cause of your charity. + +I am, with esteem, yours obediently, + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +86. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.[1] + +1812. + +YOUR IMPERIAL HIGHNESS,-- + +I was much vexed not to receive Y.I.H.'s message to come to you till very +late yesterday evening--indeed nearly at eleven o'clock. Contrary to my +usual custom, I did not go home at all during the afternoon, the fine +weather having tempted me to spend the whole afternoon in walking, and the +evening at the Banda, "auf der Wieden," and thus I was not aware of your +wish till I returned home. In the mean time, whenever Y.I.H. desires it, I +am ready at any hour or moment to place myself at your disposal. I +therefore await your gracious commands. + +I am your Imperial Highness's most obedient + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: The date 1812 is marked on the sheet by another hand, and the +close of the second note proves that it was at the commencement of this +year.] + + +87. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1812. + +YOUR IMPERIAL HIGHNESS,-- + +I was unable till to-day, when I leave my bed for the first time, to answer +your gracious letter. It will be impossible for me to wait on you +to-morrow, but perhaps the day after. I have suffered much during the last +few days, and I may say two-fold from not being in a condition to devote a +great part of my time to you, according to my heartfelt wish. I hope now, +however, to have cleared off all scores for spring and summer (I mean as to +health). + +I am your Imperial Highness's most obedient servant, + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +88. + +TO VARENNA,--GRATZ. + +Vienna, May 8, 1812. + +SIR,-- + +Being still far from well, and much occupied, I have been unable to reply +to your letters. How in the world did such an unfounded idea ever occur to +you as that I was displeased? It would certainly have been better had you +returned the music as soon as it had been performed; for at that period I +could have produced it here, whereas now, unluckily, it comes too late; but +I only say _unluckily_ because it prevents my being able to spare the +worthy ladies the expenses of copying. At any other time I would on no +account have allowed them to pay for writing out the works, but it so +happens that at this moment I am visited with every kind of _contretemps_, +so I cannot avoid doing so. Possibly Herr O., although with the best +intentions, has delayed informing you of this, which obliged me to apply to +him for repayment of the expenses of copying; perhaps, too, in my haste, I +did not express myself distinctly. You can now, esteemed sir, have the +Overture and the Chorus again if you require them. + +I feel convinced that in any event you will prevent my confidence being +abused; in the mean time you may keep the Overture on the conditions I have +stated. If I find that I am able to pay for the copying, I will redeem it +for my own use. + +The score of the Oratorio is a gift, and also the Overture to "Egmont." +Keep the parts of the Oratorio beside you till you can have it performed. + +Select whatever you choose for the concert which I hear you now intend to +give, and if you decide on the Chorus and the Overture, they shall be +forwarded to you at once. For the future concert, for the benefit of the +venerable Ursulines, I promise you an entirely new symphony at all events, +and perhaps also a work of some importance for voices, and as I have now a +favorable opportunity, the copying shall not cost you a farthing. My joy +would be beyond all bounds if the concert were to be successful, and I +could spare you all expense;--at all events, take my good-will for granted. + +Remember me to the admirable teachers of the children, and say to them that +I shed tears of joy at the happy result of my poor good-will, and that so +far as my humble capabilities can serve them, they shall always find in me +the warmest sympathy. + +My cordial thanks for your invitation; I would fain become acquainted with +the interesting scenery of Styria, and possibly I may one day enjoy that +pleasure. Farewell! I heartily rejoice in having found in you a friend to +the poor and needy, and am always yours to command. + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN, M.P. + + +89. + +TO JOSEPH FREIHERR VON SCHWEIGER, CHAMBERLAIN OF THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.[1] + +1812. + +The most insignificant of mortals has just been to wait on his gracious +master, when he found everything closed; so he came here, where indeed all +was _open_, but no one to be found except the trusty servant. I had a heavy +packet of music with me, in order to ensure a good musical evening before +we parted; but in vain. Malfatti[2] is resolved that I shall go to Töplitz, +which is anything but agreeable to me. As, however, I must obey, I hope at +least that my gracious master will not enjoy himself quite so much without +me. _O vanitas!_ for it is nothing else. Before I set off for Töplitz I +will either go to Baden to see you or write. Farewell! Pray present my +homage to my gracious master, and continue your regard for + +Your friend, + +[K.] BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: The journey to Töplitz took place in the year 1812.] + +[Footnote 2: A very celebrated physician in Vienna at that time, consulted +by Beethoven.] + + +90. + +TO VARENNA,--GRATZ. + +Töplitz, July 19, 1812. + +My thanks have been too long delayed for all the dainties which the worthy +ladies sent for my enjoyment; being constantly ill in Vienna, I was at last +forced to take refuge here. + +However, better late than never; so I beg you will say all sorts of kind +things in my name to the admirable Ursuline ladies, though I did not +deserve so much gratitude; indeed it is rather for me to thank Him who +enables me to render my art occasionally useful to others. When you next +wish to make use of my poor abilities for the benefit of the venerable +ladies, you have only to write to me. + +A new symphony is now ready for you, and as the Archduke Rudolph has had it +copied out, it will cost you nothing. Perhaps I may one of these days be +able to send you something vocal. I only wish and hope that you will not +ascribe my anxiety to serve these venerable ladies to a certain degree of +vanity or desire for fame, as this would grieve me exceedingly. If these +good ladies wish to do me any service in return, I beg they will include me +with their pupils in their pious orisons. I remain, with esteem, + +Your friend, + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + +I shall remain here for some weeks; so if there is any occasion to write, +address to me here. + + +91. + +WRITTEN IN THE ALBUM OF THE SINGER, MDME. AUGUSTE SEBALD. + +Töplitz, August 8, 1812. + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN, + + Who even if you would, + Forget you never should. + + +92. + +TO H.R. HIGHNESS THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +Franzensbrunn, Aug. 12, 1812. + +It was my bounden duty long ago to have recalled myself to Y.R.H.'s +recollection, but partly my occupations and the state of my health, as well +as my own insignificance, made me reluctant to do so. I missed Y.R.H. by +one night only in Prague; for when proceeding to pay my respects to you in +the morning, I found you had set off the very night before. In Töplitz I +heard a military band four times a day,--the only musical report which I +can give you. I was a great deal with Goethe.[1] My physician Staudenheim, +however, ordered me off to Carlsbad,[2] and from thence here, and probably +I shall have to go back to Töplitz from this. What flights! And yet it +seems very doubtful whether any improvement in my condition has hitherto +taken place. I receive the best accounts of Y.R.H.'s health, and also of +the persistent devotion you exhibit towards the musical Muse. Y.R.H. has no +doubt heard of a concert that I gave for the benefit of the sufferers by +fire in the Stadt Baden,[3] assisted by Herr Polledro.[4] The receipts were +nearly 1000 florins W.W., and if I had not been restricted in my +arrangements we might easily have taken 2000 florins. It was literally a +_poor concert for the poor_. I could only find at the publisher's here some +of my earlier sonatas with violin accompaniments, and as Polledro had set +his heart on these, I was obliged to content myself with playing an old +Sonata.[5] The entire concert consisted of a trio, in which Polledro +played, my Sonata with violin, then again something was played by Polledro, +and, lastly, I extemporized. Meanwhile I do sincerely rejoice that by this +means something has fallen to the share of the poor _Badeners_. Pray deign +to accept my best wishes for your welfare, and my entreaty that you will +sometimes think of me. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: Beethoven speaks very briefly of his meeting with Goethe. +Goethe in his _Tag- und Jahrschriften_ of 1812 makes no allusion to +Beethoven during his stay at Töplitz. It does not, therefore, appear that +either of these master-minds found any particular pleasure in each other +when they met personally. Beethoven, indeed, dedicated to "the immortal +Goethe" (1812) his composition the _Meeresstille und glückliche Fahrt_, but +only wrote once to him in 1823 to obtain a subscription from the Grand Duke +of Weimar for his Grand Mass, and received no answer from Goethe. In the +complete edition of Goethe's works Beethoven's name is only once mentioned +by Goethe, when he refers to his funeral obsequies.] + +[Footnote 2: Dr. Staudenheim was, like Malfatti, one of the most celebrated +physicians in Vienna. Beethoven, too, was well acquainted with Staudenheim, +but in his regimen he neither followed the prescriptions of Staudenheim nor +of Malfatti.] + +[Footnote 3: The Stadt Baden, near Vienna, had been visited on July 16th by +a most destructive conflagration.] + +[Footnote 4: Giov. Batt. Polledro, Kapellmeister in Turin, born 1776, +travelled through Germany as a violinist from 1809 to 1812. He gave a +concert in Vienna in March, 1812.] + +[Footnote 5: The violin Sonata with pianoforte was probably Op. 47 +(composed in 1803 and published in 1805, according to Thayer, No. 111), or +one of his earlier compositions, Op. 30, or 24, or 23.] + + +93. + +TO BETTINA VON ARNIM. + +Töplitz, August 15, 1812. + +MY MOST DEAR KIND FRIEND,-- + +Kings and princes can indeed create professors and privy-councillors, and +confer titles and decorations, but they cannot make great men,--spirits +that soar above the base turmoil of this world. There their powers fail, +and this it is that forces them to respect us.[1] When two persons like +Goethe and myself meet, these grandees cannot fail to perceive what such as +we consider great. Yesterday, on our way home, we met the whole Imperial +family; we saw them coming some way off, when Goethe withdrew his arm from +mine, in order to stand aside; and, say what I would, I could not prevail +on him to make another step in advance. I pressed down my hat more firmly +on my head, buttoned up my great-coat, and, crossing my arms behind me, I +made my way through the thickest portion of the crowd. Princes and +courtiers formed a lane for me; Archduke Rudolph took off his hat, and the +Empress bowed to me first. These great ones of the earth _know me_. To my +infinite amusement, I saw the procession defile past Goethe, who stood +aside with his hat off, bowing profoundly. I afterwards took him sharply to +task for this; I gave him no quarter, and upbraided him with all his sins, +especially towards you, my dear friend, as we had just been speaking of +you. Heavens! if I could have lived with you as _he_ did, believe me I +should have produced far greater things. A musician is also a poet, he too +can feel himself transported into a brighter world by a pair of fine eyes, +where loftier spirits sport with him and impose heavy tasks on him. What +thoughts rushed into my mind when I first saw you in the Observatory during +a refreshing May shower, so fertilizing to me also![2] The most beautiful +themes stole from your eyes into my heart, which shall yet enchant the +world when Beethoven no longer _directs_. If God vouchsafes to grant me a +few more years of life, I must then see you once more, my dear, most dear +friend, for the voice within, to which I always listen, demands this. +Spirits may love one another, and I shall ever woo yours. Your approval is +dearer to me than all else in the world. I told Goethe my sentiments as to +the influence praise has over men like us, and that we desire our equals to +listen to us with their understanding. Emotion suits women only; (forgive +me!) music ought to strike fire from the soul of a man. Ah! my dear girl, +how long have our feelings been identical on all points!!! The sole real +good is some bright kindly spirit to sympathize with us, whom we thoroughly +comprehend, and from whom we need not hide our thoughts. _He who wishes to +appear something, must in reality be something._ The world must acknowledge +us, it is not always unjust; but for this I care not, having a higher +purpose in view. I hope to get a letter from you in Vienna; write to me +soon and fully, for a week hence I shall be there. The Court leaves this +to-morrow, and to-day they have another performance. The Empress has +studied her part thoroughly. The Emperor and the Duke wished me to play +some of my own music, but I refused, for they are both infatuated with +_Chinese porcelain_. A little indulgence is required, for reason seems to +have lost its empire; but I do not choose to minister to such perverse +folly--I will not be a party to such absurd doings to please those princes +who are constantly guilty of eccentricities of this sort. Adieu! adieu! +dear one; your letter lay all night next my heart, and cheered me. +Musicians permit themselves great license. _Heavens! how I love you!_ Your +most faithful friend and deaf brother, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Fräulein Giannatasio del Rio, in the journal she sent to the +_Grenz Boten_ in 1857, states that Beethoven once declared, "It is very +pleasant to associate with the great of the earth, but one must possess +some quality which inspires them with respect."] + +[Footnote 2: According to Bettina (see _Goethe's Correspondence with a +Child_, II. 193), their first acquaintance was made in Beethoven's +apartments.] + + +94. + +TO PRINCESS KINSKY,--PRAGUE + +Vienna, Dec. 30, 1812. + +YOUR HIGHNESS,-- + +The dreadful event which deprived you of your husband, Prince von Kinsky, +snatching him from his father-land and from all those who love him,[1] as +well as from many whom he generously supported, filling every heart capable +of appreciating goodness and greatness with the deepest sorrow, affected me +also in the most profound and painful degree. The stern duty of +self-interest compels me to lay before your Highness a humble petition, the +reasonable purport of which may, I hope, plead my excuse for intruding on +your Highness at a time when so many affairs of importance claim your +attention. Permit me to state the matter to your Highness. + +Y.H. is no doubt aware that when I received a summons to Westphalia in the +year 1809, his Highness Prince von Kinsky, your late husband, together with +his I.H. Archduke Rudolph and H.H. the Prince von Lobkowitz, offered to +settle on me for life an annual income of 4000 gulden, provided I declined +the proposal in question, and determined to remain in Austria. Although +this sum was by no means in proportion to that secured to me in Westphalia, +still my predilection for Austria, as well as my sense of this most +generous proposal, induced me to accept it without hesitation. The share +contributed by H.H. Prince Kinsky consisted of 1800 florins, which I have +received by quarterly instalments since 1809 from the Prince's privy purse. +Though subsequent occurrences partially diminished this sum, I rested +satisfied, till the appearance of the Finance Patent, reducing bank-notes +into _Einlösung Schein_. I applied to H.I.H. the Archduke Rudolph to +request that the portion of the annuity contributed by H.I.H. should in +future be paid in _Einlösung Schein_. This was at once granted, and I +received a written assurance to that effect from H.I.H. Prince von +Lobkowitz agreed to the same with regard to his share,--700 florins [see +No. 84]. H.H. Prince von Kinsky being at that time in Prague, I addressed +my respectful petition to him last May, through Herr Varnhagen von Ense, an +officer in the Vogelsang Regiment, that his Highness's contribution to my +salary--1800 florins--should be paid like the rest in _Einlösung Schein_. +Herr von Varnhagen wrote as follows, and the original of the letter is +still extant:-- + +"I had yesterday the desired interview with Prince Kinsky. With the highest +praise of Beethoven, he at once acceded to his demand, and is prepared to +pay up the arrears, and also all future sums from the date of the +_Einlösung Schein_, in that currency. The cashier here has received the +necessary instructions, and Beethoven can draw for the whole sum on his way +through Prague, or, if he prefers it, in Vienna, as soon as the Prince +returns there. + +"Prague, June 9, 1812." + +When passing through Prague some weeks afterwards, I took the opportunity +of waiting on the Prince, and received from him the fullest confirmation of +this promise. H.H. likewise assured me that he entirely admitted the +propriety of my demand, and considered it quite reasonable. As I could not +remain in Prague till this affair was finally settled, H.H. was so kind as +to make me a payment of sixty ducats on account, which, according to H.H.'s +calculation, were good for 600 florins Vienna currency. The arrears were to +be paid up on my return to Vienna, and an order given to the cashier to pay +my salary in future in _Einlösung Schein_. Such was H.H.'s pleasure. My +illness increasing in Töplitz, I was obliged to remain there longer than I +originally intended. In the month of September I therefore addressed to +H.H., who was then in Vienna, through one of my friends here, Herr Oliva, a +written memorial, claiming his promise, when H.H. graciously repeated to +this friend the assurance he had already given me, adding that in the +course of a few days he would give the necessary instructions on the +subject to his cashier. + +A short time afterwards he left Vienna. When I arrived there, I inquired +from the Prince's secretary whether H.H. had given directions about my +salary before leaving Vienna, when, to my surprise, I was told that H.H. +had done nothing in the matter. + +My title to the liquidation of my claim is proved by the testimony of the +Herren von Varnhagen and Oliva, to whom H.H. spoke on the subject, +reiterating his consent. I feel convinced that the illustrious heirs and +family of this prince will in the same spirit of benevolence and generosity +strive to fulfil his intentions. I therefore confidently place in Y.H.'s +hands my respectful petition, viz., "to pay up the arrears of my salary in +_Einlösung Schein_, and to instruct your cashier to transmit me the amount +in future, in the same currency." Relying on your sense of justice +according me a favorable decision, I remain Y.H.'s + +Most obedient servant, + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Prince Josef Ferdinand Kinsky, born December, 1781, and killed +by a fall from his horse, November 3, 1812.] + + +95. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1813.[1] + +I have been far from well since last Sunday, but have suffered more in mind +than in body. I beg your forgiveness a thousand times for not having sooner +sent my apologies; each day I had the strongest inclination to wait on you, +but Heaven knows that in spite of the best will that I always entertain for +the best of masters I was unable to do so, distressing as it is to me not +to have it in my power to sacrifice all to him for whom I cherish the +highest esteem, love, and veneration. Y.R.H. would perhaps act wisely in +making a pause at present with the Lobkowitz concerts; even the most +brilliant talent may lose its effect by too great familiarity. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: Prince Franz Josef Lobkowitz died December 25th, 1816. His +musical meetings were certainly continued till 1813, or longer.] + + +96. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1813.[1] + +At early dawn to-morrow the copyist shall begin the last movement. As I am +in the mean time writing several other works, I did not hurry myself much +with this last movement merely for the sake of punctuality, especially as I +must write this more deliberately, with a view to Rode's[2] playing; we +like quick, full-toned passages in our _Finales_, which do not suit R., and +this rather cramps me. At all events, all is sure to go well next Tuesday. +I very much doubt whether I shall be able to present myself at Y.R.H.'s on +that evening, in spite of my zeal in your service; but to make up for this, +I mean to come to you to-morrow forenoon and to-morrow afternoon, that I +may entirely fulfil the wishes of my illustrious pupil. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: 1813. January-February.] + +[Footnote 2: Pierre Rode, the violinist, arrived in Vienna in January, +1813, and gave a concert in the Redoutensaal on February 6th, but did not +give universal satisfaction (_A.M.Z._, 1813, p. 114), and a second concert +that he had projected does not appear to have taken place. He played in +Gratz on February 20th and 27th. It seems that Rode was to play with +Beethoven at the Archduke Rudolph's, for which occasion Beethoven prepared +a composition for them both. Was this the Sonata for pianoforte and violin, +Op. 36, which he afterwards dedicated to the Archduke? Thayer states that +it was written by Beethoven in 1810, and sold to the music-publisher +Steiner in Vienna in April, 1815. No other composition for the violin and +pianoforte is so likely to be the one as this. It is, however, a mistake in +the _Bibliothèque Universelle_, tome xxxvi. p. 210, to state that Beethoven +during Rode's stay in Vienna composed the "délicieuse Romance" which was +played with so much expression by De Baillot on the violin. There are only +two Romances known for the violin by Beethoven, the one in G major, Op. 40, +in the year 1803, and the second in F major, Op. 50, published in 1805. +(Thayer, 102 and 104.)] + + +97. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1813. + +I had just gone out yesterday when your gracious letter reached me. As for +my health, it is pretty much the same, particularly as moral causes affect +it, which do not seem likely to be removed; particularly as I can have +recourse to no one but myself for aid, and can find help in my own head +alone; and more particularly still, because in these days neither words, +nor honor, nor written pledges, seem binding on any one. As for my +occupations, I have come to an end with some of them, and, even without +your gracious invitation, I intended to appear at the usual hour to-day. +With regard to Rode [see No. 96], I beg Y.R.H. to be so good as to let me +have the part by the bearer of this, and I will send it to him at once, +with a polite note from me. _He certainly will not take amiss my sending +him the part. Oh! certainly not! Would to Heaven that I were obliged to ask +his forgiveness on this account! for in that case things would really be in +a better position._ Is it your pleasure that I should come to you this +evening at five o'clock as usual, or does Y.R.H. desire another hour? I +shall endeavor to arrange accordingly, and punctually to fulfil your +wishes. + +[K.] + + +98. + +TO PRINCESS KINSKY. + +Vienna, Feb. 12, 1813. + +YOUR HIGHNESS!-- + +You were so gracious as to declare with regard to the salary settled on me +by your deceased husband, that you saw the propriety of my receiving it in +Vienna currency, but that the authority of the court of law which has +assumed the guardianship of the estate must first be obtained. Under the +conviction that the authorities who represent their princely wards could +not fail to be influenced by the same motives that actuated the late Prince +in his conduct towards me, I think I am justified in expecting the +ratification of my claim from the aforesaid court, as I can prove, by the +testimony of well-known, respectable, and upright men, the promise and +intentions of H.H. in my behalf, which cannot fail to be binding on his +heirs and children. If, therefore, the proofs submitted should even be +found deficient in legal formality, I cannot doubt that this want will be +supplied by the noble mode of thinking of this illustrious house, and by +their own inclination to generous actions. + +Possibly another question may at present arise from the condition of the +inheritance, which is no doubt heavily burdened, both owing to the +melancholy and sudden death of the late Prince, and by the state of the +times, which renders it equally just and indispensable to husband carefully +all possible resources. On this account it is far from my wish to claim +more than is absolutely necessary for my own livelihood, and grounded on +the contract itself,--the legality of such a claim on the heirs of the late +Prince not being in any way disputed. + +I beg, then, that Y.H. will be pleased to direct the arrears of my salary, +due since the 1st September, 1811, calculated in Vienna currency, in +accordance with the scale of the contract, making in W.W. 1088 florins 42 +kreuzers, to be paid, and _in the interim_, the question whether this +salary ought to be paid in Vienna currency can be deferred until the +affairs are settled, when the subject is again brought before the trustees, +and my claims admitted to be just by their consent and authority. The late +Prince having given me sixty ducats merely on account of my salary, which +was to be paid by agreement in Vienna currency, and as this agreement (as +every intelligent man will inform Y.H.) must be accepted to its full +extent, or at all events not cause me loss, it follows as a matter of +course that Y.H. will not object to my considering the sixty ducats as only +an instalment of the arrears due to me beyond the usual scale of payment, +agreed to be paid in Vienna currency, so that the amount must not be +deducted from the sum still due to me. + +I feel sure that Y.H.'s noble feelings will do justice to the equity of my +proposal, and my wish to enter into every detail of this affair, so far as +circumstances permit, and also my readiness to postpone my claims to suit +your convenience. The same elevated sentiments which prompted you to fulfil +the engagement entered into by the late Prince, will also make Y.H. +apprehend the absolute necessity entailed on me by my position again to +solicit immediate payment of the arrears of my salary, which are +indispensable for my maintenance. + +Anxiously hoping for a favorable answer to my petition, I have the honor to +remain, with profound respect, + +Y.R.H.'s obedient servant, + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +99. + +TO PRINCESS KINSKY. + +HIGHLY HONORED PRINCESS!-- + +As the Prince's counsel declared that my claim could not be heard till the +choice of a guardian had been made, and as I now hear that Y.H. has been +graciously pleased yourself to assume that office, but decline receiving +any one, I present my humble petition in writing, requesting at the same +time your early consideration; for you can easily understand that, relying +on a thing as a certainty, it is painful to be so long deprived of it, +especially as I am obliged entirely to support an unfortunate sickly +brother and his whole family,[1] which (not computing my own wants) has +entirely exhausted my resources, having expected to provide for myself by +the payment of my salary. You may perceive the justice of my claims from +the fact of my faithfully naming the receipt of the sixty ducats, advanced +to me by the late Prince in Prague, the Prince's counsel himself declaring +that I might have said nothing about this sum, the late Prince not having +mentioned it either to him or to his cashier. + +Forgive my being obliged to intrude this affair on you, but necessity +compels me to do so. Some days hence I shall take the liberty of making +inquiries on the subject from the Prince's counsel, or from any one Y.H. +may appoint. + +I remain, most esteemed and illustrious Princess, + +Your devoted servant, + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: See a letter to Ries, Nov. 22d, 1815:--"He was consumptive for +some years, and, in order to make his life easier, I can safely compute +what I gave him at 10,000 florins W.W."] + + +100. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +DEAR Z.,-- + +Forward the accompanying letter to-day without fail to Brunswick, that it +may arrive as soon and as safely as possible. Excuse the trouble I give +you. I have been again applied to, to send some of my works to Gratz, in +Styria, for a concert to be given in aid of the Ursuline convent and its +schools: last year they had very large receipts by this means. Including +this concert, and one I gave in Carlsbad for the benefit of the sufferers +from fire at Baden, three concerts have been given by me, and through me, +for benevolent purposes in one year; and yet if I ask a favor, people are +as deaf as a post. Your + +BEETHOVEN. + +I. Letter to Sclowonowitsch (Maître des bureaux des postes) in Cassel. I +can no longer do without the books of Tiedge and Frau von der Recke, as I +am expected to give some opinion about them. + + +101. + +TO HERR JOSEPH VARENNA,--GRATZ. + +MY GOOD SIR,-- + +Rode was not quite correct in all that he said of me; my health is not +particularly good, and from no fault of my own,--my present condition being +the most unfortunate of my life. But neither this nor anything in the world +shall prevent me from assisting, so far as it lies in my power, the +innocent and distressed ladies of your convent by my poor works. I +therefore place at your disposal two new symphonies, a bass aria with +chorus, and several minor choruses; if you desire again to perform +"Hungaria's Benefactors," which you gave last year, it is also at your +service. Among the choruses you will find a "Dervise Chorus," a capital +bait for a mixed public. + +In my opinion, your best plan would be to select a day when you could give +the "Mount of Olives," which has been everywhere performed. This would +occupy one half of the concert, and the other half might consist of a new +symphony, the overtures, and various choruses, and likewise the above-named +bass aria and chorus; thus the evening would not be devoid of variety. But +you can settle all this more satisfactorily with the aid of your own +musical authorities. I think I can guess what you mean about a gratuity for +me from a _third person_. Were I in the same position as formerly, I would +at once say, "Beethoven never accepts anything _where the benefit of +humanity is concerned_;" but owing to my own too great benevolence I am +reduced to a low ebb, the cause of which, however, does not put me to +shame, being combined with other circumstances for which men devoid of +honor and principle are alone to blame; so I do not hesitate to say that I +would not refuse the contribution of the rich man to whom you allude.[1] +But there is no question here of any _claim_. If, however, the affair with +the _third person_ comes to nothing, pray rest assured that I shall be +equally disposed to confer the same benefit as last year on my friends the +respected Ursuline ladies, and shall at all times be ready to succor the +poor and needy so long as I live. And now farewell! Write soon, and I will +zealously strive to make all necessary arrangements. My best wishes for the +convent. + +I am, with esteem, your friend, + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Reichardt, on the 1st March, 1809, writes in his _Vertraute +Briefe_,--"Beethoven, by 'a rich third person,' as the following letter +proves, meant Louis Bonaparte, who, after abdicating the Dutch throne, +lived in Gratz."] + + +102. + +TO VARENNA. + +MY EXCELLENT V. [VARENNA],-- + +I received your letter with much pleasure, but with much displeasure the +100 florins allotted to me by our poor convent ladies; in the mean time I +will apply part of this sum to pay the copyists--the surplus and the +accounts for copying shall be sent to these good ladies. + +I never accept anything for such a purpose. I thought that perhaps the +_third person_ to whom you alluded might be the Ex-King of Holland, in +which case I should have had no scruples, under my present circumstances, +in accepting a gratuity from him, who has no doubt taken enough from the +Dutch in a less legitimate way; but as it is, I must decline (though in all +friendship) any renewal of this subject. + +Let me know whether, were I to come myself to Gratz, I could give a +concert, and what the receipts would probably be; for Vienna, alas! can no +longer continue my place of abode. Perhaps it is now too late? but any +information from you on the point will be very welcome. + +The works are being copied, and you shall have them as soon as possible. +You may do just what you please with the Oratorio; where it will be of most +use it will best fulfil my intentions. + +I am, with esteem, your obedient + +BEETHOVEN. + +P.S. Say all that is kind from me to the worthy Ursuline ladies. I rejoice +in being able to serve them. + + +103. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +Confounded, invited guest! _Domanowetz!_--not musical Count, but gobbling +Count! dinner Count! supper Count! &c., &c. The Quartet is to be tried over +to-day at ten o'clock or half-past, at Lobkowitz's.[1] His Highness, whose +wits are generally astray, is not yet arrived; so pray join us, if you can +escape from your Chancery jailer. Herzog is to see you to-day. He intends +to take the post of my man-servant; you may agree to give him thirty +florins, with his wife _obbligata_. Firing, light, and morning livery +found. I must have some one who knows how to cook, for if my food continues +as bad as it now is, I shall always be ill. I dine at home to-day, because +I get better wine. If you will only order what you like, I very much wish +you to come to me. You shall have the wine _gratis_, and of far better +quality than what you get at the scoundrelly "Swan." + +Your very insignificant + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Reichardt, in his _Vertraute Briefe_, writes: "The beautiful +quartets and evening concerts for the Archduke Rudolph still continue at +Prince von Lobkowitz's, although the Prince himself is about to join his +battalion in Bohemia." Reichardt, Vol. I. p. 182, calls Lobkowitz "an +indefatigable, insatiable, genuine enthusiast for art."] + + +104. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +Feb. 25, 1813. + +I have been constantly indisposed, dear Zmeskall, since I last saw you; in +the mean time the servant who lived with you before your present one has +applied for my situation. I do not recollect him, but he told me he had +been with you, and that you had nothing to say against him, except that he +did not dress your hair as you wished. I gave him earnest-money, though +only a florin. Supposing you have no other fault to find with the man (and +if so I beg you will candidly mention it), I intend to engage him, for you +know that it is no object with me to have my hair dressed; it would be more +to the purpose if my finances could be dressed, or _re-dressed_. I hope to +get an answer from you to day. If there is no one to open the door to your +servant, let him leave the note in the entrance to the left, and should he +find no one there either, he must give it to the porter's wife below +stairs. May Heaven prosper you in your musical undertakings! Your + +BEETHOVEN, + +_Miserabilis._ + + +105. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +Feb. 28, 1813. + +Let us leave things as they are for to-day, dear Z., till we meet [and so +on about the servant]. + +Farewell! Carefully guard the fortresses of the realm, which, as you know, +are no longer virgins, and have already received many a shot. + +Your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +106. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +MOST WORTHY COUNSELLOR, OWNER OF MINES AND LORD OF FASTNESSES IN BURGUNDY +AND BUDA!-- + +Be so good as to let me know how matters stand, as this afternoon at latest +I shall take advantage of your reply to my question, by giving my servant +warning for this day fortnight. His wages, &c., &c. [The rest relates to +his servant.] + + +107. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +April 19, 1813. + +MY DEAR ZMESKALL,-- + +I have been refused the University Hall. I heard this two days since; but +being indisposed yesterday I could not go to see you, nor can I to-day +either. We have no resource now but the Kärnthnerthor Theatre, or the one +"an der Wien." I believe there will only be one concert. If both these +fail, we must then have recourse to the Augarten, in which case we ought +certainly to give two concerts. Reflect on this, my dear friend, and let me +have your opinion. To-morrow the symphonies may perhaps be tried over at +the Archduke's if I am able to go out, of which I will apprise you. + +Your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +108. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +April 23, 1813. + +DEAR Z.,-- + +All will go right, the Archduke being resolved to take this Prince +_Fizlypuzly_ roundly to task. Let me know if you are to dine at the tavern +to-day, or where? Pray tell me if "Sentivany" is properly spelt, as I wish +to write to him at the same time about the Chorus. We must also consult +together what day to choose. By the by, be cautious not to mention the +intercession of the Archduke, for Prince _Fizlypuzly_ is not to be with him +till Sunday, and if that evil-minded creditor had any previous hint of the +affair, he would still try to evade us. + +Yours ever, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +109. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +April 26, 1813. + +Lobkowitz will give me a day on the 15th of May, or after that period, +which seems to me scarcely better than none at all; so I am almost disposed +to give up all idea of a concert. But the Almighty will no doubt prevent my +being utterly ruined. + +Yours, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +110. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +Baden, May 27, 1813. + +I have the honor to inform you of my arrival in Baden, which is indeed +still very empty of human beings, but with all the greater luxuriance and +full lustre does Nature shine in her enchanting loveliness. Where I fail, +or ever have failed, be graciously indulgent towards me, for so many trying +occurrences, succeeding each other so closely, have really almost +bewildered me; still I am convinced that the resplendent beauties of Nature +here, and the charming environs, will gradually restore my spirits, and a +double share of tranquillity be my portion, as by my stay here I likewise +fulfil the wishes of Y.R.H. Would that my desire soon to hear that Y.R.H. +is fully restored were equally fulfilled! This is indeed my warmest wish, +and how much I grieve that I cannot at this moment contribute to your +recovery by means of _my_ art! This is reserved for the goddess Hygeia +alone, and I, alas! am only a poor mortal, who commends himself to Y.R.H., +and sincerely hopes soon to be permitted to wait on you. + +[K.] + + +111. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +Vienna, July 24, 1813. + +From day to day I have been expecting to return to Baden; in the mean time, +the discords that detain me here may possibly be resolved by the end of the +ensuing week. To me a residence in a town during the summer is misery, and +when I also remember that I am thus prevented waiting on Y.R.H., it is +still more vexatious and annoying. It is, in fact, the Lobkowitz and Kinsky +affairs that keep me here. Instead of pondering over a number of bars, I am +obliged constantly to reflect on the number of peregrinations I am forced +to make; but for this, I could scarcely endure to the end. Y.R.H. has no +doubt heard of Lobkowitz's misfortunes,[1] which are much to be regretted; +but after all, to be rich is no such great happiness! It is said that Count +Fries alone paid 1900 gold ducats to Duport, for which he had the security +of the ancient Lobkowitz house. The details are beyond all belief. I hear +that Count Rasumowsky[2] intends to go to Baden, and to take his Quartet +with him, which is really very pretty, and I have no doubt that Y.R.H. will +be much pleased with it. I know no more charming enjoyment in the country +than quartet music. I beg Y.R.H. will accept my heartfelt wishes for your +health, and also compassionate me for being obliged to pass my time here +under such disagreeable circumstances. But I will strive to compensate +twofold in Baden for what you have lost. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: Prince Lobkowitz's "misfortunes" probably refer to the great +pecuniary difficulties which befell this music and pomp loving Prince +several years before his death. Beethoven seems to have made various +attempts to induce the Prince to continue the payment of his share of the +salary agreed on, though these efforts were long fruitless. The subject, +however, appears to have been again renewed in 1816, for on the 8th of +March in this year Beethoven writes to Ries to say that his salary consists +of 3400 florins E.S., and this sum he received till his death.] + +[Footnote 2: Those who played in Count Rasumowsky's Quartets, to whom +Beethoven dedicated various compositions, were the _virtuosi_ Schuppanzigh +(1st), Sina (2d violin), Linke (violoncello), Weiss (violin).] + + +112. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1813.[1] + +I beg to inquire whether, being in some degree restored, I am to wait on +you this evening? I at the same time take the liberty to make a humble +request. I was in hopes that by this time, at all events, my melancholy +circumstances would have brightened, but all continues in its old state, so +I must determine on giving two concerts.[2] I find that I am compelled to +give up my former resolution never to give any except for benevolent +purposes; as self-maintenance demands that I should do so. The hall of the +University would be the most advantageous and distinguished for my present +object, and my humble request consists in entreating Y.R.H. to be so +gracious as to send a line to the present _Rector Magnificus_ of the +University, through Baron Schweiger, which would certainly ensure my +getting the hall. In the hope of a favorable answer, I remain, &c., &c. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: Late in the autumn of 1813.] + +[Footnote 2: The concerts here referred to were given in the University +Hall on the 8th and 12th December, 1813, when the _Battle of Vittoria_ and +the A major Symphony were performed for the first time. Beethoven himself +conducted.] + + +113. + +TO FREIHERR JOSEF VON SCHWEIGER. + +Late in the Autumn of 1813. + +MY DEAR FRIEND,-- + +I have to-day applied (by letter) to my gracious master to interest himself +in procuring the University Hall for two concerts which I think of giving, +and in fact must give, for all remains as it was. Always considering you, +both in good and evil fortune, my best friend, I suggested to the Duke that +you should apply in his name for this favor to the present Rector of the +University. Whatever may be the result, let me know H.R.H.'s decision as +soon as possible, that I may make further efforts to extricate myself from +a position so detrimental to me and to my art. I am coming this evening to +the Archduke. + +Your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[K.] + + +114. + +TO HERR VON BAUMEISTER.[1] + +DEAR SIR,-- + +I request you will send me the parts of the Symphony in A, and likewise my +score. His I.H. can have the MS. again, but I require it at present for the +music in the Augarten to-morrow. I have just received two tickets, which I +send to you, and beg you will make use of them. + +I am, with esteem, yours, + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Private Secretary to the Archduke Rudolph.] + + +115. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +Oct. 9, 1813. + +MY DEAR GOOD Z.,-- + +Don't be indignant with me for asking you to address the enclosed letter +properly; the person for whom it is intended is constantly complaining that +he gets no letters from me. Yesterday I took one myself to the post-office, +when I was asked where the letter was meant to go. I see, therefore, that +my writing seems to be as little understood as myself. Thence my request to +you. Your + +BEETHOVEN. + + +116. + +LETTER OF THANKS. + +I esteem it my duty to express my gratitude for the great zeal shown by all +those artists who so kindly coöperated on the 8th and 12th December [1813] +in the concerts given for the benefit of the Austrian and Bavarian soldiers +wounded at the battle of Hanau. It was a rare combination of eminent +artists, where all were inspired by the wish to be of use to their +father-land, and to contribute by the exercise of their talents to the +fulfilment of the undertaking, while, regardless of all precedence, they +gladly accepted subordinate places.[1] While an artist like Herr +Schuppanzigh was at the head of the first violins, and by his fiery and +expressive mode of conducting kindled the zeal of the whole orchestra, Herr +Kapellmeister Salieri did not scruple to give the time to the drums and +cannonades; Herr Spohr and Herr Mayseder, each worthy from his talents to +fill the highest post, played in the second and third rank. Herr Siboni and +Herr Giuliani also filled subordinate places. The conducting of the whole +was only assigned to me from the music being my own composition; had it +been that of any one else, I would willingly, like Herr Hummel, have taken +my place at the big drum, as the only feeling that pervaded all our hearts +was true love for our father-land, and the wish cheerfully to devote our +powers to those who had sacrificed so much for us. Particular thanks are +due to Herr Maelzel, inasmuch as he first suggested the idea of this +concert, and the most troublesome part of the enterprise, the requisite +arrangements, management, and regulations, devolved on him. I more +especially thank him for giving me an opportunity by this concert of +fulfilling a wish I have long cherished, to compose for such a benevolent +object (exclusive of the works already made over to him) a comprehensive +work more adapted to the present times, to be laid on the altar of my +father-land.[2] As a notice is to be published of all those who assisted on +this occasion, the public will be enabled to judge of the noble self-denial +exercised by a mass of the greatest artists, working together with the same +benevolent object in view. + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: The A major Symphony and _Wellington's Victory at Vittoria_ +were performed.] + +[Footnote 2: "Obsolete" is written in pencil by Beethoven.] + + +117. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.[1] + +1814. + +I beg you will send me the score of the "Final Chorus"[2] for half a day, +as the theatrical score is so badly written. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: The spring of 1814.] + +[Footnote 2: The _Schlusschor_, the score of which Beethoven requests the +Archduke to send him, is in all probability the Finale _Germania! +Germania!_ intended for Treitschke's Operetta _Die gute Nachricht_, which +refers to the taking of Paris by the Allies, and was performed for the +first time at Vienna in the Kärnthnerthor Theatre on the 11th April, 1814. +The same _Final Chorus_ was substituted for another of Beethoven's (_Es ist +vollbracht_) in Treitschke's Operetta _Die Ehrenpforten_, first given on +the 15th July, 1815, in the Kärnthnerthor Theatre. Both these choruses are +printed in score in Breitkopf & Härtel's edition of Beethoven's works.] + + +118. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1814. + +Having only so recently received the score of the "Final Chorus," I must +ask you to excuse your getting it back so late. The best thing H.R.H. can +do is to have it transcribed, for in its present form the score is of no +use. I would have brought it myself, but I have been laid up with a cold +since last Sunday, which is most severe, and obliges me to be very careful, +being so much indisposed. I never feel greater satisfaction than when +Y.R.H. derives any pleasure through me. I hope very soon to be able to wait +on you myself, and in the mean time I pray that you will keep me in +remembrance. + +[K.] + + +119. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1814. + +The song "Germania" belongs to the whole world who sympathize with the +subject, and to you beyond all others, just as I myself am wholly yours. I +wish you a good journey to Palermo. + +[K.] + + +120. + +TO TREITSCHKE. + +March, 1814. + +MY DEAR, WORTHY T.,-- + +I have read with the greatest satisfaction your amendments of the Opera +["Fidelio" which was about to be again performed]. It has decided me once +more to rebuild the desolate ruins of an ancient fortress. + +Your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +121. + +TO TREITSCHKE. + +The affair of the Opera is the most troublesome in the world, and there is +scarcely one part of it which quite satisfies me now, and that I have not +been obliged to _amend by something more satisfactory_. But what a +difference between this, and giving one's self up to freely flowing thought +and inspiration! + + +122. + +TO TREITSCHKE. + +1814. + +I request, my dear T., that you will send me the score of the song [in +"Fidelio," _Geld ist eine schöne Sache_], that the interpolated notes may +be transcribed in all the instrumental parts; though I shall not take it at +all amiss if you prefer that Girowetz or any other person, perhaps +Weinmüller [who sang the part of Rocco], should do so. This I have nothing +to say against, but I will not suffer my composition to be altered by any +one whatever, be he who he may. + +I am, with high consideration, + +Your obedient + +BEETHOVEN. + + +123. + +TO COUNT MORITZ LICHNOWSKY.[1] + +MY DEAR COUNT,-- + +If you wish to attend our council [about the alterations in "Fidelio"], I +beg to inform you that it assembles this afternoon at half-past three +o'clock, in the Spielmann Haus, auf dem Graben, No. 188, 4th Etage, at Herr +Weinmüller's. I shall be very glad if you have leisure to be present. + +[Footnote 1: The mention of Weinmüller decides the date of this note, as it +was in the spring of 1814 that he, together with the singers Saal and Vogl, +brought about the revival of _Fidelio_.] + + +124. + +TO COUNT MORITZ LICHNOWSKY.[1] + +My dear, victorious, and yet sometimes nonplussed (?) Count! I hope that +you rested well, most precious and charming of all Counts! Oh! most beloved +and unparalleled Count! most fascinating and prodigious Count! + +[Music: Treble clef, E-flat Major, 2/2 time. +Graf Graf Graf Graf (in 3-part harmony) +Graf (in 3-part counterpoint) +Graf Graf Graf, liebster Graf, liebstes Schaf, +bester Graf, bestes Schaf! Schaf! Schaf!] + +(_To be repeated at pleasure_.) + +At what hour shall we call on Walter to-day? My going or not depends +entirely on you. Your + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: In Schindler's _Beethoven's Nachlass_ there is also an +autograph Canon of Beethoven's in F major, 6/8, on Count Lichnowsky, on the +words, _Bester Herr Graf, Sie sind ein Schaf_, written (according to +Schindler) Feb. 20th, 1823, in the coffee-house "Die Goldne Birne," in the +Landstrasse, where Beethoven usually went every evening, though he +generally slipped in by the backdoor.] + + +125. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1814. + +I hope you forgive me for not having come to you. Your displeasure would be +totally undeserved, and I will amply compensate for lost time in a few +days. My Opera of "Fidelio"[1] is again to be performed, which gives me a +great deal to do; moreover, though I look well, I am not so in reality. The +arrangements for my second concert[2] are partly completed. I must write +something new for Mdlle. Milder.[3] Meanwhile it is a consolation to me to +hear that Y.R.H. is so much better. I hope I am not too sanguine in +thinking that I shall soon be able to contribute towards this. I have taken +the liberty to apprise my Lord Falstaff[4] that he is ere long to have the +honor of appearing before Y.R.H. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: Letters 125 and 126 refer to the revival of the Opera of +_Fidelio_, which had not been given since 1806, and was not again produced +on the stage till the 23d May, 1814, in the Kärnthnerthor Theatre. +Beethoven's benefit took place on the 8th July, two newly composed pieces +being inserted.] + +[Footnote 2: Beethoven gave a concert on the 2d January, 1814, when +_Wellington's Victory_ was performed, and on the 26th March another for the +benefit of the Theatrical Fund, at which the _Overture to Egmont_ and +_Wellingtons's Victory_ were given, directed by Beethoven himself.] + +[Footnote 3: Anna Milder, Royal Court opera singer, a pupil of Vogl's, who +first sang the part of Leonore in _Fidelio_.] + +[Footnote 4: By "my Lord Falstaff" he means the corpulent violinist +Schuppanzigh.] + + +126. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +Vienna, July 14, 1814. + +Whenever I inquire about you I hear nothing but good news. As for my own +insignificant self, I have been hitherto hopelessly detained in Vienna, and +unable to approach Y.R.H.; I am also thus deprived of the enjoyment of +beautiful Nature, so dear to me. The directors of the theatre are so +_conscientious_, that, contrary to their faithful promise, they have again +given my Opera of "Fidelio," without thinking of giving me any share in the +receipts. They would have exhibited the same commendable good faith a +second time, had I not been on the watch like a French custom-house officer +of other days. At last, after a great many troublesome discussions, it was +settled that the Opera of "Fidelio" should be given on Monday the 18th of +July, for my benefit. These _receipts_ at this season of the year may more +properly be called _deceits_; but if a work is in any degree successful it +often becomes a little feast for the author. To this feast the master +invites his illustrious pupil, and hopes--yes! I hope that Y.R.H. will +graciously consent to come, and thus add lustre to everything by your +presence. It would be a great boon if Y.R.H. would endeavor to persuade the +other members of the Imperial family to be present at the representation of +my Opera, and I on my part will not fail to take the proper steps on the +subject which duty commands. Vogl's illness[1] enabled me to satisfy my +desire to give the part of Pizarro to Forti,[2] his voice being better +suited to it; but owing to this there are daily rehearsals, which cannot +fail to have a favorable effect on the performance, but which render it +impossible for me to wait upon Y.R.H. before my benefit. Pray give this +letter your favorable consideration, and think graciously of me. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: Joh. Mich. Vogl, born August 10th, 1768, was Court opera +singer (tenor) in Vienna from 1794 to 1822; he died November 19th, 1840.] + +[Footnote 2: Forti, born June 8th, 1790, a member of the Royal Court +Theatre (a barytone), pensioned off in 1834.] + + +127. + +DEPOSITION. + +1814. + +I voluntarily presented Maelzel _gratis_ with a "Battle Symphony" for his +panharmonica. After having kept it for some time, he brought me back the +score, which he had already begun to engrave, saying that he wished it to +be harmonized for a full orchestra. The idea of a battle had already +occurred to me, which, however, could not be performed on his panharmonica. +We agreed to select this and some more of my works [see No. 116] to be +given at the concert for the benefit of disabled soldiers. At that very +time I became involved in the most frightful pecuniary difficulties. +Forsaken by every one in Vienna, and in daily expectation of remittances, +&c., Maelzel offered me fifty gold ducats, which I accepted, saying that I +would either repay them, or allow him to take the work to London, (provided +I did not go there myself with him,) referring him to an English publisher +for payment. + +I got back from him the score written for the panharmonica. The concerts +then took place, and during that time Herr Maelzel's designs and character +were first fully revealed. Without my consent, he stated on the bills of +the concert that the work was _his property_. Indignant at this, I insisted +on his destroying these bills. He then stated that I had given it to him as +a friendly act, because he was going to London. To this I did not object, +believing that I had reserved the right to state the conditions on which +the work should be his own. I remember that when the bills were being +printed, I violently opposed them, but the time was too short, as I was +still writing the work. In all the fire of inspiration, and absorbed in my +composition, I scarcely thought at all on the subject. Immediately after +the first concert in the University Hall, I was told on all sides, and by +people on whom I could rely, that Maelzel had everywhere given out he had +paid me 400 gold ducats for the Symphony. I sent what follows to a +newspaper, but the editor would not insert it, as Maelzel stands well with +them all. As soon as the first concert was over, I repaid Maelzel his fifty +ducats, declaring that having discovered his real character, nothing should +ever induce me to travel with him; justly indignant that, without +consulting me, he had stated in the bills that all the arrangements for the +concert were most defective. His own despicable want of patriotism too is +proved by the following expressions: "I care nothing at all about L.; if it +is only said in London that people have paid ten gulden for admission here, +that is all I care about; the wounded are nothing to me." Moreover, I told +him that he might take the work to London on certain conditions, which I +would inform him of. He then asserted that it was a _friendly gift_, and +made use of this phrase in the newspapers after the second concert, without +giving me the most remote hint on the subject. As Maelzel is a rude, +churlish man, entirely devoid of education or cultivation, it is easy to +conceive the tenor of his conduct to me during this time, which still +further irritated me. Who could bear to be forced to bestow a _friendly +gift_ on such a man? I was offered an opportunity to send the work to the +Prince Regent, [afterwards George IV.] It was therefore quite impossible +for me to _give away the work unconditionally_. + +He then called on a mutual friend to make proposals. He was told on what +day to return for an answer, but he never appeared, set off on his travels, +and performed the work in Munich. How did he obtain it? He could not +possibly _steal_ it; but Herr Maelzel had several of the parts for some +days in his house, and he caused the entire work to be harmonized by some +obscure musical journeyman, and is now hawking it about the world. Herr +Maelzel promised me ear-trumpets. I harmonized the "Battle Symphony" for +his panharmonica from a wish to keep him to his word. The ear-trumpets came +at last, but were not of the service to me that I expected. For this slight +trouble Herr Maelzel, after my having arranged the "Battle Symphony" for a +full orchestra, and composed a battle-piece in addition, declared that I +ought to have made over these works to him as _his own exclusive property_. +Even allowing that I am in some degree obliged to him for the ear-trumpets, +this is entirely balanced by his having made at least 500 gulden in Munich +by my mutilated or stolen battle-piece. He has therefore paid himself in +full. He had actually the audacity to say here that he was in possession of +the battle-piece; in fact he showed it, written out, to various persons. I +did not believe this; and, in fact, with good reason, as the whole is not +by me, but compiled by some one else. Indeed the credit he assumes for the +work should alone be sufficient compensation. + +The secretary at the War Office made no allusion whatever to me, and yet +every work performed at both concerts was of my composition. + +Herr Maelzel thinks fit to say that he has delayed his visit to London on +account of the battle-piece, which is a mere subterfuge. He stayed to +finish his patchwork, as the first attempt did not succeed. + +BEETHOVEN. + + +128. + +TO HERR J. KAUKA, DOCTOR OF LAWS IN PRAGUE, IN THE KINGDOM OF BOHEMIA. + +The Summer of 1814. + +A thousand thanks, my esteemed Kauka. At last I meet with a _legal +representative_ and a _man_, who can both write and think without using +unmeaning formulas. You can scarcely imagine how I long for the end of this +affair, as it not only interferes with my domestic expenditure, but is +injurious to me in various ways. You know yourself that a sensitive spirit +ought not to be fettered by miserable anxieties, and much that might render +my life happy is thus abstracted from it. Even my inclination and the duty +I assigned myself, to serve suffering humanity by means of my art, I have +been obliged to limit, and must continue to do so.[1] + +I write nothing about our monarchs and monarchies, for the newspapers give +you every information on these subjects.[2] The intellectual realm is the +most precious in my eyes, and far above all temporal and spiritual +monarchies. Write to me, however, what you wish _for yourself_ from my poor +musical capabilities, that I may, in so far as it lies in my power, supply +something for your own musical sense and feeling. Do you not require all +the papers connected with the Kinsky case? If so I will send them to you, +as they contain most important testimony, which, indeed, I believe you read +when with me. Think of me and do not forget that you represent a +disinterested artist in opposition to a niggardly family. How gladly do men +withhold from the poor artist in one respect _what they pay him in +another_, and there is no longer a Zeus with whom an artist can invite +himself to feast on ambrosia. Strive, my dear friend, to accelerate the +tardy steps of justice. Whenever I feel myself elevated high, and in happy +moments revel in my artistic sphere, circumstances drag me down again, and +none more than these two lawsuits. You too have your disagreeable moments, +though with the views and capabilities I know you to possess, especially in +your profession, I could scarcely have believed this; still I must recall +your attention to myself. I have drunk to the dregs a cup of bitter sorrow, +and already earned martyrdom in art through my beloved artistic disciples +and colleagues. I beg you will think of me every day, and imagine it to be +an _entire world_, for it is really asking rather too much of you to think +of so humble an _individual_ as myself. + +I am, with the highest esteem and friendship, + +Your obedient + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: He supported a consumptive brother and his wife and child.] + +[Footnote 2: At the Vienna Congress Beethoven was received with much +distinction by the potentates present.] + + +129. + +ADDRESS AND APPEAL TO LONDON ARTISTS BY L. VAN BEETHOVEN. + +Vienna, July 25, 1814. + +Herr Maelzel, now in London, on his way thither performed my "Battle +Symphony" and "Wellington's Battle of Vittoria" in Munich, and no doubt he +intends to produce them at London concerts, as he wished to do in +Frankfort. This induces me to declare that I never in any way made over or +transferred the said works to Herr Maelzel; that no one possesses a copy of +them, and that the only one verified by me I sent to his Royal Highness the +Prince Regent of England. The performance of these works, therefore, by +Herr Maelzel is either an imposition on the public, as the above +declaration proves that he does not possess them, or if he does, he has +been guilty of a breach of faith towards me, inasmuch as he must have got +them in a surreptitious manner. + +But even in the latter case the public will still be deluded, for the works +that Herr Maelzel performs under the titles of "Wellington's Battle of +Vittoria" and "Battle Symphony" are beyond all doubt spurious and +mutilated, as he never had any portion of either of these works of mine, +except some of the parts for a few days. + +This suspicion becomes a certainty from the testimony of various artists +here, whose names I am authorized to give if necessary. These gentlemen +state that Herr Maelzel, before he left Vienna, declared that he was in +possession of these works, and showed various portions, which, however, as +I have already proved, must be counterfeit. The question whether Herr +Maelzel be capable of doing me such an injury is best solved by the +following fact,--In the public papers he named himself as sole giver of the +concert on behalf of our wounded soldiers, whereas my works alone were +performed there, and yet he made no allusion whatsoever to me. + +I therefore appeal to the London musicians not to permit such a grievous +wrong to be done to their fellow-artist by Herr Maelzel's performance of +the "Battle of Vittoria" and the "Battle Symphony," and also to prevent the +London public being so shamefully imposed upon. + + +130. + +TO DR. KAUKA. + +Vienna, August 22, 1814. + +You have shown a feeling for harmony, and you can resolve a great discord +in my life, which causes me much discomfort, into more pleasing melody, if +you will. I shortly expect to hear something of what you understand is +likely to happen, as I eagerly anticipate the result of this most _unjust_ +affair with the Kinskys. When the Princess was here, she seemed to be well +disposed towards me; still I do not know how it will end. In the mean time +I must restrict myself in everything, and await with entire confidence what +is _rightfully my own_ and _legally devolves on me_; and though unforeseen +occurrences caused changes in this matter, still two witnesses recently +bore testimony to the wish of the deceased Prince that my appointed salary +in _Banco Zettel_ should be paid in _Einlösung Schein_, making up the +original sum, and the Prince himself gave me sixty gold ducats _on account_ +of my claim. + +Should the affair turn out badly for me by the conduct of the Kinsky +family, I will publish it in every newspaper, to their disgrace. If there +had been an heir, and the facts had been told to him _in all their truth_, +just as I narrated them, I am convinced that he would at once have adopted +the words and deeds of his predecessor. Has Dr. Wolf [the previous +advocate] shown you the papers, or shall I make you acquainted with them? +As I am by no means sure that this letter will reach you safely, I defer +sending you the pianoforte arrangement of my opera "Fidelio," which is +ready to be dispatched. + +I hope, in accordance with your usual friendliness, soon to hear from you. +I am also writing to Dr. Wolf (who certainly does not treat any one +_wolfishly_), in order not to arouse his _passion_, so that he may have +_compassion_ on me, and neither take my purse nor my life. + +I am, with esteem, your true friend, + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +131. + +TO COUNT MORITZ LICHNOWSKY. + +Baden, Sept. 21, 1841.[1] + +MOST ESTEEMED COUNT AND FRIEND,-- + +I unluckily only got your letter yesterday. A thousand thanks for your +remembrance of me. Pray express my gratitude also to your charming Princess +Christiane [wife of Prince Carl Lichnowsky]. I had a delightful walk +yesterday with a friend in the Brühl, and in the course of our friendly +chat you were particularly mentioned, and lo! and behold! on my return I +found your kind letter. I see you are resolved to continue to load me with +benefits. + +As I am unwilling you should suppose that a step I have already taken is +prompted by your recent favors, or by any motive of the sort, I must tell +you that a sonata of mine [Op. 90] is about to appear, _dedicated to you_. +I wished to give you a surprise, as this dedication has been long designed +for you, but your letter of yesterday induces me to name the fact. I +required no new motive thus publicly to testify my sense of your friendship +and kindness. But as for anything approaching to a gift in return, you +would only distress me, by thus totally misinterpreting my intentions, and +I should at once decidedly refuse such a thing. + +I beg to kiss the hand of the Princess for her kind message and all her +goodness to me. _Never have I forgotten what I owe to you all_, though an +unfortunate combination of circumstances prevented my testifying this as I +could have wished. + +From what you tell me about Lord Castlereagh, I think the matter in the +best possible train. If I were to give an opinion on the subject, I should +say that Lord Castlereagh ought to hear the work given here before writing +to Wellington. I shall soon be in Vienna, when we can consult together +about a grand concert. Nothing is to be effected at Court; I made the +application, but--but-- + +[Music: Treble clef, C major, 4/4 time, Adagio. +al-lein al-lein al-lein] + +_Silentium!!!_ + +Farewell, my esteemed friend; pray continue to esteem me worthy of your +friendship. Yours, + +BEETHOVEN. + +A thousand compliments to the illustrious Princess. + +[Footnote 1: The date reversed, as written by Beethoven, is here given.] + + +132. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1814. + +I perceive that Y.R.H. wishes to try the effect of my music even upon +horses.[1] We shall see whether its influence will cause the riders to +throw some clever summersets. Ha! ha! I can't help laughing at Y.R.H. +thinking of me on such an occasion; for which I shall remain so long as I +live, &c., &c., &c. The horse-music that Y.R.H. desires shall set off to +you full gallop. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: A tournament was held on the 23d November, 1814, in the Royal +Riding School. Beethoven was probably requested by the Archduke to compose +some music for it, which, however, has not been traced.] + + +133. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1814. + +It is impossible for me to-day to wait on you, much as I wish it. I am +dispatching the work on Wellington's victory[1] to London. Such matters +have their appointed and fixed time, which cannot be delayed without final +loss. To-morrow I hope to be able to call on Y.R.H. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: The Cantata _Der glorreiche Augenblick_, the poetry by Dr. +Alois Weissenbach, set to music by Beethoven for chorus and orchestra (Op. +136), was first given in Vienna on the 29th November, 1814, and repeated on +the 2d December.] + + +134. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +(In a different hand) Dec. 1814. + +I really feel that I can never deserve your goodness towards me. I beg to +offer my most respectful thanks for Y.R.H.'s gracious intervention in my +affairs at Prague. I will punctually attend to the score of the Cantata.[1] +I trust Y.R.H. will forgive my not having yet been to see you. After the +concert for the poor, comes one in the theatre, equally for the benefit of +the _impresario in angustia_, for they have felt some just shame, and have +let me off with one third and one half of the usual charges. I have now +some fresh work on hand, and then there is a new opera to be begun,[2] the +subject of which I am about to decide on. Moreover, I am again far from +well, but a few days hence I will wait on Y.R.H. If I could be of any +service to Y.R.H., the most eager and anxious wish of my life would be +fulfilled. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: What concert Beethoven alludes to I cannot discover, but no +mention of it being made in the very exact _Allgemeine Leipziger +Musikalische Zeitung_, it appears not to have taken place.] + +[Footnote 2: The new opera, with the subject of which Beethoven was +occupied, was no doubt Treitschke's _Romulus_.] + + +135. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1814. + +My warmest thanks for your present.[1] I only regret that you could not +participate in the music. I have now the honor to send you the score of the +Cantata [see No. 134]. Y.R.H. can keep it for some days, and afterwards I +shall take care that it is copied for you as soon as possible. + +I feel still quite exhausted from fatigue and worry, pleasure and +delight!--all combined! I shall have the honor of waiting on you in the +course of a few days. I hope to hear favorable accounts of Y.R.H.'s health. +How gladly would I sacrifice many nights, were it in my power to restore +you entirely! + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: The present he refers to was probably for the concert of +November 29th, or December 2d, 1814.] + + +136. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1814.[1] + +I see with real pleasure that I may dismiss all fears for your well-being. +As for myself, I hope (always feeling happy when able to give you any +pleasure) that my health is also rapidly recruiting, when I intend +forthwith to compensate both you and myself for the _pauses_ that have +occurred. As for Prince Lobkowitz, his _pauses_ with me still continue, and +I fear he will never again come in at the right place; and in Prague (good +heavens! with regard to Prince Kinsky's affair) they scarcely as yet know +what a figured bass is, for they sing in slow, long-drawn choral notes; +some of these sustained through sixteen bars |======|. As all these +discords seem likely to be very slowly resolved, it is best to bring +forward only those which we can ourselves resolve, and to give up the rest +to inevitable fate. Allow me once more to express my delight at the +recovery of Y.R.H. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: 1814 or 1815. Prince Lobkowitz was still alive at that time +(died December 21st, 1816).] + + +137. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1814. + +As you were so kind as to let me know through Count Troyer[1] that you +would write a few lines on my affairs in Prague to the _Oberstburggraf_ +Count Kolowrat, I take the liberty to enclose my letter to Count K.; I do +not believe that it contains anything to which Y.R.H. will take exception. +There is no chance of my being allowed payment in _Einlösung Schein_, for, +in spite of all the proofs, the guardians cannot be persuaded to consent to +this; still it is to be hoped that by the friendly steps we have meanwhile +had recourse to, _extra-judicially_, a more favorable result may be +obtained,--as, for instance, the rate of the scale to be higher. If, +however, Y.R.H. will either write a few words yourself, or cause it to be +done in your name, the affair will certainly be _much accelerated_, which +induces me earnestly to entreat Y.R.H. to perform your gracious promise to +me. This affair has now gone on for three years, and is still--undecided. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: Count Ferdinand Troyer was one of the Archduke's +chamberlains.] + + +138. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1814. + +I have again for a fortnight past been afflicted with severe headaches, +though constantly hoping to get better, but in vain. Now, however, that the +weather is improved, my physician promises me a speedy cure. Though as each +day I expected to be the last of my suffering, I did not write to you on +the subject; besides, I thought that Y.R.H. probably did not require me, as +it is so long since Y.R.H. sent for me. During the festivities in honor of +the Princess of Baden,[1] and the injury to Y.R.H.'s finger, I began to +work very assiduously, and as the fruit of this, among others, is a new +pianoforte trio.[2] Myself very much occupied, I had no idea that I had +incurred the displeasure of Y.R.H., though I now begin almost to think this +to be the case. In the mean time I hope soon to be able to present myself +before your tribunal. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: The festivities in honor of the Princess of Baden were +probably during the Congress, 1814.] + +[Footnote 2: The new trio, if the one in B flat for the pianoforte, violin, +and violoncello, Op. 97, was first performed on the 11th April, 1814, in +the hall of the "Komischer Kaiser." Letter 139 also mentions this trio, +composed in 1811 and published in July, 1816.] + + +139. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1814. + +I beg you will be so good as to let me have the Trio in B flat with all the +parts, and also both parts of the violin Sonata in G,[1] as I must have +them written out for myself with all speed, not being able to hunt out my +own scores among so many others. I hope that this detestable weather has +had no bad effect on Y.R.H.'s health; I must own that it rather deranges +me. In three or four days at least I shall have the honor to restore both +works to their proper place. + +Do the musical pauses still continue? + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: The Sonata for pianoforte and violin in G major, Op. 96, was +purchased by Haslinger, April 1st, 1815, and published the end of July, +1816. It was composed in 1814--perhaps in 1813. Thayer thinks in 1810.] + + +140. + +TO HERR KAUKA. + +Vienna, Jan. 11, 1815. + +MY GOOD, WORTHY K.,-- + +I received Baron Pasqualati's letter to-day, by which I perceive that you +wish me to defer any fresh measures. In the mean time all the necessary +papers are lodged with Pasqualati; so be so good as to inform him that he +must delay taking any further steps. To-morrow a council is to be held +here, and you and P. shall learn the result probably to-morrow evening. +Meanwhile I wish you to look through the paper I sent to the Court through +Pasqualati, and read the appendix carefully. You will then see that Wolf +and others have not given you correct information. + +One thing is certain, that there are sufficient proofs _for any one who +wishes to be convinced_. How could it ever occur to me _to think of written +legal testimony_ with such a man as Kinsky, whose integrity and generosity +were everywhere acknowledged? I remain, with the warmest affection and +esteem, + +In haste, your friend, + +B. + + +141. + +TO HERR KAUKA. + +1815. + +MY DEAR AND ESTEEMED K.,-- + +What can I think, or say, or feel? As for W. [Wolf], it seems to me that he +not only showed _his weak points_, but gave himself no trouble to conceal +them. It is impossible that he can have drawn up his statement in +accordance with all the actual evidence he had. The order on the treasury +about the rate of exchange was given by Kinsky previous to his consent to +pay me my salary in _Einlösung Schein_, as the documents prove; indeed it +is only necessary to examine the date to show this, so the first +instruction is of importance. The _species facti_ prove that I was more +than six months absent from Vienna. As I was not anxious to get the money, +I allowed the affair to stand over; so the Prince thus forgot to recall his +former order to the treasury, but that he neither forgot his promise to me, +nor to Varnhagen [an officer] in my behalf, is evident by the testimony of +Herr von Oliva, to whom shortly before his departure from hence--and indeed +into another world--he repeated his promise, making an appointment to see +him when he should return to Vienna, in order to arrange the matter with +the treasury, which of course was prevented by his untimely death. + +The testimony of the officer Varnhagen is accompanied by a document (he +being at present with the Russian army), in which he states that he is +prepared to _take his oath_ on the affair. The evidence of Herr Oliva is +also to the effect that he is willing to confirm his evidence by oath +before the Court. As I have sent away the testimony of Col. Count Bentheim, +I am not sure of its tenor, but I believe the Count also says that he is +prepared at any time to make an affidavit on the matter in Court, and I am +myself _ready to swear before the Court_ that Prince Kinsky said to me in +Prague, "he thought it only fair to me that my salary should be paid in +_Einlösung Schein_." These were his own words. + +He gave me himself sixty gold ducats in Prague, on account (good for about +600 florins), as, owing to my state of health, I could remain no longer, +and set off for Töplitz. The Prince's word was _sacred_ in my eyes, never +having heard anything of him to induce me either to bring two witnesses +with me or to ask him for any written pledge. I see from all this that Dr. +Wolf has miserably mismanaged the business, and has not made you +sufficiently acquainted with the papers. + +Now as to the step I have just taken. The Archduke Rudolph asked me some +time since whether the Kinsky affair was yet terminated, having probably +heard something of it. I told him that it looked very bad, as I knew +nothing, absolutely nothing, of the matter. He offered to write himself, +but desired me to add a memorandum, and also to make him acquainted with +all the papers connected with the Kinsky case. After having informed +himself on the affair, he wrote to the _Oberstburggraf_, and enclosed my +letter to him. + +The _Oberstburggraf_ answered both the Duke and myself immediately. In the +letter to me he said "that I was to present a petition to the Provincial +Court of Justice in Prague, along with all the proofs, whence it would be +forwarded to him, and that he would do his utmost to further my cause." He +also wrote in the most polite terms to the Archduke; indeed, he expressly +said "that he was thoroughly cognizant of the late Prince Kinsky's +intentions with regard to me and this affair, and that I might present a +petition," &c. The Archduke instantly sent for me, and desired me to +prepare the document and to show it to him; he also thought that I ought to +solicit payment in _Einlösung Schein_, as there was ample proof, if not in +strictly legal form, of the intentions of the Prince, and no one could +doubt that if he had survived he would have adhered to his promise. If he +[the Archduke] were this day the heir, _he would demand no other proofs +than those already furnished_. I sent this paper to Baron Pasqualati, who +is kindly to present it himself to the Court. Not till after the affair had +gone so far did Dr. Adlersburg receive a letter from Dr. Wolf, in which he +mentioned that he had made a claim for 1500 florins. As we have come so far +as 1500 florins with the _Oberstburggraf_, we may possibly get on to 1800 +florins. I do not esteem this any _favor_, for the late Prince was one of +those who urged me most to refuse a salary of 600 gold ducats per annum, +offered to me from Westphalia; and he said at the time "that he was +resolved I should have no chance of eating hams in Westphalia." Another +summons to Naples somewhat later I equally declined, and I am entitled to +demand a fair compensation for the loss I incurred. If the salary were to +be paid in bank-notes, what should I get? Not 400 florins in +_Conventionsgeld_!!! in lieu of such a salary as 600 ducats! There are +ample proofs for those who wish to act justly; and what does the _Einlösung +Schein_ now amount to??!!! It is even at this moment no equivalent for what +I refused. This affair was pompously announced in all the newspapers while +I was nearly reduced to beggary. The intentions of the Prince are evident, +and in my opinion the family are bound to act in accordance with them +unless they wish to be disgraced. Besides, the revenues have rather +increased than diminished by the death of the Prince; so there is no +sufficient ground for curtailing my salary. + +I received your friendly letter yesterday, but am too weary at this moment +to write all that I feel towards you. I can only commend my case to your +sagacity. It appears that the _Oberstburggraf_ is the chief person; so what +he wrote to the Archduke must be kept a profound secret, for it might not +be advisable that any one should know of it but you and Pasqualati. You +have sufficient cause on looking through the papers to show how improperly +Dr. Wolf has conducted the affair, and that another course of action is +necessary. I rely on your friendship to act as you think best for my +interests. + +Rest assured of my warmest thanks, and pray excuse my writing more to-day, +for a thing of this kind is very fatiguing,--more so than the greatest +musical undertaking. My heart has found something for you to which yours +will respond, and this you shall soon receive. + +Do not forget me, poor tormented creature that I am! and _act for me_ and +_effect for me_ all that is possible. + +With high esteem, your true friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +142. + +TO HERR KAUKA. + +Vienna, Jan. 14, 1815. + +MY GOOD AND WORTHY K.,-- + +The long letter I enclose was written when we were disposed to claim the +1800 florins. Baron Pasqualati's last letter, however, again made me waver, +and Dr. Adlersburg advised me to adhere to the steps already taken; but as +Dr. Wolf writes that he has offered in your name to accept 1500 florins a +year, I beg you will at least make every effort to get that sum. For this +purpose I send you the long letter written before we received Baron P.'s +dissuasive one, as you may discover in it many reasons for demanding _at +least_ the 1500 florins. The Archduke, too, has written a second time to +the _Oberstburggraf_, and we may conclude from his previous reply that he +will certainly exert himself, and that we shall at all events succeed in +getting the 1500 florins. + +Farewell! I cannot write another syllable; such things exhaust me. May your +friendship accelerate this affair!--if it ends badly, then I must leave +Vienna, because I could not possibly live on my income, for here things +have come to such a pass that everything has risen to the highest price, +and that price must be paid. The last two concerts I gave cost me 1508 +florins, and had it not been for the Empress's munificent present I should +scarcely have derived any profit whatever. + +Your faithful friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +143.[1] + +TO THE HONORABLE MEMBERS OF THE LANDRECHT. + +Vienna, 1815. + +GENTLEMEN,-- + +Quite ignorant of law proceedings, and believing that all claims on an +inheritance could not fail to be liquidated, I sent to my lawyer in Prague +[Dr. Kauka] the contract signed by the Archduke Rudolph, Prince Lobkowitz, +and Prince von Kinsky, in which these illustrious personages agreed to +settle on me an annual allowance of 4000 florins. My constant efforts to +obtain a settlement of my claim, and also, as I am bound to admit, my +reproaches to Dr. Kauka for not conducting the affair properly (his +application to the guardians having proved fruitless), no doubt prompted +him to have recourse to law. + +None but those who are fully aware of my esteem for the deceased Prince can +tell how repugnant it is to my feelings to appear as a complainant against +my benefactor. + +Under these circumstances I have recourse to a shorter path, in the +conviction that the guardians of the Prince's estate will be disposed to +mark their appreciation of art, and also their desire to fulfil the +engagements of the late Prince. According to the terms of the contract in +question, the Archduke Rudolph, Prince Lobkowitz, and Prince v. Kinsky +granted me these 4000 florins until I should obtain a situation of equal +value; and further, if by misfortune or old age I was prevented exercising +my art, these distinguished contracting parties secured this pension to me +for life, while I, in return, pledged myself not to leave Vienna. + +This promise was generous, and equally generous was its fulfilment, for no +difficulty ever occurred, and I was in the peaceful enjoyment of my pension +till the Imperial Finance Patent appeared. The consequent alteration in the +currency made no difference in the payments of the Archduke Rudolph, for I +received his share in _Einlösung Schein_, as I had previously done in +bank-notes, without any reference to the new scale. The late illustrious +Prince v. Kinsky also at once assured me that his share (1800 florins) +should also be paid in _Einlösung Schein_. As however, he omitted giving +the order to his cashier, difficulties arose on the subject. Although my +circumstances are not brilliant, I would not have ventured to bring this +claim before the notice of the guardians of the estate, if respectable, +upright men had not received the same pledge from the late Prince's own +lips, namely, that he would pay my past as well as my future claims in +Vienna currency, which is proved by the papers B, C, D, appended to the +pleas. Under these circumstances I leave the guardians to judge whether, +after so implicitly relying on the promise of the deceased Prince, I have +not cause to complain of my delicacy being wounded by the objection +advanced by the curators to the witnesses, from their not having been +present together at the time the promise was made, which is most +distressing to my feelings. + +In order to extricate myself from this most disagreeable lawsuit, I take +the liberty to give an assurance to the guardians that I am prepared, both +as to the past and the future, to be satisfied with the 1800 florins, +Vienna currency; and I flatter myself that these gentlemen will admit that +I on my part make thus no small sacrifice, as it was solely from my esteem +for those illustrious Princes that I selected Vienna for my settled abode, +at a time when the most advantageous offers were made to me elsewhere. + +I therefore request the Court to submit this proposal to the guardians of +the Kinsky estates for their opinion, and to be so good as to inform me of +the result. + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: See No. 94. On the 18th January, 1815, the Court of Justice at +Prague decreed that the trustees of Prince Kinsky's estate should pay to L. +v. Beethoven the sum of 1200 florins W.W. from November 3d, 1812, instead +of the original written agreement of 1800 florins. Dr. Constant, of +Wurzbach, in his _Biographical Austrian Lexicon_, states that Beethoven +dedicated his splendid song _An die Hoffnung_, Op. 94, to Princess Kinsky, +wife of Prince Ferdinand Kinsky, who died in 1812.] + + +144. + +TO BARON VON PASQUALATI. + +January, 1815. + +MY ESTEEMED FRIEND,-- + +I beg you will kindly send me by the bearer the proper form for the Kinsky +receipt (_but sealed_) for 600 florins half-yearly from the month of April. +I intend to send the receipt forthwith to Dr. Kauka in Prague,[1] who on a +former occasion procured the money for me so quickly. I will deduct your +debt from this, but if it be possible to get the money here before the +remittance arrives from Prague, I will bring it at once to you myself. + +I remain, with the most profound esteem, + +Your sincere friend, + +BEETHOVEN + +[Footnote 1: This man, now ninety-four years of age and quite blind, was at +that time Beethoven's counsel in Prague. Pasqualati was that benefactor of +Beethoven's who always kept rooms for him in his house on the Mölker +Bastei, and whose kind aid never deserted him to the close of his life.] + + +145. + +TO HERR KAUKA. + +Vienna, Feb. 24, 1815. + +MY MUCH ESTEEMED K.,-- + +I have repeatedly thanked you through Baron Pasqualati for your friendly +exertions on my behalf, and I now beg to express one thousand thanks +myself. The intervention of the Archduke could not be very palatable to +you, and perhaps has prejudiced you against me. You had already done all +that was possible when the Archduke interfered. If this had been the case +sooner, and we had not employed that one-sided, or many-sided, or +weak-sided Dr. Wolf, then, according to the assurances of the +_Oberstburggraf_ himself, the affair might have had a still more favorable +result. I shall therefore ever and always be grateful to you for your +services. The Court now deduct the sixty ducats I mentioned of my own +accord, and to which the late Prince never alluded either to his treasurer +or any one else. Where truth could injure me it has been accepted, so why +reject it when it could have benefited me? How unfair! Baron Pasqualati +requires information from you on various points. + +I am again very tired to-day, having been obliged to discuss many things +with poor P.; such matters exhaust me more than the greatest efforts in +composition. It is a new field, the soil of which I ought not to be +required to till. This painful business has cost me many tears and much +sorrow. The time draws near when Princess Kinsky must be written to. Now I +must conclude. How rejoiced shall I be when I can write you the pure +effusions of my heart once more; and this I mean to do as soon as I am +extricated from all these troubles. Pray accept again my heartfelt thanks +for all that you have done for me, and continue your regard for + +Your attached friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +146. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1815. + +I heard yesterday, and it was indeed confirmed by meeting Count Troyer, +that Y.R.H. is now here. I therefore send the dedication of the Trio [in B +flat] to Y.R.H., whose name is inscribed on it; but all my works on which I +place any value, though the name does not appear, are equally designed for +Y.R.H. I trust, however, that you will not think I have a motive in saying +this,--men of high rank being apt to suspect self-interest in such +expressions,--and I mean on this occasion to risk the imputation so far as +_appearances_ go, by at once asking a favor of Y.R.H. My well-grounded +reasons for so doing you will no doubt at once perceive, and graciously +vouchsafe to grant my request. I have been very much indisposed in Baden +since the beginning of last October; indeed, from the 5th of October I have +been entirely confined to my bed, or to my room, till about a week ago. I +had a very serious inflammatory cold, and am still able to go out very +little, which has also been the cause of my not writing to Y.R.H. in +Kremsir. May all the blessings that Heaven can shower upon earth attend +you. + +[K.] + + + + +SECOND PART. + + +LIFE'S MISSION. + +1815 TO 1822. + + + + +PART II. + + +147. + +WRITTEN IN SPOHR'S ALBUM.[1] + +Vienna, March 3, 1815. + +[Music: Treble clef, F Major, 3/4 time. +Kurz, kurz, kurz, kurz ist der Schmerz, der Schmerz, +e-wig, e-wig ist die Freu-de, ist die Freu-de, +ja die Freu-de, e-wig ist die Freu-de. +Kurz, kurz, kurz, kurz ist der Schmerz, der Schmerz, der Schmerz, +e-wig, e-wig ist die Freu-de, ist die Freu-de, +e-wig ist die Freude, e-wig, e-wig ist die Freu-de. +Kurz, kurz, kurz, kurz ist der Schmerz, der Schmerz, der Schmerz, +e-wig, e-wig ist die Freude, e-wig ist die Freu-de.] + +Whenever, dear Spohr, you chance to find true art and true artists, may you +kindly remember + +Your friend, + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: From the fac-simile in Spohr's _Autobiography_, Vol. I.] + + +148. + +TO HERR KAUKA. + +Vienna, April 8, 1815. + +It seems scarcely admissible to be on the friendly terms on which I +consider myself with you, and yet to be on such unfriendly ones that we +should live close to each other and never meet!!!!![1] You write "_tout à +vous_." Oh! you humbug! said I. No! no! it is really too bad. I should like +to thank you 9000 times for all your efforts on my behalf, and to reproach +you 20,000 that you came and went as you did. So all is a delusion! +friendship, kingdom, empire; all is only a vapor which every breeze wafts +into a different form!! Perhaps I may go to Töplitz, but it is not certain. +I might take advantage of that opportunity to let the people of Prague hear +something--what think you? if _indeed you still think of me at all_! As the +affair with Lobkowitz is now also come to a close, we may write _Finis_, +though it far from _fine is_ for me. + +Baron Pasqualati will no doubt soon call on you again; he also has taken +much trouble on my account. Yes, indeed! it is easy to talk of _justice_, +but to obtain it from others is _no easy matter_. In what way can I be of +service to you in my own art? Say whether you prefer my celebrating the +monologue of a fugitive king, or the perjury of a usurper--or the true +friends, who, though near neighbors, never saw each other? In the hope of +soon hearing from you--for being now so far asunder it is easier to hold +intercourse than when nearer!--I remain, with highest esteem, + +Your ever-devoted friend, + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Kauka evidently had been recently in Vienna without visiting +Beethoven.] + + +149. + +TO HERR KAUKA. + +1815. + +MY DEAR AND WORTHY K.,-- + +I have just received from the Syndic Baier in R. the good news that you +told him yourself about Prince F.K. As for the rest, you shall be perfectly +satisfied. + +I take the liberty to ask you again to look after my interests with the +Kinsky family, and I subjoin the necessary receipt for this purpose [see +No. 144]. Perhaps some other way may be found, though it does not as yet +occur to me, by means of which I need not importune you in future. On the +15th October [1815] I was attacked by an inflammatory cold, from the +consequences of which I still suffer, and my art likewise; but it is to be +hoped that I shall now gradually recover, and at all events be able once +more to display the riches of my little realm of sweet sounds. Yet I am +very poor in all else--owing to the times? to poverty of spirit? or +what???? Farewell! Everything around disposes us to _profound silence_; but +this shall not be the case as to the bond of friendship and soul that +unites us. I loudly proclaim myself, now as ever, + +Your loving friend and admirer, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +150. + +TO HERR KAUKA. + +1815. + +MY MOST WORTHY FRIEND,-- + +My second letter follows that of yesterday, May 2d. Pasqualati tells me +to-day, after the lapse of a month and six days, that the house of +Ballabene is too _high and mighty_ to assist me in this matter. I must +therefore appeal to your _insignificance_ (as I myself do not hesitate to +be so mean as to serve other people). My house-rent amounts to 550 florins, +and must be paid out of the sum in question. + +As soon as the newly engraved pianoforte pieces appear, you shall receive +copies, and also of the "Battle," &c., &c. Forgive me, forgive me, my +generous friend; some other means must be found to forward this affair with +due promptitude. + +In haste, your friend and admirer, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +151. + +TO MR. SALOMON,--LONDON.[1] + +Vienna, June 1, 1815. + +MY GOOD FELLOW-COUNTRYMAN,-- + +I always hoped to meet you one day in London, but many obstacles have +intervened to prevent the fulfilment of this wish, and as there seems now +no chance of such a thing, I hope you will not refuse a request of mine, +which is that you will be so obliging as to apply to some London publisher, +and offer him the following works of mine. Grand Trio for piano, violin, +and violoncello [Op. 97], 80 ducats. Pianoforte Sonata, with violin +accompaniment [Op. 96], 60 ducats. Grand Symphony in A (one of my very +best); a short Symphony in F [the 8th]; Quartet for two violins, viola, and +violoncello in F minor [Op. 95]; Grand Opera in score, 30 ducats. Cantata +with Choruses and Solos ["The Glorious Moment"], 30 ducats. Score of the +"Battle of Vittoria" and "Wellington's Victory," 80 ducats; also the +pianoforte arrangement of the same, if not already published, which, I am +told here, is the case. I have named the prices of some of these works, on +a scale which I hold to be suitable for England, but I leave it to you to +say what sum should be asked both for these and the others. I hear, indeed, +that Cramer [John, whose pianoforte-playing was highly estimated by +Beethoven] is also a publisher, but my scholar Ries lately wrote to me that +Cramer not long since _publicly expressed his disapproval of my works_: I +trust from no motive but that of _being of service to art_, and if so I +have no right to object to his doing this. If, however, Cramer should wish +to possess any of my _pernicious_ works, I shall be as well satisfied with +him as with any other publisher; but I reserve the right to give these +works to be published here, so that they may appear at the same moment in +London and Vienna. + +Perhaps you may also be able to point out to me in what way I can recover +from the Prince Regent [afterwards George IV.] the expenses of transcribing +the "Battle Symphony" on Wellington's victory at Vittoria, to be dedicated +to him, for I have long ago given up all hope of receiving anything from +that quarter. I have not even been deemed worthy of an answer, whether I am +to be authorized to dedicate the work to the Prince Regent; and when at +last I propose to publish it here, I am informed that it has already +appeared in London. What a fatality for an author!!! While the English and +German papers are filled with accounts of the success of the work, as +performed at Drury Lane, and that theatre drawing great receipts from it, +the author has not one friendly line to show, not even payment for the cost +of copying the work, and is thus deprived of all profit.[2] For if it be +true that the pianoforte arrangement is soon to be published by a German +publisher, copied from the London one, then I lose both my fame and my +_honorarium_. The well-known generosity of your character leads me to hope +that you will take some interest in the matter, and actively exert yourself +on my behalf. + +The inferior paper-money of this country is now reduced to one fifth of its +value, and I am paid according to this scale. After many struggles and +considerable loss, I at length succeeded in obtaining the full value; but +at this moment the old paper-money has again risen far beyond the fifth +part, so that it is evident my salary becomes for the second time almost +_nil_, and there is no hope of any compensation. My whole income is derived +from my works. If I could rely on a good sale in England, it would +doubtless be very beneficial to me. Pray be assured of my boundless +gratitude. I hope soon, very soon, to hear from you. + +I am, with esteem, your sincere friend, + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: J.P. Salomon was likewise a native of Bonn, and one of the +most distinguished violin-players of his time. He had been Kapellmeister to +Prince Heinrich of Prussia, and then went to London, where he was very +active in the introduction of German music. It was through his agency that +Beethoven's connection with Birchall, the music publisher, first commenced, +to whom a number of his letters are addressed.] + +[Footnote 2: Undoubtedly the true reading of these last words, which in the +copy before me are marked as "difficult to decipher."] + + +152. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1815. + +Pray forgive my asking Y.R.H. to send me the two Sonatas with violin +_obbligato_[1] which I caused to be transcribed for Y.R.H. I require them +only for a few days, when I will immediately return them. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: If by the two Sonatas for the pianoforte with violoncello +_obbligato_, Op. 102 is meant, they were composed in July-August, 1815, and +appeared on Jan. 13th, 1819. The date of the letter appears also to be +1815.] + + +153. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1815. + +I beg you will kindly send me the Sonata in E minor,[1] as I wish to +correct it. On Monday I shall inquire for Y.R.H. in person. _Recent +occurrences_[2] render it indispensable to complete many works of mine +about to be engraved as quickly as possible; besides, my health is only +partially restored. I earnestly entreat Y.R.H. to desire _some one_ to +write me a few lines as to the state of your own health. I trust I shall +hear a better--nay, the best report of it. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: The letters 152 and 153 speak sometimes expressly of the +pianoforte Sonata in E minor, Op. 90, these being engraved or under +revision, and sometimes only indicate them. This Sonata, dedicated to Count +Lichnowsky, was composed on August 14th, 1814, and published in June, +1815.] + +[Footnote 2: What "recent occurrences" Beethoven alludes to, unless indeed +his well-known misfortunes as to his salary and guardianship we cannot +discover.] + + +154. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1815. + +You must almost think my illness a mere fiction, but that is assuredly not +the case. I am obliged always to come home early in the evening. The first +time that Y.R.H. was graciously pleased to send for me, I came home +immediately afterwards, but feeling much better since then, I made an +attempt the evening before last to stay out a little later. If Y.R.H. does +not countermand me, I intend to have the honor of waiting on you this +evening at five o'clock. I will bring the new Sonata with me, merely for +to-day, for it is so soon to be engraved that it is not worth while to have +it written out. + +[K.] + + +155. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1815. + +I intended to have given you this letter myself, but my personal attendance +might possibly be an intrusion; so I take the liberty once more to urge on +Y.R.H. the request it contains. I should also be glad if Y.R.H. would send +me back my last MS. Sonata, for as I _must_ publish it, it would be labor +lost to have it transcribed, and I shall soon have the pleasure of +presenting it to you engraved. I will call again in a few days. I trust +these joyous times may have a happy influence on your precious health. + +[K.] + + +156. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +Vienna, July 23, 1815. + +When you were recently in town, the enclosed Chorus[1] occurred to me. I +hurried home to write it down, but was detained longer in doing so than I +at first expected, and thus, to my great sorrow, I missed Y.R.H. The bad +custom I have followed from childhood, instantly to write down my first +thoughts, otherwise they not unfrequently go astray, has been an injury to +me on this occasion. I therefore send Y.R.H. my impeachment and my +justification, and trust I may find grace in your eyes. I hope soon to +present myself before Y.R.H., and to inquire after a health so precious to +us all. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: In 1815 the Chorus of _Die Meeresstille_ was composed by +Beethoven. Was this the chorus which occurred to him? The style of the +letter leaves his meaning quite obscure.] + + +157. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1815. + +It is neither presumption, nor the pretension of advocating any one's +cause, still less from the wish of arrogating to myself the enjoyment of +any especial favor with Y.R.H., that induces me to make a suggestion which +is in itself very simple. Old Kraft[1] was with me yesterday; he wished to +know if it were possible for him to be lodged in your palace, in return for +which he would be at Y.R.H.'s service as often as you please it. He has +lived for twenty years in the house of Prince Lobkowitz, and during a great +part of that time he received no salary; he is now obliged to vacate his +rooms without receiving any compensation whatever. The position of the poor +deserving old man is hard, and I should have considered myself equally +hard, had I not ventured to lay his case before you. Count Troyer will +request an answer from Y.R.H. As the object in view is to brighten the lot +of a fellow-creature, pray forgive your, &c., &c. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: Old Kraft was a clever violoncello-player who had an +appointment in Prince Lobkowitz's band, but when the financial crisis +occurred in the Prince's affairs he lost his situation, and was obliged to +give up his lodging.] + + +158. + +WRITTEN IN ENGLISH TO MR. BIRCHALL, MUSIC PUBLISHER, LONDON. + +Mr. Beethoven send word to Mr. Birchall that it is severall days past that +he has sent for London Wellington's Battel Sinphonie and that Mr. +B[irchall] may send for it at Thomas Coutts. Mr. Beethoven wish Mr. B. +would make ingrave the sayd Sinphonie so soon as possible and send him word +in time the day it will be published that he may prevend in time the +Publisher in Vienna. + +In regard the 3. Sonata which Mr. Birchall receive afterwerths there is not +wanted such a g't hurry and Mr. B. will take the liberty to fixe the day +when the are to be published. + +Mr. B[irchall] sayd that Mr. Salomon has a good many tings to say +concerning the Synphonie in G [? A]. + +Mr. B[eethoven] wish for a answer so soon as possible concerning the days +of the publication. + + +159. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +October 16, 1815. + +I only wish to let you know that I am _here_, and not _elsewhere_, and wish +in return to hear if you are _elsewhere_ or _here_. I should be glad to +speak to you for a few minutes when I know that you are at home and alone. +_Farewell_--but not _too well_--sublime Commandant Pacha of various +mouldering fortresses!!! + +In haste, your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +160. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +Nov. 16, 1815. + +Since yesterday afternoon I have been lying in a state of exhaustion, owing +to my great distress of mind caused by the sudden death of my unhappy +brother. It was impossible for me to send an answer to Y.R.H. yesterday, +and I trust you will graciously receive my present explanation. I expect, +however, certainly to wait on Y.R.H. to-morrow. + +[K.] + + +161. + +TO THE MESSRS. BIRCHALL,--LONDON. + +Vienna, Nov. 22, 1815. + +You will herewith receive the pianoforte arrangement of the Symphony in A. +"Wellington's Battle Symphony," and "Victory at Vittoria" were sent a month +since, through Herr Neumann, to the care of Messrs. Coutts; so you have no +doubt received them long ere this. + +In the course of a fortnight you shall have the Trio and Sonata, when you +are requested to pay into the hands of Messrs. Coutts the sum of 130 gold +ducats. I beg you will make no delay in bringing out these works, and +likewise let me know on what day the "Wellington Symphony" is to appear, so +that I may take my measures here accordingly. I am, with esteem, + +Your obedient + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +162. + +TO RIES. + +Vienna, Wednesday, Nov. 22, 1815. + +MY DEAR RIES,-- + +I hasten to apprise you that I have to-day forwarded by post the pianoforte +arrangement of the Symphony in A, to the care of Messrs Coutts. As the +Court is absent, few, indeed almost no couriers go from here; moreover, the +post is the safest way. The Symphony ought to be brought out about March; +the precise day I will fix myself. So much time has already been lost on +this occasion that I could not give an earlier notice of the period of +publication. The Trio in [??] and the violin Sonata may be allowed more +time, and both will be in London a few weeks hence. I earnestly entreat +you, dear Ries, to take charge of these matters, and also to see that I get +the money; I require it, and it costs me a good deal before all is sent +off. + +I have lost 600 florins of my yearly salary; at the time of the +_bank-notes_ there was no loss, but then came the _Einlösungsscheine_ +[reduced paper-money], which deprives me of these 600 florins, after +entailing on me several years of annoyance, and now the total loss of my +salary. We are at present arrived at a point when the _Einlösungsscheine_ +are even lower than the _bank-notes_ ever were. I pay 1000 florins for +house-rent: you may thus conceive all the misery caused by paper-money. + +My poor unhappy brother [Carl v. Beethoven, a cashier in Vienna] is just +dead [Nov. 15th, 1815]; he had a bad wife. For some years past he has been +suffering from consumption, and from my wish to make his life less irksome +I may compute what I gave him at 10,000 florins (_Wiener Währung_). This +indeed does not seem much to an Englishman, but it is a great deal for a +poor German, or rather Austrian. The unhappy man was latterly much changed, +and I must say I lament him from my heart, though I rejoice to think I left +nothing undone that could contribute to his comfort. + +Tell Mr. Birchall that he is to repay the postage of my letters to you and +Mr. Salomon, and also yours to me; he may deduct this from the sum he owes +me; I am anxious that those who work for me should lose as little as +possible by it. "Wellington's Victory at Vittoria"[1] must have arrived +long ago through the Messrs. Coutts. Mr. Birchall need not send payment +till he is in possession of all the works; only do not delay letting me +know when the day is fixed for the publication of the pianoforte +arrangement. For to-day, I only further earnestly recommend my affairs to +your care; I shall be equally at your service at any time. Farewell, dear +Ries. + +Your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: "This is also to be the title of the pianoforte arrangement." +(Note by Beethoven.)] + + +163. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +Jan. 1816. + +MY GOOD ZMESKALL,-- + +I was shocked to discover to-day that I had omitted replying to a proposal +from the "Society of Friends to Music in the Austrian States" to write an +Oratorio for them. + +The death of my brother two months ago, which, owing to the guardianship of +my nephew having devolved on me, has involved me in all sorts of annoyances +and perplexities, has caused this delay in my answer. In the mean time, the +poem of Herr van Seyfried is already begun, and I purpose shortly to set it +to music. I need not tell you how very flattering I consider such a +commission, for how could I think otherwise? and I shall endeavor to acquit +myself as honorably as my poor talents will admit of. + +_With regard to our artistic resources_, when the time for the performance +arrives I shall certainly take into consideration those usually at our +disposal, without, however, strictly limiting myself to them. I hope I have +made myself clearly understood on this point. As I am urged to say what +gratuity I require in return, I beg to know whether the Society will +consider 400 gold ducats a proper remuneration for such a work? I once more +entreat the forgiveness of the Society for the delay in my answer, but I am +in some degree relieved by knowing that, at all events, you, my dear +friend, have already verbally apprised the Society of my readiness to write +a work of the kind.[1] + +Ever, my worthy Z., your + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: In the _Fischof'sche Handschrift_ we are told:--"The allusion +to 'our artistic resources' requires some explanation. Herr v. Zmeskall had +at that time received instructions to give a hint to the great composer +(who paid little regard to the difficulty of executing his works) that he +must absolutely take into consideration the size of the orchestra, which at +grand concerts amounted to 700 performers. The Society only stipulated for +the exclusive right to the work for one year, and did not purchase the +copyright; they undertook the gratuity for the poem also, so they were +obliged to consult their pecuniary resources, and informed the composer +that they were prepared to give him 200 gold ducats for the use of the work +for a year, as they had proposed. Beethoven was quite satisfied, and made +no objection whatever; he received an advance on this sum according to his +own wish, the receipt of which he acknowledged in 1819. Beethoven rejected +the first poem selected, and desired to have another. The Society left his +choice quite free. Herr Bernhard undertook to supply a new one. Beethoven +and he consulted together in choosing the subject, but Herr Bernhard, +overburdened by other business, could only send the poem bit by bit. +Beethoven, however, would not begin till the whole was in his hands."] + + +164. + +TO MDLLE. MILDER-HAUPTMANN.[1] + +Vienna, Jan. 6, 1816. + +MY HIGHLY VALUED MDLLE. MILDER, MY DEAR FRIEND,-- + +I have too long delayed writing to you. How gladly would I personally +participate in the enthusiasm you excite at Berlin in "Fidelio!" A thousand +thanks on my part for having so faithfully adhered to _my_ "Fidelio." If +you will ask Baron de la Motte-Fouqué, in my name, to discover a good +subject for an opera, and one suitable likewise to yourself, you will do a +real service both to me and to the German stage; it is also my wish to +write it expressly for the _Berlin Theatre_, as no new opera can ever +succeed in being properly given here under this very penurious direction. +Answer me soon, very soon--quickly, very quickly--as quickly as +possible--as quick as lightning--and say whether such a thing is +practicable. Herr Kapellmeister B. praised you up to the skies to me, and +he is right; well may he esteem himself happy who has the privilege of +enjoying your muse, your genius, and all your splendid endowments and +talents;--it is thus I feel. Be this as it may, those around can only call +themselves your fellow-creatures [Nebenmann], whereas I alone have a right +to claim the honored name of captain [_Hauptmann_]. + +In my secret heart, your true friend and admirer, + +BEETHOVEN. + +My poor unfortunate brother is dead, which has been the cause of my long +silence. As soon as you have replied to this letter, I will write myself to +Baron de la Motte-Fouqué. No doubt your influence in Berlin will easily +obtain for me a commission to write a grand opera (in which you shall be +especially studied) on favorable terms; but do answer me soon, that I may +arrange my other occupations accordingly. + +[Music: Tenor clef, C Major, 4/4 time. +Ich küs-se Sie, drü-cke Sie an's Herz! +Ich der Haupt-mann, der Haupt-mann.] + +Away with all other false _Hauptmänner_! [captains.] + +[Footnote 1: Mdlle. Milder married Hauptmann, a jeweller in Munich, in +1810, travelled in 1812, and was engaged at Berlin in 1816.] + + +165. + +TO RIES + +Vienna, Jan. 20, 1816. + +DEAR RIES,-- + +The Symphony is to be dedicated to the Empress of Russia. The pianoforte +score of the Symphony in A must not, however, appear before June, for the +publisher here cannot be ready sooner. Pray, dear Ries, inform Mr. Birchall +of this at once. The Sonata with violin accompaniment, which will be sent +from here by the next post, can likewise be published in London in May, but +the Trio at a later date (it follows by the next post); I will myself name +the time for its publication. And now, dear Ries, pray receive my heartfelt +thanks for your kindness, and especially for the corrections of the proofs. +May Heaven bless you more and more, and promote your progress, in which I +take the most sincere interest. My kind regards to your wife. Now as ever, + +Your sincere friend, + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +166. + +TO MR. BIRCHALL,--LONDON. + +Vienne, le 3. Febr. den 1816 + +VOUS RECEUES CI JOINT-- + +Le grand Trio p. Pf. V. et Vllo. Sonata pour Pf. et Violin--qui form le +reste de ce qu'il vous a plus à me comettre. Je vous prie de vouloir payer +la some de 130 Ducats d'Holland come le poste lettre a Mr. Th. Cutts et Co. +de votre ville e de me croire avec toute l'estime et consideration + +Votre tres humble Serviteur, + +LOUIS VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +167. + +TO CZERNY.[1] + +MY DEAR CZERNY,-- + +Pray give the enclosed to your parents for the dinners the boy had recently +at your house; I positively will not accept these _gratis_. Moreover, I am +very far from wishing that your lessons should remain without +remuneration,--even those already given must be reckoned up and paid for; +only I beg you to have a little patience for a time, as nothing can be +_demanded_ from the widow, and I had and still have heavy expenses to +defray;--but I _borrow_ from you for the moment only. The boy is to be with +you to-day, and I shall come later. + +Your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Carl Czerny, the celebrated pianist and composer, for whom +Beethoven wrote a testimonial in 1805 (see No. 42). He gave lessons to +Beethoven's nephew in 1815, and naturally protested against any payment, +which gave rise to the expressions on the subject in many of his notes to +Czerny, of which there appear to be a great number.] + + +168. + +TO CZERNY.[1] + +Vienna, Feb. 12, 1816. + +DEAR CZERNY,-- + +I cannot see you to-day, but I will call to-morrow being desirous to talk +to you. I spoke out so bluntly yesterday that I much regretted it +afterwards. But you must forgive this on the part of an author, who would +have preferred hearing his work as he wrote it, however charmingly you +played it. I will, however, _amply_ atone for this by the violoncello +Sonata.[2] + +Rest assured that I cherish the greatest regard for you as an artist, and I +shall always endeavor to prove this. + +Your true friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Czerny, in the _A.M. Zeitung_, 1845, relates:--"On one +occasion (in 1812), at Schuppanzigh's concert, when playing Beethoven's +quintet with wind-instruments, I took the liberty, in my youthful levity, +to make many alterations,--such as introducing difficulties into the +passages, making use of the upper octaves, &c., &c. Beethoven sternly and +deservedly reproached me for this, in the presence of Schuppanzigh, Linke, +and the other performers."] + +[Footnote 2: Opera 69, which Czerny (see _A.M. Zeitung_) was to perform +with Linke the following week.] + + +169. + +TO RIES,--LONDON. + +Vienna, Feb. 28, 1816. + +... For some time past I have been far from well; the loss of my brother +affected both my spirits and my works. Salomon's death grieves me much, as +he was an excellent man whom I have known from my childhood. You are his +executor by will, while I am the guardian of my late poor brother's child. +You can scarcely have had as much vexation from Salomon's death as I have +had from that of my brother!--but I have the sweet consolation of having +rescued a poor innocent child from the hands of an unworthy mother. +Farewell, dear Ries; if I can in any way serve you, look on me as + +Your true friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +170. + +TO GIANNATASIO DEL RIO,--VIENNA. + +Feb. 1816. + +SIR,-- + +I have great pleasure in saying that at last I intend to-morrow to place +under your care the dear pledge intrusted to me. But I must impress on you +not to permit any influence on the mother's part to decide when and where +she is to see her son. We can, however, discuss all this more minutely +to-morrow.... You must keep a watchful eye on your servant, for mine was +_bribed by her_ on one occasion. More as to this verbally, though it is a +subject on which I would fain be silent; but the future welfare of the +youth you are to train renders this unpleasant communication necessary. I +remain, with esteem, + +Your faithful servant and friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +171. + +TO G. DEL RIO. + +1816. + +Your estimable lady, Mdme. A.G. [Giannatasio] is politely requested to let +the undersigned know as soon as possible (that I may not be obliged to keep +it all in my head) how many pairs of stockings, trousers, shoes, and +drawers are required, and how many yards of kerseymere to make a pair of +black trousers for my tall nephew; and for the sake of the "Castalian +Spring" I beg, without any further reminders on my part, that I may receive +an answer to this. + +As for the Lady Abbess [a nickname for their only daughter], there shall be +a conference held on Carl's affair to-night, viz., if things are to +continue as they are. + +Your well (and ill) born + +BEETHOVEN. + + +172. + +TO G. DEL RIO. + +1816. + +I heard yesterday evening, unluckily at too late an hour, that you had +something to give me; had it not been for this, I would have called on you. +I beg, however, that you will send it, as I have no doubt it is a letter +for me from the "Queen of the Night."[1] Although you gave me permission to +fetch Carl twice already, I must ask you to let him come to me when I send +for him at eleven o'clock to-morrow, as I wish to take him with me to hear +some interesting music. It is also my intention to make him play to me +to-morrow, as it is now some time since I heard him. I hope you will urge +him to study more closely than usual to-day, that he may in some degree +make up for his holiday. I embrace you cordially, and remain, + +Yours truly, + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: The "Queen of the Night" was the name given to Carl's mother +by Beethoven. She was a person of great levity of conduct and bad +reputation, and every effort was made by Beethoven to withdraw her son from +her influence, on which account he at once removed him from her care, and +placed him in this institution. She consequently appealed to the law +against him,--the first step in a long course of legal proceedings of the +most painful nature.] + + +173. + +TO G. DEL RIO.[1] + +1816. + +I send you, dear sir, the cloak, and also a school-book of my Carl's, and +request you will make out a list of his clothes and effects, that I may +have it copied for myself, being obliged, as his guardian, to look +carefully after his property. I intend to call for Carl to-morrow about +half-past twelve o'clock, to take him to a little concert, and wish him to +dine with me afterwards, and shall bring him back myself. With respect to +his mother, I desire that _under the pretext_ of the boy being _so busy_, +you will not let her see him; no man on earth can know or judge of this +matter better than myself, and by any other line of conduct all my +well-matured plans for the welfare of the child might be materially +injured. I will myself discuss with you when the mother is henceforth to +have access to Carl, for I am anxious on every account to prevent the +occurrence of yesterday ever being repeated. I take all the responsibility +on myself; indeed, so far as I am concerned, the Court conferred on me full +powers, and the authority at once to counteract anything adverse to the +welfare of the boy. If they could have looked on her in the light of an +estimable mother, they assuredly would not have excluded her from the +guardianship of her child. Whatever she may think fit to assert, nothing +has been done in a clandestine manner against her. There was but one voice +in the whole council on the subject. I hope to have no further trouble in +this matter, for the burden is already heavy enough. + +From a conversation I had yesterday with Adlersburg [his lawyer], it would +appear that a long time must yet elapse before the Court can decide what +really belongs to the child. In addition to all these anxieties am I also +to endure a persecution such as I have recently experienced, and from which +I thought I _was entirely rescued by your Institution_? Farewell! + +I am, with esteem, your obedient + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Beethoven's arbitrary authority had been previously sanctioned +by a decree of the Court, and the mother deprived of all power over her +son.] + + +174. + +TO FERDINAND RIES,--LONDON. + +Vienna, March 8, 1816. + +My answer has been too long delayed; but I was ill, and had a great press +of business. Not a single farthing is yet come of the ten gold ducats, and +I now almost begin to think that the English are only liberal when in +foreign countries. It is the same with the Prince Regent, who has not even +sent me the cost of copying my "Battle Symphony," nor one verbal or written +expression of thanks. My whole income consists of 3400 florins in +paper-money. I pay 1100 for house-rent, and 900 to my servant and his wife; +so you may reckon for yourself what remains. Besides this, the entire +maintenance of my young nephew devolves on me. At present he is at school, +which costs 1100 florins, and is by no means a good one; so that I must +arrange a proper household and have him with me. How much money must be +made to live at all here! and yet there seems no end to +it--because!--because!--because!--but you know well what I mean. + +Some commissions from the Philharmonic would be very acceptable to me, +besides, the concert. Now let me say that my dear scholar Ries must set to +work and dedicate something valuable to me, to which his master may +respond, and repay him in his own coin. How can I send you my portrait? My +kind regards to your wife. I, alas! have none. One alone I wished to +possess, but never shall I call her mine![1] This, however, has not made me +a woman-hater. + +Your true friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: See the statement of Fräulein del Rio in the _Grenzboten_. We +read:--"My father's idea was that marriage alone could remedy the sad +condition of Beethoven's household matters; so he asked him whether he knew +any one, &c., &c. Our long-existing presentiment was then realized." His +love was unfortunate. Five years ago he had become acquainted with a person +with whom he would have esteemed it the highest felicity of his life to +have entered into closer ties; but it was vain to think of it, being almost +an impossibility! a chimera! and yet his feelings remained the same as the +very first day he had seen her! He added, "that never before had he found +such harmony! but no declaration had ever been made, not being able to +prevail on himself to do so." This conversation took place in Sept. 1816, +at Helenenthal, in Baden, and the person to whom he alluded was undoubtedly +Marie L. Pachler-Koschak in Gratz. (See No. 80.)] + + +175. + +TO F. RIES. + +Vienna, April 3, 1816. + +Neate[1] is no doubt in London by this time. He took several of my works +with him, and promised to do the best he could for me. + +The Archduke Rudolph [Beethoven's pupil, see No. 70] also plays your works +with me, my dear Ries; of these "Il Sogno" especially pleased us. Farewell! +Remember me to your charming wife, and to any fair English ladies who care +to receive my greetings. + +Your true friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Charles Neate, a London artist, as Schindler styles him in his +_Biography_ (II. 254), was on several different occasions for some time +resident in Vienna, and very intimate with Beethoven, whom he tried to +persuade to come to London. He also was of great service in promoting the +sale of his works. A number of Neate's letters, preserved in the Berlin +State Library, testify his faithful and active devotion and attachment to +the master.] + + +176. + +POWER OF ATTORNEY. + +Vienna, May 2, 1816. + +I authorize Herr v. Kauka, Doctor of Laws in the kingdom of Bohemia, +relying on his friendship, to obtain for me the receipt of 600 florins +W.W., payable at the treasury of Prince Kinsky, from the house of Ballabene +in Prague, and after having drawn the money to transmit the same to me as +soon as possible. + +Witness my hand and seal. + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +177. + +TO F. RIES. + +Vienna, June 11, 1816. + +MY DEAR RIES,-- + +I regret much to put you to the expense of postage on my account; gladly as +I assist and serve every one, I am always unwilling myself to have recourse +to others. I have as yet seen nothing of the ten ducats, whence I draw the +inference that in England, just as with us, there are idle talkers who +prove false to their word. I do not at all blame you in this matter. I have +not heard a syllable from Neate; so I do wish you would ask him whether he +has disposed of the F minor Concerto. I am almost ashamed to allude to the +other works I intrusted to him, and equally so of myself, for having given +them to him so confidingly, devoid of all conditions save those suggested +by his own friendship and zeal for my interests. + +A translation has been sent to me of an article in the "Morning Chronicle" +on the performance of the Symphony. Probably it will be the same as to this +and all the other works Neate took with him as with the "Battle Symphony;" +the only profit I shall derive will be reading a notice of their +performance in the newspapers. + + +178. + +TO G. DEL RIO. + +1816. + +MY WORTHY G.,-- + +I beg you will send Carl to me with the bearer of this letter; otherwise I +shall not be able to see him all day, which would be contrary to his own +interest, as my influence seems to be required; in the same view, I beg you +will give him a few lines with a report of his conduct, so that I may enter +at once on any point where improvement is necessary. + +I am going to the country to-day, and shall not return till rather late at +night; being always unwilling to infringe your rules, I beg you will send +some night-things with Carl, so that if we return too late to bring him to +you to-day, I can keep him all night, and take him back to you myself early +next morning. + +In haste, always yours, + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + + +179. + +TO G. DEL RIO. + +1816. + +I must apologize to you, my good friend, for Carl having come home at so +late an hour. We were obliged to wait for a person who arrived so late that +it detained us, but I will not soon repeat this breach of your rules. As to +Carl's mother, I have now decided that your wish not to see her again in +your house shall be acceded to. This course is far more safe and judicious +for our dear Carl, experience having taught me that every visit from his +mother leaves a root of bitterness in the boy's heart, which may injure, +but never can benefit him. I shall strive to arrange occasional meetings at +my house, which is likely to result in everything being entirely broken off +with her. As we thoroughly agree on the subject of Carl's mother, we can +mutually decide on the mode of his education. + +Your true friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +180. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +Vienna, July 11, 1816. + +Your kindness towards me induces me to hope that you will not attribute to +any _selfish_ design on my part the somewhat audacious (though only as to +the surprise) dedication annexed. The work[1] was written for Y.R.H., or +rather, it owes its existence to you, and this the world (the musical +world) ought to know. I shall soon have the honor of waiting on Y.R.H. in +Baden. Notwithstanding all the efforts of my physician, who will not allow +me to leave this, the weakness in my chest is no better, though my general +health is improved. I hope to hear all that is cheering of your own health, +about which I am always so much interested. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: Does Beethoven here allude to the dedication of the Sonata for +pianoforte and violin in G major, Op. 96, which, though sold to a publisher +in April, 1815, was designated as quite new in the _Allgemeine Zeitung_ on +July, 29, 1816?] + + +181. + +WRITTEN IN ENGLISH TO MR. BIRCHALL. + +1816. + +Received, March, 1816, of Mr. Robert Birchall, music-seller, 133 New Bond +Street, London, the sum of one hundred and thirty gold Dutch ducats, value +in English currency sixty-five pounds, for all my copyright and interest, +present and future, vested or contingent, or otherwise within the United +kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland in the four following compositions or +pieces of music composed or arranged by me, viz.:-- + +1st. A Grand Battle Sinfonia, descriptive of the battle and victory at +Vittoria, adapted for the pianoforte and dedicated to his Royal Highness +the Prince Regent--40 ducats. + +2d. A Grand Symphony in the key of A, adapted to the pianoforte and +dedicated to-- + +3d. A Grand Trio for the pianoforte, violin, and violoncello in the key of +B. + +4th. A Sonata for the pianoforte, with an accompaniment for the violin in +the key of G, dedicated to-- + +And, in consideration of such payment I hereby, for myself, my executors, +and administrators, promise and engage to execute a proper anignment +thereof to him, his executors and administrators or anignees, at his or +their request and costs, as he or they shall direct. And I likewise promise +and engage as above, that none of the above shall be published in any +foreign country, before the time and day fixed and agreed on for such +publication between R. Birchall and myself shall arrive. + +L. VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +182. + +WRITTEN IN FRENCH TO MR. BIRCHALL,--LONDON. + +Vienne 22. Juilliet, 1816. + +MONSIEUR,-- + +J'ai reçu la déclaration de proprieté de mes Oeuvres entierement cedé a +Vous pour y adjoindre ma Signature. Je suis tout a fait disposer a seconder +vos voeux si tôt, que cette affaire sera entierement en ordre, en egard de +la petite somme de 10 # d'or la quelle me vient encore pour le fieux de la +Copieture de poste de lettre etc. comme j'avois l'honneur de vous +expliquier dans une note detaillé sur ses objectes. Je vous invite donc +Monsieur de bien vouloir me remettre ces petits objects, pour me mettre +dans l'état de pouvoir vous envoyer le Document susdit. Agrées Monsieur +l'assurance de l'estime la plus parfait avec la quelle j'ai l'honneur de me +dire + +LOUIS VAN BEETHOVEN. + +Copying . . . . 1. 10. 0. +Postage to Amsterdam 1. 0. 0. + ---- Trio . . . 2. 10. -- + ----------- + £5. 0. 0. + + +183. + +TO G. DEL RIO. + +July 28, 1816. + +MY GOOD FRIEND,-- + +Various circumstances compel me to take charge of Carl myself; with this +view permit me to enclose you the amount due at the approaching quarter, at +the expiry of which Carl is to leave you. Do not, I beg, ascribe this to +anything derogatory either to yourself or to your respected institution, +but to other pressing motives connected with Carl's welfare. It is only an +experiment, and when it is actually carried out I shall beg you to fortify +me by your advice, and also to permit Carl sometimes to visit your +institution. I shall always feel the most sincere gratitude to you, and +never can forget your solicitude, and the kind care of your excellent wife, +which has fully equalled that of the best of mothers. I would send you at +least four times the sum I now do, if my position admitted of it; but at +all events I shall avail myself at a future and, I hope, a brighter day, of +every opportunity to acknowledge and to do justice to the foundation _you_ +have laid for the moral and physical good of my Carl. With regard to the +"Queen of the Night," our system must continue the same; and as Carl is +about to undergo an operation in your house which will cause him to feel +indisposed, and consequently make him irritable and susceptible, you must +be more careful than ever to prevent her having access to him; otherwise +she might easily contrive to revive all those impressions in his mind which +we are so anxious to avoid. What confidence can be placed in any promise to +reform on her part, the impertinent scrawl I enclose will best prove [in +reference, no doubt, to an enclosed note]. I send it merely to show you how +fully I am justified in the precautions I have already adopted with regard +to her. On this occasion, however, I did not answer like a Sarastro, but +like a Sultan. I would gladly spare you the anxiety of the operation on +Carl, but as it must take place in your house, I beg you will inform me of +the outlay caused by the affair, and the expenses consequent on it, which I +will thankfully repay. Now farewell! Say all that is kind from me to your +dear children and your excellent wife, to whose continued care I commend my +Carl. I leave Vienna to-morrow at five o'clock A.M., but shall frequently +come in from Baden. + +Ever, with sincere esteem, your + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + + +184. + +TO G. DEL RIO. + +Mdme. A.G. is requested to order several pairs of good linen drawers for +Carl. I intrust Carl to her kindness, and entirely rely on her motherly +care. + + +185. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +Baden, September 5, 1816. + +DEAR Z.,-- + +I don't know whether you received a note that I recently left on the +threshold of your door, for the time was too short to enable me to see you. +I must therefore repeat my request about another servant, as the conduct of +my present one is such that I cannot possibly keep him.[1] He was engaged +on the 25th of April, so on the 25th of September he will have been five +months with me, and he received 50 florins on account. The money for his +boots will be reckoned from the third month (in my service), and from that +time at the rate of 40 florins per annum; his livery also from the third +month. From the very first I resolved not to keep him, but delayed +discharging him, as I wished to get back the value of my florins. In the +mean time if I can procure another, I will let this one leave my service on +the 15th of the month, and also give him 20 florins for boot money, and 5 +florins a month for livery (both reckoned from the third month), making +altogether 35 florins. I ought therefore still to receive 15 florins, but +these I am willing to give up; in this way I shall at all events receive +some equivalent for my 50 florins. If you can find a suitable person, I +will give him 2 florins a day while I am in Baden, and if he knows how to +cook he can use my firewood in the kitchen. (I have a kitchen, though I do +not cook in it.) If not, I will add a few kreutzers to his wages. As soon +as I am settled in Vienna, he shall have 40 florins a month, and board and +livery as usual, reckoned from the third month in my service, like other +servants. It would be a good thing if he understood a little tailoring. So +now you have my proposals, and I beg for an answer by the 10th of this +month at the latest, that I may discharge my present servant on the 2d, +with the usual fortnight's warning; otherwise I shall be obliged to keep +him for another month, and every moment I wish to get rid of him. As for +the new one, you know pretty well what I require,--_good, steady conduct_, +a _good character_, and _not to be of a bloodthirsty nature_, that I may +feel my life to be safe, as, for the sake of various scamps in this world, +I should like to live a little longer. By the 10th, therefore, I shall +expect to hear from you on this affair. If you don't run restive, I will +soon send you my treatise on the four violoncello strings, very profoundly +handled; the first chapter devoted exclusively to entrails in general, the +second to catgut in particular. I need scarcely give you any further +warnings, as you seem to be quite on your guard against wounds inflicted +before certain fortresses. The most _profound peace_ everywhere prevails!!! +Farewell, my good _Zmeskällchen_! I am, as ever, _un povero musico_ and +your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +N.B. I shall probably only require my new servant for some months, as, for +the sake of my Carl, I must shortly engage a housekeeper. + +[Footnote 1: During a quarrel, the servant scratched Beethoven's face.] + + +186. + +TO HERR KAUKA. + +Baden, Sept. 6, 1816. + +MY WORTHY K.,-- + +I send you herewith the receipt, according to your request, and beg that +you will kindly arrange that I should have the money by the 1st October, +and without any deduction, which has hitherto been the case; I also +particularly beg _you will not assign the money to Baron P._ (I will tell +you why when we meet; for the present let this remain between ourselves.) +Send it either direct to myself, or, if it must come through another +person, do not let it be Baron P. It would be best for the future, as the +house-rent is paid here for the great house belonging to Kinsky, that my +money should be paid at the same time. This is only my own idea. The Terzet +you heard of will soon be engraved, which is infinitely preferable to all +written music; you shall therefore receive an engraved copy, and likewise +some more of my unruly offspring. In the mean time I beg that you will see +only what is truly good in them, and look with an indulgent eye on the +human frailties of these poor innocents. Besides, I am full of cares, being +in reality father to my late brother's child; indeed I might have ushered +into the world a second part of the "Flauto Magico," having also been +brought into contact with a "Queen of the Night." I embrace you from my +heart, and hope soon in so far to succeed that you may owe some thanks to +my Muse. My dear, worthy Kauka, I ever am your truly attached friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +187. + +QUERY? + +What would be the result were I to leave this, and indeed the kingdom of +Austria altogether? Would the life-certificate, if signed by the +authorities of a non-Austrian place, still be valid? + +_A tergo._ + +I beg you will let me know the postage all my letters have cost you. + + +188. + +TO G. DEL RIO. + +Sunday, September 22, 1816. + +Certain things can never be fully expressed. Of this nature are my +feelings, and especially my gratitude, on hearing the details of the +operation on Carl from you. You will excuse my attempting even remotely to +shape these into words. I feel certain, however, that you will not decline +the tribute I gladly pay you; but I say no more. You can easily imagine my +anxiety to hear how my dear son is going on; do not omit to give me your +exact address, that I may write to you direct. After you left this I wrote +to Bernhard [Bernard], to make inquiries at your house, but have not yet +got an answer; so possibly you may have thought me a kind of half-reckless +barbarian, as no doubt Herr B. has neglected to call on you, as well as to +write to me. I can have no uneasiness about Carl when your admirable wife +is with him: that is quite out of the question. You can well understand how +much it grieves me not to be able to take part in the sufferings of my +Carl, and that I at least wish to hear frequently of his progress. As I +have renounced such an unfeeling, unsympathizing friend as Herr B. +[Bernard], I must have recourse to your friendship and complaisance on this +point also, and shall hope soon to receive a few lines from you. I beg to +send my best regards and a thousand thanks to your admirable wife. + +In haste, your + +BEETHOVEN. + +I wish you to express to Smetana [the surgeon] my esteem and high +consideration. + + +189. + +TO G. DEL RIO. + +If you do not object, I beg you will allow Carl to come to me with the +bearer of this. I forgot, in my haste, to say that all the love and +goodness which Mdme. A.G. [Giannatasio] showed my Carl during his illness +are inscribed in the list of my obligations, and I hope one day to show +that they are ever present in my mind. Perhaps I may see you to-day with +Carl. + +In haste, your sincere friend, + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + + +190. + +TO WEGELER. + +I take the opportunity through J. Simrock to remind you of myself. I hope +you received the engraving of me [by Letronne], and likewise the Bohemian +glass. When I next make a pilgrimage through Bohemia you shall have +something more of the same kind. Farewell! You are a husband and a father; +so am I, but without a wife. My love to your dear ones--to _our_ dear ones. + +Your friend, + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + + +191. + +WRITTEN IN ENGLISH TO MR. BIRCHALL, MUSIC SELLER, LONDON. + +Vienna, 1. Oct. 1816. + +MY DEAR SIR,-- + +I have duly received the £5 and thought previously you would non increase +the number of Englishmen neglecting their word and honor, as I had the +misfortune of meeting with two of this sort. In replic to the other topics +of your favor, I have no objection to write variations according to your +plan, and I hope you will not find £30 too much, the Accompaniment will be +a Flute or Violin or a Violoncello; you'll either decide it when you send +me the approbation of the price, or you'll leave it to me. I expect to +receive the songs or poetry--the sooner the better, and you'll favor me +also with the probable number of Works of Variations you are inclined to +receive of me. The Sonata in G with the accompan't of a Violin to his +Imperial Highnesse Archduke Rodolph of Austria--it is Op'a 96. The Trio in +Bb is dedicated to the same and is Op. 97. The Piano arrangement of the +Symphony in A is dedicated to the Empress of the Russians--meaning the Wife +of the Emp'r Alexander--Op. 98. + +Concerning the expences of copying and packing it is not possible to fix +him before hand, they are at any rate not considerable, and you'll please +to consider that you have to deal with a man of honor, who will not charge +one 6p. more than he is charged for himself. Messrs. Fries & Co. will +account with Messrs. Coutts & Co.--The postage may be lessened as I have +been told. I offer you of my Works the following new ones. A Grand Sonata +for the Pianoforte alone £40. A Trio for the Piano with accomp't of Violin +and Violoncello for £50. It is possible that somebody will offer you other +works of mine to purchase, for ex. the score of the Grand Symphony in +A.--With regard to the arrangement of this Symphony for the Piano I beg you +not to forget that you are not to publish it until I have appointed the day +of its publication here in Vienna. This cannot be otherwise without making +myself guilty of a dishonorable act--but the Sonata with the Violin and the +Trio in B fl. may be published without any delay. + +With all the _new works_, which you will have of me or which I offer you, +it rests with you to name the day of their publication at your own choice: +I entreat you to honor me as soon as possible with an answer having many +ordres for compositions and that you may not be delayed. My address or +direction is + +Monsieur Louis van Beethoven + +No. 1055 & 1056 Sailerstette 3d. Stock. Vienna. + +You may send your letter, if you please, direct to your most humble servant + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +192. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +Oct. 24, 1816. + +WELL BORN, AND YET EVIL BORN! (AS WE ALL ARE!) + +We are in Baden to-day, and intend to bring the celebrated naturalist +Ribini a collection of dead leaves. To-morrow we purpose paying you not +only a _visit_ but a _visitation_. + +Your devoted + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +193. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +November, 1816.[1] + +I have been again much worse, so that I can only venture to go out a little +in the daytime; I am, however, getting better, and hope now to have the +honor of waiting on Y.R.H. three times a week. Meanwhile, I have many and +great cares in these terrible times (which surpass anything we have ever +experienced), and which are further augmented by having become the father +since last November of a poor orphan. All this tends to retard my entire +restoration to health. I wish Y.R.H. all imaginable good and happiness, and +beg you will graciously receive and not misinterpret + +Your, &c., &c. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: A year after Carl von Beethoven's death (Nov. 15, 1815).] + + +194. + +TO FREIHERR VON SCHWEIGER. + +BEST! + +MOST AMIABLE! + +FIRST AND FOREMOST TURNER MEISTER OF EUROPE! + +The bearer of this is a poor devil! (like many another!!!) You could assist +him by asking your gracious master whether he is disposed to purchase one +of his small but neat pianos. I also beg you will recommend him to any of +the Chamberlains or Adjutants of the Archduke Carl, to see whether it is +possible that H.R.H. would buy one of these instruments for his Duchess. We +therefore request an introduction from the illustrious _Turner Meister_ for +this poor devil[1] to the Chamberlains and Adjutants of the household. + +Likewise + +1 + +poor devil, + +[K.] L. V. BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: A name cannot now be found for the "poor devil."] + + +195. + +TO G. DEL RIO. + +Nov. 16, 1816. + +MY DEAR FRIEND,-- + +My household seems about to make shipwreck, or something very like it. You +know that I was duped into taking this house on false pretexts; besides, my +health does not seem likely to improve in a hurry. To engage a tutor under +such circumstances, whose character and whose very exterior even are +unknown to me, and thus to intrust my Carl's education to hap-hazard, is +quite out of the question, no matter how great the sacrifices which I shall +be again called on to make. I beg you, therefore, to keep Carl for the +ensuing quarter, commencing on the 9th. I will in so far comply with your +proposal as to the cultivation of the science of music, that Carl may come +to me two or three times a week, leaving you at six o'clock in the evening +and staying with me till the following morning, when he can return to you +by eight o'clock. It would be too fatiguing for Carl to come every day, and +indeed too great an effort and tie for me likewise, as the lessons must be +given at the same fixed hour. + +During this quarter we can discuss more minutely the most suitable plan for +Carl, taking into consideration both his interests and my own. I must, +alas! mention my own also in these times, which are daily getting worse. If +your garden residence had agreed with my health, everything might have been +easily adjusted. With regard to my debt to you for the present quarter, I +beg you will be so obliging as to call on me, that I may discharge it; the +bearer of this has the good fortune to be endowed by Providence with a vast +amount of stupidity, which I by no means grudge him the benefit of, +provided others do not suffer by it. As to the remaining expenses incurred +for Carl, either during his illness or connected with it, I must, for a few +days only, request your indulgence, having great calls on me at present +from all quarters. I wish also to know what fee I ought to give Smetana for +the successful operation he performed; were I rich, or not in the same sad +position in which all are who have linked their fate to this country +(always excepting _Austrian usurers_), I would make no inquiries on the +subject; and I only wish you to give me a rough estimate of the proper fee. +Farewell! I cordially embrace you, and shall always look on you as a friend +of mine and of Carl's. + +I am, with esteem, your + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + + +196. + +TO G. DEL RIO. + +Though I would gladly spare you all needless disagreeable trouble, I +cannot, unluckily, do so on this occasion. Yesterday, in searching for some +papers, I found this pile, which has been sent to me respecting Carl. I do +not quite understand them, and you would oblige me much by employing some +one to make out a regular statement of all your outlay for Carl, so that I +may send for it to-morrow. I hope you did not misunderstand me when I +yesterday alluded to _magnanimity_, which certainly was not meant for you, +but solely for the "Queen of the Night," who is never weary of hoisting the +sails of her vindictiveness against me; so on this account I require +vouchers, more for the satisfaction of others than for her sake (as I never +will submit to render her any account of my actions). No stamp is required, +and the sum alone for each quarter need be specified, for I believe most of +the accounts are forthcoming; so all you have to do is to append them to +your _prospectus_ [the conclusion illegible]. + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + + +197. + +TO G. DEL RIO. + +Nov. 14, 1816. + +MY GOOD FRIEND,-- + +I beg you will allow Carl to come to me to-morrow, as it is the anniversary +of his father's death [Nov. 15th], and we wish to visit his grave together. +I shall probably come to fetch him between twelve and one o'clock. I wish +to know the effect of my treatment of Carl, after your recent complaints. +In the mean time, it touched me exceedingly to find him so susceptible as +to his honor. Before we left your house I gave him some hints on his want +of industry, and while walking together in a graver mood than usual, he +pressed my hand vehemently, but met with no response from me. At dinner he +scarcely eat anything, and said that he felt very melancholy, the cause of +which I could not extract from him. At last, in the course of our walk, he +owned that _he was vexed because he had not been so industrious as usual_. +I said what I ought on the subject, but in a kinder manner than before. +This, however, proves a certain delicacy of feeling, and such _traits_ lead +me to augur all that is good. If I cannot come to you to-morrow, I hope you +will let me know by a few lines the result of my conference with Carl. + +I once more beg you to let me have the account due for the last quarter. I +thought that you had misunderstood my letter, or even worse than that. I +warmly commend my poor orphan to your good heart, and, with kind regards to +all, I remain + +Your friend, + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + + +198. + +TO G. DEL RIO. + +MY GOOD FRIEND,-- + +Pray forgive me for having allowed the enclosed sum to be ready for you +during the last twelve days or more, and not having sent it. I have been +very much occupied, and am only beginning to recover, though indeed the +word _recovery_ has not yet been pronounced. + +In haste, with much esteem, ever yours, + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + + +199. + +TO HERR TSCHISCHKA. + +SIR,-- + +It is certainly of some moment to me _not to appear in a false light_, +which must account for the accompanying statement being so prolix. As to +the future system of education, I can at all events congratulate myself on +having done all that I could possibly effect at present _for the best_, and +trust _that the future may be in accordance with it_. But if the welfare of +my nephew demands a _change_, I shall be the first not only to propose such +a step, but _to carry it out_. I am no self-interested guardian, but I wish +to establish a new monument to my name through my nephew. I _have no need +of my nephew_, but he has need of me. Idle talk and calumnies are beneath +the dignity of a man with proper self-respect, and what can be said when +these extend even to the subject of linen!!! This might cause me great +annoyance, _but a just man ought to be able to bear injustice_ without in +the _most remote degree_ deviating from the path of _right_. In this +conviction I will stand fast, and nothing shall make me flinch. To deprive +me of my nephew would indeed entail a heavy responsibility. As a matter of +_policy_ as well as of morality, such a step would be productive of evil +results to my nephew. _I urgently recommend his interests to you._ As for +me, _my actions_ for _his_ benefit (not for my _own_) must speak for me. + +I remain, with esteem, + +Your obedient + +BEETHOVEN. + +Being very busy, and rather indisposed, I must claim your indulgence for +the writing of the memorial. + + +200. + +WRITTEN IN ENGLISH TO MR. BIRCHALL,--LONDON. + +Vienna 14. December 1816--1055 Sailerstette. + +DEAR SIR,-- + +I give you my word of honor that I have signed and delivered the receipt to +the home Fries and Co. some day last August, who as they say have +transmitted it to Messrs. Coutts and Co. where you'll have the goodness to +apply. Some error might have taken place that instead of Messrs. C. sending +it to you they have been directed to keep it till fetched. Excuse this +irregularity, but it is not my fault, nor had I ever the idea of +withholding it from the circumstance of the £5 not being included. Should +the receipt not come forth as Messrs. C., I am ready to sign any other, and +you shall have it directly with return of post. + +If you find Variations--in my style--too dear at £30, I will abate for the +sake of your friendship one third--and you have the offer of such +Variations as fixed in our former lettres for £20 each Air. + +Please to publish the Symphony in A immediately--as well as the Sonata--and +the Trio--they being ready here. The Grand Opera Fidelio is my work. The +arrangement for the Pianoforte has been published here under my care, but +the score of the Opera itself is not yet published. I have given a copy of +the score to Mr. Neate under the seal of friendship and whom I shall direct +to treat for my account in case an offer should present. + +I anxiously hope your health is improving, give me leave to subscrive +myself + +Dear Sir + +Your very obedient Serv. + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +201. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +Dec. 16, 1816. + +With this, dear Zmeskall, you will receive my friendly dedication [a +stringed quartet, Op. 95], which may, I hope, serve as a pleasant memorial +of our long-enduring friendship here; pray accept it as a proof of my +esteem, and not merely as the extreme end of a thread long since spun out +(for you are one of my earliest friends in Vienna). + +Farewell! Beware of mouldering fortresses! for an attack on them will be +more trying than on those in a better state of preservation! As ever, + +Your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +N.B. When you have a moment's leisure, let me know the probable cost of a +livery, without linen, but including hat and boots. Strange changes have +come to pass in my house. The man is off to the devil, I am thankful to +say, whereas his wife seems the more resolved to take root here. + + +202. + +TO FRAU VON STREICHER--NÉE STEIN. + +Dec. 28, 1816. + +N---- ought to have given you the New Year's tickets yesterday, but it +seems she did not do so. The day before I was occupied with Maelzel, whose +business was pressing, as he leaves this so soon; otherwise you may be sure +that I would have hurried up again to see you. Your dear kind daughter was +with me yesterday, but I scarcely ever remember being so ill; my _precious +servants_ were occupied from seven o'clock till ten at night in trying to +heat the stove. The bitter cold, particularly in my room, caused me a +chill, and the whole of yesterday I could scarcely move a limb. All day I +was coughing, and had the most severe headache I ever had in my life; so by +six o'clock in the evening I was obliged to go to bed, where I still am, +though feeling somewhat better. Your brother dined with me yesterday, and +has shown me great kindness. You are aware that on the same day, the 27th +of December, I discharged B. [Baberl]. I cannot endure either of these vile +creatures; I wonder if Nany will behave rather better from the departure of +her colleague? I doubt it--but in that case I shall send her _packing_ +without any ceremony. She is too uneducated for a housekeeper, indeed quite +a _beast_; but the other, in spite of her pretty face, is even _lower than +the beasts_. As the New Year draws near, I think five florins will be +enough for Nany; I have not paid her the charge for _making her spencer_, +on account of her _bad behavior to you_. The other certainly _deserves no +New Year's gift_; besides, she has nine florins of mine on hand, and when +she leaves I don't expect to receive more than four or five florins of that +sum. I wish to have _your opinion about all this_. Pray accept my best +wishes for your welfare, which are offered in all sincerity. I am your +debtor in so many ways, that I really often feel quite ashamed. Farewell; I +trust I may always retain your friendship. + +Now, as ever, your friend, + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + + +203. + +TO FRAU VON STREICHER. + +I thank you for the interest you take in me. I am rather better, though +to-day again I have been obliged to endure a great deal from Nany; but I +shied half a dozen books at her head by way of a New Year's gift. We have +stripped off the leaves (by sending off Baberl) and lopped off the +branches, but we must extirpate the _roots_, till nothing is left but the +actual soil. + + +204. + +TO FRAU VON STREICHER. + +Nany is not strictly _honest_, and an odiously stupid _animal_ into the +bargain. Such people must be managed not by _love_ but by _fear_. I now see +this clearly. Her account-book alone cannot show you everything clearly; +you must often drop in unexpectedly at dinner-time, like an avenging angel, +to see with your own eyes _what_ we actually have. I never dine at home +now, _unless_ I have some friend as my guest, for I have no wish to pay as +much for one person as would serve for four. I shall _now soon_ have my +dear son Carl with me, so economy is more necessary than ever. I cannot +prevail on myself to go to you; I know you will forgive this. I am very +sensitive, and not used to such things, so the less ought I to expose +myself to them. In addition to twelve kreutzers for bread, Nany has a roll +of white bread every morning. Is this usual?--and it is the same with the +cook. A daily roll for breakfast comes to eighteen florins a year. +_Farewell_, and _work well_ for me. Mdlle. Nany is wonderfully changed for +the better since I sent the half-dozen books at her head. Probably they +chanced to come in collision with her _dull brain_ or her _bad heart_; at +all events, she now plays the part of a penitent swindler!!! + +In haste, yours, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +205. + +TO FRAU VON STREICHER. + +Nany yesterday took me to task in the vulgar manner usual with people of +her _low class_, about my complaining to you; so she evidently knew that I +had written to you on the subject. All the devilry began again yesterday +morning, but I made short work of it by throwing the heavy arm-chair beside +my bed at B.'s head, which procured me peace for the rest of the day. They +always take their revenge on me when I write to you, or when they discover +any communication between us. + +I do thank Heaven that I everywhere find men who interest themselves in me; +one of the _most distinguished Professors_ in this University has in the +kindest manner undertaken _all that concerns Carl's education_. If you +happen to meet any of the Giannatasios at Czerny's, you had better _know +nothing of what is going on about Carl_, and say that it is _contrary_ to +my _usual habit to disclose my plans, as when a project is told to others +it is no longer exclusively your own_. They would like to interfere in the +matter, and I do not choose that these _commonplace people should do so, +both for_ my _own sake and Carl's_. Over their portico is inscribed, in +golden letters, "Educational Institution," whereas "_Non_-Educational +Institution" would be more appropriate. + +As for the servants, there is only _one voice_ about their immorality, to +which _all_ the other annoyances here may be ascribed. + +Pray receive my benediction in place of that of the Klosterneuburgers.[1] + +In haste, your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Frau von Streicher was at that time in Klosterneuburg.] + + +206. + +TO FRAU VON STREICHER. + +Judgment was executed to-day on the notorious criminal! She bore it nearly +in the same spirit as Caesar did Brutus's dagger, except that in the former +case truth formed the basis, while in hers only wicked malice. The +kitchen-maid seems more handy than the former _ill-conducted beauty_; she +no longer shows herself,--a sign that she does not expect a _good +character_ from me, though I really had some thoughts of giving her one. +The kitchen-maid at first made rather a wry face about carrying wood, &c. + + +207. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +Last day of December, 1816. + +I have been again obliged to keep my room ever since the Burgher +concert,[1] and some time must no doubt elapse before I shall be able to +dismiss all precautions as to my health. The year is about to close; and +with this new year my warmest wishes are renewed for the welfare of Y.R.H.; +but indeed these have neither beginning nor end with me, for every day I +cherish the same aspirations for Y.R.H. If I may venture to add a wish for +myself to the foregoing, it is, that I may daily thrive and prosper more in +Y.R.H.'s good graces. The master will always strive not to be unworthy of +the favor of his illustrious master and pupil. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: Beethoven directed his A major Symphony in the Burgher concert +in the Royal Redoutensaal on the 25th December, 1816.] + + +208. + +TO G. DEL RIO. + +... As to his mother, she urgently requested to see Carl in my house. You +have sometimes seen me tempted to place more confidence in her, and my +feelings would lead me to guard against harshness towards her, especially +as it is not in her power to injure Carl. But you may well imagine that to +one usually so independent of others, the annoyances to which I am exposed +through Carl are often utterly insupportable, and above all with regard to +his mother; I am only too glad to hear nothing of her, which is the cause +of my avoiding her name. With respect to Carl, I beg you will enforce the +strictest discipline on him, and if he refuses to obey your orders or to do +his duty, I trust you will at once _punish_ him. Treat him as if he were +your own child rather than a _mere pupil_, for I already told you that +during his father's lifetime he only submitted to the discipline of blows, +which was a bad system; still, such was the fact, and we must not forget +it. + +If you do not see much of me, pray ascribe it solely to the little +inclination I have for society, which is sometimes more developed and +sometimes less; and this you might attribute to a change in my feelings, +but it is not so. What is good alone lives in my memory, and not what is +painful. Pray impute therefore solely to these hard times my not more +practically showing my gratitude to you on account of Carl. God, however, +directs all things; so my position may undergo a favorable change, when I +shall hasten to show you how truly I am, with sincere esteem, your grateful +friend, + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + +I beg you will read this letter to Carl. + + +209. + +TO G. DEL RIO. + +Carl must be at H.B.'s to-day before four o'clock; I must request you +therefore to ask his professor to dismiss him at half-past three o'clock; +if this cannot be managed he must not go into school at all. In the latter +case, I will come myself and fetch him; in the former, I will meet him in +the passage of the University. To avoid all confusion, I beg for an +explicit answer as to what you settle. As you have been loudly accused of +showing great party feeling, I will take Carl myself. If you do not see me, +attribute it to my distress of mind, for I am now only beginning to feel +the full force of this terrible incident.[1] + +In haste, your + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Probably the reversal of the first decree in the lawsuit with +Carl's mother, who in order to procure a verdict more favorable to her +claims, pointed out to the Austrian "Landrecht," where the lawsuit had been +hitherto carried on, an error in their proceedings, the "Van," prefixed to +Beethoven's name, having been considered by them a sign of nobility. +Beethoven was cited to appear, and on the appointed day, pointing to his +head and his heart, he said, "My nobility is here, and here." The +proceedings were then transferred to the "magistrate," who was in universal +bad odor from his mode of conducting his business.] + + +210. + +TO G. DEL RIO. + +The assertions of this wicked woman have made such a painful impression on +me, that I cannot possibly answer every point to-day; to-morrow you shall +have a detailed account of it all; but on no pretext whatever allow her to +have access to Carl, and adhere to your rule that she is only to see him +once a month. As she has been once this month already, she cannot come +again till the next. + +In haste, your + +BEETHOVEN. + + +211. + +TO HOFRATH VON MOSEL. + +1817. + +SIR,-- + +I sincerely rejoice that we take the same view as to the terms in use to +denote the proper time in music which have descended to us from barbarous +times. For example, what can be more irrational than the general term +_allegro_, which only means _lively_; and how far we often are from +comprehending the real time, so that the piece itself _contradicts the +designation_. As for the four chief movements,--which are, indeed, far from +possessing the truth or accuracy of the four cardinal points,--we readily +agree _to dispense with them_, but it is quite another matter as to the +words that indicate the character of the music; these we cannot consent to +do away with, for while the time is, as it were, part and parcel of the +piece, the _words denote the spirit in which it is conceived_. + +So far as I am myself concerned, I have long purposed giving up those +inconsistent terms _allegro_, _andante_, _adagio_, and _presto_; and +Maelzel's metronome furnishes us with the best opportunity of doing so. I +here _pledge_ myself _no longer_ to make use of them in any of my new +compositions. It is another question whether we can by this means attain +the necessary universal use of the metronome. I scarcely think we shall! I +make no doubt that we shall be loudly proclaimed as _despots_; but if the +cause itself were to derive benefit from this, it would at least be better +than to incur the reproach of Feudalism! In our country, where music has +become a national requirement, and where the use of the metronome must be +enjoined on every village schoolmaster, the best plan would be for Maelzel +to endeavor to sell a certain number of metronomes by subscription, at the +present higher prices, and as soon as the number covers his expenses, he +can sell the metronomes demanded by the national requirements at so cheap a +rate, that we may certainly anticipate their _universal use_ and +_circulation_. Of course some persons must take the lead in giving an +impetus to the undertaking. You may safely rely on my doing what is in my +power, and I shall be glad to hear what post you mean to assign to me in +the affair. + +I am, sir, with esteem, your obedient + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +212. + +TO S.A. STEINER, MUSIC PUBLISHER,--VIENNA. + +HIGHEST BORN! MOST ADMIRABLE! AND MARVELLOUS LIEUTENANT-GENERAL![1] + +We beg you to give us bank-notes for twenty-four gold ducats at yesterday's +rate of exchange, and to send them to us this evening or to-morrow, in +order that we may forthwith _remit_ and _transmit_ them. I should be glad +and happy if your trustworthy Adjutant were to bring me these, as I have +something particular to say to him. He must forget all his resentment, like +a good Christian; we acknowledge his merits and do not contest his +demerits. In short, and once for all, we wish to see him. This evening +would suit us best. + +We have the honor to remain, most astounding Lieutenant-General! your +devoted + +GENERALISSIMUS. + +[Footnote 1: Beethoven styled himself "Generalissimus," Herr A. Steiner +"Lieutenant-General," and his partner, Tobias Haslinger, "Adjutant" and +"Adjutant-General."] + + +213. + +TO LIEUTENANT-GENERAL VON STEINER.--PRIVATE. + +PUBLICANDUM,-- + +After due consideration, and by the advice of our Council, we have +determined and decreed that henceforth on all our works published with +German titles, the word _Pianoforte_ is to be replaced by that of _Hammer +Clavier_, and our worthy Lieutenant-General, his Adjutant, and all whom it +may concern, are charged with the execution of this order. + +Instead of Pianoforte--_Hammer Clavier_. + +Such is our will and pleasure. + +Given on the 23d of January, 1817, by the _Generalissimus_. + +_Manu propria._ + + +214. + +TO STEINER. + +The following dedication occurred to me of my new Sonata:-- + + "Sonata for the Pianoforte, + or + _Hammer Clavier_. +Composed and dedicated to Frau Baronin Dorothea + Ertmann--née Graumann, + by + Ludwig van Beethoven." + +If the title is already engraved, I have the two following proposals to +make; viz., that I pay for one title--I mean that it should be at my +expense, or reserved for another new sonata of mine, for which purpose the +mines of the Lieutenant-General (or _pleno titulo_, Lieutenant-General and +First Councillor of State) must be opened to usher it into the light of +day; the title to be previously shown to a good linguist. _Hammer Clavier_ +is certainly German, and so is the device. Honor to whom honor is due! How +is it, then, that I have as yet received no reports of the carrying out of +my orders, which, however, have no doubt been attended to? + +Ever and always your attached + +_Amicus +ad Amicum +de Amico._ + +[Music: Treble clef. +O Ad-ju-tant!] + +N.B. I beg you will observe the most profound silence about the dedication, +as I wish it to be a surprise! + + +215. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +Jan. 30, 1817. + +DEAR Z.,-- + +You seem to place me on a level with Schuppanzigh, &c., and have distorted +the plain and simple meaning of my words. You are not my debtor, but I am +yours, and now you make me so more than ever. I cannot express to you the +pain your gift has caused me, and I must candidly say that I cannot give +you one friendly glance _in return_. Although you confine yourself to the +practice of music, still you have often recourse to the power of +imagination, and it seems to me that this not unfrequently leads to +uncalled-for caprice on your part; at least, so it appeared to me from your +letter after my dedication. Loving as my sentiments are towards you, and +much as I prize all your goodness, still I feel provoked!--much +provoked!--terribly provoked! + +Your debtor afresh, + +Who will, however, contrive to have his revenge, + +L. VAN BEETHOVEN. + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + +End of Project Gutenberg's Beethoven's Letters 1790-1826, Vol. 1 of 2 +by Lady Wallace + +*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 13065 *** diff --git a/13065-h/13065-h.htm b/13065-h/13065-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..fd1e2ff --- /dev/null +++ b/13065-h/13065-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,8981 @@ +<!DOCTYPE HTML PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD HTML 4.01 Transitional//EN" "http://www.w3.org/TR/html4/loose.dtd"> +<!-- Transitional because <li value=42> is deprecated in Strict with no replacement in CSS --> +<html> +<head> +<meta http-equiv=Content-Type content="text/html; charset=UTF-8"> +<title>BEETHOVEN'S LETTERS. (1790--1826.) VOL. I.</title> +<style type="text/css"> +<!-- +p.date { text-align:right } +p.signature { text-align:right } +img { vertical-align:middle } +--> +</style> +</head> +<body> +<div>*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 13065 ***</div> + +<h1>BEETHOVEN'S LETTERS.</h1> + +<p>(1790--1826.)</p> + +<p>FROM THE COLLECTION OF DR. LUDWIG NOHL.</p> + + +<p>ALSO HIS</p> + +<p>LETTERS TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH, CARDINAL-ARCHBISHOP<br> +OF OLMÃœTZ, K.W., FROM THE COLLECTION OF DR.<br> +LUDWIG RITTER VON KÖCHEL.</p> + + +<p>TRANSLATED BY<br> +LADY WALLACE.</p> + + +<p><i>WITH A PORTRAIT AND FAC-SIMILE.</i></p> + + +<p>IN TWO VOLUMES.</p> + +<p>VOL. I.</p> + +<p>BOSTON:</p> + +<p>OLIVER DITSON & CO., 277 WASHINGTON STREET.</p> + +<p>NEW YORK: C.H. DITSON & CO.</p> + + + + +<h2>TRANSLATOR'S PREFACE.</h2> + + +<p>Since undertaking the translation of Dr. Ludwig +Nohl's valuable edition of "Beethoven's Letters," +an additional collection has been published by Dr. +Ludwig Ritter von Köchel, consisting of many +interesting letters addressed by Beethoven to his +illustrious pupil, H.R.H. the Archduke Rudolph, +Cardinal-Archbishop of Olmütz. These I have +inserted in chronological order, and marked with +the letter K., in order to distinguish them from the +correspondence edited by Dr. Nohl. I have only +omitted a few brief notes, consisting merely of +apologies for non-attendance on the Archduke.</p> + +<p>The artistic value of these newly discovered +treasures will no doubt be as highly appreciated in +this country as in the great <i>maestro's</i> Father-land.</p> + +<p>I must also express my gratitude to Dr. Th.G. v. Karajan, +for permitting an engraving to be made +expressly for this work, from an original Beethoven +portrait in his possession, now for the first time +given to the public. The grand and thoughtful +countenance forms a fitting introduction to letters +so truly depicting the brilliant, fitful genius of the +sublime master, as well as the touching sadness and +gloom pervading his life, which his devotion to Art +alone brightened, through many bitter trials and +harassing cares.</p> + +<p>The love of Beethoven's music is now become +so universal in England, that I make no doubt his +Letters will receive a hearty welcome from all those +whose spirits have been elevated and soothed by +the genius of this illustrious man.</p> + +<p class="signature">GRACE WALLACE.</p> + +<p>AINDERBY HALL, March 28, 1866.</p> + + + + +<h2>PREFACE<br> + +BY DR. LUDWIG NOHL<br> + +TO THE<br> + +LETTERS OF LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</h2> + + +<p>In accompanying the present edition of the Letters +of Ludwig van Beethoven with a few introductory +remarks, I at once acknowledge that the +compilation of these letters has cost me no slight +sacrifices. I must also, however, mention that an +unexpected Christmas donation, generously bestowed +on me with a view to further my efforts to +promote the science of music, enabled me to undertake +one of the journeys necessary for my purpose, +and also to complete the revision of the Letters +and of the press, in the milder air and repose of a +country residence, long since recommended to me +for the restoration of my health, undermined by +overwork.</p> + +<p>That, in spite of every effort, I have not succeeded +in seeing the original of each letter, or even +discovering the place where it exists, may well be +excused, taking into consideration the slender capabilities +of an individual, and the astonishing manner +in which Beethoven's Letters are dispersed all +over the world. At the same time, I must state +that not only have the hitherto inaccessible treasures +of Anton Schindler's "Beethoven's Nachlass" +been placed at my disposal, but also other letters +from private sources, owing to various happy +chances, and the kindness and complaisance of +collectors of autographs. I know better, however, +than most people--being in a position to do so--that +in the present work there can be no pretension +to any thing approaching to a complete collection of +Beethoven's Letters. The master, so fond of writing, +though he often rather amusingly accuses himself +of being a lazy correspondent, may very probably +have sent forth at least double the amount of +the letters here given, and there is no doubt whatever +that a much larger number are still extant in +the originals. The only thing that can be done at +this moment, however, is to make the attempt to +bring to light, at all events, the letters that could +be discovered in Germany. The mass of those +which I gradually accumulated, and now offer to +the public (with the exception of some insignificant +notes), appeared to me sufficiently numerous and +important to interest the world, and also to form a +substantial nucleus for any letters that may hereafter +be discovered. On the other hand, as many +of Beethoven's Letters slumber in foreign lands, +especially in the unapproachable cabinets of curiosities +belonging to various close-fisted English collectors, +an entire edition of the correspondence +could only be effected by a most disproportionate +outlay of time and expense.</p> + +<p>When revising the text of the Letters, it seemed +to me needless perpetually to impair the pleasure +of the reader by retaining the mistakes in orthography; +but enough of the style of writing of that +day is adhered to, to prevent its peculiar charm being +entirely destroyed. Distorted and incorrect as +Beethoven's mode of expression sometimes is, I +have not presumed to alter his grammar, or rather +syntax, in the smallest degree: who would presume +to do so with an individuality which, even amid +startling clumsiness of style, displays those inherent +intellectual powers that often did violence to language +as well as to his fellow-men? Cyclopean +masses of rock are here hurled with Cyclopean +force; but hard and massive as they are, the man +is not to be envied whose heart is not touched by +these glowing fragments, flung apparently at random +right and left, like meteors, by a mighty intellectual +being, however perverse the treatment language +may have received from him.</p> + +<p>The great peculiarity, however, in this strange +mode of expression is, that even such incongruous +language faithfully reflects the mind of the man +whose nature was of prophetic depth and heroic +force; and who that knows anything of the creative +genius of a Beethoven can deny him these +attributes?</p> + +<p>The antique dignity pervading the whole man, +the ethical contemplation of life forming the basis +of his nature, prevented even a momentary wish +on my part to efface a single word of the oft-recurring +expressions so painfully harsh, bordering +on the unaesthetic, and even on the repulsive, provoked +by his wrath against the meanness of men. +In the last part of these genuine documents, we +learn with a feeling of sadness, and with almost a +tragic sensation, how low was the standard of moral +worth, or rather how great was the positive unworthiness, +of the intimate society surrounding the +master, and with what difficulty he could maintain +the purity of the nobler part of his being in such +an atmosphere. The manner, indeed, in which he +strives to do so, fluctuating between explosions of +harshness and almost weak yieldingness, while striving +to master the base thoughts and conduct of +these men, though never entirely succeeding in doing +so, is often more a diverting than an offensive +spectacle. In my opinion, nevertheless, even this +less pleasing aspect of the Letters ought not to be in +the slightest degree softened (which it has hitherto +been, owing to false views of propriety and morality), +for it is no moral deformity here displayed. +Indeed, even when the irritable master has recourse +to expressions repugnant to our sense of conventionality, +and which may well be called harsh and +rough, still the wrath that seizes on our hero is a +just and righteous wrath, and we disregard it, just +as in Nature, whose grandeur constantly elevates +us above the inevitable stains of an earthly soil. +The coarseness and ill-breeding, which would claim +toleration because this great man now and then +showed such feelings, must beware of doing so, being +certain to make shipwreck when coming in contact +with the massive rock of true morality on +which, with all his faults and deficiencies, Beethoven's +being was surely grounded. Often, indeed, +when absorbed in the unsophisticated and genuine +utterances of this great man, it seems as if these +peculiarities and strange asperities were the results +of some mysterious law of Nature, so that we are +inclined to adopt the paradox by which a wit once +described the singular groundwork of our nature,--"The +faults of man are the night in which he rests +from his virtues."</p> + +<p>Indeed, I think that the lofty morality of such +natures is not fully evident until we are obliged to +confess with regret, that even the great ones of the +earth must pay their tribute to humanity, and +really do pay it (which is the distinction between +them and base and petty characters), without being +ever entirely hurled from their pedestal of dignity +and virtue. The soul of that man cannot fail to +be elevated, who can seize the real spirit of the +scattered pages that a happy chance has preserved +for us. If not fettered by petty feelings, he will +quickly surmount the casual obstacles and stumbling-blocks +which the first perusal of these Letters +may seem to present, and quickly feel himself transported +at a single stride into a stream, where a +strange roaring and rushing is heard, but above +which loftier tones resound with magic and exciting +power. For a peculiar life breathes in these lines; +an under-current runs through their apparently unconnected +import, uniting them as with an electric +chain, and with firmer links than any mere coherence +of subjects could have effected. I experienced +this myself, to the most remarkable degree, when I +first made the attempt to arrange, in accordance +with their period and substance, the hundreds of +individual pages bearing neither date nor address, +and I was soon convinced that a connecting text +(such as Mozart's Letters have, and ought to have) +would be here entirely superfluous, as even the best +biographical commentary would be very dry work, +interrupting the electric current of the whole, and +thus destroying its peculiar effect.</p> + +<p>And now, what is this spirit which, for an intelligent +mind, binds together these scattered fragments +into a whole, and what is its actual power? +I cannot tell; but I feel to this day just as I felt +to the innermost depths of my heart in the days +of my youth when I first heard a symphony of +Beethoven's,--that a spirit breathes from it bearing +us aloft with giant power out of the oppressive +atmosphere of sense, stirring to its inmost recesses +the heart of man, bringing him to the full consciousness +of his loftier being, and of the undying within +him. And even more distinctly than when a new +world was thus disclosed to his youthful feelings is +the <i>man</i> fully conscious that not only was this a +new world to him, but a new world of feeling in +itself, revealing to the spirit phases of its own, +which, till Beethoven appeared, had never before +been fathomed. Call it by what name you will, +when one of the great works of the sublime master +is heard, whether indicative of proud self-consciousness, +freedom, spring, love, storm, or battle, it +grasps the soul with singular force, and enlarges +the laboring breast. Whether a man understands +music or not, every one who has a heart beating +within his breast will feel with enchantment that +here is concentrated the utmost promised to us by +the most imaginative of our poets, in bright visions +of happiness and freedom. Even the only great +hero of action, who in those memorable days is +worthy to stand beside the great master of harmony, +having diffused among mankind new and +priceless earthly treasures, sinks in the scale when +we compare these with the celestial treasures of a +purified and deeper feeling, and a more free, enlarged, +and sublime view of the world, struggling +gradually and distinctly upwards out of the mere +frivolity of an art devoid of words to express itself, +and impressing its stamp on the spirit of the age. +They convey, too, the knowledge of this brightest +victory of genuine German intellect to those for +whom the sweet Muse of Music is as a book with +seven seals, and reveal, likewise, a more profound +sense of Beethoven's being to many who already, +through the sweet tones they have imbibed, enjoy +some dawning conviction of the master's grandeur, +and who now more and more eagerly lend a listening +ear to the intellectual clearly worded strains so +skilfully interwoven, thus soon to arrive at the full +and blissful comprehension of those grand outpourings +of the spirit, and finally to add another bright +delight to the enjoyment of those who already +know and love Beethoven. All these may be regarded +as the objects I had in view when I undertook +to edit his Letters, which have also bestowed +on myself the best recompense of my labors, in the +humble conviction that by this means I may have +vividly reawakened in the remembrance of many +the mighty mission which our age is called on to +perform for the development of our race, even in +the realm of harmony,--more especially in our +Father-land.</p> + +<p class="signature">LUDWIG NOHL.</p> + +<p>LA TOUR DE PERLZ--LAKE OF GENEVA, +March, 1865.</p> + + + + +<h2>CONTENTS OF VOLUME I.</h2> + + +<h3>FIRST PART.<br> +<br> +LIFE'S JOYS AND SORROWS<br> +1783-1816.</h3> + +<ol> +<li value="1"> <a href="#let1">To the Elector of Cologne, Frederick Maximilian.</a> +<li value="2"> <a href="#let2">To Dr. Schade, Augsburg</a> +<li value="3"> <a href="#let3">To the Elector Maximilian Francis</a> +<li value="4"> <a href="#let4">To Eleonore von Breuning, Bonn</a> +<li value="5"> <a href="#let5">To the Same</a> +<li value="6"> <a href="#let6">To Herr Schenk</a> +<li value="7"> <a href="#let7">To Dr. Wegeler, Vienna</a> +<li value="8"> <a href="#let8">To the Same</a> +<li value="9"> <a href="#let9">Lines written in the Album of L. von Breuning</a> +<li value="10"> <a href="#let10">To Baron Zmeskall von Domanowecz</a> +<li value="11"> <a href="#let11">Ukase to Zmeskall, Schuppanzigh, and Lichnowsky</a> +<li value="12"> <a href="#let12">To Pastor Amenda, Courland</a> +<li value="13"> <a href="#let13">To the Same</a> +<li value="14"> <a href="#let14">To Wegeler</a> +<li value="15"> <a href="#let15">To Countess Giulietta Guicciardi</a> +<li value="16"> <a href="#let16">To Matthisson</a> +<li value="17"> <a href="#let17">To Frau Frank, Vienna</a> +<li value="18"> <a href="#let18">To Wegeler</a> +<li value="19"> <a href="#let19">To Kapellmeister Hofmeister, Leipzig</a> +<li value="20"> <a href="#let20">To the Same</a> +<li value="21"> <a href="#let21">To the Same</a> +<li value="22"> <a href="#let22">To the Same</a> +<li value="23"> <a href="#let23">Dedication to Dr. Schmidt</a> +<li value="24"> <a href="#let24">To Ferdinand Ries</a> +<li value="25"> <a href="#let25">To Herr Hofmeister, Leipzig</a> +<li value="26"> <a href="#let26">To Carl and Johann Beethoven</a> +<li value="27"> <a href="#let27">Notice</a> +<li value="28"> <a href="#let28">To Ferdinand Ries</a> +<li value="29"> <a href="#let29">To Herr Hofmeister, Leipzig</a> +<li value="30"> <a href="#let30">Caution</a> +<li value="31"> <a href="#let31">To Ries</a> +<li value="32"> <a href="#let32">To the Same</a> +<li value="33"> <a href="#let33">To the Same</a> +<li value="34"> <a href="#let34">To the Same</a> +<li value="35"> <a href="#let35">To the Composer Leidesdorf, Vienna</a> +<li value="36"> <a href="#let36">To Ries</a> +<li value="37"> <a href="#let37">To the Same</a> +<li value="38"> <a href="#let38">To the Same</a> +<li value="39"> <a href="#let39">To Messrs. Artaria & Co.</a> +<li value="40"> <a href="#let40">To Princess Liechtenstein</a> +<li value="41"> <a href="#let41">To Herr Meyer</a> +<li value="42"> <a href="#let42">Testimonial for C. Czerny</a> +<li value="43"> <a href="#let43">To Herr Röckel</a> +<li value="44"> <a href="#let44">To Herr Collin, Court Secretary and Poet</a> +<li value="45"> <a href="#let45">To Herr Gleichenstein</a> +<li value="46"> <a href="#let46">To the Directors of the Court Theatre</a> +<li value="47"> <a href="#let47">To Count Franz von Oppersdorf</a> +<li value="48"> <a href="#let48">Notice of a Memorial to the Archduke Rudolph, Prince Kinsky, + and Prince Lobkowitz</a> +<li value="49"> <a href="#let49">Memorial to the Same</a> +<li value="50"> <a href="#let50">To Zmeskall</a> +<li value="51"> <a href="#let51">To Ferdinand Ries</a> +<li value="52"> <a href="#let52">To Zmeskall</a> +<li value="53"> <a href="#let53">To the Same</a> +<li value="54"> <a href="#let54">To the Same</a> +<li value="55"> <a href="#let55">To the Same</a> +<li value="56"> <a href="#let56">To the Same</a> +<li value="57"> <a href="#let57">To the Same</a> +<li value="58"> <a href="#let58">To the Same</a> +<li value="59"> <a href="#let59">To Freiherr von Hammer-Purgstall</a> +<li value="60"> <a href="#let60">To the Same</a> +<li value="61"> <a href="#let61">To Baroness von Drossdick</a> +<li value="62"> <a href="#let62">To Mdlle. de Gerardi</a> +<li value="63"> <a href="#let63">To Zmeskall</a> +<li value="64"> <a href="#let64">To Wegeler</a> +<li value="65"> <a href="#let65">To Zmeskall</a> +<li value="66"> <a href="#let66">To Bettina Brentano</a> +<li value="67"> <a href="#let67">To the Same</a> +<li value="68"> <a href="#let68">To Zmeskall</a> +<li value="69"> <a href="#let69">To the Same</a> +<li value="70"> <a href="#let70">To the Archduke Rudolph</a> +<li value="71"> <a href="#let71">To a Dear Friend</a> +<li value="72"> <a href="#let72">To the Dramatic Poet Treitschke</a> +<li value="73"> <a href="#let73">To Zmeskall</a> +<li value="74"> <a href="#let74">To the Same</a> +<li value="75"> <a href="#let75">To the Same</a> +<li value="76"> <a href="#let76">To the Same</a> +<li value="77"> <a href="#let77">To the Same</a> +<li value="78"> <a href="#let78">To the Same</a> +<li value="79"> <a href="#let79">To the Same</a> +<li value="80"> <a href="#let80">To Kammerprocurator Varenna, Gratz</a> +<li value="81"> <a href="#let81">To Zmeskall</a> +<li value="82"> <a href="#let82">To the Same</a> +<li value="83"> <a href="#let83">To Varenna, Gratz</a> +<li value="84"> <a href="#let84">To Zmeskall</a> +<li value="85"> <a href="#let85">To Varenna</a> +<li value="86"> <a href="#let86">To Archduke Rudolph</a> +<li value="87"> <a href="#let87">To the Same</a> +<li value="88"> <a href="#let88">To Varenna, Gratz</a> +<li value="89"> <a href="#let89">To Joseph Freiherr von Schweiger</a> +<li value="90"> <a href="#let90">To Varenna, Gratz</a> +<li value="91"> <a href="#let91">Lines written in the Album of Mdme. Auguste Sebald</a> +<li value="92"> <a href="#let92">To Archduke Rudolph</a> +<li value="93"> <a href="#let93">To Bettina von Arnim</a> +<li value="94"> <a href="#let94">To Princess Kinsky</a> +<li value="95"> <a href="#let95">To Archduke Rudolph</a> +<li value="96"> <a href="#let96">To the Same</a> +<li value="97"> <a href="#let97">To the Same</a> +<li value="98"> <a href="#let98">To Princess Kinsky</a> +<li value="99"> <a href="#let99">To the Same</a> +<li value="100"> <a href="#let100">To Zmeskall</a> +<li value="101"> <a href="#let101">To Herr Joseph Varenna, Gratz</a> +<li value="102"> <a href="#let102">To the Same</a> +<li value="103"> <a href="#let103">To Zmeskall</a> +<li value="104"> <a href="#let104">To the Same</a> +<li value="105"> <a href="#let105">To the Same</a> +<li value="106"> <a href="#let106">To the Same</a> +<li value="107"> <a href="#let107">To the Same</a> +<li value="108"> <a href="#let108">To the Same</a> +<li value="109"> <a href="#let109">To the Same</a> +<li value="110"> <a href="#let110">To Archduke Rudolph</a> +<li value="111"> <a href="#let111">To the Same</a> +<li value="112"> <a href="#let112">To the Same</a> +<li value="113"> <a href="#let113">To Freiherr Josef von Schweiger</a> +<li value="114"> <a href="#let114">To Herr von Baumeister</a> +<li value="115"> <a href="#let115">To Zmeskall</a> +<li value="116"> <a href="#let116">Letter of Thanks</a> +<li value="117"> <a href="#let117">To the Archduke Rudolph</a> +<li value="118"> <a href="#let118">To the Same</a> +<li value="119"> <a href="#let119">To the Same</a> +<li value="120"> <a href="#let120">To Treitschke</a> +<li value="121"> <a href="#let121">To the Same</a> +<li value="122"> <a href="#let122">To the Same</a> +<li value="123"> <a href="#let123">To Count Lichnowsky.</a> +<li value="124"> <a href="#let124">To the Same</a> +<li value="125"> <a href="#let125">To the Archduke Rudolph</a> +<li value="126"> <a href="#let126">To the Same</a> +<li value="127"> <a href="#let127">Deposition</a> +<li value="128"> <a href="#let128">To Dr. Kauka, Prague.</a> +<li value="129"> <a href="#let129">Address and Appeal to London Artists</a> +<li value="130"> <a href="#let130">To Dr. Kauka</a> +<li value="131"> <a href="#let131">To Count Moritz Lichnowsky</a> +<li value="132"> <a href="#let132">To the Archduke Rudolph</a> +<li value="133"> <a href="#let133">To the Same</a> +<li value="134"> <a href="#let134">To the Same</a> +<li value="135"> <a href="#let135">To the Same</a> +<li value="136"> <a href="#let136">To the Same</a> +<li value="137"> <a href="#let137">To the Same</a> +<li value="138"> <a href="#let138">To the Same</a> +<li value="139"> <a href="#let139">To the Same</a> +<li value="140"> <a href="#let140">To Dr. Kauka</a> +<li value="141"> <a href="#let141">To the Same</a> +<li value="142"> <a href="#let142">To the Same</a> +<li value="143"> <a href="#let143">To the Members of the Landrecht</a> +<li value="144"> <a href="#let144">To Baron von Pasqualati</a> +<li value="145"> <a href="#let145">To Dr. Kauka</a> +<li value="146"> <a href="#let146">To the Archduke Rudolph</a> +</ol> + + + +<h3>SECOND PART.<br> +<br> +LIFE'S MISSION.<br> +1815-1822.</h3> + +<ol> +<li value="147"> <a href="#let147">Music written in Spohr's Album</a> +<li value="148"> <a href="#let148">To Dr. Kauka</a> +<li value="149"> <a href="#let149">To the Same</a> +<li value="150"> <a href="#let150">To the Same</a> +<li value="151"> <a href="#let151">To Mr. Salomon, London</a> +<li value="152"> <a href="#let152">To the Archduke Rudolph</a> +<li value="153"> <a href="#let153">To the Same</a> +<li value="154"> <a href="#let154">To the Same</a> +<li value="155"> <a href="#let155">To the Same</a> +<li value="156"> <a href="#let156">To the Same</a> +<li value="157"> <a href="#let157">To the Same</a> +<li value="158"> <a href="#let158">To Mr. Birchall, Music Publisher, London</a> +<li value="159"> <a href="#let159">To Zmeskall</a> +<li value="160"> <a href="#let160">To the Archduke Rudolph</a> +<li value="161"> <a href="#let161">To Messrs. Birchall, London</a> +<li value="162"> <a href="#let162">To Herr Ries</a> +<li value="163"> <a href="#let163">To Zmeskall</a> +<li value="164"> <a href="#let164">To Mdlle. Milder-Hauptmann</a> +<li value="165"> <a href="#let165">To Ries</a> +<li value="166"> <a href="#let166">To Mr. Birchall, London</a> +<li value="167"> <a href="#let167">To Czerny</a> +<li value="168"> <a href="#let168">To the Same</a> +<li value="169"> <a href="#let169">To Ries, London</a> +<li value="170"> <a href="#let170">To Giannatasio del Rio, Vienna</a> +<li value="171"> <a href="#let171">To the Same</a> +<li value="172"> <a href="#let172">To the Same</a> +<li value="173"> <a href="#let173">To the Same</a> +<li value="174"> <a href="#let174">To Ferdinand Ries, London</a> +<li value="175"> <a href="#let175">To the Same</a> +<li value="176"> <a href="#let176">Power of Attorney</a> +<li value="177"> <a href="#let177">To Ferdinand Ries</a> +<li value="178"> <a href="#let178">To Giannatasio del Rio</a> +<li value="179"> <a href="#let179">To the Same</a> +<li value="180"> <a href="#let180">To the Archduke Rudolph</a> +<li value="181"> <a href="#let181">To Mr. Birchall London</a> +<li value="182"> <a href="#let182">To the Same</a> +<li value="183"> <a href="#let183">To Giannatasio del Rio</a> +<li value="184"> <a href="#let184">To the Same</a> +<li value="185"> <a href="#let185">To Zmeskall</a> +<li value="186"> <a href="#let186">To Dr. Kauka</a> +<li value="187"> <a href="#let187">Query</a> +<li value="188"> <a href="#let188">To Giannatasio del Rio</a> +<li value="189"> <a href="#let189">To the Same</a> +<li value="190"> <a href="#let190">To Wegeler</a> +<li value="191"> <a href="#let191">To Mr. Birchall, London</a> +<li value="192"> <a href="#let192">To Zmeskall</a> +<li value="193"> <a href="#let193">To the Archduke Rudolph</a> +<li value="194"> <a href="#let194">To Freiherr von Schweiger</a> +<li value="195"> <a href="#let195">To Giannatasio del Rio</a> +<li value="196"> <a href="#let196">To the Same</a> +<li value="197"> <a href="#let197">To the Same</a> +<li value="198"> <a href="#let198">To the Same</a> +<li value="199"> <a href="#let199">To Herr Tschischka</a> +<li value="200"> <a href="#let200">To Mr. Birchall</a> +<li value="201"> <a href="#let201">To Zmeskall</a> +<li value="202"> <a href="#let202">To Frau von Streicher</a> +<li value="203"> <a href="#let203">To the Same</a> +<li value="204"> <a href="#let204">To the Same</a> +<li value="205"> <a href="#let205">To the Same</a> +<li value="206"> <a href="#let206">To the Same</a> +<li value="207"> <a href="#let207">To the Archduke Rudolph</a> +<li value="208"> <a href="#let208">To Giannatasio del Rio</a> +<li value="209"> <a href="#let209">To the Same</a> +<li value="210"> <a href="#let210">To the Same</a> +<li value="211"> <a href="#let211">To Hofrath von Mosel</a> +<li value="212"> <a href="#let212">To S.A. Steiner, Music Publisher, Vienna</a> +<li value="213"> <a href="#let213">To the Same</a> +<li value="214"> <a href="#let214">To the Same</a> +<li value="215"> <a href="#let215">To Zmeskall</a> +</ol> + + + + +<h2><a name="part1">FIRST PART.</a><br> +<br> + +LIFE'S JOYS AND SORROWS.<br> +1783 TO 1815.</h2> + + + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let1">1.<br> +TO THE ELECTOR OF COLOGNE, FREDERICK MAXIMILIAN.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote1">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="salutation">ILLUSTRIOUS PRINCE,--</p> + +<p>Music from my fourth year has ever been my +favorite pursuit. Thus early introduced to +the sweet Muse, who attuned my soul to pure harmony, +I loved her, and sometimes ventured to +think that I was beloved by her in return. I have +now attained my eleventh year, and my Muse often +whispered to me in hours of inspiration,--Try to +write down the harmonies in your soul. Only +eleven years old! thought I; does the character of +an author befit me? and what would more mature +artists say? I felt some trepidation; but my Muse +willed it--so I obeyed, and wrote.</p> + +<p>May I now, therefore, Illustrious Prince, presume +to lay the first-fruits of my juvenile labors at the +foot of your throne? and may I hope that you will +condescend to cast an encouraging and kindly +glance on them? You will; for Art and Science +have ever found in you a judicious protector and a +generous patron, and rising talent has always prospered +under your fostering and fatherly care. Encouraged +by this cheering conviction, I venture to +approach you with these my youthful efforts. Accept +them as the pure offering of childlike reverence, +and graciously vouchsafe to regard with indulgence +them and their youthful composer,</p> + +<p class="signature">LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote1"><p>[Footnote 1: The dedication affixed to this work, "Three Sonatas for the Piano, +dedicated to my illustrious master, Maximilian Friedrich, Archbishop +and Elector of Cologne, by Ludwig van Beethoven in his eleventh +year," is probably not written by the boy himself, but is given here as +an amusing contrast to his subsequent ideas with regard to the homage +due to rank.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let2">2.<br> +TO DR. SCHADE,--AUGSBURG.</h3> + +<p class="date">Bonn, 1787. Autumn.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY MOST ESTEEMED FRIEND,--</p> + +<p>I can easily imagine what you must think of me, +and I cannot deny that you have too good grounds +for an unfavorable opinion. I shall not, however, +attempt to justify myself, until I have explained to +you the reasons why my apologies should be accepted. +I must tell you that from the time I left +Augsburg<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote2">[1]</a></sup> my cheerfulness, as well as my health, +began to decline; the nearer I came to my native +city, the more frequent were the letters from my +father, urging me to travel with all possible speed, +as my mother's health was in a most precarious condition. +I therefore hurried forwards as fast as I could, +although myself far from well. My longing once +more to see my dying mother overcame every obstacle, +and assisted me in surmounting the greatest +difficulties. I found my mother indeed still alive, +but in the most deplorable state; her disease was +consumption, and about seven weeks ago, after +much pain and suffering, she died [July 17]. She +was indeed a kind, loving mother to me, and my +best friend. Ah! who was happier than I, when I +could still utter the sweet name of mother, and it +was heard? But to whom can I now say it? +Only to the silent form resembling her, evoked by +the power of imagination. I have passed very few +pleasant hours since my arrival here, having during +the whole time been suffering from asthma, which +may, I fear, eventually turn to consumption; to this +is added melancholy,--almost as great an evil as +my malady itself. Imagine yourself in my place, +and then I shall hope to receive your forgiveness for +my long silence. You showed me extreme kindness +and friendship by lending me three Carolins in +Augsburg, but I must entreat your indulgence for +a time. My journey cost me a great deal, and I +have not the smallest hopes of earning anything +here. Fate is not propitious to me in Bonn. Pardon +my intruding on you so long with my affairs, +but all that I have said was necessary for my own +justification.</p> + +<p>I do entreat you not to deprive me of your valuable +friendship; nothing do I wish so much as in +any degree to become worthy of your regard. I +am, with all esteem, your obedient servant and +friend,</p> + +<p class="signature">L. V. BEETHOVEN,<br> +<i>Cologne Court Organist.</i></p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote2"><p>[Footnote 1: On his return from Vienna, whither Max Franz had sent him for +the further cultivation of his talents.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let3">3.<br> +TO THE ELECTOR MAXIMILIAN FRANCIS.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote3">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">1793.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MOST ILLUSTRIOUS AND GRACIOUS PRINCE,--</p> + +<p>Some years ago your Highness was pleased to +grant a pension to my father, the Court tenor Van +Beethoven, and further graciously to decree that +100 R. Thalers of his salary should be allotted to +me, for the purpose of maintaining, clothing, and +educating my two younger brothers, and also defraying +the debts incurred by our father. It was my +intention to present this decree to your Highness's +treasurer, but my father earnestly implored me to +desist from doing so, that he might not be thus publicly +proclaimed incapable himself of supporting his +family, adding that he would engage to pay me the +25 R.T. quarterly, which he punctually did. After +his death, however (in December last), wishing to +reap the benefit of your Highness's gracious boon, +by presenting the decree, I was startled to find that +my father had destroyed it.</p> + +<p>I therefore, with all dutiful respect, entreat your +Highness to renew this decree, and to order the +paymaster of your Highness's treasury to grant me +the last quarter of this benevolent addition to my +salary (due the beginning of February). I have +the honor to remain,</p> + +<p>Your Highness's most obedient and faithful servant,</p> + +<p class="signature">LUD. V. BEETHOVEN,<br> +<i>Court Organist.</i></p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote3"><p>[Footnote 1: +An electoral decree was issued in compliance with this request on +May 3, 1793.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let4">4.<br> +TO ELEONORE VON BREUNING,--BONN.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, Nov. 2, 1793.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY HIGHLY ESTEEMED ELEONORE, MY DEAREST FRIEND,--</p> + +<p>A year of my stay in this capital has nearly +elapsed before you receive a letter from me, and +yet the most vivid remembrance of you is ever +present with me. I have often conversed in thought +with you and your dear family, though not always +in the happy mood I could have wished, for that +fatal misunderstanding still hovered before me, and +my conduct at that time is now hateful in my sight. +But so it was, and how much would I give to have +the power wholly to obliterate from my life a mode +of acting so degrading to myself, and so contrary to +the usual tenor of my character!</p> + +<p>Many circumstances, indeed, contributed to estrange +us, and I suspect that those tale-bearers who +repeated alternately to you and to me our mutual +expressions were the chief obstacles to any good +understanding between us. Each believed that +what was said proceeded from deliberate conviction, +whereas it arose only from anger, fanned by others; +so we were both mistaken. Your good and noble +disposition, my dear friend, is sufficient security +that you have long since forgiven me. We are +told that the best proof of sincere contrition is to +acknowledge our faults; and this is what I wish to +do. Let us now draw a veil over the whole affair, +learning one lesson from it,--that when friends +are at variance, it is always better to employ no +mediator, but to communicate directly with each +other.</p> + +<p>With this you will receive a dedication from me +[the variations on "Se vuol ballare"]. My sole +wish is that the work were greater and more +worthy of you. I was applied to here to publish +this little work, and I take advantage of the opportunity, +my beloved Eleonore, to give you a proof +of my regard and friendship for yourself, and also +a token of my enduring remembrance of your family. +Pray then accept this trifle, and do not forget +that it is offered by a devoted friend. Oh! if it +only gives you pleasure, my wishes will be fulfilled. +May it in some degree recall the time when I passed +so many happy hours in your house! Perhaps it +may serve to remind you of me till I return, though +this is indeed a distant prospect. Oh! how we +shall then rejoice together, my dear Eleonore! +You will, I trust, find your friend a happier man, +all former forbidding, careworn furrows smoothed +away by time and better fortune.</p> + +<p>When you see B. Koch [subsequently Countess +Belderbusch], pray say that it is unkind in her +never once to have written to me. I wrote to her +twice, and three times to Malchus (afterwards +Westphalian Minister of Finance), but no answer. +Tell her that if she does not choose to write herself, +I beg that she will at least urge Malchus to do +so. At the close of my letter I venture to make +one more request--I am anxious to be so fortunate +as again to possess an Angola waistcoat knitted by +your own hand, my dear friend. Forgive my indiscreet +request; it proceeds from my great love for +all that comes from you; and I may privately admit +that a little vanity is connected with it, namely, +that I may say I possess something from the best +and most admired young lady in Bonn. I still +have the one you were so good as to give me in +Bonn; but change of fashion has made it look so +antiquated, that I can only treasure it in my wardrobe +as your gift, and thus still very dear to me. +You would make me very happy by soon writing +me a kind letter. If mine cause you any pleasure, +I promise you to do as you wish, and write as often +as it lies in my power; indeed everything is acceptable +to me that can serve to show you how truly I +am your admiring and sincere friend,</p> + +<p class="signature">L. V. BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<p>P.S. The variations are rather difficult to play, +especially the shake in the <i>Coda</i>; but do not be +alarmed at this, being so contrived that you only +require to play the shake, and leave out the other +notes, which also occur in the violin part. I never +would have written it in this way, had I not occasionally +observed that there was a certain individual +in Vienna who, when I extemporized the previous +evening, not unfrequently wrote down next +day many of the peculiarities of my music, adopting +them as his own [for instance, the Abbé Gelinek]. +Concluding, therefore, that some of these +things would soon appear, I resolved to anticipate +this. Another reason also was to puzzle some of +the pianoforte teachers here, many of whom are my +mortal foes; so I wished to revenge myself on them +in this way, knowing that they would occasionally +be asked to play the variations, when these gentlemen +would not appear to much advantage.</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let5">5.<br> +TO ELEONORE VON BREUNING,--BONN.</h3> + +<p>The beautiful neckcloth, embroidered by your +own hand, was the greatest possible surprise to me; +yet, welcome as the gift was, it awakened within +me feelings of sadness. Its effect was to recall +former days, and to put me to shame by your noble +conduct to me. I, indeed, little thought that you +still considered me worthy of your remembrance.</p> + +<p>Oh! if you could have witnessed my emotions +yesterday when this incident occurred, you would +not think that I exaggerate in saying that such a +token of your recollection brought tears to my +eyes, and made me feel very sad. Little as I may +deserve favor in your eyes, believe me, my dear +<i>friend</i>, (let me still call you so,) I have suffered, +and still suffer severely from the privation of your +friendship. Never can I forget you and your dear +mother. You were so kind to me that your loss +neither can nor will be easily replaced. I know +what I have forfeited, and what you were to me, +but in order to fill up this blank I must recur to +scenes equally painful for you to hear and for me to +detail.</p> + +<p>As a slight requital of your kind <i>souvenir</i>, I take +the liberty to send you some variations, and a Rondo +with violin accompaniment. I have a great deal +to do, or I would long since have transcribed the +Sonata I promised you. It is as yet a mere sketch +in manuscript, and to copy it would be a difficult +task even for the clever and practised Paraquin +[counter-bass in the Electoral orchestra]. You +can have the Rondo copied, and return the score. +What I now send is the only one of my works at +all suitable for you; besides, as you are going to +Kerpen [where an uncle of the family lived], I +thought these trifles might cause you pleasure.</p> + +<p>Farewell, my friend; for it is impossible for me +to give you any other name. However indifferent +I may be to you, believe me, I shall ever continue +to revere you and your mother as I have always +done. If I can in any way contribute to the fulfilment +of a wish of yours, do not fail to let me +know, for I have no other means of testifying my +gratitude for past friendship.</p> + +<p>I wish you an agreeable journey, and that your +dear mother may return entirely restored to health! +Think sometimes of your affectionate friend,</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let6">6.<br> +TO HERR SCHENK.</h3> + +<p class="date">June, 1794.</p> + +<p class="salutation">DEAR SCHENK,<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote4">[1]</a></sup>--</p> + +<p>I did not know that I was to set off to-day to +Eisenstadt. I should like to have talked to you +again. In the mean time rest assured of my gratitude +for your obliging services. I shall endeavor, +so far as it lies in my power, to requite them. I +hope soon to see you, and once more to enjoy the +pleasure of your society. Farewell, and do not +entirely forget your</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote4"><p>[Footnote 1: Schenk, afterwards celebrated as the composer of +the "Dorf Barbier," +was for some time Beethoven's teacher in composition. This +note appears to have been written in June, 1794, and first printed in +the "Freischütz," No. 183, about 1836, at the time of Schenk's death, +when his connection with Beethoven was mentioned.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let7">7.<br> +TO DR. WEGELER,--VIENNA.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote5">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p>... In what an odious light have you exhibited +me to myself! Oh! I acknowledge it, I do not +deserve your friendship. It was no intentional or +deliberate malice that induced me to act towards +you as I did, but inexcusable thoughtlessness +alone.</p> + +<p>I say no more. I am coming to throw myself +into your arms, and to entreat you to restore me +my lost friend; and you will give him back to me, +to your penitent, loving, and ever-grateful</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote5"><p>[Footnote 1: Dr. Wegeler, in answer to my request that he would send me the +entire letter, replied that "the passages omitted in the letter consisted +chiefly in eulogiums of his father, and enthusiastic expressions of +friendship, which did not seem to him to be of any value; but besides +this, the same reasons that induced his father to give only a portion of +the letter were imperative with him also." I do not wish to contest +the point with the possessor of the letter; still I may remark that all +the utterances and letters of a great man belong to the world at large, +and that in a case like the present, the conscientious biographer, who +strives faithfully to portray such a man, is alone entitled to decide what +portion of these communications is fitted for publication, and what is +not. Any considerations of a personal character seem to me very +trivial.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let8">8.<br> +TO DR. WEGELER,--VIENNA.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, May 1797.</p> + +<p>God speed you, my dear friend! I owe you a +letter which you shall shortly have, and my newest +music besides, <i>I am going on well; indeed, I may +say every day better.</i> Greet those to whom it will +give pleasure from me. Farewell, and do not forget +your</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let9">9.<br> +WRITTEN IN THE ALBUM OF LENZ VON BREUNING.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, Oct. 1, 1797.</p> + +<p> +Truth for the wise,<br> +Beauty for a feeling heart,<br> +And both for each other. +</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY DEAR, GOOD BREUNING,--</p> + +<p>Never can I forget the time I passed with you, +not only in Bonn, but here. Continue your friendship +towards me, for you shall always find me the +same true friend,</p> + +<p class="signature">L. V. BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let10">10.<br> +TO BARON ZMESKALL VON DOMANOWECZ.</h3> + +<p class="date">1800.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote6">[1]</a></sup></p> + +<p> +<img src="images/baron1.png" alt="[picture of music]"> + +<img src="images/baron2.png" alt="[picture of music]"> +</p> +<p> +<img src="images/baron3.png" alt="[picture of music]"> +</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY CHEAPEST (NOT DEAREST) BARON,--</p> + +<p>Desire the guitar-player to come to me to-day. +Amenda (instead of an <i>amende</i> [fine], which he +sometimes deserves for not observing his rests properly) +must persuade this popular guitarist to visit +me, and if possible to come at five o'clock this +evening; if not then, at five or six o'clock to-morrow +morning; but he must not waken me if I chance to +be still asleep. <i>Adieu, mon ami à bon marché.</i> +Perhaps we may meet at the "Swan"?</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote6"><p>[Footnote 1: As it appears from the following letters that Amenda was again at +home in 1800, the date of this note is thus ascertained. It is undoubtedly +addressed to Baron Zmeskall von Domanowecz, Royal Court +Secretary, a good violoncello-player, and one of Beethoven's earliest +friends in Vienna. The "guitarist" was probably the celebrated +Giuliani, who lived in Vienna.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let11">11.</h3> + +<p>The musical Count is from this day forth +<i>cashiered</i> with infamy. The first violin [Schuppanzigh] +ruthlessly transported to <i>Siberia</i>. The Baron [see +No. 10] for a whole month <i>strictly interdicted from +asking questions</i>; no longer to be so hasty, and to +devote himself exclusively to his <i>ipse miserum</i>.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote7">[1]</a></sup></p> + +<p class="signature">B.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote7"><p>[Footnote 1: Written in gigantic characters in pencil on a large sheet of paper. +The "musical Count" is probably Count Moritz Lichnowsky, brother +of Prince Carl Lichnowsky, in whose house were held those musical +performances in which Beethoven's works were first produced. Even at +that time he behaved in a very dictatorial manner to those gentlemen +when his compositions were badly executed. Thence the name given +him by Haydn of "The Great Mogul."]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let12">12.<br> +TO PASTOR AMENDA,--COURLAND.</h3> + +<p>Does Amenda think that I can ever forget him, +because I do not write? in fact, never have written +to him?--as if the memory of our friends could +only thus be preserved! The <i>best man I ever knew</i> +has a thousand times recurred to my thoughts! +Two persons alone once possessed my whole love, +one of whom still lives, and you are now the third. +How can my remembrance of you ever fade? You +will shortly receive a long letter about my present +circumstances and all that can interest you. Farewell, +beloved, good, and noble friend! Ever continue +your love and friendship towards me, just as +I shall ever be your faithful</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let13">13.<br> +TO PASTOR AMENDA.</h3> + +<p class="date">1800.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY DEAR, MY GOOD AMENDA, MY WARM-HEARTED FRIEND,--</p> + +<p>I received and read your last letter with deep +emotion, and with mingled pain and pleasure. To +what can I compare your fidelity and devotion to +me? Ah! it is indeed delightful that you still continue +to love me so well. I know how to prize you, +and to distinguish you from all others; you are not +like my Vienna friends. No! you are one of those +whom the soil of my fatherland is wont to bring +forth; how often I wish that you were with me, +for your Beethoven is very unhappy. You must +know that one of my most precious faculties, that +of hearing, is become very defective; even while +you were still with me I felt indications of this, +though I said nothing; but it is now much worse. +Whether I shall ever be cured remains yet to be +seen; it is supposed to proceed from the state of +my digestive organs, but I am almost entirely recovered +in that respect. I hope indeed that my +hearing may improve, but I scarcely think so, for +attacks of this kind are the most incurable of all. +How sad my life must now be!--forced to shun +all that is most dear and precious to me, and to live +with such miserable egotists as ----, &c. I can +with truth say that of all my friends Lichnowsky +[Prince Carl] is the most genuine. He last year +settled 600 florins on me, which, together with +the good sale of my works, enables me to live +free from care as to my maintenance. All that I +now write I can dispose of five times over, and be +well paid into the bargain. I have been writing a +good deal latterly, and as I hear that you have ordered +some pianos from ----, I will send you some +of my compositions in the packing-case of one of +these instruments, by which means they will not +cost you so much.</p> + +<p>To my great comfort, a person has returned +here with whom I can enjoy the pleasures of society +and disinterested friendship,--one of the friends +of my youth [Stephan von Breuning]. I have +often spoken to him of you, and told him that since +I left my fatherland, you are one of those to whom +my heart specially clings. Z. [Zmeskall?] does +not seem quite to please him; he is, and always +will be, too weak for true friendship, and I look on +him and ---- as mere instruments on which I play +as I please, but never can they bear noble testimony +to my inner and outward energies, or feel true +sympathy with me; I value them only in so far as +their services deserve. Oh! how happy should I +now be, had I my full sense of hearing; I would +then hasten to you; whereas, as it is, I must withdraw +from everything. My best years will thus +pass away, without effecting what my talents and +powers might have enabled me to perform. How +melancholy is the resignation in which I must take +refuge! I had determined to rise superior to all +this, but how is it possible? If in the course of +six months my malady be pronounced incurable +then, Amenda! I shall appeal to you to leave all +else and come to me, when I intend to travel (my +affliction is less distressing when playing and composing, +and most so in intercourse with others), +and you must be my companion. I have a conviction +that good fortune will not forsake me, for to +what may I not at present aspire? Since you were +here I have written everything except operas and +church music. You will not, I know, refuse my +petition; you will help your friend to bear his burden +and his calamity. I have also very much perfected +my pianoforte playing, and I hope that a +journey of this kind may possibly contribute to your +own success in life, and you would thenceforth always +remain with me. I duly received all your +letters, and though I did not reply to them, you +were constantly present with me, and my heart +beats as tenderly as ever for you. I beg you will +keep the fact of my deafness a profound secret, and +not confide it to any human being. Write to me +frequently; your letters, however short, console and +cheer me; so I shall soon hope to hear from you.</p> + +<p>Do not give your quartet to any one [in F, Op. +18, No. 1], as I have altered it very much, having +only now succeeded in writing quartets properly; +this you will at once perceive when you receive it. +Now, farewell, my dear kind friend! If by any +chance I can serve you here, I need not say that +you have only to command me.</p> + +<p class="signature">Your faithful and truly attached<br> +L. V. BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let14">14.<br> +TO WEGELER.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, June 29, 1800.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY DEAR AND VALUED WEGELER,--</p> + +<p>How much I thank you for your remembrance of +me, little as I deserve it, or have sought to deserve +it; and yet you are so kind that you allow nothing, +not even my unpardonable neglect, to discourage +you, always remaining the same true, good, and faithful +friend. That I can ever forget you or yours, +once so dear and precious to me, do not for a moment +believe. There are times when I find myself +longing to see you again, and wishing that I could +go to stay with you. My father-land, that lovely +region where I first saw the light, is still as distinct +and beauteous in my eyes as when I quitted you; +in short, I shall esteem the time when I once more +see you, and again greet Father Rhine, as one of +the happiest periods of my life. When this may be +I cannot yet tell; but at all events I may say that +you shall not see me again till I have become eminent, +not only as an artist, but better and more +perfect as a man; and if the condition of our father-land +be then more prosperous, my art shall be +entirely devoted to the benefit of the poor. Oh, +blissful moment!--how happy do I esteem myself +that I can expedite it and bring it to pass!</p> + +<p>You desire to know something of my position; +well! it is by no means bad. However incredible +it may appear, I must tell you that Lichnowsky has +been, and still is, my warmest friend (slight dissensions +occurred occasionally between us, and yet they +only served to strengthen our friendship). He +settled on me last year the sum of 600 florins, for +which I am to draw on him till I can procure some +suitable situation. My compositions are very profitable, +and I may really say that I have almost more +commissions than it is possible for me to execute. +I can have six or seven publishers or more for every +piece, if I choose; they no longer bargain with me--I +demand, and they pay--so you see this is a +very good thing. For instance, I have a friend in +distress, and my purse does not admit of my assisting +him at once; but I have only to sit down and +write, and in a short time he is relieved. I am also +become more economical than formerly. If I finally +settle here, I don't doubt I shall be able to secure a +particular day every year for a concert, of which I +have already given several. That malicious demon, +however, bad health, has been a stumbling-block in +my path; my hearing during the last three years has +become gradually worse. The chief cause of this +infirmity proceeds from the state of my digestive +organs, which, as you know, were formerly bad +enough, but have latterly become much worse, and +being constantly afflicted with diarrhoea, has brought +on extreme weakness. Frank [Director of the +General Hospital] strove to restore the tone of my +digestion by tonics, and my hearing by oil of almonds; +but alas! these did me no good whatever; +my hearing became worse, and my digestion continued +in its former plight. This went on till the +autumn of last year, when I was often reduced to +utter despair. Then some medical <i>asinus</i> recommended +me cold baths, but a more judicious doctor +the tepid ones of the Danube, which did wonders +for me; my digestion improved, but my hearing +remained the same, or in fact rather got worse. I +did indeed pass a miserable winter; I suffered from +most dreadful spasms, and sank back into my former +condition. Thus it went on till about a month +ago, when I consulted Vering [an army surgeon], +under the belief that my maladies required surgical +advice; besides, I had every confidence in him. +He succeeded in almost entirely checking the violent +diarrhoea, and ordered me the tepid baths of +the Danube, into which I pour some strengthening +mixture. He gave me no medicine, except some +digestive pills four days ago, and a lotion for my +ears. I certainly do feel better and stronger, but +my ears are buzzing and ringing perpetually, day +and night. I can with truth say that my life is very +wretched; for nearly two years past I have avoided +all society, because I find it impossible to say to people, +<i>I am deaf!</i> In any other profession this might +be more tolerable, but in mine such a condition is +truly frightful. Besides, what would my enemies +say to this?--and they are not few in number.</p> + +<p>To give you some idea of my extraordinary deafness, +I must tell you that in the theatre I am +obliged to lean close up against the orchestra in order +to understand the actors, and when a little way +off I hear none of the high notes of instruments or +singers. It is most astonishing that in conversation +some people never seem to observe this; being subject +to fits of absence, they attribute it to that +cause. I often can scarcely hear a person if +speaking low; I can distinguish the tones, but not +the words, and yet I feel it intolerable if any one +shouts to me. Heaven alone knows how it is to +end! Vering declares that I shall certainly improve, +even if I be not entirely restored. How +often have I cursed my existence! Plutarch led +me to resignation. I shall strive if possible to set +Fate at defiance, although there must be moments +in my life when I cannot fail to be the most unhappy +of God's creatures. I entreat you to say +nothing of my affliction to any one, not even to +Lorchen [see Nos. 4 and 5]. I confide the secret +to you alone, and entreat you some day to correspond +with Vering on the subject. If I continue +in the same state, I shall come to you in the ensuing +spring, when you must engage a house for me +somewhere in the country, amid beautiful scenery, +and I shall then become a rustic for a year, which +may perhaps effect a change. Resignation!--what +a miserable refuge! and yet it is my sole remaining +one. You will forgive my thus appealing +to your kindly sympathies at a time when your own +position is sad enough. Stephan Breuning is here, +and we are together almost every day; it does me +so much good to revive old feelings! He has +really become a capital good fellow, not devoid of +talent, and his heart, like that of us all, pretty +much in the right place. [See No. 13.]</p> + +<p>I have very charming rooms at present, adjoining +the Bastei [the ramparts], and peculiarly valuable +to me on account of my health [at Baron Pasqualati's]. +I do really think I shall be able to arrange +that Breuning shall come to me. You shall have +your Antiochus [a picture], and plenty of my +music besides--if, indeed, it will not cost you too +much. Your love of art does honestly rejoice me. +Only say how it is to be done, and I will send you +all my works, which now amount to a considerable +number, and are daily increasing. I beg you will +let me have my grandfather's portrait as soon as +possible by the post, in return for which I send you +that of his grandson, your loving and attached +Beethoven. It has been brought out here by +Artaria, who, as well as many other publishers, has +often urged this on me. I intend soon to write to +Stoffeln [Christoph von Breuning], and plainly admonish +him about his surly humor. I mean to +sound in his ears our old friendship, and to insist on +his promising me not to annoy you further in your +sad circumstances. I will also write to the amiable +Lorchen. Never have I forgotten one of you, my +kind friends, though you did not hear from me; +but you know well that writing never was my <i>forte</i>, +even my best friends having received no letters +from me for years. I live wholly in my music, and +scarcely is one work finished when another is begun; +indeed, I am now often at work on three or four +things at the same time. Do write to me frequently, +and I will strive to find time to write to +you also. Give my remembrances to all, especially +to the kind Frau Hofräthin [von Breuning], and +say to her that I am still subject to an occasional +<i>raptus</i>. As for K----, I am not at all surprised +at the change in her: Fortune rolls like a ball, and +does not always stop before the best and noblest. +As to Ries [Court musician in Bonn], to whom +pray cordially remember me, I must say one word. +I will write to you more particularly about his son +[Ferdinand], although I believe that he would be +more likely to succeed in Paris than in Vienna, +which is already overstocked, and where even those +of the highest merit find it a hard matter to maintain +themselves. By next autumn or winter, I +shall be able to see what can be done for him, +because then all the world returns to town. Farewell, +my kind, faithful Wegeler! Rest assured of +the love and friendship of your</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let15">15.<br> +TO COUNTESS GIULIETTA GUICCIARDI.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote8">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">Morning, July 6, 1800.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY ANGEL! MY ALL! MY SECOND SELF!</p> + +<p>Only a few words to-day, written with a pencil +(your own). My residence cannot be settled till +to-morrow. What a tiresome loss of time! Why +this deep grief when necessity compels?--can our +love exist without sacrifices, and by refraining from +desiring all things? Can you alter the fact that +you are not wholly mine, nor I wholly yours? Ah! +contemplate the beauties of Nature, and reconcile +your spirit to the inevitable. Love demands all, +and has a right to do so, and thus it is <i>I feel towards +you</i> and <i>you towards me</i>; but you do not sufficiently +remember that I must live both <i>for you</i> and <i>for myself</i>. +Were we wholly united, you would feel this +sorrow as little as I should. My journey was terrible. +I did not arrive here till four o'clock yesterday +morning, as no horses were to be had. The +drivers chose another route; but what a dreadful +one it was! At the last stage I was warned not to +travel through the night, and to beware of a certain +wood, but this only incited me to go forward, and I +was wrong. The carriage broke down, owing to +the execrable roads, mere deep rough country lanes, +and had it not been for the postilions I must have +been left by the wayside. Esterhazy, travelling +the usual road, had the same fate with eight horses, +whereas I had only four. Still I felt a certain +degree of pleasure, which I invariably do when I +have happily surmounted any difficulty. But I +must now pass from the outer to the inner man. +We shall, I trust, soon meet again; to-day I cannot +impart to you all the reflections I have made, +during the last few days, on my life; were our +hearts closely united forever, none of these would +occur to me. My heart is overflowing with all I +have to say to you. Ah! there are moments when +I find that speech is actually nothing. Take courage! +Continue to be ever my true and only love, +my all! as I am yours. The gods must ordain +what is further to be and shall be!</p> + +<p class="signature">Your faithful<br> +LUDWIG.</p> + +<p class="date">Monday Evening, July 6.</p> + +<p>You grieve! dearest of all beings! I have just +heard that the letters must be sent off very early. +Mondays and Thursdays are the only days when the +post goes to K. from here. You grieve! Ah! +where I am, there you are ever with me; how +earnestly shall I strive to pass my life with you, +and what a life will it be!!! Whereas now!! +without you!! and persecuted by the kindness of +others, which I neither deserve nor try to deserve! +The servility of man towards his fellow-man pains +me, and when I regard myself as a component part +of the universe, what am I, what is he who is +called the greatest?--and yet herein are displayed +the godlike feelings of humanity!--I weep in +thinking that you will receive no intelligence from +me till probably Saturday. However dearly you +may love me, I love you more fondly still. Never +conceal your feelings from me. Good-night! As +a patient at these baths, I must now go to rest [a +few words are here effaced by Beethoven himself]. +Oh, heavens! so near, and yet so far! Is not our +love a truly celestial mansion, but firm as the vault +of heaven itself?</p> + +<p class="date">July 7.</p> + +<p>GOOD-MORNING!</p> + +<p>Even before I rise, my thoughts throng to you, +my immortal beloved!--sometimes full of joy, and +yet again sad, waiting to see whether Fate will hear +us. I must live either wholly with you, or not +at all. Indeed I have resolved to wander far from +you [see No. 13] till the moment arrives when I +can fly into your arms, and feel that they are my +home, and send forth my soul in unison with yours +into the realm of spirits. Alas! it must be so! +You will take courage, for you know my fidelity. +Never can another possess my heart--never, +never! Oh, heavens! Why must I fly from her +I so fondly love? and yet my existence in W. was +as miserable as here. Your love made me the most +happy and yet the most unhappy of men. At my +age, life requires a uniform equality; can this be +found in our mutual relations? My angel! I have +this moment heard that the post goes every day, so +I must conclude, that you may get this letter the +sooner. Be calm! for we can only attain our object +of living together by the calm contemplation +of our existence. Continue to love me. Yesterday, +to-day, what longings for you, what tears for +you! for you! for you! my life! my all! Farewell! +Oh! love me forever, and never doubt the faithful +heart of your lover, L.</p> + +<p> +Ever thine.<br> +Ever mine.<br> +Ever each other's. +</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote8"><p>[Footnote 1: These letters to his "immortal beloved," to whom the C sharp +minor Sonata is dedicated, appear here for the first time in their integrity, +in accordance with the originals written in pencil on fine notepaper, +and given in Schindler's <i>Beethoven's Nachlass</i>. There has +been much discussion about the date. It is certified, in the first place, +in the church register which Alex. Thayer saw in Vienna, that Giulietta +was married to Count Gallenberg in 1801; and in the next place, +the 6th of July falls on a Monday in 1800. The other reasons which +induce me decidedly to fix this latter year as the date of the letter, I +mean to give at full length in the second volume of <i>Beethoven's Biography</i>. +I may also state that Beethoven was at baths in Hungary +at that time. Whether the K---- in the second letter means Komorn, +I cannot tell.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let16">16.<br> +TO MATTHISSON.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, August 4, 1800.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MOST ESTEEMED FRIEND,--</p> + +<p>You will receive with this one of my compositions +published some years since, and yet, to my +shame, you probably have never heard of it. I +cannot attempt to excuse myself, or to explain why +I dedicated a work to you which came direct from +my heart, but never acquainted you with its existence, +unless indeed in this way, that at first I did +not know where you lived, and partly also from +diffidence, which led me to think I might have +been premature in dedicating a work to you before +ascertaining that you approved of it. Indeed, even +now I send you "Adelaide" with a feeling of timidity. +You know yourself what changes the lapse +of some years brings forth in an artist who continues +to make progress; the greater the advances +we make in art, the less are we satisfied with our +works of an earlier date. My most ardent wish +will be fulfilled if you are not dissatisfied with the +manner in which I have set your heavenly "Adelaide" +to music, and are incited by it soon to compose +a similar poem; and if you do not consider +my request too indiscreet, I would ask you to send +it to me forthwith, that I may exert all my energies +to approach your lovely poetry in merit. Pray +regard the dedication as a token of the pleasure +which your "Adelaide" conferred on me, as well as +of the appreciation and intense delight your poetry +always has inspired, and <i>always will inspire in me</i>.</p> + +<p>When playing "Adelaide," sometimes recall</p> + +<p class="signature">Your sincere admirer,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let17">17.<br> +TO FRAU FRANK,--VIENNA</h3> + +<p class="date">October, 1800.</p> + +<p class="salutation">DEAR LADY,--</p> + +<p>At the second announcement of our concert, +you must remind your husband that the public +should be made acquainted with the names of those +whose talents are to contribute to this concert. +Such is the custom here; and indeed, were it not +so, what is there to attract a larger audience? which +is after all our chief object. Punto [the celebrated +horn-player, for whom Beethoven wrote Sonata +17] is not a little indignant about the omission, +and I must say he has reason to be so; but even +before seeing him it was my intention to have reminded +you of this, for I can only explain the mistake +by great haste or great forgetfulness. Be so +good, then, dear lady, as to attend to my hint +otherwise you will certainly expose yourself to +<i>many annoyances</i>. Being at last convinced in my +own mind, and by others, that I shall not be quite +superfluous in this concert, I know that not only +I, but also Punto, Simoni [a tenorist], and Galvani +will demand that the public should be apprised of +our zeal for this charitable object; otherwise we +must all conclude that we are not wanted.</p> + +<p class="signature">Yours,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let18">18.<br> +TO HERR VON WEGELER.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, Nov. 16, 1800.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY DEAR WEGELER,--</p> + +<p>I thank you for this fresh proof of your interest in +me, especially as I so little deserve it. You wish +to know how I am, and what remedies I use. Unwilling +as I always feel to discuss this subject, still +I feel less reluctant to do so with you than with any +other person. For some months past Vering has +ordered me to apply blisters on both arms, of a particular +kind of bark, with which you are probably +acquainted,--a disagreeable remedy, independent +of the pain, as it deprives me of the free use of my +arms for a couple of days at a time, till the blisters +have drawn sufficiently. The ringing and buzzing +in my ears have certainly rather decreased, particularly +in the left ear, in which the malady first commenced, +but my hearing is not at all improved; in +fact I fear that it is become rather worse. My +health is better, and after using the tepid baths for +a time, I feel pretty well for eight or ten days. I +seldom take tonics, but I have begun applications of +herbs, according to your advice. Vering will not +hear of plunge baths, but I am much dissatisfied with +him; he is neither so attentive nor so indulgent +as he ought to be to such a malady; if I did not +go to him, which is no easy matter, I should never +see him at all. What is your opinion of Schmidt +[an army surgeon]? I am unwilling to make any +change, but it seems to me that Vering is too much +of a practitioner to acquire new ideas by reading. +On this point Schmidt appears to be a very different +man, and would probably be less negligent with +regard to my case. I hear wonders of galvanism; +what do you say to it? A physician told me that +he knew a deaf and dumb child whose hearing was +restored by it (in Berlin), and likewise a man who +had been deaf for seven years, and recovered his +hearing. I am told that your friend Schmidt is at +this moment making experiments on the subject.</p> + +<p>I am now leading a somewhat more agreeable +life, as of late I have been associating more with +other people. You could scarcely believe what a +sad and dreary life mine has been for the last two +years; my defective hearing everywhere pursuing +me like a spectre, making me fly from every one, +and appear a misanthrope; and yet no one is in +reality less so! This change has been wrought by +a lovely fascinating girl [undoubtedly Giulietta], +who loves me and whom I love. I have once more +had some blissful moments during the last two +years, and it is the first time I ever felt that marriage +could make me happy. Unluckily, she is not +in my rank of life, and indeed at this moment I +can marry no one; I must first bestir myself actively +in the world. Had it not been for my deafness, +I would have travelled half round the globe +ere now, and this I must still do. For me there is +no pleasure so great as to promote and to pursue +my art.</p> + +<p>Do not suppose that I could be happy with you. +What indeed could make me happier? Your very +solicitude would distress me; I should read your +compassion every moment in your countenance, +which would make me only still more unhappy. +What were my thoughts amid the glorious scenery +of my father-land? The hope alone of a happier +future, which would have been mine but for this +affliction! Oh! I could span the world were I only +free from this! I feel that my youth is only now +commencing. Have I not always been an infirm +creature? For some time past my bodily strength +has been increasing, and it is the same with my +mental powers. I feel, though I cannot describe +it, that I daily approach the object I have in view, +in which alone can your Beethoven live. No rest +for him!--I know of none but in sleep, and I do +grudge being obliged to sacrifice more time to it +than formerly.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote9">[1]</a></sup> Were I only half cured of my +malady, then I would come to you, and, as a more +perfect and mature man, renew our old friendship.</p> + +<p>You should then see me as happy as I am ever +destined to be here below--not unhappy. No! +that I could not endure; I will boldly meet my +fate, never shall it succeed in crushing me. Oh! +it is so glorious to live one's life a thousand times +over! I feel that I am no longer made for a quiet +existence. You will write to me as soon as possible? +Pray try to prevail on Steffen [von Breuning] +to seek an appointment from the Teutonic +Order somewhere. Life here is too harassing for +his health; besides, he is so isolated that I do not +see how he is ever to get on. You know the kind +of existence here. I do not take it upon myself to +say that society would dispel his lassitude, but he +cannot be persuaded to go anywhere. A short +time since, I had some music in my house, but our +friend Steffen stayed away. Do recommend him +to be more calm and self-possessed, which I have in +vain tried to effect; otherwise he can neither enjoy +health nor happiness. Tell me in your next +letter whether you care about my sending you a +large selection of music; you can indeed dispose +of what you do not want, and thus repay the expense +of the carriage, and have my portrait into the +bargain. Say all that is kind and amiable from +me to Lorchen, and also to mamma and Christoph. +You still have some regard for me? Always rely +on the love as well as the friendship of your</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote9"><p>[Footnote 1: "Too much sleep is hurtful" is marked by a thick score in the +Odyssey (45, 393) by Beethoven's hand. See Schindler's <i>Beethoven's +Nachlass</i>.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let19">19.<br> +TO KAPELLMEISTER HOFMEISTER,--LEIPZIG.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote10">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, Dec. 15, 1800.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY DEAR BROTHER IN ART,--</p> + +<p>I have often intended to answer your proposals, +but am frightfully lazy about all correspondence; so +it is usually a good while before I can make up my +mind to write dry letters instead of music. I have, +however, at last forced myself to answer your application. +<i>Pro primo</i>, I must tell you how much I +regret that you, my much-loved brother in the science +of music, did not give me some hint, so that I +might have offered you my quartets, as well as +many other things that I have now disposed of. +But if you are as conscientious, my dear brother, as +many other publishers, who grind to death us poor +composers, you will know pretty well how to derive +ample profit when the works appear. I now +briefly state what you can have from me. 1st. A +Septet, <i>per il violino, viola, violoncello, contra-basso, +clarinetto, corno, fagotto;--tutti obbligati</i> (I can +write nothing that is not <i>obbligato</i>, having come +into the world with an <i>obbligato</i> accompaniment!) +This Septet pleases very much. For more general +use it might be arranged for one more <i>violino, +viola</i>, and <i>violoncello</i>, instead of the three wind-instruments, +<i>fagotto, clarinetto</i>, and <i>corno</i>.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote11">[2]</a></sup> 2d. A +Grand Symphony with full orchestra [the 1st]. +3rd. A pianoforte Concerto [Op. 19], which I by +no means assert to be one of my best, any more +than the one Mollo is to publish here [Op. 15], +(this is for the benefit of the Leipzig critics!) because +<i>I reserve the best for myself</i> till I set off on +my travels; still the work will not disgrace you to +publish. 4th. A Grand Solo Sonata [Op. 22]. +These are all I can part with at this moment; a +little later you can have a quintet for stringed instruments, +and probably some quartets also, and +other pieces that I have not at present beside me. +In your answer you can yourself fix the prices; and +as you are neither an <i>Italian</i> nor a <i>Jew</i>, nor am I +either, we shall no doubt quickly agree. Farewell, +and rest assured,</p> + +<p>My dear brother in art, of the esteem of your</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote10"><p>[Footnote 1: The letters to Hofmeister, formerly of Vienna, who conducted the +correspondence with Beethoven in the name of the firm of "Hofmeister +& Kühnel, Bureau de Musique," are given here as they first appeared +in 1837 in the <i>Neue Zeitschrift für Musik</i>. On applying to the +present representative of that firm, I was told that those who now +possess these letters decline giving them out of their own hands, and +that no copyist can be found able to decipher or transcribe them correctly.]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote11"><p>[Footnote 2: This last phrase is not in the copy before me, but in Marx's +<i>Biography</i>, who appears to have seen the original.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let20">20.<br> +TO KAPELLMEISTER HOFMEISTER.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, Jan. 15 (or thereabouts), 1801.</p> + +<p>I read your letter, dear brother and friend, with +much pleasure, and I thank you for your good opinion +of me and of my works, and hope I may continue +to deserve it. I also beg you to present all +due thanks to Herr K. [Kühnel] for his politeness +and friendship towards me. I, on my part, rejoice +in your undertakings, and am glad that when works +of art do turn out profitable, they fall to the share +of true artists, rather than to that of mere tradesmen.</p> + +<p>Your intention to publish Sebastian Bach's works +really gladdens my heart, which beats with devotion +for the lofty and grand productions of this our +father of the science of harmony, and I trust I shall +soon see them appear. I hope when golden peace +is proclaimed, and your subscription list opened, to +procure you many subscribers here.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote12">[1]</a></sup></p> + +<p>With regard to our own transactions, as you wish +to know my proposals, they are as follows. I offer +you at present the following works:--The Septet +(which I already wrote to you about), 20 ducats; +Symphony, 20 ducats; Concerto, 10 ducats; Grand +Solo Sonata, <i>allegro, adagio, minuetto, rondo</i>, 20 +ducats. This Sonata [Op. 22] is well up to the +mark, my dear brother!</p> + +<p>Now for explanations. You may perhaps be surprised +that I make no difference of price between the +sonata, septet, and symphony. I do so because +I find that a septet or a symphony has not so great +a sale as a sonata, though a symphony ought +unquestionably to be of the most value. (N.B. +The septet consists of a short introductory <i>adagio</i>, +an <i>allegro, adagio, minuetto, andante</i>, with variations, +<i>minuetto</i>, and another short <i>adagio</i> preceding a +<i>presto</i>.) I only ask ten ducats for the concerto, +for, as I already wrote to you, I do not consider it +one of my best. I cannot think that, taken as a +whole, you will consider these prices exorbitant; at +least, I have endeavored to make them as moderate +as possible for you.</p> + +<p>With regard to the banker's draft, as you give +me my choice, I beg you will make it payable by +Germüller or Schüller. The entire sum for the +four works will amount to 70 ducats; I understand +no currency but Vienna ducats, so how many dollars +in gold they make in your money is no affair +of mine, for really I am a very bad man of business +and accountant. Now this <i>troublesome</i> business is +concluded;--I call it so, heartily wishing that it +could be otherwise here below! There ought to +be only one grand <i>dépôt</i> of art in the world, to +which the artist might repair with his works, and +on presenting them receive what he required; but +as it now is, one must be half a tradesman besides--and +how is this to be endured? Good heavens! +I may well call it <i>troublesome</i>!</p> + +<p>As for the Leipzig oxen,<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote13">[2]</a></sup> let them talk!--they +certainly will make no man immortal by their prating, +and as little can they deprive of immortality +those whom Apollo destines to attain it.</p> + +<p>Now may Heaven preserve you and your colleagues! +I have been unwell for some time; so it +is rather difficult for me at present to write even +music, much more letters. I trust we shall have +frequent opportunities to assure each other how +truly you are my friend, and I yours.</p> + +<p>I hope for a speedy answer. Adieu!</p> + +<p class="signature">L. V. BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote12"><p>[Footnote 1: I have at this moment in my hands this edition of Bach, bound in +one thick volume, together with the first part of Nägeli's edition of the +<i>Wohltemperirtes Clavier</i>, also three books of exercises (D, G, and +C minor), the <i>Toccata in D Minor</i>, and <i>Twice Fifteen Inventions</i>.]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote13"><p>[Footnote 2: It is thus that Schindler supplies the gap. It is probably an +allusion to the <i>Allgemeine Musikalische Zeitung</i>, founded about three +years previously.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let21">21.<br> +TO HERR HOFMEISTER.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, April 22, 1801.</p> + +<p>You have indeed too good cause to complain not +a little of me. My excuse is that I have been ill, +and in addition had so much to do, that I could +scarcely even think of what I was to send you. +Moreover, the only thing in me that resembles a +genius is, that my papers are never in very good +order, and yet no one but myself can succeed in arranging +them. For instance, in the score of the +concerto, the piano part, according to my usual +custom, was not yet written down; so, owing to my +hurry, you will receive it in my own very illegible +writing. In order that the works may follow as +nearly as possible in their proper order, I have +marked the numbers to be placed on each, as follows:--</p> + +<pre> +Solo Sonata, Op. 22. +Symphony, Op. 21. +Septet, Op. 20. +Concerto, Op. 19. +</pre> + +<p>I will send you their various titles shortly.</p> + +<p>Put me down as a subscriber to Sebastian Bach's +works [see Letter 20], and also Prince Lichnowsky. +The arrangement of Mozart's Sonatas as +quartets will do you much credit, and no doubt +be profitable also. I wish I could contribute more +to the promotion of such an undertaking, but I am +an irregular man, and too apt, even with the best +intentions, to forget everything; I have, however, +mentioned the matter to various people, and I +everywhere find them well disposed towards it. It +would be a good thing if you would arrange the +septet you are about to publish as a quintet, +with a flute part, for instance; this would be an +advantage to amateurs of the flute, who have already +importuned me on the subject, and who would +swarm round it like insects and banquet on it.</p> + +<p>Now to tell you something of myself. I have +written a ballet ["Prometheus"], in which the +ballet-master has not done his part so well as might +be. The F---- von L---- has also bestowed on +us a production which by no means corresponds +with the ideas of his genius conveyed by the newspaper +reports. F---- seems to have taken Herr +M---- (Wenzel Müller?) as his ideal at the Kusperle, +yet without even rising to his level. Such +are the fine prospects before us poor people who +strive to struggle upwards! My dear friend, pray +lose no time in bringing the work before the notice +of the public, and write to me soon, that I may +know whether by my delay I have entirely forfeited +your confidence for the future. Say all that +is civil and kind to your partner, Kühnel. Everything +shall henceforth be sent finished, and in quick +succession. So now farewell, and continue your +regards for</p> + +<p class="signature">Your friend and brother,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let22">22.<br> +TO HERR HOFMEISTER.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, June, 1801.</p> + +<p>I am rather surprised at the communication you +have desired your business agent here to make to +me; I may well feel offended at your believing me +capable of so mean a trick. It would have been a +very different thing had I sold my works to rapacious +shopkeepers, and then secretly made another +good speculation; but, from <i>one artist to another</i>, +it is rather a strong measure to suspect me of such +a proceeding! The whole thing seems to be either +a device to put me to the test, or a mere suspicion. +In any event I may tell you that before you received +the septet from me I had sent it to Mr. +Salomon in London (to be played at his own concert, +which I did solely from friendship), with the +express injunction to beware of its getting into +other hands, as it was my intention to have it engraved +in Germany, and, if you choose, you can +apply to him for the confirmation of this. But to +give you a further proof of my integrity, "I herewith +give you the faithful assurance that I have +neither sold the septet, the symphony, the concerto, +nor the sonata to any one but to Messrs. +Hofmeister and Kühnel, and that they may consider +them to be their own exclusive property. +And to this I pledge my honor." You may make +what use you please of this guarantee.</p> + +<p>Moreover, I believe Salomon to be as incapable +of the baseness of engraving the septet as I am +of selling it to him. I was so scrupulous in the +matter, that when applied to by various publishers +to sanction a pianoforte arrangement of the septet, +I at once declined, though I do not even know +whether you proposed making use of it in this way. +Here follow the long-promised titles of the works. +There will no doubt be a good deal to alter and to +amend in them; but this I leave to you. I shall +soon expect a letter from you, and, I hope, the works +likewise, which I wish to see engraved, as others +have appeared, and are about to appear, in connection +with these numbers. I look on your statement +as founded on mere rumors, which you have believed +with too much facility, or based entirely on +supposition, induced by having perchance heard +that I had sent the work to Salomon; I cannot, +therefore, but feel some coolness towards such a +credulous friend, though I still subscribe myself</p> + +<p class="signature">Your friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let23">23.<br> +DEDICATION TO DR. SCHMIDT.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote14">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">1801.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MONSIEUR,--</p> + +<p>Je sens parfaitement bien, que la Celebrité de +Votre nom ainsi que l'amitié dont Vous m'honorez, +exigeroient de moi la dédicace d'un bien plus important +ouvrage. La seule chose qui a pu me +déterminer à Vous offrir celui-ci de préférence, +c'est qu'il me paroît d'une exécution plus facile et +par la même plus propre à contribuer à la Satisfaction +dont Vous jouissez dans l'aimable Cercle de +Votre Famille.--C'est surtout, lorsque les heureux +talents d'une fille chérie se seront developpés davantage, +que je me flatte de voir ce but atteint. +Heureux si j'y ai réussi et si dans cette faible +marque de ma haute estime et de ma gratitude +Vous reconnoissez toute la vivacité et la cordialité +de mes sentiments.</p> + +<p class="signature">LOUIS VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote14"><p>[Footnote 1: Grand Trio, Op. 38.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let24">24.<br> +TO HIS SCHOLAR, FERDINAND RIES.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote15">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">1801.</p> + +<p class="salutation">DEAR RIES,--</p> + +<p>I send you herewith the four parts corrected by +me; please compare the others already written out +with these. I also enclose a letter to Count +Browne. I have told him that he must make an +advance to you of fifty ducats, to enable you to +get your outfit. This is absolutely necessary, so it +cannot offend him; for after being equipped, you +are to go with him to Baden on the Monday of the +ensuing week. I must, however, reproach you for +not having had recourse to me long ago. Am I +not your true friend? Why did you conceal your +necessities from me? No friend of mine shall ever +be in need, so long as I have anything myself. I +would already have sent you a small sum, did I not +rely on Browne; if he fails us, then apply at once +to your</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote15"><p>[Footnote 1: Ries names 1801 as the date of this letter, and it was no doubt +during that summer that Count Browne was in Baden. Ries's father had assisted +the Beethoven family in every way in his power at the time of the mother's +death.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let25">25.<br> +TO HERR HOFMEISTER,--LEIPZIG.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, April 8, 1802.</p> + +<p>Do you mean to go post-haste to the devil, gentlemen, +by proposing that I should write <i>such</i> a +<i>sonata</i>? During the revolutionary fever, a thing +of the kind might have been appropriate, but now, +when everything is falling again into the beaten +track, and Bonaparte has concluded a <i>Concordat</i> +with the Pope--such a sonata as this? If it were +a <i>missa pro Sancta Maria à tre voci</i>, or a <i>vesper</i>, +&c., then I would at once take up my pen and +write a <i>Credo in unum</i>, in gigantic semibreves. But, +good heavens! such a sonata, in this fresh dawning +Christian epoch. No, no!--it won't do, and I +will have none of it.</p> + +<p>Now for my answer in quickest <i>tempo</i>. The +lady can have a sonata from me, and I am willing to +adopt the general outlines of her plan in an <i>aesthetical</i> +point of view, without adhering to the keys +named. The price to be five ducats; for this sum +she can keep the work a year for her own amusement, +without either of us being entitled to publish +it. After the lapse of a year, the sonata to revert +to me--that is, I can and will then publish it, +when, if she considers it any distinction, she may +request me to dedicate it to her.</p> + +<p>I now, gentlemen, commend you to the grace of +God. My Sonata [Op. 22] is well engraved, but +you have been a fine time about it! I hope you +will usher my Septet into the world a little quicker, +as the P---- is waiting for it, and you know the +Empress has it; and when there are in this imperial +city people like ----, I cannot be answerable +for the result; so lose no time!</p> + +<p>Herr ---- [Mollo?] has lately published my +Quartets [Op. 18] full of faults and <i>errata</i>, both +large and small, which swarm in them like fish in +the sea; that is, they are innumerable. <i>Questo è un +piacere per un autore</i>--this is what I call engraving +[<i>stechen</i>, stinging] with a vengeance.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote16">[1]</a></sup> In +truth, my skin is a mass of punctures and scratches +from this fine edition of my Quartets! Now farewell, +and think of me as I do of you. Till death, +your faithful</p> + +<p class="signature">L. V. BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote16"><p>[Footnote 1: In reference to the musical piracy at that time very prevalent in Austria.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let26">26.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote17">[1]</a></sup><br> +TO MY BROTHERS CARL AND JOHANN BEETHOVEN.</h3> + +<p class="date">Heiligenstadt, Oct. 6, 1802.</p> + +<p>Oh! ye who think or declare me to be hostile, +morose, and misanthropical, how unjust you are, +and how little you know the secret cause of what +appears thus to you! My heart and mind were +ever from childhood prone to the most tender feelings +of affection, and I was always disposed to accomplish +something great. But you must remember +that six years ago I was attacked by an incurable +malady, aggravated by unskilful physicians, +deluded from year to year, too, by the hope of relief, +and at length forced to the conviction of a <i>lasting +affliction</i> (the cure of which may go on for +years, and perhaps after all prove impracticable).</p> + +<p>Born with a passionate and excitable temperament, +keenly susceptible to the pleasures of society, +I was yet obliged early in life to isolate myself, and +to pass my existence in solitude. If I at any time +resolved to surmount all this, oh! how cruelly was +I again repelled by the experience, sadder than +ever, of my defective hearing!--and yet I found +it impossible to say to others: Speak louder; shout! +for I am deaf! Alas! how could I proclaim the +deficiency of a sense which ought to have been +more perfect with me than with other men,--a +sense which I once possessed in the highest perfection, +to an extent, indeed, that few of my profession +ever enjoyed! Alas, I cannot do this! Forgive me +therefore when you see me withdraw from you with +whom I would so gladly mingle. My misfortune is +doubly severe from causing me to be misunderstood. +No longer can I enjoy recreation in social intercourse, +refined conversation, or mutual outpourings +of thought. Completely isolated, I only enter society +when compelled to do so. I must live like an exile. +In company I am assailed by the most painful apprehensions, +from the dread of being exposed to +the risk of my condition being observed. It was +the same during the last six months I spent in the +country. My intelligent physician recommended +me to spare my hearing as much as possible, which +was quite in accordance with my present disposition, +though sometimes, tempted by my natural inclination +for society, I allowed myself to be beguiled into +it. But what humiliation when any one beside me +heard a flute in the far distance, while I heard +<i>nothing</i>, or when others heard <i>a shepherd singing</i>, +and I still heard <i>nothing</i>! Such things brought me +to the verge of desperation, and wellnigh caused +me to put an end to my life. <i>Art! art</i> alone, +deterred me. Ah! how could I possibly quit the +world before bringing forth all that I felt it was +my vocation to produce?<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote18">[2]</a></sup> And thus I spared this +miserable life--so utterly miserable that any sudden +change may reduce me at any moment from +my best condition into the worst. It is decreed +that I must now choose <i>Patience</i> for my guide! +This I have done. I hope the resolve will not fail +me, steadfastly to persevere till it may please the +inexorable Fates to cut the thread of my life. Perhaps +I may get better, perhaps not. I am prepared +for either. Constrained to become a philosopher in +my twenty-eighth year!<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote19">[3]</a></sup> This is no slight trial, +and more severe on an artist than on any one else. +God looks into my heart, He searches it, and knows +that love for man and feelings of benevolence have +their abode there! Oh! ye who may one day read +this, think that you have done me injustice, and let +any one similarly afflicted be consoled, by finding +one like himself, who, in defiance of all the obstacles +of Nature, has done all in his power to be included +in the ranks of estimable artists and men. My +brothers Carl and Johann, as soon as I am no more, +if Professor Schmidt [see Nos. 18 and 23] be still +alive, beg him in my name to describe my malady, +and to add these pages to the analysis of my disease, +that at least, so far as possible, the world may be +reconciled to me after my death. I also hereby +declare you both heirs of my small fortune (if so +it may be called). Share it fairly, agree together +and assist each other. You know that anything +you did to give me pain has been long forgiven. I +thank you, my brother Carl in particular, for the +attachment you have shown me of late. My wish +is that you may enjoy a happier life, and one more +free from care, than mine has been. Recommend +<i>Virtue</i> to your children; that alone, and not wealth, +can ensure happiness. I speak from experience. +It was <i>Virtue</i> alone which sustained me in my misery; +I have to thank her and Art for not having +ended my life by suicide. Farewell! Love each +other. I gratefully thank all my friends, especially +Prince Lichnowsky and Professor Schmidt. I wish +one of you to keep Prince L----'s instruments; +but I trust this will give rise to no dissension between +you. If you think it more beneficial, however, +you have only to dispose of them. How +much I shall rejoice if I can serve you even in the +grave! So be it then! I joyfully hasten to meet +Death. If he comes before I have had the opportunity +of developing all my artistic powers, then, +notwithstanding my cruel fate, he will come too +early for me, and I should wish for him at a more +distant period; but even then I shall be content, +for his advent will release me from a state of endless +suffering. Come when he may, I shall meet +him with courage. Farewell! Do not quite forget +me, even in death; I deserve this from you, +because during my life I so often thought of you, +and wished to make you happy. Amen!</p> + +<p class="signature">LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<p>(<i>Written on the Outside.</i>)</p> + +<p>Thus, then, I take leave of you, and with sadness +too. The fond hope I brought with me here, of +being to a certain degree cured, now utterly forsakes +me. As autumn leaves fall and wither, so +are my hopes blighted. Almost as I came, I depart. +Even the lofty courage that so often animated +me in the lovely days of summer is gone forever. +O Providence! vouchsafe me one day of +pure felicity! How long have I been estranged +from the glad echo of true joy! When! O my +God! when shall I again feel it in the temple of +Nature and of man?--never? Ah! that would be +too hard!</p> + +<p>(<i>Outside.</i>)</p> + +<p>To be read and fulfilled after my death by my +brothers Carl and Johann.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote17"><p>[Footnote 1: This beautiful letter I regret not to have seen in the original, it being in the possession of the violin <i>virtuoso</i> Ernst, in London. I have adhered to the version given in the Leipzig <i>Allgemeine Musikalische Zeitung</i>, Oct. 1827.]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote18"><p>[Footnote 2: A large portion of the <i>Eroica</i> was written in the course of this summer, but not completed till August, 1804.]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote19"><p>[Footnote 3: Beethoven did not at that time know in what year he was born. +See the subsequent letter of May 2, 1810. He was then far advanced +in his thirty-third year.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let27">27.<br> +NOTICE.</h3> + +<p class="date">November, 1802.</p> + +<p>I owe it to the public and to myself to state that +the two quintets in C and E flat major--one of +these (arranged from a symphony of mine) published +by Herr Mollo in Vienna, and the other +(taken from my Septet, Op. 20) by Herr Hofmeister +in Leipzig--are not original quintets, but only +versions of the aforesaid works given by the publishers. +Arrangements in these days (so fruitful in--arrangements) +an author will find it vain to contend +against; but we may at least justly demand +that the fact should be mentioned in the title-page, +neither to injure the reputation of the author nor to +deceive the public. This notice is given to prevent +anything of the kind in future. I also beg +to announce that shortly a new original quintet of +my composition, in C major, Op. 29, will appear at +Breitkopf & Härtel's in Leipzig.</p> + +<p class="signature">LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let28">28.<br> +TO FERDINAND RIES.</h3> + +<p class="date">Summer of 1803.</p> + +<p>You no doubt are aware that I am here. Go to +Stein, and ask if he can send me an instrument, on +hire. I am afraid of bringing mine here. Come +to me this evening about seven o'clock. I lodge in +Oberdöbling, on the left side of the street, No. 4, +going down the hill towards Heiligenstadt.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let29">29.<br> +TO HERR HOFMEISTER,--LEIPZIG.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, Sept. 22, 1803.</p> + +<p>I hereby declare all the works you have ordered +to be your property. The list of these shall be made +out and sent to you with my signature, as the +proof of their being your own. I also agree to accept +the sum of fifty ducats for them. Are you +satisfied?</p> + +<p>Perhaps, instead of the variations with violoncello +and violin,<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote20">[1]</a></sup> I may send you variations for the piano, +arranged as a duet on a song of mine; but Goethe's +poetry must also be engraved, as I wrote these variations +in an album, and consider them better than +the others. Are you satisfied?</p> + +<p>The arrangements are not by me, though I have +revised and much improved various passages; but +I do not wish you to say that I have arranged them, +for it would be false, and I have neither time nor +patience to do so. Are you satisfied?</p> + +<p>Now farewell! I sincerely wish that all may go +well with you. I would gladly make you a present +of all my works, if I could do so and still get on in +the world; but--remember most people are provided +for, and know what they have to live on, +while, good heavens! where can an appointment +be found at the Imperial Court for such a <i>parvum +talentum com ego</i>?</p> + +<p class="signature">Your friend,<br> +L. V. BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote20"><p>[Footnote 1: These are the six variations in D, on the air <i>Ich denke Dein</i> +written in 1800 in the album of the Countesses Josephine Deym and +Thérèse of Brunswick.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let30">30.<br> +CAUTION.</h3> + +<p class="date">November, 1803.</p> + +<p>Herr Carl Zulehner, a piratical engraver in +Mayence, has announced an edition of my collected +works for the pianoforte and also stringed instruments. +I consider it my duty publicly to inform +all friends of music that I have no share whatever +in this edition.</p> + +<p>I would never have in any way authorized any +collection of my works (which, moreover, I consider +premature) without previously consulting the +publishers of single pieces, and ensuring that correctness +in which editions of my individual works +are so deficient. I must also observe that this illegal +edition cannot be complete, as several new +works of mine are shortly to appear in Paris, and +these Herr Zulehner, being a French subject, dare +not pirate. I intend to take another opportunity +of enumerating the details of the collection of my +works to be brought out under my own auspices +and careful revision.</p> + +<p class="signature">LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let31">31.<br> +TO HERR RIES.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote21">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">1804.</p> + +<p>Be so good as to make out a list of the mistakes +and send it at once to Simrock, and say that the +work must appear as soon as possible. I will send +him the Sonata [Op. 47] and the Concerto the day +after to-morrow.</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote21"><p>[Footnote 1: Ries relates that the three following notes refer to the pianoforte +Sonata, Op. 31, No. 1, carefully engraved by Nägeli in Zurich, which +Beethoven consequently sent forthwith to Simrock in Bonn, desiring +him to bring out "<i>une édition très-correcte</i>" of the work. He also +states that Beethoven was residing in Heiligenstadt at the time the +work was first sent [see No. 26]. In Nottebohm's <i>Skizzenbuch von +Beethoven</i>, he says (p. 43) that the first notice of the appearance of +this sonata was on May 21st, 1803; but Simrock writes to me that the +date of the document making over the sonata to him is 1804.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let32">32.<br> +TO HERR RIES.</h3> + +<p>I must again ask you to undertake the disagreeable +task of making a fair copy of the errors in the +Zurich Sonata. I have got your list of <i>errata</i> "<i>auf +der Wieden</i>."</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let33">33.<br> +TO HERR RIES.</h3> + +<p class="salutation">DEAR RIES,--</p> + +<p>The signs are wrongly marked, and many of the +notes misplaced; so be careful! or your labor will +be vain. <i>Ch' a detto l' amato bene?</i></p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let34">34.<br> +TO HERR RIES.</h3> + +<p class="salutation">DEAR RIES,--</p> + +<p>May I beg you to be so obliging as to copy this +<i>andante</i> [in the Kreuzer Sonata] for me, however +indifferently? I must send it off to-morrow, and +as Heaven alone knows what its fate may then be, +I wish to get it transcribed. But I must have it +back to-morrow about one o'clock. The cause of +my troubling you is that one of my copyists is already +very much occupied with various things of +importance, and the other is ill.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let35">35.<br> +TO THE COMPOSER LEIDESDORF,--VIENNA.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote22">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="salutation">DORF DES LEIDES [VILLAGE OF SORROW--LEIDESDORF],--</p> + +<p>Let the bearer of this, Herr Ries, have some +easy duets, and, better still, let him have them +for nothing. Conduct yourself in accordance with +the reformed doctrines. Farewell!</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN<br> +<i>Minimus.</i></p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote22"><p>[Footnote 1: Date unknown. Leidesdorf was also a music-seller.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let36">36.<br> +TO HERR RIES.</h3> + +<p class="date">Baden, July 14, 1804.</p> + +<p class="salutation">DEAR RIES,--</p> + +<p>If you can find me better lodgings, I shall be +very glad. Tell my brothers not to engage these +at once; I have a great desire to get one in a spacious, +quiet square or on the Bastei. It it really +inexcusable in my brother not to have provided +wine, as it is so beneficial and necessary to me. I +shall take care to be present at the rehearsal on +Wednesday. I am not pleased to hear that it is to +be at Schuppanzigh's. He may well be grateful to +me if my impertinences make him thinner! Farewell, +dear Ries! We have bad weather here, and +I am not safe from visitors; so I must take flight +in order to be alone.</p> + +<p class="signature">Your true friend,<br> +L. V. BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let37">37.<br> +TO HERR RIES.</h3> + +<p class="date">Baden, July, 1804.</p> + +<p class="salutation">DEAR RIES,--</p> + +<p>As Breuning [see Nos. 13, 14, and 18] by his +conduct has not scrupled to display my character to +you and the house-steward as that of a mean, petty, +base man, I beg you will convey my reply at once +in person to Breuning. I answer only one point, +the first in his letter, and I do so solely because it +is the only mode of justifying myself in your eyes. +Say also to him that I had no intention of reproaching +him on account of the delay of the notice to +quit, and even if Breuning were really to blame +for this, our harmonious relations are so dear and +precious in my sight, that, for the sake of a few +hundreds more or less, I would never subject any +friend of mine to vexation. You are aware, indeed, +that I jestingly accused you as the cause of the notice +arriving too late. I am quite sure that you +must remember this. I had entirely forgotten the +whole matter, but at dinner my brother began to +say that he thought Breuning was to blame in the +affair, which I at once denied, saying that you were +in fault. I think this shows plainly enough that I +attributed no blame to Breuning; but on this he +sprang up like a madman, and insisted on sending +for the house-steward. Such behavior, in the +presence of all those with whom I usually associate, +and to which I am wholly unaccustomed, caused +me to lose all self-control; so I also started up, upset +my chair, left the room, and did not return. +This conduct induced Breuning to place me in a +pretty light to you and the house-steward, and also +to send me a letter which I only answered by silence. +I have not another word to say to Breuning. +His mode of thinking and of acting, with regard +to me, proves that there never ought to have +been such friendly intimacy between us, and assuredly +it can never more be restored. I wished +to make you acquainted with this, as your version +of the occurrence degraded both my words and actions. +I know that, had you been aware of the +real state of the affair, you would not have said +what you did, and with this I am satisfied.</p> + +<p>I now beg of you, dear Ries, to go to my brother, +the apothecary, as soon as you receive this letter, +and say to him that I mean to leave Baden in the +course of a few days, and that he is to engage the +lodging in Döbling as soon as you have given him +this message. I had nearly left this to-day; I detest +being here--I am sick of it. For Heaven's sake +urge him to close the bargain at once, for I want +to take possession immediately. Neither show nor +speak to any one of what is written in the previous +page of this letter. I wish to prove to him in every +respect that I am not so meanly disposed as he is. +Indeed I have written to him, although my resolve +as to the dissolution of our friendship remains firm +and unchangeable.</p> + +<p class="signature">Your friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let38">38.<br> +TO HERR RIES.</h3> + +<p class="date">Berlin, July 24, 1804.</p> + +<p>... You were no doubt not a little surprised +about the affair with Breuning; believe me, my +dear friend, that the ebullition on my part was +only an outbreak caused by many previous scenes +of a disagreeable nature. I have the gift of being +able to conceal and to repress my susceptibility on +many occasions; but if attacked at a time when I +chance to be peculiarly irritable, I burst forth more +violently than any one. Breuning certainly possesses +many admirable qualities, but he thinks himself +quite faultless; whereas the very defects that +he discovers in others are those which he possesses +himself to the highest degree. From my childhood +I have always despised his petty mind. My +powers of discrimination enabled me to foresee the +result with Breuning, for our modes of thinking, +acting, and feeling are entirely opposite; and yet I +believed that these difficulties might be overcome, +but experience has disproved this. So now I want +no more of his friendship! I have only found two +friends in the world with whom I never had a misunderstanding; +but what men these were! One is +dead, the other still lives. Although for nearly six +years past we have seen nothing of each other, yet +I know that I still hold the first place in his heart, +as he does in mine [see No. 12]. The true basis +of friendship is to be found in sympathy of heart +and soul. I only wish you could have read the letter +I wrote to Breuning, and his to me. No! +never can he be restored to his former place in my +heart. The man who could attribute to his friend +so base a mode of thinking, and could himself have +recourse to so base a mode of acting towards him, +is no longer worthy of my friendship.</p> + +<p>Do not forget the affair of my apartments. +Farewell! Do not be too much addicted to tailoring,<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote23">[1]</a></sup> +remember me to the fairest of the fair, and +send me half a dozen needles.</p> + +<p>I never could have believed that I could be so +idle as I am here. If this be followed by a fit of +industry, something worth while may be produced.</p> + +<p class="signature"><i>Vale!</i> Your<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote23"><p>[Footnote 1: Ries says, in Wegeler's <i>Biographical Notices</i>:--"Beethoven +never visited me more frequently than when I lived in the house of +a tailor, with three very handsome but thoroughly respectable daughters."]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let39">39.<br> +TO MESSRS. ARTARIA & CO.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote24">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, June 1, 1805.</p> + +<p>I must inform you that the affair about the new +quintet is settled between Count Fries and myself.</p> + +<p>The Count has just assured me that he intends +to make you a present of it; it is too late to-day +for a written agreement on the subject, but one +shall be sent early in the ensuing week. This intelligence +must suffice for the present, and I think +I at all events deserve your thanks for it.</p> + +<p class="signature">Your obedient servant,<br> +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote24"><p>[Footnote 1: The quintet is probably not that in C, Op. 29, dedicated to +Count v. Fries, previously published in 1803 by Breitkopf & Härtel +[see No. 27]. It is more likely that he alludes to a new quintet +which the Count had no doubt ordered.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let40">40.<br> +TO MADAME LA PRINCESSE LIECHTENSTEIN, &C.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote25">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">November, 1805.</p> + +<p>Pray pardon me, illustrious Princess, if the +bearer of this should cause you an unpleasant surprise. +Poor Ries, my scholar, is forced by this +unhappy war to shoulder a musket, and must moreover +leave this in a few days, being a foreigner. +He has nothing, literally nothing, and is obliged to +take a long journey. All chance of a concert on +his behalf is thus entirely at an end, and he must +have recourse to the benevolence of others. I recommend +him to you. I know you will forgive the +step I have taken. A noble-minded man would +only have recourse to such measures in the most +utter extremity. Confident of this, I send the poor +youth to you, in the hope of somewhat improving +his circumstances. He is forced to apply to all who +know him.</p> + +<p class="signature">I am, with the deepest respect, yours,<br> +L. VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote25"><p>[Footnote 1: Communicated by Ries himself, who, to Beethoven's extreme indignation, +did not deliver the note. See Wegeler's work, p. 134. +The following remark is added:--"Date unknown; written a few +days before the entrance of the French in 1805" (which took place +Nov. 13). Ries, a native of Bonn, was now a French subject, and +recalled under the laws of conscription. The Sonata, Op. 27, No. 1, +is dedicated to Princess Liechtenstein.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let41">41.<br> +TO HERR MEYER.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote26">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">1805.</p> + +<p class="salutation">DEAR MEYER,--</p> + +<p>Pray try to persuade Herr v. Seyfried to direct +my Opera, as I wish on this occasion to see and +hear it myself <i>from a distance</i>; in this way my patience +will at all events not be so severely tried as +when I am close enough to hear my music so bungled. +I really do believe that it is done on purpose +to annoy me! I will say nothing of the wind-instruments; +but all <i>pp.</i>'s, <i>cresc.</i>, <i>discresc.</i>, and all +<i>f.</i>'s and <i>ff.</i>'s may as well be struck out of my Opera, +for no attention whatever is paid to them. I shall +lose all pleasure in composing anything in future, +if I am to hear it given thus. To-morrow or the +day after I will come to fetch you to dinner. To-day +I am again unwell.</p> + +<p class="signature">Your friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<p>If the Opera is to be performed the day after +to-morrow, there must be another private rehearsal +to-morrow, or <i>each time it will be given worse +and worse</i>.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote26"><p>[Footnote 1: Meyer, the husband of Mozart's eldest sister-in-law, Josepha +(Hofer's widow), sang the part of Pizarro at the first performance of +<i>Fidelio</i>, Nov. 20, 1805, and also at a later period. Seyfried was at +that time Kapellmeister at the Theatre "an der Wien."]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let42">42.<br> +TESTIMONIAL FOR C. CZERNY.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, Dec. 7, 1805.</p> + +<p>I, the undersigned, am glad to bear testimony +to young Carl Czerny having made the most extraordinary +progress on the pianoforte, far beyond +what might be expected at the age of fourteen. I +consider him deserving of all possible assistance, +not only from what I have already referred to, but +from his astonishing memory, and more especially +from his parents having spent all their means in +cultivating the talent of their promising son.</p> + +<p class="signature">LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let43">43.<br> +TO HERR RÖCKEL.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote27">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="salutation">DEAR RÖCKEL,--</p> + +<p>Be sure that you arrange matters properly with +Mdlle. Milder, and say to her previously from me, +that I hope she will not sing anywhere else. I intend +to call on her to-morrow, to kiss the hem of +her garment. Do not also forget Marconi, and forgive +me for giving you so much trouble.</p> + +<p class="signature">Yours wholly,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote27"><p>[Footnote 1: Röckel, in 1806 tenor at the Theatre "an der Wien," sang the +part of Florestan in the spring of that year, when <i>Fidelio</i> was revived. +Mdlle. Milder, afterwards Mdme. Hauptmann, played Leonore; +Mdme. Marconi was also prima donna.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let44">44.<br> +TO HERR COLLIN,<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote28">[1]</a></sup> COURT SECRETARY AND POET.</h3> + +<p class="salutation">MY ESTEEMED COLLIN,--</p> + +<p>I hear that you are about to fulfil my greatest +wish and your own purpose. Much as I desire to +express my delight to you in person, I cannot find +time to do so, having so much to occupy me. Pray +do not then ascribe this to any want of proper attention +towards you. I send you the "Armida"; +as soon as you have entirely done with it, pray return +it, as it does not belong to me. I am, with +sincere esteem,</p> + +<p class="signature">Yours,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote28"><p>[Footnote 1: Collin, Court Secretary, was the author of <i>Coriolanus</i>, a tragedy +for which Beethoven in 1807 wrote the celebrated Overture dedicated +to that poet. According to Reichardt, Collin offered the libretto +of <i>Bradamante</i> to Beethoven in 1808, which Reichardt subsequently +composed. This note evidently refers to a <i>libretto</i>.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let45">45.<br> +TO HERR GLEICHENSTEIN.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote29">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p>I should like very much, my good Gleichenstein, +to speak to you this forenoon between one and two +o'clock, or in the afternoon, and where you please. +To-day I am too busy to call early enough to find +you at home. Give me an answer, and don't forget +to appoint the place for us to meet. Farewell, +and continue your regard for your</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote29"><p>[Footnote 1: Probably in reference to a conference with regard to a contract for +the publication of his works, Op. 58, 59, 60, 61, and 62, that Beethoven +had made on the 20th April, 1807, with Muzio Clementi, who had +established a large music firm in London; it was also signed by Baron +Gleichen.</p> + +<p>Beethoven's first intention was to dedicate Op. 58 to him, which is +evident from a large page in Schindler's work, on which is written in +bold characters, by the master's own hand, "<i>Quatrième Concerto pour +le Piano, avec accompagnement, etc., dédié à son ami Gleichenstein</i>," &c. +The name of the Archduke Rudolph had been previously written, and +was eventually adopted, and Gleichenstein afterwards received the +dedication of the Grand Sonata with violoncello, Op. 69.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let46">46.<br> +TO THE DIRECTORS OF THE COURT THEATRE.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote30">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, December, 1807.</p> + +<p>The undersigned has cause to flatter himself +that during the period of his stay in Vienna he has +gained some favor and approbation from the highest +nobility, as well as from the public at large, his +works having met with an honorable reception both +in this and other countries. Nevertheless he has +had difficulties of every kind to contend against, +and has not hitherto been so fortunate as to acquire +a position that would enable him <i>to live solely for art</i>, +and to develop his talents to a still higher degree +of perfection, which ought to be the aim of every +artist, thus ensuring future independence instead of +mere casual profits.</p> + +<p>The mere wish <i>to gain a livelihood</i> has never +been the leading clew that has hitherto guided the +undersigned on his path. His great aim has been +the <i>interest of art</i> and the ennobling of taste, while +his genius, soaring to a higher ideal and greater +perfection, frequently compelled him to sacrifice his +talents and profits to the Muse. Still works of this +kind won for him a reputation in distant lands, securing +him the most favorable reception in various +places of distinction, and a position befitting his +talents and acquirements.</p> + +<p>The undersigned does not, however, hesitate to +say that this city is above all others the most precious +and desirable in his eyes, owing to the number +of years he has lived here, the favor and approval +he has enjoyed from both high and low, and +his wish fully to realize the expectations he has had +the good fortune to excite, but most of all, he may +truly say, from his <i>patriotism as a German</i>. Before, +therefore, making up his mind to leave a place +so dear to him, he begs to refer to a hint which the +reigning Prince Lichnowsky was so kind as to give +him, to the effect that the directors of the theatre +were disposed to engage the undersigned on reasonable +conditions in the service of their theatre, +and to ensure his remaining in Vienna by securing +to him a permanent position, more propitious to the +further exercise of his talents. As this assurance +is entirely in accordance with the wishes of the undersigned, +he takes the liberty, with all due respect, +to place before the directors his readiness to enter +into such an engagement, and begs to state the following +conditions for their gracious consideration.</p> + +<p>1. The undersigned undertakes and pledges himself +to compose each year at least <i>one grand opera</i>, +to be selected by the directors and himself; in return +for this he demands a <i>fixed salary</i> of 2400 +florins a year, and also a free benefit at the third +performance of each such opera.</p> + +<p>2. He also agrees to supply the directors annually +with a little <i>operetta</i> or a <i>divertissement</i>, with +choruses or occasional music of the kind, as may be +required, <i>gratis</i>; he feels confident that on the other +hand the directors will not refuse, in return for +these various labors, to grant him <i>a benefit concert</i> at +all events once a year in one of the theatres. Surely +the above conditions cannot be thought exorbitant +or unreasonable, when the expenditure of time and +energy entailed by the production of an <i>opera</i> is +taken into account, as it entirely excludes the possibility +of all other mental exertion; in other places, +too, the author and his family have a share in the +profits of every individual performance, so that even +<i>one</i> successful work at once ensures the future fortunes +of the composer. It must also be considered +how prejudicial the present rate of exchange is to artists +here, and likewise the high price of the necessaries +of life, while a residence in foreign countries is +open to them.</p> + +<p>But in any event, whether the directors accede +to or decline this present proposal, the undersigned +ventures to request that he may be permitted to +give a concert for his own benefit in one of the +theatres. For if his conditions be accepted, the +undersigned must devote all his time and talents to +the composition of such an opera, and thus be prevented +working in any other way for profit. In +case of the non-acceptance of these proposals, as +the concert he was authorized to give last year did +not take place owing to various obstacles, he would +entreat, as a parting token of the favor hitherto +vouchsafed to him, that the promise of last year may +now be fulfilled. In the former case, he would beg +to suggest <i>Annunciation Day</i> [March 25.] for his +concert, and in the latter a day during the ensuing +Christmas vacation.</p> + +<p class="signature">LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN, M.P.<br> +[<i>Manu propria.</i>]</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote30"><p>[Footnote 1: This application was fruitless. See Reichardt's <i>Vertraute Briefe</i>. +"These two (Lobkowitz and Esterhazy) are the heads of the great +theatrical direction, which consists entirely of princes and counts, who +conduct all the large theatres on their own account and at their own +risk." The close of this letter shows that it was written in December.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let47">47.<br> +TO COUNT FRANZ VON OPPERSDORF.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote31">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, Nov. 1, 1808 [<i>sic!</i>].</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY DEAR COUNT,--</p> + +<p>I fear you will look on me with displeasure when +I tell you that necessity compelled me not only to +dispose of the symphony I wrote for you, but to +transfer another also to some one else. Be assured, +however, that you shall soon receive the one I intend +for you. I hope that both you and the Countess, +to whom I beg my kind regards, have been +well since we met. I am at this moment staying +with Countess Erdödy in the apartments below +those of Prince Lichnowsky. I mention this in case +you do me the honor to call on me when you are in +Vienna. My circumstances are improving, without +having recourse to the intervention of people +<i>who treat their friends insultingly</i>. I have also the +offer of being made <i>Kapellmeister</i> to the King of +Westphalia, and it is possible that I may accept the +proposal. Farewell, and sometimes think of your +attached friend,</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote31"><p>[Footnote 1: The fourth Symphony is dedicated to Count Oppersdorf.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let48">48.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote32">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p>I fear I am too late for to-day, but I have only +now been able to get back your memorial from +C----, because H---- wished to add various items +here and there. I do beg of you to dwell chiefly +on the great importance to me of adequate opportunities +to exercise my art; by so doing you will +write what is most in accordance with my head and +my heart. The preamble must set forth what I am +to have in Westphalia--600 ducats in gold, 150 +ducats for travelling expenses; all I have to do in +return for this sum being to direct the King's [Jerome's] +concerts, which are short and few in number. +I am not even bound to direct any opera I +may write. So, thus freed from all care, I shall be +able to devote myself entirely to the most important +object of my art--to write great works. An +orchestra is also to be placed at my disposition.</p> + +<p>N.B. As member of a theatrical association, the +title need not be insisted on, as it can produce nothing +but annoyance. With regard to the <i>Imperial +service</i>, I think that point requires delicate handling, +and not less so the solicitation for the title of <i>Imperial +Kapellmeister</i>. It must, however, be made +quite clear that I am to receive a sufficient salary +from the Court to enable me to renounce the annuity +which I at present receive from the gentlemen +in question [the Archduke Rudolph, Prince +Kinsky, and Prince Lobkowitz], which I think will +be most suitably expressed by my stating that it is +my hope, and has ever been my most ardent wish, +to enter the Imperial service, when I shall be ready +to give up as much of the above salary as the sum +I am to receive from His Imperial Majesty amounts +to. (N.B. We must have it to-morrow at twelve +o'clock, as we go to Kinsky then. I hope to see +you to-day.)</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote32"><p>[Footnote 1: This note, now first published, refers to the call Beethoven had +received, mentioned in the previous No. The sketch of the memorial +that follows is not, however, in Beethoven's writing, and perhaps not +even composed by him [see also No. 46]. It is well known that the +Archduke Rudolph, Prince Kinsky, and Prince Lobkowitz had secured +to the <i>maestro</i> a salary of 4000 gulden.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let49">49.</h3> + +<p>The aim and endeavor of every true artist must +be to acquire a position in which he can occupy +himself exclusively with the accomplishment of +great works, undisturbed by other avocations or by +considerations of economy. A composer, therefore, +can have no more ardent wish than to devote himself +wholly to the creation of works of importance, +to be produced before the public. He must also +keep in view the prospect of old age, in order to +make a sufficient provision for that period.</p> + +<p>The King of Westphalia has offered Beethoven +a salary of 600 gold ducats for life, and 150 ducats +for travelling expenses, in return for which his sole +obligations are, occasionally to play before His +Majesty, and to conduct his chamber concerts, +which are both few and short. This proposal is of +a most beneficial nature both to art and the artist.</p> + +<p>Beethoven, however, much prefers a residence in +this capital, feeling so much gratitude for the many +proofs of kindness he has received in it, and so +much patriotism for his adopted father-land, that he +will never cease to consider himself an Austrian artist, +nor take up his abode elsewhere, if anything +approaching to the same advantages are conferred +on him here.</p> + +<p>As many persons of high, indeed of the very +highest rank, have requested him to name the conditions +on which he would be disposed to remain +here, in compliance with their wish he states as +follows:--</p> + +<p>1. Beethoven must receive from some influential +nobleman security for a permanent salary for life: +various persons of consideration might contribute +to make up the amount of this salary, which, at the +present increased price of all commodities, must +not consist of less than 4000 florins <i>per annum</i>. +Beethoven's wish is that the donors of this sum +should be considered as cooperating in the production +of his future great works, by thus enabling +him to devote himself entirely to these labors, and +by relieving him from all other occupations.</p> + +<p>2. Beethoven must always retain the privilege of +travelling in the interests of art, for in this way +alone can he make himself known, and acquire +some fortune.</p> + +<p>3. His most ardent desire and eager wish is to +be received into the Imperial service, when such an +appointment would enable him partly or wholly to +renounce the proposed salary. In the mean time +the title of <i>Imperial Kapellmeister</i> would be very +gratifying to him; and if this wish could be realized, +the value of his abode here would be much enhanced +in his eyes.</p> + +<p>If his desire be fulfilled, and a salary granted by +His Majesty to Beethoven, he will renounce so +much of the said 4000 florins as the Imperial salary +shall amount to; or if this appointment be 4000 +florins, he will give up the whole of the former +sum.</p> + +<p>4. As Beethoven wishes from time to time to +produce before the public at large his new great +works, he desires an assurance from the present +directors of the theatre on their part, and that of +their successors, that they will authorize him to +give a concert for his own benefit every year on +Palm Sunday, in the Theatre "an der Wien." In +return for which Beethoven agrees to arrange and +direct an annual concert for the benefit of the poor, +or, if this cannot be managed, at all events to furnish +a new work of his own for such a concert.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let50">50.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="date">December, 1808.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY EXCELLENT FRIEND,--</p> + +<p>All would go well now if we had only a curtain, +without it the <i>Aria</i> ["Ah! Perfido"] <i>will be a +failure</i>.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote33">[1]</a></sup> I only heard this to-day from S. [Seyfried], +and it vexes me much: a curtain of any +kind will do, even a bed-curtain, or merely a <i>kind +of gauze screen</i>, which could be instantly removed. +There must be something; for the Aria is in the +<i>dramatic style</i>, and better adapted for the stage than +for effect in a concert-room. <i>Without a curtain, or +something of the sort, the Aria will be devoid of all +meaning, and ruined! ruined! ruined!! Devil take +it all!</i> The Court will probably be present. +Baron Schweitzer [Chamberlain of the Archduke +Anton] requested me earnestly to make the application +myself. Archduke Carl granted me an +audience and promised to come. The Empress +<i>neither promised nor refused</i>.</p> + +<p>A hanging curtain!!!! or the Aria and I will +both be hanged to-morrow. Farewell! I embrace +you as cordially on this new year as in the old one. +<i>With or without a curtain!</i> Your</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote33"><p>[Footnote 1: Reichardt, in his <i>Vertraute Briefe</i> relates among other things +about the concert given by Beethoven in the Royal Theatre "an der +Wien," Oct. 22, 1808, as follows:--"Poor Beethoven, who derived +from this concert the first and only net profits which accrued to him +during the whole year, met with great opposition and very slender +support in arranging and carrying it out. First came the <i>Pastoral +Symphony; or, Reminiscences of Rural Life</i>; then followed, as the +sixth piece, a long Italian <i>scena</i>, sung by Demoiselle Killitzky, a +lovely Bohemian with a lovely voice." The above note [to Zmeskall?] +certainly refers to this concert.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let51">51.<br> +TO FERDINAND RIES.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote34">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">1809.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY DEAR FELLOW,--</p> + +<p>Your friends have at any rate given you very +bad advice; but I know all about them: they are the +very same to whom you sent that fine news about +me from Paris; the very same who inquired about +my age--information that you contrived to supply +so correctly!--the very same who have often before +injured you in my opinion, but now permanently. +Farewell!</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote34"><p>[Footnote 1: Ries himself gives the date of this note as 1809, though he cannot +recall what gave rise to it. It is probably connected with a fact mentioned +by Wegeler, p. 95, that Reichardt, who was at that time in +Vienna, had advised Beethoven's young pupil, Ries, to apply to the +King of Westphalia for the appointment of Kapellmeister, which he +had recently given up. This was reported to Beethoven, and roused +his ire. Ries, too, had written from Paris that the taste in music there +was very indifferent; that Beethoven's works were little known or +played in that city. Beethoven was also very susceptible with regard +to his age. At the request of some of Beethoven's friends, Ries, in +1806, obtained Beethoven's baptismal certificate, and sent it to Vienna. +But the <i>maestro's</i> wrath on this occasion passed away as quickly as +usual.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let52">52.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote35">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">March 7, 1809.</p> + +<p>It is just what I expected! As to the blows, +that is rather far-fetched. The story is at least +three months' old, and very different from what he +now makes it out to be. The whole stupid affair +was caused by a female huckster and a couple of +low fellows. I lose very little. He no doubt was +corrupted in the very house where I am now living.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote35"><p>[Footnote 1: [See No. 10.] The notes to Zmeskall generally have the dates +written by himself. This one bears the date March 7, 1809. In all +points connected with domestic life, and especially in household matters +and discords, Zmeskall was always a kind and consolatory friend. +Beethoven at that time lived in the same house with Countess Erdödy. +[See No. 74.]]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let53">53.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p>My most excellent, high, and well-born Herr v. +Zmeskall, Court Secretary and Member of the +Society of the Single Blessed,--If I come to see +you to-day, ascribe it to the fact that a person +wishes to speak to me at your house whom I could +not refuse to see. I come without any <i>card</i> from +you, but I hope you will not on that account <i>discard</i> +me.</p> + +<p class="signature">Yours truly--most truly,<br> +L. V. BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let54">54.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p>It seems to me, dear Zmeskall, if war really +does break out, when it comes to an end you will +be the very man for an appointment in the Peace +Legation. What a glorious office!!! I leave it +entirely to you to do the best you can about my +servant, only henceforth Countess Erdödy must not +attempt to exercise the smallest influence over him. +She says she made him a present of twenty-five +florins, and gave him five florins a month, solely to +induce him to stay with me. I cannot refuse to +believe this trait of generosity, but I do not choose +that it should be repeated. Farewell! I thank +you for your friendship, and hope soon to see you.</p> + +<p class="signature">Yours ever,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let55">55.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote36">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">April 16, 1809.</p> + +<p>If I cannot come to-day, dear Zmeskall which +is very possible, ask Baroness von ---- [name illegible] +to give you the pianoforte part of the Trios, +and be so good as to send them and the other parts +to me to-day.</p> + +<p class="signature">In haste, your<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote36"><p>[Footnote 1: April 16, 1809. By the Terzetts he no doubt means the Trios, +Op. 70, dedicated to Countess Erdödy.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let56">56.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="date">April 17, 1809.</p> + +<p class="salutation">DEAR Z.,--</p> + +<p>A suitable lodging has just been found out for +me, but I need some one to help me in the affair. I +cannot employ my brother, because he only recommends +what costs least money. Let me know, +therefore, if we can go together to look at the +house. It is in the Klepperstall.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote37">[1]</a></sup></p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote37"><p>[Footnote 1: An der Mölker Bastei.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let57">57.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="date">April 25, 1809.</p> + +<p>I shall be glad, right glad, to play. I send you +the violoncello part; if you find that you can +manage it, play it yourself, or let old Kraft<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote38">[1]</a></sup> do so. +I will tell you about the lodging when we meet.</p> + +<p class="signature">Your friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote38"><p>[Footnote 1: Anton Kraft (and likewise his son, Nicolaus Kraft) was a most +admirable violoncello-player, with whom Beethoven from the earliest +days of his residence in Vienna had played a great deal at Prince +Lichnowsky's. Kraft was at that time in Prince Lobkowitz's band.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let58">58.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote39">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">May 14, 1809.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY DEAR LITTLE MUSICAL OLD COUNT!--</p> + +<p>I think after all it would be advisable to let old +Kraft play, as the trios are to be heard for the first +time (in society), and you can play them afterwards; +but I leave it all to your own option. If +you meet with any difficulties, one of which may +possibly be that Kraft and S. [Schuppanzigh] do +not harmonize well together, then Herr v. Zmeskall +must distinguish himself, not as a mere musical +Count, but as an energetic musician.</p> + +<p class="signature">Your friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote39"><p>[Footnote 1: Kraft and Schuppanzigh were then each giving quartet <i>soirées</i>.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let59">59.<br> +TO FREIHERR V. HAMMER-PURGSTALL.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote40">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">1809.</p> + +<p>I feel almost ashamed of your complaisance and +kindness in permitting me to see the MS. of your +as yet unknown literary treasures. Pray receive +my sincere thanks. I also beg to return both your +operettas. Wholly engrossed by my professional +avocations, it is impossible for me to give an opinion, +especially with regard to the Indian Operetta; as +soon as time permits, I will call on you for the +purpose of discussing this subject, and also the +Oratorio of "The Deluge." Pray always include +me among the warm admirers of your great +talents.</p> + +<p class="signature">I am, sir, with sincere esteem, your obedient<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote40"><p>[Footnote 1: I see in Schindler's <i>Beethoven</i>, that he wished to have "an Indian +Chorus of a religious character" from this renowned Orientalist, +who, in sending his <i>Persian Operetta</i>, written "rather with an ideal +than a musical object," and likewise an oratorio, <i>The Deluge</i>, remarks:--"Should you not find these works in all respects executed +quite to your taste, still I feel convinced that through the genius of a +Beethoven alone can music portray the rising of the great flood and +the pacifying of the surging waters."]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let60">60.<br> +TO FREIHERR V. HAMMER-PURGSTALL.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote41">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">1809.</p> + +<p>Forgive me, my dear H----, for not having +brought you the letter for Paris. I have been, and +still am, so much occupied, that day after day I am +obliged to delay writing it, but you shall have it to-morrow, +even if I am unable to come myself to see +you, which I am most anxious to do.</p> + +<p>There is another matter that I would most +earnestly press on you; perhaps you might succeed +in doing something for a <i>poor unfortunate man</i>. I +allude to Herr Stoll, son of the celebrated physician. +With many persons the question is whether +a man has been ruined by his own fault or by that +of others, but this is not so with either you or me; +it is sufficient that Stoll is unfortunate, and looks on +a journey to Paris as his sole resource, having last +year made many influential acquaintances, who, +when he goes there, are to endeavor to procure +him a professorship in Westphalia. Stoll has therefore +applied to Herr v. Neumann, in the State +Chancery Office, to send him with a government +courier to Paris, but the latter refuses to take him +for less than twenty-five louis d'or. Now I request +you, my dear friend, to speak to Herr v. Neumann +to arrange, if possible, that the courier should +either take Stoll <i>gratis</i>, or for a small sum. I am +persuaded that if there is nothing particular against +it, you will be glad to interest yourself in poor Stoll. +I return to the country to-day, but hope soon to be +so fortunate as to enjoy an hour of your society. +In the mean time I send you my best wishes, and +beg you will believe in the sincere esteem of</p> + +<p class="signature">Your obedient<br> +LUDWIG v. BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote41"><p>[Footnote 1: Reichardt states that Stoll was in Vienna in the spring of 1809, +which fixes the date of this letter. Napoleon bestowed a pension on +the young poet (who appears to have gone to Paris), mistaking him +for his father, the celebrated physician.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let61">61.<br> +TO BARONESS VON DROSSDICK.</h3> + +<p class="salutation">MY ESTEEMED THÉRÈSE,--</p> + +<p>You will receive with this what I promised. +Had not many serious obstacles intervened, I would +have sent you more, in order to show you that +where my friends are concerned <i>I always perform +more than I promise</i>. I hope, and do not doubt, +that you are agreeably occupied and enjoying +society, but not too much, I trust, to prevent your +thinking of us. It would show too much confidence +in you, or too high an estimation of my own +merits, were I to attribute the sentiment to you, +"That people are not together only when present, +but that the absent and the dead also live with us." +Who could ascribe such a thought to the volatile +Thérèse, who takes the world so lightly? Among +your various occupations, do not forget the piano, +or rather, music in general, for which you have so +fine a talent: why not then seriously cultivate it? +You, who have so much feeling for the good and +the beautiful, should strive to recognize the perfections +of so charming an art, which in return always +casts so bright a reflection on us.</p> + +<p>I live in entire quiet and solitude, and even +though occasional flashes of light arouse me, still +since you all left this I feel a hopeless void which +even my art, usually so faithful to me, has not yet +triumphed over. Your pianoforte is ordered, and +you shall soon have it. What a difference you +must have discovered between the treatment of the +theme I extemporized on the other evening and +the mode in which I have recently written it out +for you? You must explain this yourself, only do +not find the solution in the punch! How happy +you are to get away so soon to the country! I +cannot enjoy this luxury till the 8th. I look forward +to it with the delight of a child. What happiness +I shall feel in wandering among groves and +woods, and among trees, and plants, and rocks! +No man on earth can love the country as I do! +Thickets, trees, and rocks supply the echo man +longs for!</p> + +<p>You shall soon receive some more of my compositions, +which will not cause you to complain so +much of difficulties. Have you read Goethe's +"Wilhelm Meister," and Schlegel's "Translations +of Shakspeare"? People have so much leisure in +the country, that perhaps you would like me to send +you these works? It happens that I have an acquaintance +in your neighborhood; so perhaps you +may see me some morning early for half an hour, +after which I must be off again. You will also observe +that I intend to bore you for as short a time +as possible.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote42">[1]</a></sup></p> + +<p>Commend me to the regard of your father and +mother, though I have as yet no right to claim it. +Remember me also to your cousin M. [Mathilde]. +Farewell, my esteemed Thérèse; I wish you all +the good and charm that life can offer. Think of +me kindly, and forget my follies. Rest assured that +no one would more rejoice to hear of your happiness, +even were you to feel no interest in your devoted +servant and friend,</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<p>N.B. It would be very amiable in you to write +me a few lines, to say if I can be of any use to you +here.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote42"><p>[Footnote: Herr v. Malfatti Rohrenbach, nephew of the renowned physician +who was so prominent in Beethoven's last illness, lately related to me +in Vienna as follows:--Beethoven went to pay a visit to young Frau +Thérèse, Baroness Drossdick, at Mödling, but not finding her at home, +he tore a sheet of music-paper out of a book, and wrote some music to +a verse of Matthisson's, and on the other side, inscribed, in large letters, +"To my dear Thérèse." The "Mathilde" mentioned farther on was, +according to Bärmann, a Baroness Gleichenstein. [See No. 45.]]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let62">62.<br> +À MDLLE. MDLLE. DE GERARDI.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote43">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="salutation">DEAR MDLLE. G.,--</p> + +<p>I cannot with truth deny that the verses you +sent have considerably embarrassed me. It causes +a strange sensation to see and hear yourself praised, +and yet to be conscious of your own defects, as I +am. I consider such occurrences as mere incitements +to strive to draw nearer the unattainable +goal set before us by Art and Nature, difficult as it +may be. These verses are truly beautiful, with the +exception of one fault that we often find in poets, +which is, their being misled by Fancy to believe +that they really do see and hear <i>what they wish to +see and hear</i>, and yet even this is far below their +ideal. You may well believe that I wish to become +acquainted with the poet or poetess; pray receive +also yourself my thanks for the kindly feeling you +show towards your sincere friend,</p> + +<p class="signature">L. V. BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote43"><p>[Footnote 1: Nothing has hitherto been ascertained respecting either the date +of this note, or the lady to whom it is addressed.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let63">63.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote44">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">January 23, 1810.</p> + +<p>What are you about? My gayety yesterday, +though only assumed, has not only vexed but offended +you. The <i>uninvited guests</i> seemed so little +to deserve your ill-humor, that I endeavored to use +all my friendly influence to prevent your giving +way to it, by my pretended flow of spirits. I am +still suffering from indigestion. Say whether you +can meet me at the "Swan" to-day.</p> + +<p class="signature">Your true friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote44"><p>[Footnote 1: The cause that gave rise to this note is not known.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let64">64.<br> +TO WEGELER.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, May 2, 1810.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY DEAR OLD FRIEND,--</p> + +<p>These lines may very possibly cause you some +surprise, and yet, though you have no written +proof of it, I always retain the most lively remembrance +of you. Among my MSS. is one that has +long been destined for you, and which you shall +certainly receive this summer. For the last two +years my secluded and quiet life has been at an end, +and I have been forcibly drawn into the vortex of +the world; though as yet I have attained no good +result from this,--nay, perhaps rather the reverse, +--but who has not been affected by the storms +around us? Still I should not only be happy, but +the happiest of men, if a demon had not taken up +his settled abode in my ears. Had I not somewhere +read that man must not voluntarily put an end to +his life while he can still perform even one good +deed, I should long since have been no more, and +by my own hand too! Ah! how fair is life; but for +me it is forever poisoned!</p> + +<p>You will not refuse me one friendly service, which +is to procure me my baptismal certificate. As +Steffen Breuning has an account with you, he can +pay any expenses you may incur, and I will repay +him here. If you think it worth while to make +the inquiry in person, and choose to make a journey +from Coblenz to Bonn, you have only to charge +it all to me. I must, however, warn you that I +had an <i>elder brother</i> whose name was also Ludwig, +with the second name of <i>Maria</i>, who died. In order +to know my precise age, the date of my birth +must be first ascertained, this circumstance having +already led others into error, and caused me to be +thought older than I really am. Unluckily, I lived +for some time without myself knowing my age [see +Nos. 26 and 51]. I had a book containing all family +incidents, but it has been lost, Heaven knows +how! So pardon my urgently requesting you to +try to discover <i>Ludwig Maria's</i> birth, as well as +that of the present Ludwig. The sooner you can +send me the certificate of baptism the more obliged +shall I be.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote45">[1]</a></sup> +I am told that you sing one of my songs +in your Freemason Lodge, probably the one in E +major, which I have not myself got; send it to me, +and I promise to compensate you threefold and +fourfold.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote46">[2]</a></sup> +Think of me with kindness, little as I +apparently deserve it. Embrace your dear wife +and children, and all whom you love, in the name +of your friend,</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote45"><p>[Footnote 1: Wegeler says:--"I discovered the solution of the enigma (why +the baptismal certificate was so eagerly sought) from a letter written +to me three months afterwards by my brother-in-law, Stephan von +Breuning, in which he said: 'Beethoven tells me at least once a week +that he means to write to you; but I believe his <i>intended marriage is broken off</i>; he therefore feels no ardent inclination to thank you for +having procured his baptismal certificate.'"]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote46"><p>[Footnote 2: Beethoven was mistaken; Wegeler had only supplied other +music to the words of Matthisson's <i>Opfer Lied</i>.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let65">65.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="date">July 9, 1810.</p> + +<p class="salutation">DEAR Z.,--</p> + +<p>You are about to travel, and so am I on account +of my health. In the mean time all goes topsy-turvy +with me. The <i>Herr</i><sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote47">[1]</a></sup> +wants to have me +with him, and Art is not less urgent in her claims. +I am partly in Schönbrunn and partly here; every +day assailed by messages from strangers and new +acquaintances, and even as regards art I am often +driven nearly distracted by my undeserved fame. +Fortune seeks me, and for that very reason I almost +dread some new calamity. As for your +"Iphigénie," the facts are these. I have not seen +it for the last two years and a half, and have no +doubt lent it to some one; but to whom?--that is +the question. I have sent in all directions, and +have not yet discovered it, but hope still to find it. +If lost, you shall be indemnified. Farewell, my +dear Z. I trust that when we meet again you +will find that my art has made some progress in +the interim.</p> + +<p>Ever remain my friend, as much as I am yours,</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote47"><p>[Footnote 1: The "Herr" is his pupil, the Archduke Rudolph.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let66">66.<br> +TO BETTINA BRENTANO.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote48">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, August 11, 1810.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY DEAREST FRIEND,--</p> + +<p>Never was there a lovelier spring than this year; +I say so, and feel it too, because it was then I first +knew you. You have yourself seen that in society +I am like a fish on the sand, which writhes and +writhes, but cannot get away till some benevolent +Galatea casts it back into the mighty ocean. I was +indeed fairly stranded, dearest friend, when surprised +by you at a moment in which moroseness had +entirely mastered me; but how quickly it vanished +at your aspect! I was at once conscious that you +came from another sphere than this absurd world, +where, with the best inclinations, I cannot open my +ears. I am a wretched creature, and yet I complain +of others!! You will forgive this from the +goodness of heart that beams in your eyes, and the +good sense manifested by your ears; at least they +understand how to flatter, by the mode in which +they listen. My ears are, alas! a partition-wall, +through which I can with difficulty hold any intercourse +with my fellow-creatures. Otherwise, perhaps, +I might have felt more assured with you; but +I was only conscious of the full, intelligent glance +from your eyes, which affected me so deeply that +never can I forget it. My dear friend! dearest +girl!--Art! who comprehends it? with whom can +I discuss this mighty goddess? How precious to +me were the few days when we talked together, or, +I should rather say, corresponded! I have carefully +preserved the little notes with your clever, +charming, most charming answers; so I have to +thank my defective hearing for the greater part of +our fugitive intercourse being written down. Since +you left this I have had some unhappy hours,--hours +of the deepest gloom, when I could do nothing. +I wandered for three hours in the Schönbrunn +Allée after you left us, but no <i>angel</i> met me there +to take possession of me as you did. Pray forgive, +my dear friend, this deviation from the original key, +but I must have such intervals as a relief to my +heart. You have no doubt written to Goethe +about me? I would gladly bury my head in a +sack, so that I might neither see nor hear what goes +on in the world, because I shall meet you there no +more; but I shall get a letter from you? Hope +sustains me, as it does half the world; through life +she has been my close companion, or what would +have become of me? I send you "Kennst Du das +Land," written with my own hand, as a remembrance +of the hour when I first knew you; I send +you also another that I composed since I bade you +farewell, my dearest, fairest sweetheart!</p> + +<p> +Herz, mein Herz, was soll das geben,<br> +Was bedränget dich so sehr;<br> +Welch ein neues fremdes Leben,<br> +Ich erkenne dich nicht mehr. +</p> + +<p>Now answer me, my dearest friend, and say what +is to become of me since my heart has turned such +a rebel. Write to your most faithful friend,</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote48"><p>[Footnote 1: The celebrated letters to Bettina are given here exactly as published +in her book, <i>Ilius Pamphilius und die Ambrosia</i> (Berlin, Arnim, +1857) in two volumes. I never myself had any doubts of their +being genuine (with the exception of perhaps some words in the middle +of the third letter), nor can any one now distrust them, especially +after the publication of <i>Beethoven's Letters</i>. But for the sake of +those for whom the weight of innate conviction is not sufficient proof, +I may here mention that in December, 1864, Professor Moritz Carrière, +in Munich, when conversing with me about <i>Beethoven's Letters</i>, +expressly assured me that these three letters were genuine, and +that he had seen them in Berlin at Bettina v. Arnim's in 1839, and +read them most attentively and with the deepest interest. From their +important contents, he urged their immediate publication; and when +this shortly after ensued, no change whatever struck him as having +been made in the original text; on the contrary, he still perfectly remembered +that the much-disputed phraseology (and especially the +incident with Goethe) was precisely the same as in the originals. This +testimony seems to me the more weighty, as M. Carrière must not in +such matters be looked on as a novice, but as a competent judge, who +has carefully studied all that concerns our literary heroes, and who +would not permit anything to be falsely imputed to Beethoven any +more than to Goethe. Beethoven's biography is, however, the proper +place to discuss more closely such things, especially his character and +his conduct in this particular case. At present we only refer in general +terms to the first chapter of <i>Beethoven's Jugend</i>, which gives +all the facts connected with these letters to Bettina and the following +ones--a characteristic likeness of Beethoven thus impressed itself on +the mind of the biographer, and was reproduced in a few bold outlines +in his <i>Biography</i>. These letters could not, however, possibly be +given <i>in extenso</i> in a general introduction to a comprehensive biography.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let67">67.<br> +TO BETTINA BRENTANO.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, Feb. 10, 1811.</p> + +<p class="salutation">DEAR AND BELOVED FRIEND,--</p> + +<p>I have now received two letters from you, while +those to Tonie show that you still remember me, +and even too kindly. I carried your letter about +with me the whole summer, and it often made me +feel very happy; though I do not frequently write +to you, and you never see me, still I write you letters +by thousands in my thoughts. I can easily +imagine what you feel at Berlin in witnessing all +the noxious frivolity of the world's rabble,<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote49">[1]</a></sup> even +had you not written it to me yourself. Such prating +about art, and yet no results!!! The best description +of this is to be found in Schiller's poem +"Die Flüsse," where the river Spree is supposed to +speak. You are going to be married, my dear +friend, or are already so, and I have had no chance +of seeing you even once previously. May all the +felicity that marriage ever bestowed on husband +and wife attend you both! What can I say to you +of myself? I can only exclaim with Johanna, +"Compassionate my fate!" If I am spared for +some years to come, I will thank the Omniscient, +the Omnipotent, for the boon, as I do for all other +weal and woe. If you mention me when you write +to Goethe, strive to find words expressive of my +deep reverence and admiration. I am about to +write to him myself with regard to "Egmont," for +which I have written some music solely from my +love for his poetry, which always delights me. Who +can be sufficiently grateful to a great poet,--the +most precious jewel of a nation! Now no more, my +dear sweet friend! I only came home this morning +at four o'clock from an orgy, where I laughed +heartily, but to-day I feel as if I could weep as +sadly; turbulent pleasures always violently recoil +on my spirits. As for Clemens [Brentano, her +brother], pray thank him for his complaisance; +with regard to the Cantata, the subject is not important +enough for us here--it is very different in +Berlin; and as for my affection, the sister engrosses +so large a share, that little remains for the brother. +Will he be content with this?</p> + +<p>Now farewell, my dear, dear friend; I imprint a +sorrowful kiss on your forehead, thus impressing my +thoughts on it as with a seal. Write soon, very +soon, to your brother,</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote49"><p>[Footnote 1: An expression which, as well as many others, he no doubt borrowed +from Bettina, and introduced to please her.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let68">68.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="date">1811.</p> + +<p>I am disposed to engage a man who has just offered +me his services,--a music-copyist. His parents +live in Vienna, which might be convenient in many +respects, but I first wish to speak to you about the +terms; and as you are disengaged to-morrow, which +I, </p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let69">69.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="date">1811.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MOST HIGH-BORN OF MEN!--</p> + +<p>We beg you to confer some goose-quills on us; +we will in return send you a whole bunch of the +same sort, that you may not be obliged to pluck out +your own. It is just possible that you may yet receive +the Grand Cross of the Order of the Violoncello. +We remain your gracious and most friendly +of all friends,</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let70">70.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote50">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">The Spring of 1811.</p> + +<p class="salutation">YOUR ROYAL HIGHNESS,--</p> + +<p>As in spite of every effort I can find no copyist +to write in my house, I send you my own manuscript; +all you have to do is to desire Schlemmer +to get you an efficient copyist, who must, however, +write out the Trio in your palace, otherwise there +would be no security against piracy. I am better, +and hope to have the honor of waiting on you in the +course of a few days, when we must strive to make +up for lost time. I always feel anxious and uneasy +when I do not attend your Royal Highness as often +or as assiduously as I wish. It is certainly the truth +when I say that the loss is mine, but I trust I shall +not soon again be so unwell. Be graciously pleased +to remember me; the time may yet come when I +shall be able to show you doubly and trebly that +I deserve this more than ever.</p> + +<p class="signature">I am your Royal Highness's devoted servant,<br> +LUDWIG V. BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote50"><p>[Footnote 1: Schlemmer was for many years Beethoven's copyist.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let71">71.</h3> + +<p class="salutation">MY DEAR FRIEND,--<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote51">[1]</a></sup></p> + +<p>I have taken this trouble only that I might figure +correctly, and thus be able sometimes to lead +others. As for mistakes, I scarcely ever required +to have them pointed out to me, having had from +my childhood such a quick perception, that I exercised +it unconscious that it ought to be so, or in fact +could be otherwise.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote51"><p>[Footnote 1: Written on a sheet of music-paper (oblong folio) numbered 22, and +evidently torn out of a large book. On the other side (21) is written, +in Beethoven's hand, instructions on the use of the fourth in retardations, +with five musical examples. The leaf is no doubt torn from one +of the books that Beethoven had compiled from various text-books, for +the instruction of the Archduke Rudolph. I have therefore placed +Beethoven's remark here.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let72">72.<br> +TO THE DRAMATIC POET TREITSCHKE.</h3> + +<p class="date">June 6, 1811.</p> + +<p class="salutation">DEAR TREITSCHKE,--</p> + +<p>Have you read the book, and may I venture to +hope that you will be persuaded to undertake it? +Be so good as to give me an answer, as I am prevented +going to you myself. If you have already +read it, then send it back to me, that I may also +look over it again before you begin to work at it. +Above all, if it be your good pleasure that I should +soar to the skies on the wings of your poetry, I entreat +you to effect this as soon as possible.</p> + +<p class="signature">Your obedient servant,<br> +L. V. BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let73">73.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="date">Sept. 10, 1811.</p> + +<p class="salutation">DEAR ZMESKALL,--</p> + +<p>Let the rehearsal stand over for the present. I +must see my doctor again to-day, of whose bungling +I begin to tire. Thanks for your metronome; let +us try whether we can measure Time into Eternity +with it, for it is so <i>simple</i> and <i>easily managed</i> that +there seems to be no impediment to this! In the +mean time we will have a conference on the subject. +The mathematical precision of clockwork is of +course greater; yet formerly, in watching the little +experiments you made in my presence, I thought +there was something worthy of notice in your metronome, +and I hope we shall soon succeed in <i>setting +it thoroughly right</i>. Ere long I hope to see you.</p> + +<p class="signature">Your friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let74">74.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="date">Oct. 26, 1811.</p> + +<p>I shall be at the "Swan" to-day, and hope to +meet you there <i>to a certainty</i>, but don't come too +late. My foot is better; the author of so many +poetical <i>feet</i> promises the <i>head</i> author a sound foot +within a week's time.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let75">75.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="date">Nov. 20, 1811.</p> + +<p>We are deucedly obliged to you. We beg you +to be careful not to lose your well-earned fame. +You are exhorted to pursue the same course, and +we remain once more your deucedly attached</p> + +<p class="signature">LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let76">76.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="date">Jan. 19, 1812.</p> + +<p>I shall be at the "Swan" to-day, dear Z. I +have, alas! <i>too much</i> leisure, and you <i>none</i>! Your</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let77">77.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote52">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">1812.</p> + +<p class="salutation">CONFOUNDED LITTLE QUONDAM MUSICAL COUNT!</p> + +<p>What the deuce has become of you? Are you +to be at the "Swan" to-day? No? ... Yes! See +from this enclosure what I have done for Hungary. +When a German undertakes a thing, even without +pledging his word, he acts very differently from +one of those Hungarian Counts, such as B. [Brunswick], +who allowed me to travel by myself--from +what paltry, miserable motive who can tell?--and +kept me waiting, though he did not wait for me!</p> + +<p>My excellent little quondam musical Count,</p> + +<p class="signature">I am now, as ever, your attached<br> +BEETHÖVERL.</p> + +<p>Return the enclosure, for we wish to bring it, +and something else, pretty forcibly under the notice +of the Count.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote52"><p>[Footnote 1: The date of this and the following note is decided by the allusion +to his compositions written for Hungary (Pesth). See the subsequent +letter to Varenna.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let78">78.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p>You are summoned to appear to-day at the +"Swan;" Brunswick also comes. If you do not appear, +you are henceforth excluded from all that concerns +us. Excuses <i>per excellentiam</i> cannot be accepted. +Obedience is enjoined, knowing that we are +acting for your benefit, and that our motive is to +guard you against temptations and faithlessness <i>per +excellentiam--dixi</i>.</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let79">79.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="salutation">DEAR ZMESKALL,--</p> + +<p>The well-known watchmaker who lives close to +the Freiung is to call on you. I want a first-rate +repeater, for which he asks forty ducats. As you +like that kind of thing, I beg you will exert yourself +on my behalf, and select a really good watch +for me.</p> + +<p>With the most enthusiastic admiration for a man +like yourself, who is soon to give me an opportunity +of displaying in his favor my particular knowledge +of horn-playing, I am your</p> + +<p class="signature">LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let80">80.<br> +TO KAMMERPROCURATOR VARENNA,--GRATZ.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote53">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">1812.</p> + +<p>If the wish to benefit the poor were not so evident +in your letter, I should have felt not a little +offended by your accompanying your request to +me by the offer of payment. From my childhood, +whenever my art could be serviceable to poor suffering +humanity, I have never allowed any other motive +to influence me, and never required anything +beyond the heartfelt gratification that it always +caused me. With this you will receive an Oratorio--(A), +the performance of which occupies half an +evening, also an Overture and a Fantasia with Chorus--(B). +If in your benevolent institution you +possess a <i>dépôt</i> for such things, I beg you will deposit +these three works there, as a mark of my sympathy +for the destitute; to be considered as their property, +and to be given at any concerts intended for +their sole benefit. In addition to these, you will +receive an Introduction to the "Ruins of Athens," +the score of which shall be written out for you as +soon as possible. Likewise a Grand Overture to +"Ungarn's erste Wohlthäter" [Hungary's First +Benefactors].</p> + +<p>Both form part of two works that I wrote for the +Hungarians at the opening of their new theatre [in +Pesth]. Pray give me, however, your written assurance +that these works shall not be performed +elsewhere, as they are not published, nor likely to +be so for some time to come. You shall receive +the latter Grand Overture as soon as it is returned +to me from Hungary, which it will be in the course +of a few days.</p> + +<p>The engraved Fantasia with Chorus could no +doubt be executed by a lady, an amateur, mentioned +to me here by Professor Schneller.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote54">[2]</a></sup> The +words after the Chorus No. 4, in C major, were +altered by the publishers, and are now quite contrary +to the musical expression; those written in +<i>pencil</i>, therefore, on the music must be sung. If +you can make use of the Oratorio, I can send you +<i>all the parts written out</i>, so that the outlay may be +less for the poor. Write to me about this.</p> + +<p class="signature">Your obedient<br> +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote53"><p>[Footnote 1: The correspondence with Varenna, consisting of fourteen letters +and four notes, was purchased some years ago by a collector of autographs +in Leipzig, and sold again by public auction, probably to different +persons. It would be like pursuing leaves scattered by the wind +to try to recover these letters. Those here given have for the most +part appeared in newspapers; I cannot, therefore, be responsible for the +text, farther than their publication goes, which, however, has evidently +been conducted by a clever hand. The date of the first letter is to be +gleaned from the second, and we also learn from them that <i>The +Ruins of Athens</i> and <i>King Stephen</i> (or at all events the Overture) +were already finished in January, 1812.]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote54"><p>[Footnote 2: This <i>dilettante</i> was Mdlle. Marie Koschak, subsequently the wife +of Dr. Pachler, an advocate in Gratz, from whom two letters are given +by Schindler of the dates of August 15th, 1825, and November 5th, +1826, in which she invites Beethoven to visit her in Gratz. Schindler +considers as applicable to this lady the words of a note in Beethoven's +writing of which he has given a fac-simile in his <i>Biography</i>, I. 95; +the date 1817 or 1818. They are as follows:--"Love alone, yes! love +alone can make your life happier. O God! grant that I may at last +find her who can strengthen me in virtue, whom I can legitimately call +my own. On July 27th, when she drove past me in Baden, she seemed +to gaze at me." This lady also plays a friendly part in Franz Schubert's +<i>Life</i>. See her <i>Biography</i> by Dr. Kreissle.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let81">81.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="date">Feb. 2, 1812.</p> + +<p>By no means <i>extraordinary</i>, but <i>very ordinary</i> +mender of pens! whose talent has failed on this occasion +(for those I send require to be fresh mended), +when do you intend at last to cast off your fetters?--when? +You never for a moment think of me; +accursed to me is life amid this Austrian barbarism. +I shall go now chiefly to the "Swan," as in other +taverns I cannot defend myself against intrusion. +Farewell! that is, <i>fare as well</i> as I wish you to do +without</p> + +<p class="signature">Your friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<p>Most wonderful of men! We beg that your +servant will engage a person to fit up my apartment; +as he is acquainted with the lodgings, he +can fix the proper price at once. Do this soon, +you Carnival scamp!!!!!!!</p> + +<p>The enclosed note is at least a week old.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let82">82.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="date">Feb. 8, 1812.</p> + +<p>Most extraordinary and first and foremost man +of the pendulum in the world, and without a lever +too!!!</p> + +<p>I am much indebted to you for having imparted +to me some share of your motive power. I wish to +express my gratitude in person, and therefore invite +you this morning to come to the "Swan,"--a tavern, +the name of which itself shows that it is a fitting +place when such a subject is in question,</p> + +<p class="signature">Yours ever,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let83">83.<br> +TO VARENNA,--GRATZ.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, Feb. 8, 1812.</p> + +<p>Herr Rettich has already got the parts of the +Oratorio, and when you no longer require them I +beg you will send them back to me. It is not +probable that anything is wanting, but even in that +case, as you have the score, you can easily remedy +this. I only yesterday received the Overtures from +Hungary, and shall have them copied and forwarded +to you as soon as possible. I likewise send a March +with a vocal Chorus, also from the "Ruins of +Athens." Altogether you will now have sufficient +to fill up the time.</p> + +<p>As these pieces are only in manuscript, I shall let +you know at the time I send them what precautions +I wish you to take with regard to the Overtures +and the March with Chorus.</p> + +<p>As I do not publish any new work until a year +after its composition, and, when I do so, am obliged +invariably to give a written assurance to the publisher +that no one is in possession of it, you can +yourself perceive that I must carefully guard against +any possible contingency or casualty as to these +pieces. I must, however, assure you that I shall +always be disposed to show the warmest zeal in aid +of your charity, and I here pledge myself to send +you every year works that exist solely in manuscript, +or compositions written expressly for this +charitable purpose. I beg you will also let me know +what your future plans are with regard to your +institution, that I may act accordingly.</p> + +<p>Farewell! I remain, with the highest consideration,</p> + +<p class="signature">Your obedient<br> +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let84">84.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote55">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">Feb. 19, 1812.</p> + +<p class="salutation">DEAR Z.,--</p> + +<p>I only yesterday received the written information +that the Archduke pays his share in the new +paper-money of the full value [<i>Einlösungsschein</i>]. +I beg you will write out for me, as nearly as you +can, the substance of what you said on Sunday, and +which we thought it advisable to send to the other +two. I am offered a certificate that the Archduke +is to pay in <i>Einlösungsschein</i>, but I think this unnecessary, +more especially as the people about +Court, in spite of all their apparent friendship for +me, declare that my demands are <i>not just</i>!!!! O +Heaven! aid me in enduring this! I am no Hercules, +to help Atlas in carrying the world, or to +strive to do so in his place. It was only yesterday +that I heard the particulars of the handsome manner +in which Baron von Kraft had judged and +spoken of me to Zisius! But never mind, dear +Z.! My endurance of these shameful attacks cannot +continue much longer; persecuted art will +everywhere find an asylum--Daedalus, though +imprisoned in a labyrinth, found wings to carry him +aloft. Oh! I too shall find wings!</p> + +<p class="signature">Yours ever,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<p>If you have time, send me this morning the +draft of the memorial;--probably for nothing, and +to receive nothing! so much time is already lost, +and only to be kept in suspense by civil words!</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote55"><p>[Footnote 1: The Finance Patent appeared in Austria in 1811, by which the +value of money was depreciated by a fifth. This also affected the +salary that Beethoven drew from the Archduke Rudolph, Prince Kinsky, +and Prince Lobkowitz. The first of these gentlemen paid his full +share in <i>Einlösungsschein</i>. Lobkowitz, at the request of Beethoven, +soon after did the same; with Kinsky's share alone difficulties arose +subsequently, owing to his death.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let85">85.<br> +TO VARENNA.</h3> + +<p class="date">Lent, 1812.</p> + +<p>In spite of my anxiety to serve the cause of your +charity, I have been quite unable to do so. I have +no copyist of my own to write for me as formerly, +and the limited time renders it impossible for me to +do so myself; thus I am obliged to have recourse to +strangers as copyists. One of these promised to +write out the Overtures, &c., &c., for you; but +Passion Week intervening, when there are so many +concerts, prevented his being able to keep his word, +in spite of every effort on my part. Even if the +Overtures and the March with Chorus were transcribed, +it would not be possible to send them by this +post, and if we wait for the next, the music will arrive +too late for Easter Sunday. Let me know if +there are any means you could adopt to gain a little +more time, or any chance opportunity of sending +these works to you, and I will do all that lies in my +power to aid the cause of your charity.</p> + +<p class="signature">I am, with esteem, yours obediently,<br> +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let86">86.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote56">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">1812.</p> + +<p class="salutation">YOUR IMPERIAL HIGHNESS,--</p> + +<p>I was much vexed not to receive Y.I.H.'s message +to come to you till very late yesterday evening--indeed +nearly at eleven o'clock. Contrary +to my usual custom, I did not go home at all during +the afternoon, the fine weather having tempted +me to spend the whole afternoon in walking, and +the evening at the Banda, "auf der Wieden," and +thus I was not aware of your wish till I returned +home. In the mean time, whenever Y.I.H. desires +it, I am ready at any hour or moment to place +myself at your disposal. I therefore await your +gracious commands.</p> + +<p class="signature">I am your Imperial Highness's most obedient<br> +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote56"><p>[Footnote 1: +The date 1812 is marked on the sheet by another hand, and the +close of the second note proves that it was at the commencement of +this year.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let87">87.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">1812.</p> + +<p class="salutation">YOUR IMPERIAL HIGHNESS,--</p> + +<p>I was unable till to-day, when I leave my bed +for the first time, to answer your gracious letter. +It will be impossible for me to wait on you to-morrow, +but perhaps the day after. I have suffered +much during the last few days, and I may say two-fold +from not being in a condition to devote a great +part of my time to you, according to my heartfelt +wish. I hope now, however, to have cleared off +all scores for spring and summer (I mean as to +health).</p> + +<p>I am your Imperial Highness's most obedient +servant,</p> + +<p class="signature">LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let88">88.<br> +TO VARENNA,--GRATZ.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, May 8, 1812.</p> + +<p class="salutation">SIR,--</p> + +<p>Being still far from well, and much occupied, I +have been unable to reply to your letters. How in +the world did such an unfounded idea ever occur to +you as that I was displeased? It would certainly +have been better had you returned the music as +soon as it had been performed; for at that period I +could have produced it here, whereas now, unluckily, +it comes too late; but I only say <i>unluckily</i> because +it prevents my being able to spare the worthy +ladies the expenses of copying. At any other time +I would on no account have allowed them to pay +for writing out the works, but it so happens that at +this moment I am visited with every kind of <i>contretemps</i>, +so I cannot avoid doing so. Possibly Herr +O., although with the best intentions, has delayed +informing you of this, which obliged me to apply to +him for repayment of the expenses of copying; perhaps, +too, in my haste, I did not express myself distinctly. +You can now, esteemed sir, have the Overture +and the Chorus again if you require them.</p> + +<p>I feel convinced that in any event you will prevent +my confidence being abused; in the mean time +you may keep the Overture on the conditions I +have stated. If I find that I am able to pay for +the copying, I will redeem it for my own use.</p> + +<p>The score of the Oratorio is a gift, and also the +Overture to "Egmont." Keep the parts of the +Oratorio beside you till you can have it performed.</p> + +<p>Select whatever you choose for the concert which +I hear you now intend to give, and if you decide on +the Chorus and the Overture, they shall be forwarded +to you at once. For the future concert, for +the benefit of the venerable Ursulines, I promise +you an entirely new symphony at all events, and +perhaps also a work of some importance for voices, +and as I have now a favorable opportunity, the +copying shall not cost you a farthing. My joy +would be beyond all bounds if the concert were to +be successful, and I could spare you all expense;--at +all events, take my good-will for granted.</p> + +<p>Remember me to the admirable teachers of the +children, and say to them that I shed tears of joy +at the happy result of my poor good-will, and that +so far as my humble capabilities can serve them, +they shall always find in me the warmest sympathy.</p> + +<p>My cordial thanks for your invitation; I would +fain become acquainted with the interesting scenery +of Styria, and possibly I may one day enjoy that +pleasure. Farewell! I heartily rejoice in having +found in you a friend to the poor and needy, and +am always yours to command.</p> + +<p class="signature">LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN, M.P.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let89">89.<br> +TO JOSEPH FREIHERR VON SCHWEIGER, CHAMBERLAIN OF THE +ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote57">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">1812.</p> + +<p>The most insignificant of mortals has just been +to wait on his gracious master, when he found +everything closed; so he came here, where indeed +all was <i>open</i>, but no one to be found except the +trusty servant. I had a heavy packet of music with +me, in order to ensure a good musical evening before +we parted; but in vain. Malfatti<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote58">[2]</a></sup> is resolved +that I shall go to Töplitz, which is anything but +agreeable to me. As, however, I must obey, I +hope at least that my gracious master will not enjoy +himself quite so much without me. <i>O vanitas!</i> +for it is nothing else. Before I set off for Töplitz +I will either go to Baden to see you or write. +Farewell! Pray present my homage to my gracious +master, and continue your regard for</p> + +<p class="signature">Your friend,<br> +[K.] BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote57"><p>[Footnote 1: The journey to Töplitz took place in the year 1812.]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote58"><p>[Footnote 2: A very celebrated physician in Vienna at that time, consulted by +Beethoven.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let90">90.<br> +TO VARENNA,--GRATZ.</h3> + +<p class="date">Töplitz, July 19, 1812.</p> + +<p>My thanks have been too long delayed for all the +dainties which the worthy ladies sent for my enjoyment; +being constantly ill in Vienna, I was at last +forced to take refuge here.</p> + +<p>However, better late than never; so I beg you +will say all sorts of kind things in my name to the +admirable Ursuline ladies, though I did not deserve +so much gratitude; indeed it is rather for me to +thank Him who enables me to render my art occasionally +useful to others. When you next wish to +make use of my poor abilities for the benefit of the +venerable ladies, you have only to write to me.</p> + +<p>A new symphony is now ready for you, and as +the Archduke Rudolph has had it copied out, it will +cost you nothing. Perhaps I may one of these +days be able to send you something vocal. I only +wish and hope that you will not ascribe my anxiety +to serve these venerable ladies to a certain degree +of vanity or desire for fame, as this would grieve +me exceedingly. If these good ladies wish to do +me any service in return, I beg they will include +me with their pupils in their pious orisons. I remain, +with esteem,</p> + +<p class="signature">Your friend,<br> +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<p>I shall remain here for some weeks; so if there is +any occasion to write, address to me here.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let91">91.<br> +WRITTEN IN THE ALBUM OF THE SINGER, MDME. AUGUSTE +SEBALD.</h3> + +<p class="date">Töplitz, August 8, 1812.</p> + +<p class="signature">LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN,</p> + +<p> +Who even if you would,<br> +Forget you never should. +</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let92">92.<br> +TO H.R. HIGHNESS THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">Franzensbrunn, Aug. 12, 1812.</p> + +<p>It was my bounden duty long ago to have recalled +myself to Y.R.H.'s recollection, but partly +my occupations and the state of my health, as well +as my own insignificance, made me reluctant to +do so. I missed Y.R.H. by one night only in +Prague; for when proceeding to pay my respects +to you in the morning, I found you had set off the +very night before. In Töplitz I heard a military +band four times a day,--the only musical report +which I can give you. I was a great deal with +Goethe.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote59">[1]</a></sup> My physician Staudenheim, however, +ordered me off to Carlsbad,<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote60">[2]</a></sup> and from thence here, +and probably I shall have to go back to Töplitz +from this. What flights! And yet it seems very +doubtful whether any improvement in my condition +has hitherto taken place. I receive the best accounts +of Y.R.H.'s health, and also of the persistent +devotion you exhibit towards the musical +Muse. Y.R.H. has no doubt heard of a concert +that I gave for the benefit of the sufferers by fire +in the Stadt Baden,<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote61">[3]</a></sup> assisted by Herr Polledro.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote62">[4]</a></sup> +The receipts were nearly 1000 florins W.W., and +if I had not been restricted in my arrangements we +might easily have taken 2000 florins. It was literally +a <i>poor concert for the poor</i>. I could only +find at the publisher's here some of my earlier +sonatas with violin accompaniments, and as Polledro +had set his heart on these, I was obliged to +content myself with playing an old Sonata.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote63">[5]</a></sup> The +entire concert consisted of a trio, in which Polledro +played, my Sonata with violin, then again +something was played by Polledro, and, lastly, I +extemporized. Meanwhile I do sincerely rejoice +that by this means something has fallen to the share +of the poor <i>Badeners</i>. Pray deign to accept my +best wishes for your welfare, and my entreaty that +you will sometimes think of me.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote59"><p>[Footnote 1: Beethoven speaks very briefly of his meeting with Goethe. Goethe +in his <i>Tag- und Jahrschriften</i> of 1812 makes no allusion to +Beethoven during his stay at Töplitz. It does not, therefore, appear that +either of these master-minds found any particular pleasure in each +other when they met personally. Beethoven, indeed, dedicated to "the +immortal Goethe" (1812) his composition the <i>Meeresstille und glückliche +Fahrt</i>, but only wrote once to him in 1823 to obtain a subscription +from the Grand Duke of Weimar for his Grand Mass, and received +no answer from Goethe. In the complete edition of Goethe's works +Beethoven's name is only once mentioned by Goethe, when he refers +to his funeral obsequies.]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote60"><p>[Footnote 2: +Dr. Staudenheim was, like Malfatti, one of the most celebrated +physicians in Vienna. Beethoven, too, was well acquainted with +Staudenheim, but in his regimen he neither followed the prescriptions +of Staudenheim nor of Malfatti.]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote61"><p>[Footnote 3: +The Stadt Baden, near Vienna, had been visited on July 16th by +a most destructive conflagration.]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote62"><p>[Footnote 4: +Giov. Batt. Polledro, Kapellmeister in Turin, born 1776, travelled +through Germany as a violinist from 1809 to 1812. He gave a concert +in Vienna in March, 1812.]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote63"><p>[Footnote 5: +The violin Sonata with pianoforte was probably Op. 47 (composed +in 1803 and published in 1805, according to Thayer, No. 111), or one +of his earlier compositions, Op. 30, or 24, or 23.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let93">93.<br> +TO BETTINA VON ARNIM.</h3> + +<p class="date">Töplitz, August 15, 1812.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY MOST DEAR KIND FRIEND,--</p> + +<p>Kings and princes can indeed create professors +and privy-councillors, and confer titles and decorations, +but they cannot make great men,--spirits +that soar above the base turmoil of this world. +There their powers fail, and this it is that forces +them to respect us.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote64">[1]</a></sup> When two persons like +Goethe and myself meet, these grandees cannot +fail to perceive what such as we consider great. +Yesterday, on our way home, we met the whole +Imperial family; we saw them coming some way +off, when Goethe withdrew his arm from mine, in +order to stand aside; and, say what I would, I could +not prevail on him to make another step in advance. +I pressed down my hat more firmly on my head, +buttoned up my great-coat, and, crossing my arms +behind me, I made my way through the thickest +portion of the crowd. Princes and courtiers formed +a lane for me; Archduke Rudolph took off his hat, +and the Empress bowed to me first. These great +ones of the earth <i>know me</i>. To my infinite amusement, +I saw the procession defile past Goethe, who +stood aside with his hat off, bowing profoundly. +I afterwards took him sharply to task for this; I +gave him no quarter, and upbraided him with all +his sins, especially towards you, my dear friend, as +we had just been speaking of you. Heavens! if I +could have lived with you as <i>he</i> did, believe me I +should have produced far greater things. A musician +is also a poet, he too can feel himself transported +into a brighter world by a pair of fine eyes, +where loftier spirits sport with him and impose +heavy tasks on him. What thoughts rushed into +my mind when I first saw you in the Observatory +during a refreshing May shower, so fertilizing to +me also!<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote65">[2]</a></sup> The most beautiful themes stole from +your eyes into my heart, which shall yet enchant +the world when Beethoven no longer <i>directs</i>. If +God vouchsafes to grant me a few more years of +life, I must then see you once more, my dear, most +dear friend, for the voice within, to which I always +listen, demands this. Spirits may love one another, +and I shall ever woo yours. Your approval is +dearer to me than all else in the world. I told +Goethe my sentiments as to the influence praise +has over men like us, and that we desire our equals +to listen to us with their understanding. Emotion +suits women only; (forgive me!) music ought to +strike fire from the soul of a man. Ah! my dear +girl, how long have our feelings been identical on +all points!!! The sole real good is some bright +kindly spirit to sympathize with us, whom we +thoroughly comprehend, and from whom we need +not hide our thoughts. <i>He who wishes to appear +something, must in reality be something.</i> The world +must acknowledge us, it is not always unjust; but +for this I care not, having a higher purpose in view. +I hope to get a letter from you in Vienna; write +to me soon and fully, for a week hence I shall be +there. The Court leaves this to-morrow, and to-day +they have another performance. The Empress +has studied her part thoroughly. The Emperor +and the Duke wished me to play some of my own +music, but I refused, for they are both infatuated +with <i>Chinese porcelain</i>. A little indulgence is required, +for reason seems to have lost its empire; +but I do not choose to minister to such perverse +folly--I will not be a party to such absurd doings +to please those princes who are constantly guilty +of eccentricities of this sort. Adieu! adieu! dear +one; your letter lay all night next my heart, and +cheered me. Musicians permit themselves great +license. <i>Heavens! how I love you!</i> Your most +faithful friend and deaf brother,</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote64"><p>[Footnote 1: +Fräulein Giannatasio del Rio, in the journal she sent to the <i>Grenz +Boten</i> in 1857, states that Beethoven once declared, "It is very pleasant +to associate with the great of the earth, but one must possess some +quality which inspires them with respect."]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote65"><p>[Footnote 2: According to Bettina (see <i>Goethe's Correspondence with a Child</i>, +II. 193), their first acquaintance was made in Beethoven's apartments.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let94">94.<br> +TO PRINCESS KINSKY,--PRAGUE</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, Dec. 30, 1812.</p> + +<p class="salutation">YOUR HIGHNESS,--</p> + +<p>The dreadful event which deprived you of your +husband, Prince von Kinsky, snatching him from +his father-land and from all those who love him,<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote66">[1]</a></sup> as +well as from many whom he generously supported, +filling every heart capable of appreciating goodness +and greatness with the deepest sorrow, affected me +also in the most profound and painful degree. The +stern duty of self-interest compels me to lay before +your Highness a humble petition, the reasonable +purport of which may, I hope, plead my excuse for +intruding on your Highness at a time when so +many affairs of importance claim your attention. +Permit me to state the matter to your Highness.</p> + +<p>Y.H. is no doubt aware that when I received a +summons to Westphalia in the year 1809, his Highness +Prince von Kinsky, your late husband, together +with his I.H. Archduke Rudolph and H.H. the +Prince von Lobkowitz, offered to settle on me for +life an annual income of 4000 gulden, provided I +declined the proposal in question, and determined to +remain in Austria. Although this sum was by no +means in proportion to that secured to me in Westphalia, +still my predilection for Austria, as well as +my sense of this most generous proposal, induced me +to accept it without hesitation. The share contributed +by H.H. Prince Kinsky consisted of 1800 +florins, which I have received by quarterly instalments +since 1809 from the Prince's privy purse. +Though subsequent occurrences partially diminished +this sum, I rested satisfied, till the appearance +of the Finance Patent, reducing bank-notes into +<i>Einlösung Schein</i>. I applied to H.I.H. the +Archduke Rudolph to request that the portion of +the annuity contributed by H.I.H. should in +future be paid in <i>Einlösung Schein</i>. This was at +once granted, and I received a written assurance +to that effect from H.I.H. Prince von Lobkowitz +agreed to the same with regard to his share,--700 +florins [see No. 84]. H.H. Prince von Kinsky +being at that time in Prague, I addressed my respectful +petition to him last May, through Herr +Varnhagen von Ense, an officer in the Vogelsang +Regiment, that his Highness's contribution to my +salary--1800 florins--should be paid like the +rest in <i>Einlösung Schein</i>. Herr von Varnhagen +wrote as follows, and the original of the letter is +still extant:--</p> + +<p>"I had yesterday the desired interview with +Prince Kinsky. With the highest praise of Beethoven, +he at once acceded to his demand, and is +prepared to pay up the arrears, and also all future +sums from the date of the <i>Einlösung Schein</i>, in +that currency. The cashier here has received the +necessary instructions, and Beethoven can draw for +the whole sum on his way through Prague, or, if +he prefers it, in Vienna, as soon as the Prince returns +there.</p> + +<p class="date">"Prague, June 9, 1812."</p> + +<p>When passing through Prague some weeks +afterwards, I took the opportunity of waiting on +the Prince, and received from him the fullest confirmation +of this promise. H.H. likewise assured +me that he entirely admitted the propriety of my +demand, and considered it quite reasonable. As I +could not remain in Prague till this affair was +finally settled, H.H. was so kind as to make me a +payment of sixty ducats on account, which, according +to H.H.'s calculation, were good for 600 florins +Vienna currency. The arrears were to be paid up +on my return to Vienna, and an order given to the +cashier to pay my salary in future in <i>Einlösung +Schein</i>. Such was H.H.'s pleasure. My illness +increasing in Töplitz, I was obliged to remain there +longer than I originally intended. In the month +of September I therefore addressed to H.H., who +was then in Vienna, through one of my friends +here, Herr Oliva, a written memorial, claiming his +promise, when H.H. graciously repeated to this +friend the assurance he had already given me, +adding that in the course of a few days he would +give the necessary instructions on the subject to his +cashier.</p> + +<p>A short time afterwards he left Vienna. When +I arrived there, I inquired from the Prince's secretary +whether H.H. had given directions about my +salary before leaving Vienna, when, to my surprise, +I was told that H.H. had done nothing in the +matter.</p> + +<p>My title to the liquidation of my claim is proved +by the testimony of the Herren von Varnhagen +and Oliva, to whom H.H. spoke on the subject, +reiterating his consent. I feel convinced that the +illustrious heirs and family of this prince will in +the same spirit of benevolence and generosity strive +to fulfil his intentions. I therefore confidently +place in Y.H.'s hands my respectful petition, viz., +"to pay up the arrears of my salary in <i>Einlösung +Schein</i>, and to instruct your cashier to transmit me +the amount in future, in the same currency." +Relying on your sense of justice according me a +favorable decision, I remain Y.H.'s</p> + +<p class="signature">Most obedient servant,<br> +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote66"><p>[Footnote 1: Prince Josef Ferdinand Kinsky, born December, 1781, and killed +by a fall from his horse, November 3, 1812.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let95">95.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">1813.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote67">[1]</a></sup></p> + +<p>I have been far from well since last Sunday, +but have suffered more in mind than in body. I +beg your forgiveness a thousand times for not +having sooner sent my apologies; each day I had +the strongest inclination to wait on you, but Heaven +knows that in spite of the best will that I always +entertain for the best of masters I was unable to +do so, distressing as it is to me not to have it in my +power to sacrifice all to him for whom I cherish +the highest esteem, love, and veneration. Y.R.H. +would perhaps act wisely in making a pause at +present with the Lobkowitz concerts; even the +most brilliant talent may lose its effect by too great +familiarity.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote67"><p>[Footnote 1: Prince Franz Josef Lobkowitz died December 25th, 1816. His +musical meetings were certainly continued till 1813, or longer.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let96">96.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">1813.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote68">[1]</a></sup></p> + +<p>At early dawn to-morrow the copyist shall begin +the last movement. As I am in the mean time +writing several other works, I did not hurry myself +much with this last movement merely for the sake +of punctuality, especially as I must write this more +deliberately, with a view to Rode's<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote69">[2]</a></sup> playing; we +like quick, full-toned passages in our <i>Finales</i>, which +do not suit R., and this rather cramps me. At all +events, all is sure to go well next Tuesday. I very +much doubt whether I shall be able to present myself +at Y.R.H.'s on that evening, in spite of my +zeal in your service; but to make up for this, I +mean to come to you to-morrow forenoon and to-morrow +afternoon, that I may entirely fulfil the +wishes of my illustrious pupil.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote68"><p>[Footnote 1: 1813. January--February.]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote69"><p>[Footnote 2: Pierre Rode, the violinist, arrived in Vienna in January, 1813, and +gave a concert in the Redoutensaal on February 6th, but did not give +universal satisfaction (<i>A.M.Z.</i>, 1813, p. 114), and a second concert +that he had projected does not appear to have taken place. He played +in Gratz on February 20th and 27th. It seems that Rode was to play +with Beethoven at the Archduke Rudolph's, for which occasion Beethoven +prepared a composition for them both. Was this the Sonata for +pianoforte and violin, Op. 36, which he afterwards dedicated to the +Archduke? Thayer states that it was written by Beethoven in 1810, +and sold to the music-publisher Steiner in Vienna in April, 1815. No +other composition for the violin and pianoforte is so likely to be the +one as this. It is, however, a mistake in the <i>Bibliothèque Universelle</i>, +tome xxxvi. p. 210, to state that Beethoven during Rode's stay +in Vienna composed the "délicieuse Romance" which was played +with so much expression by De Baillot on the violin. There are only +two Romances known for the violin by Beethoven, the one in G major, +Op. 40, in the year 1803, and the second in F major, Op. 50, published +in 1805. (Thayer, 102 and 104.)]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let97">97.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">1813.</p> + +<p>I had just gone out yesterday when your gracious +letter reached me. As for my health, it is +pretty much the same, particularly as moral causes +affect it, which do not seem likely to be removed; +particularly as I can have recourse to no one but +myself for aid, and can find help in my own head +alone; and more particularly still, because in these +days neither words, nor honor, nor written pledges, +seem binding on any one. As for my occupations, +I have come to an end with some of them, and, +even without your gracious invitation, I intended +to appear at the usual hour to-day. With regard +to Rode [see No. 96], I beg Y.R.H. to be so +good as to let me have the part by the bearer of +this, and I will send it to him at once, with a polite +note from me. <i>He certainly will not take amiss +my sending him the part. Oh! certainly not! +Would to Heaven that I were obliged to ask his forgiveness +on this account! for in that case things +would really be in a better position.</i> Is it your pleasure +that I should come to you this evening at five +o'clock as usual, or does Y.R.H. desire another +hour? I shall endeavor to arrange accordingly, and +punctually to fulfil your wishes.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let98">98.<br> +TO PRINCESS KINSKY.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, Feb. 12, 1813.</p> + +<p class="salutation">YOUR HIGHNESS!--</p> + +<p>You were so gracious as to declare with regard +to the salary settled on me by your deceased husband, +that you saw the propriety of my receiving +it in Vienna currency, but that the authority of the +court of law which has assumed the guardianship +of the estate must first be obtained. Under the +conviction that the authorities who represent their +princely wards could not fail to be influenced by +the same motives that actuated the late Prince in +his conduct towards me, I think I am justified in +expecting the ratification of my claim from the +aforesaid court, as I can prove, by the testimony of +well-known, respectable, and upright men, the promise +and intentions of H.H. in my behalf, which +cannot fail to be binding on his heirs and children. +If, therefore, the proofs submitted should even be +found deficient in legal formality, I cannot doubt +that this want will be supplied by the noble mode +of thinking of this illustrious house, and by their +own inclination to generous actions.</p> + +<p>Possibly another question may at present arise +from the condition of the inheritance, which is no +doubt heavily burdened, both owing to the melancholy +and sudden death of the late Prince, and by +the state of the times, which renders it equally +just and indispensable to husband carefully all possible +resources. On this account it is far from my +wish to claim more than is absolutely necessary for +my own livelihood, and grounded on the contract +itself,--the legality of such a claim on the heirs of +the late Prince not being in any way disputed.</p> + +<p>I beg, then, that Y.H. will be pleased to direct +the arrears of my salary, due since the 1st September, +1811, calculated in Vienna currency, in accordance +with the scale of the contract, making in +W.W. 1088 florins 42 kreuzers, to be paid, and <i>in +the interim</i>, the question whether this salary ought +to be paid in Vienna currency can be deferred until +the affairs are settled, when the subject is again +brought before the trustees, and my claims admitted +to be just by their consent and authority. The +late Prince having given me sixty ducats merely +on account of my salary, which was to be paid by +agreement in Vienna currency, and as this agreement +(as every intelligent man will inform Y.H.) +must be accepted to its full extent, or at all events +not cause me loss, it follows as a matter of course +that Y.H. will not object to my considering the +sixty ducats as only an instalment of the arrears +due to me beyond the usual scale of payment, +agreed to be paid in Vienna currency, so that the +amount must not be deducted from the sum still +due to me.</p> + +<p>I feel sure that Y.H.'s noble feelings will do justice +to the equity of my proposal, and my wish to +enter into every detail of this affair, so far as circumstances +permit, and also my readiness to postpone +my claims to suit your convenience. The +same elevated sentiments which prompted you to +fulfil the engagement entered into by the late +Prince, will also make Y.H. apprehend the absolute +necessity entailed on me by my position again +to solicit immediate payment of the arrears of my +salary, which are indispensable for my maintenance.</p> + +<p>Anxiously hoping for a favorable answer to my +petition, I have the honor to remain, with profound +respect,</p> + +<p class="signature">Y.R.H.'s obedient servant,<br> +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let99">99.<br> +TO PRINCESS KINSKY.</h3> + +<p class="salutation">HIGHLY HONORED PRINCESS!--</p> + +<p>As the Prince's counsel declared that my claim +could not be heard till the choice of a guardian had +been made, and as I now hear that Y.H. has been +graciously pleased yourself to assume that office, but +decline receiving any one, I present my humble +petition in writing, requesting at the same time +your early consideration; for you can easily understand +that, relying on a thing as a certainty, it is +painful to be so long deprived of it, especially as I +am obliged entirely to support an unfortunate sickly +brother and his whole family,<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote70">[1]</a></sup> which (not computing +my own wants) has entirely exhausted my resources, +having expected to provide for myself by +the payment of my salary. You may perceive the +justice of my claims from the fact of my faithfully +naming the receipt of the sixty ducats, advanced to +me by the late Prince in Prague, the Prince's counsel +himself declaring that I might have said nothing +about this sum, the late Prince not having mentioned +it either to him or to his cashier.</p> + +<p>Forgive my being obliged to intrude this affair +on you, but necessity compels me to do so. Some +days hence I shall take the liberty of making inquiries +on the subject from the Prince's counsel, or +from any one Y.H. may appoint.</p> + +<p>I remain, most esteemed and illustrious Princess,</p> + +<p class="signature">Your devoted servant,<br> +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote70"><p>[Footnote 1: See a letter to Ries, Nov. 22d, 1815:--"He was consumptive for +some years, and, in order to make his life easier, I can safely compute +what I gave him at 10,000 florins W.W."]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let100">100.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="salutation">DEAR Z.,--</p> + +<p>Forward the accompanying letter to-day without +fail to Brunswick, that it may arrive as soon and as +safely as possible. Excuse the trouble I give you. +I have been again applied to, to send some of my +works to Gratz, in Styria, for a concert to be given +in aid of the Ursuline convent and its schools: last +year they had very large receipts by this means. +Including this concert, and one I gave in Carlsbad +for the benefit of the sufferers from fire at Baden, +three concerts have been given by me, and through +me, for benevolent purposes in one year; and yet +if I ask a favor, people are as deaf as a post. Your</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<p>I. Letter to Sclowonowitsch (Maître des bureaux +des postes) in Cassel. I can no longer do without +the books of Tiedge and Frau von der Recke, as I +am expected to give some opinion about them.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let101">101.<br> +TO HERR JOSEPH VARENNA,--GRATZ.</h3> + +<p class="salutation">MY GOOD SIR,--</p> + +<p>Rode was not quite correct in all that he said of +me; my health is not particularly good, and from +no fault of my own,--my present condition being +the most unfortunate of my life. But neither this +nor anything in the world shall prevent me from +assisting, so far as it lies in my power, the innocent +and distressed ladies of your convent by my poor +works. I therefore place at your disposal two new +symphonies, a bass aria with chorus, and several +minor choruses; if you desire again to perform +"Hungaria's Benefactors," which you gave last +year, it is also at your service. Among the +choruses you will find a "Dervise Chorus," a capital +bait for a mixed public.</p> + +<p>In my opinion, your best plan would be to select +a day when you could give the "Mount of Olives," +which has been everywhere performed. This +would occupy one half of the concert, and the other +half might consist of a new symphony, the overtures, +and various choruses, and likewise the above-named +bass aria and chorus; thus the evening +would not be devoid of variety. But you can settle +all this more satisfactorily with the aid of your +own musical authorities. I think I can guess what +you mean about a gratuity for me from a <i>third person</i>. +Were I in the same position as formerly, I +would at once say, "Beethoven never accepts anything +<i>where the benefit of humanity is concerned</i>;" +but owing to my own too great benevolence I am +reduced to a low ebb, the cause of which, however, +does not put me to shame, being combined with +other circumstances for which men devoid of honor +and principle are alone to blame; so I do not hesitate +to say that I would not refuse the contribution +of the rich man to whom you allude.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote71">[1]</a></sup> But there +is no question here of any <i>claim</i>. If, however, the +affair with the <i>third person</i> comes to nothing, pray +rest assured that I shall be equally disposed to confer +the same benefit as last year on my friends the +respected Ursuline ladies, and shall at all times be +ready to succor the poor and needy so long as I +live. And now farewell! Write soon, and I will +zealously strive to make all necessary arrangements. +My best wishes for the convent.</p> + +<p class="signature">I am, with esteem, your friend,<br> +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote71"><p>[Footnote 1: Reichardt, on the 1st March, 1809, writes in his <i>Vertraute Briefe</i>,--"Beethoven, +by 'a rich third person,' as the following letter proves, +meant Louis Bonaparte, who, after abdicating the Dutch throne, lived +in Gratz."]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let102">102.<br> +TO VARENNA.</h3> + +<p class="salutation">MY EXCELLENT V. [VARENNA],--</p> + +<p>I received your letter with much pleasure, but +with much displeasure the 100 florins allotted to me +by our poor convent ladies; in the mean time I will +apply part of this sum to pay the copyists--the surplus +and the accounts for copying shall be sent to +these good ladies.</p> + +<p>I never accept anything for such a purpose. I +thought that perhaps the <i>third person</i> to whom you +alluded might be the Ex-King of Holland, in which +case I should have had no scruples, under my present +circumstances, in accepting a gratuity from him, +who has no doubt taken enough from the Dutch in +a less legitimate way; but as it is, I must decline +(though in all friendship) any renewal of this subject.</p> + +<p>Let me know whether, were I to come myself to +Gratz, I could give a concert, and what the receipts +would probably be; for Vienna, alas! can no longer +continue my place of abode. Perhaps it is now too +late? but any information from you on the point +will be very welcome.</p> + +<p>The works are being copied, and you shall have +them as soon as possible. You may do just what +you please with the Oratorio; where it will be of +most use it will best fulfil my intentions.</p> + +<p class="signature">I am, with esteem, your obedient<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<p>P.S. Say all that is kind from me to the worthy +Ursuline ladies. I rejoice in being able to serve +them.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let103">103.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p>Confounded, invited guest! <i>Domanowetz!</i>--not +musical Count, but gobbling Count! dinner Count! +supper Count! &c., &c. The Quartet is to be tried +over to-day at ten o'clock or half-past, at Lobkowitz's.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote72">[1]</a></sup> +His Highness, whose wits are generally +astray, is not yet arrived; so pray join us, if you can +escape from your Chancery jailer. Herzog is to see +you to-day. He intends to take the post of my +man-servant; you may agree to give him thirty +florins, with his wife <i>obbligata</i>. Firing, light, and +morning livery found. I must have some one who +knows how to cook, for if my food continues as bad +as it now is, I shall always be ill. I dine at home +to-day, because I get better wine. If you will only +order what you like, I very much wish you to come +to me. You shall have the wine <i>gratis</i>, and of far +better quality than what you get at the scoundrelly +"Swan."</p> + +<p class="signature">Your very insignificant<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote72"><p>[Footnote 1: Reichardt, in his <i>Vertraute Briefe</i>, writes: "The beautiful quartets +and evening concerts for the Archduke Rudolph still continue at +Prince von Lobkowitz's, although the Prince himself is about to join +his battalion in Bohemia." Reichardt, Vol. I. p. 182, calls Lobkowitz +"an indefatigable, insatiable, genuine enthusiast for art."]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let104">104.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="date">Feb. 25, 1813.</p> + +<p>I have been constantly indisposed, dear Zmeskall, +since I last saw you; in the mean time the servant +who lived with you before your present one has applied +for my situation. I do not recollect him, but +he told me he had been with you, and that you had +nothing to say against him, except that he did not +dress your hair as you wished. I gave him earnest-money, +though only a florin. Supposing you have +no other fault to find with the man (and if so I beg +you will candidly mention it), I intend to engage +him, for you know that it is no object with me to +have my hair dressed; it would be more to the purpose +if my finances could be dressed, or <i>re-dressed</i>. +I hope to get an answer from you to day. If there +is no one to open the door to your servant, let him +leave the note in the entrance to the left, and should +he find no one there either, he must give it to the +porter's wife below stairs. May Heaven prosper +you in your musical undertakings! Your</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN,<br> +<i>Miserabilis.</i></p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let105">105.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="date">Feb. 28, 1813.</p> + +<p>Let us leave things as they are for to-day, dear +Z., till we meet [and so on about the servant].</p> + +<p>Farewell! Carefully guard the fortresses of the +realm, which, as you know, are no longer virgins, +and have already received many a shot.</p> + +<p class="signature">Your friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let106">106.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="salutation">MOST WORTHY COUNSELLOR, OWNER OF MINES AND LORD OF FASTNESSES +IN BURGUNDY AND BUDA!--</p> + +<p>Be so good as to let me know how matters stand, +as this afternoon at latest I shall take advantage of +your reply to my question, by giving my servant +warning for this day fortnight. His wages, &c., &c. +[The rest relates to his servant.]</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let107">107.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="date">April 19, 1813.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY DEAR ZMESKALL,--</p> + +<p>I have been refused the University Hall. I +heard this two days since; but being indisposed +yesterday I could not go to see you, nor can I +to-day either. We have no resource now but the +Kärnthnerthor Theatre, or the one "an der Wien." +I believe there will only be one concert. If both +these fail, we must then have recourse to the Augarten, +in which case we ought certainly to give two +concerts. Reflect on this, my dear friend, and let +me have your opinion. To-morrow the symphonies +may perhaps be tried over at the Archduke's if I +am able to go out, of which I will apprise you.</p> + +<p class="signature">Your friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let108">108.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="date">April 23, 1813.</p> + +<p class="salutation">DEAR Z.,--</p> + +<p>All will go right, the Archduke being resolved +to take this Prince <i>Fizlypuzly</i> roundly to task. +Let me know if you are to dine at the tavern to-day, +or where? Pray tell me if "Sentivany" is +properly spelt, as I wish to write to him at the same +time about the Chorus. We must also consult together +what day to choose. By the by, be cautious +not to mention the intercession of the Archduke, +for Prince <i>Fizlypuzly</i> is not to be with him till Sunday, +and if that evil-minded creditor had any previous +hint of the affair, he would still try to evade us.</p> + +<p class="signature">Yours ever,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let109">109.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="date">April 26, 1813.</p> + +<p>Lobkowitz will give me a day on the 15th of +May, or after that period, which seems to me scarcely +better than none at all; so I am almost disposed to +give up all idea of a concert. But the Almighty +will no doubt prevent my being utterly ruined.</p> + +<p class="signature">Yours,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let110">110.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">Baden, May 27, 1813.</p> + +<p>I have the honor to inform you of my arrival in +Baden, which is indeed still very empty of human +beings, but with all the greater luxuriance and full +lustre does Nature shine in her enchanting loveliness. +Where I fail, or ever have failed, be graciously +indulgent towards me, for so many trying +occurrences, succeeding each other so closely, have +really almost bewildered me; still I am convinced +that the resplendent beauties of Nature here, and +the charming environs, will gradually restore my +spirits, and a double share of tranquillity be my portion, +as by my stay here I likewise fulfil the wishes +of Y.R.H. Would that my desire soon to hear that +Y.R.H. is fully restored were equally fulfilled! +This is indeed my warmest wish, and how much I +grieve that I cannot at this moment contribute to +your recovery by means of <i>my</i> art! This is reserved +for the goddess Hygeia alone, and I, alas! +am only a poor mortal, who commends himself to +Y.R.H., and sincerely hopes soon to be permitted +to wait on you.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let111">111.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, July 24, 1813.</p> + +<p>From day to day I have been expecting to return +to Baden; in the mean time, the discords that detain +me here may possibly be resolved by the end of the +ensuing week. To me a residence in a town during +the summer is misery, and when I also remember +that I am thus prevented waiting on Y.R.H., it is +still more vexatious and annoying. It is, in fact, +the Lobkowitz and Kinsky affairs that keep me here. +Instead of pondering over a number of bars, I am +obliged constantly to reflect on the number of peregrinations +I am forced to make; but for this, I could +scarcely endure to the end. Y.R.H. has no doubt +heard of Lobkowitz's misfortunes,<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote73">[1]</a></sup> which are much +to be regretted; but after all, to be rich is no such +great happiness! It is said that Count Fries alone +paid 1900 gold ducats to Duport, for which he had +the security of the ancient Lobkowitz house. The +details are beyond all belief. I hear that Count Rasumowsky<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote74">[2]</a></sup> +intends to go to Baden, and to take his +Quartet with him, which is really very pretty, and +I have no doubt that Y.R.H. will be much pleased +with it. I know no more charming enjoyment in +the country than quartet music. I beg Y.R.H. +will accept my heartfelt wishes for your health, and +also compassionate me for being obliged to pass my +time here under such disagreeable circumstances. +But I will strive to compensate twofold in Baden +for what you have lost.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote73"><p>[Footnote 1: Prince Lobkowitz's "misfortunes" probably refer to the great +pecuniary difficulties which befell this music and pomp loving Prince +several years before his death. Beethoven seems to have made various +attempts to induce the Prince to continue the payment of his share of +the salary agreed on, though these efforts were long fruitless. The +subject, however, appears to have been again renewed in 1816, for on +the 8th of March in this year Beethoven writes to Ries to say that his +salary consists of 3400 florins E.S., and this sum he received till his +death.]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote74"><p>[Footnote 2: Those who played in Count Rasumowsky's Quartets, to whom +Beethoven dedicated various compositions, were the <i>virtuosi</i> Schuppanzigh +(1st), Sina (2d violin), Linke (violoncello), Weiss (violin).]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let112">112.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">1813.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote75">[1]</a></sup></p> + +<p>I beg to inquire whether, being in some degree +restored, I am to wait on you this evening? I at +the same time take the liberty to make a humble +request. I was in hopes that by this time, at all +events, my melancholy circumstances would have +brightened, but all continues in its old state, so I +must determine on giving two concerts.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote76">[2]</a></sup> I find +that I am compelled to give up my former resolution +never to give any except for benevolent purposes; +as self-maintenance demands that I should +do so. The hall of the University would be the +most advantageous and distinguished for my present +object, and my humble request consists in entreating +Y.R.H. to be so gracious as to send a line to the +present <i>Rector Magnificus</i> of the University, through +Baron Schweiger, which would certainly ensure my +getting the hall. In the hope of a favorable answer, +I remain, &c., &c.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote75"><p>[Footnote 1: Late in the autumn of 1813.]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote76"><p>[Footnote 2: The concerts here referred to were given in the University Hall on +the 8th and 12th December, 1813, when the <i>Battle of Vittoria</i> and the +A major Symphony were performed for the first time. Beethoven +himself conducted.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let113">113.<br> +TO FREIHERR JOSEF VON SCHWEIGER.</h3> + +<p class="date">Late in the Autumn of 1813.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY DEAR FRIEND,--</p> + +<p>I have to-day applied (by letter) to my gracious +master to interest himself in procuring the University +Hall for two concerts which I think of giving, +and in fact must give, for all remains as it was. +Always considering you, both in good and evil fortune, +my best friend, I suggested to the Duke that +you should apply in his name for this favor to the +present Rector of the University. Whatever may +be the result, let me know H.R.H.'s decision as +soon as possible, that I may make further efforts to +extricate myself from a position so detrimental to +me and to my art. I am coming this evening to the +Archduke.</p> + +<p class="signature">Your friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.<br> +[K.]</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let114">114.<br> +TO HERR VON BAUMEISTER.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote77">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="salutation">DEAR SIR,--</p> + +<p>I request you will send me the parts of the Symphony +in A, and likewise my score. His I.H. can +have the MS. again, but I require it at present for +the music in the Augarten to-morrow. I have just +received two tickets, which I send to you, and beg +you will make use of them.</p> + +<p class="signature">I am, with esteem, yours,<br> +L. V. BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote77"><p>[Footnote 1: Private Secretary to the Archduke Rudolph.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let115">115.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="date">Oct. 9, 1813.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY DEAR GOOD Z.,--</p> + +<p>Don't be indignant with me for asking you to +address the enclosed letter properly; the person for +whom it is intended is constantly complaining that +he gets no letters from me. Yesterday I took one +myself to the post-office, when I was asked where +the letter was meant to go. I see, therefore, that +my writing seems to be as little understood as myself. +Thence my request to you. Your</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let116">116.<br> +LETTER OF THANKS.</h3> + +<p>I esteem it my duty to express my gratitude for +the great zeal shown by all those artists who so +kindly coöperated on the 8th and 12th December +[1813] in the concerts given for the benefit of the +Austrian and Bavarian soldiers wounded at the +battle of Hanau. It was a rare combination of +eminent artists, where all were inspired by the +wish to be of use to their father-land, and to contribute +by the exercise of their talents to the fulfilment +of the undertaking, while, regardless of +all precedence, they gladly accepted subordinate +places.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote78">[1]</a></sup> While an artist like Herr Schuppanzigh +was at the head of the first violins, and by his fiery +and expressive mode of conducting kindled the zeal +of the whole orchestra, Herr Kapellmeister Salieri +did not scruple to give the time to the drums and +cannonades; Herr Spohr and Herr Mayseder, each +worthy from his talents to fill the highest post, +played in the second and third rank. Herr Siboni +and Herr Giuliani also filled subordinate places. +The conducting of the whole was only assigned to +me from the music being my own composition; had +it been that of any one else, I would willingly, like +Herr Hummel, have taken my place at the big +drum, as the only feeling that pervaded all our +hearts was true love for our father-land, and the +wish cheerfully to devote our powers to those who +had sacrificed so much for us. Particular thanks +are due to Herr Maelzel, inasmuch as he first suggested +the idea of this concert, and the most +troublesome part of the enterprise, the requisite +arrangements, management, and regulations, devolved +on him. I more especially thank him for +giving me an opportunity by this concert of fulfilling +a wish I have long cherished, to compose for +such a benevolent object (exclusive of the works +already made over to him) a comprehensive work +more adapted to the present times, to be laid on +the altar of my father-land.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote79">[2]</a></sup> As a notice is to be +published of all those who assisted on this occasion, +the public will be enabled to judge of the noble +self-denial exercised by a mass of the greatest artists, +working together with the same benevolent object +in view.</p> + +<p class="signature">LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote78"><p>[Footnote 1: The A major Symphony and <i>Wellington's Victory at Vittoria</i> were +performed.]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote79"><p>[Footnote 2: "Obsolete" is written in pencil by Beethoven.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let117">117.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote80">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">1814.</p> + +<p>I beg you will send me the score of the "Final +Chorus"<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote81">[2]</a></sup> for half a day, as the theatrical score is +so badly written.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote80"><p>[Footnote 1: The spring of 1814.]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote81"><p>[Footnote 2: The <i>Schlusschor</i>, the score of which Beethoven requests the Archduke +to send him, is in all probability the Finale <i>Germania! Germania!</i> +intended for Treitschke's Operetta <i>Die gute Nachricht</i>, which +refers to the taking of Paris by the Allies, and was performed for the +first time at Vienna in the Kärnthnerthor Theatre on the 11th April, +1814. The same <i>Final Chorus</i> was substituted for another of Beethoven's +(<i>Es ist vollbracht</i>) in Treitschke's Operetta <i>Die Ehrenpforten</i>, +first given on the 15th July, 1815, in the Kärnthnerthor Theatre. Both +these choruses are printed in score in Breitkopf & Härtel's edition of +Beethoven's works.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let118">118.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">1814.</p> + +<p>Having only so recently received the score of +the "Final Chorus," I must ask you to excuse +your getting it back so late. The best thing H.R.H. +can do is to have it transcribed, for in its present +form the score is of no use. I would have brought +it myself, but I have been laid up with a cold since +last Sunday, which is most severe, and obliges me +to be very careful, being so much indisposed. I +never feel greater satisfaction than when Y.R.H. +derives any pleasure through me. I hope very soon +to be able to wait on you myself, and in the mean +time I pray that you will keep me in remembrance.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let119">119.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">1814.</p> + +<p>The song "Germania" belongs to the whole +world who sympathize with the subject, and to you +beyond all others, just as I myself am wholly yours. +I wish you a good journey to Palermo.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let120">120.<br> +TO TREITSCHKE.</h3> + +<p class="date">March, 1814.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY DEAR, WORTHY T.,--</p> + +<p>I have read with the greatest satisfaction your +amendments of the Opera ["Fidelio" which was +about to be again performed]. It has decided me +once more to rebuild the desolate ruins of an ancient +fortress.</p> + +<p class="signature">Your friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let121">121.<br> +TO TREITSCHKE.</h3> + +<p>The affair of the Opera is the most troublesome +in the world, and there is scarcely one part of it +which quite satisfies me now, and that I have not +been obliged to <i>amend by something more satisfactory</i>. +But what a difference between this, and +giving one's self up to freely flowing thought and +inspiration!</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let122">122.<br> +TO TREITSCHKE.</h3> + +<p class="date">1814.</p> + +<p>I request, my dear T., that you will send me +the score of the song [in "Fidelio," <i>Geld ist eine +schöne Sache</i>], that the interpolated notes may be +transcribed in all the instrumental parts; though I +shall not take it at all amiss if you prefer that +Girowetz or any other person, perhaps Weinmüller +[who sang the part of Rocco], should do so. This +I have nothing to say against, but I will not suffer +my composition to be altered by any one whatever, +be he who he may.</p> + +<p class="signature">I am, with high consideration,<br> +Your obedient<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let123">123.<br> +TO COUNT MORITZ LICHNOWSKY.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote82">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="salutation">MY DEAR COUNT,--</p> + +<p>If you wish to attend our council [about the alterations +in "Fidelio"], I beg to inform you that +it assembles this afternoon at half-past three o'clock, +in the Spielmann Haus, auf dem Graben, No. 188, +4th Etage, at Herr Weinmüller's. I shall be very +glad if you have leisure to be present.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote82"><p>[Footnote 1: The mention of Weinmüller decides the date of this note, as it was +in the spring of 1814 that he, together with the singers Saal and Vogl, +brought about the revival of <i>Fidelio</i>.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let124">124.<br> +TO COUNT MORITZ LICHNOWSKY.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote83">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p>My dear, victorious, and yet sometimes nonplussed +(?) Count! I hope that you rested well, +most precious and charming of all Counts! Oh! +most beloved and unparalleled Count! most fascinating +and prodigious Count!</p> + +<p> +<img src="images/graf.png" alt="[picture of music]"> +</p> + +<p>(<i>To be repeated at pleasure</i>.)</p> + +<p>At what hour shall we call on Walter to-day? +My going or not depends entirely on you. Your</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote83"><p>[Footnote 1: In Schindler's <i>Beethoven's Nachlass</i> there is also an autograph +Canon of Beethoven's in F major, 6/8, on Count Lichnowsky, on the +words, <i>Bester Herr Graf, Sie sind ein Schaf</i>, written (according to +Schindler) Feb. 20th, 1823, in the coffee-house "Die Goldne Birne," +in the Landstrasse, where Beethoven usually went every evening, +though he generally slipped in by the backdoor.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let125">125.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">1814.</p> + +<p>I hope you forgive me for not having come to +you. Your displeasure would be totally undeserved, +and I will amply compensate for lost time in a few +days. My Opera of "Fidelio"<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote84">[1]</a></sup> is again to be performed, +which gives me a great deal to do; moreover, +though I look well, I am not so in reality. +The arrangements for my second concert<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote85">[2]</a></sup> are +partly completed. I must write something new for +Mdlle. Milder.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote86">[3]</a></sup> Meanwhile it is a consolation to +me to hear that Y.R.H. is so much better. I +hope I am not too sanguine in thinking that I shall +soon be able to contribute towards this. I have +taken the liberty to apprise my Lord Falstaff<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote87">[4]</a></sup> that +he is ere long to have the honor of appearing before +Y.R.H.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote84"><p>[Footnote 1: Letters 125 and 126 refer to the revival of the Opera of <i>Fidelio</i>, +which had not been given since 1806, and was not again produced on +the stage till the 23d May, 1814, in the Kärnthnerthor Theatre. Beethoven's +benefit took place on the 8th July, two newly composed pieces +being inserted.]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote85"><p>[Footnote 2: Beethoven gave a concert on the 2d January, 1814, when <i>Wellington's +Victory</i> was performed, and on the 26th March another for the +benefit of the Theatrical Fund, at which the <i>Overture to Egmont</i> and +<i>Wellingtons's Victory</i> were given, directed by Beethoven himself.]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote86"><p>[Footnote 3: Anna Milder, Royal Court opera singer, a pupil of Vogl's, who +first sang the part of Leonore in <i>Fidelio</i>.]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote87"><p>[Footnote 4: By "my Lord Falstaff" he means the corpulent violinist Schuppanzigh.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let126">126.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, July 14, 1814.</p> + +<p>Whenever I inquire about you I hear nothing +but good news. As for my own insignificant self, +I have been hitherto hopelessly detained in Vienna, +and unable to approach Y.R.H.; I am also thus +deprived of the enjoyment of beautiful Nature, so +dear to me. The directors of the theatre are so +<i>conscientious</i>, that, contrary to their faithful promise, +they have again given my Opera of "Fidelio," +without thinking of giving me any share in the +receipts. They would have exhibited the same +commendable good faith a second time, had I not +been on the watch like a French custom-house officer +of other days. At last, after a great many +troublesome discussions, it was settled that the +Opera of "Fidelio" should be given on Monday +the 18th of July, for my benefit. These <i>receipts</i> +at this season of the year may more properly be +called <i>deceits</i>; but if a work is in any degree successful +it often becomes a little feast for the author. +To this feast the master invites his illustrious pupil, +and hopes--yes! I hope that Y.R.H. will graciously +consent to come, and thus add lustre to +everything by your presence. It would be a great +boon if Y.R.H. would endeavor to persuade the +other members of the Imperial family to be present +at the representation of my Opera, and I on my +part will not fail to take the proper steps on the +subject which duty commands. Vogl's illness<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote88">[1]</a></sup> enabled +me to satisfy my desire to give the part of +Pizarro to Forti,<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote89">[2]</a></sup> his voice being better suited to +it; but owing to this there are daily rehearsals, +which cannot fail to have a favorable effect on the +performance, but which render it impossible for me +to wait upon Y.R.H. before my benefit. Pray +give this letter your favorable consideration, and +think graciously of me.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote88"><p>[Footnote 1: Joh. Mich. Vogl, born August 10th, 1768, was Court opera singer +(tenor) in Vienna from 1794 to 1822; he died November 19th, 1840.]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote89"><p>[Footnote 2: Forti, born June 8th, 1790, a member of the Royal Court Theatre +(a barytone), pensioned off in 1834.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let127">127.<br> +DEPOSITION.</h3> + +<p class="date">1814.</p> + +<p>I voluntarily presented Maelzel <i>gratis</i> with a +"Battle Symphony" for his panharmonica. After +having kept it for some time, he brought me back +the score, which he had already begun to engrave, +saying that he wished it to be harmonized for a full +orchestra. The idea of a battle had already occurred +to me, which, however, could not be performed on +his panharmonica. We agreed to select this and +some more of my works [see No. 116] to be given +at the concert for the benefit of disabled soldiers. +At that very time I became involved in the most +frightful pecuniary difficulties. Forsaken by every +one in Vienna, and in daily expectation of remittances, +&c., Maelzel offered me fifty gold ducats, +which I accepted, saying that I would either repay +them, or allow him to take the work to London, +(provided I did not go there myself with him,) +referring him to an English publisher for payment.</p> + +<p>I got back from him the score written for the +panharmonica. The concerts then took place, and +during that time Herr Maelzel's designs and character +were first fully revealed. Without my consent, +he stated on the bills of the concert that the work +was <i>his property</i>. Indignant at this, I insisted on +his destroying these bills. He then stated that I +had given it to him as a friendly act, because he +was going to London. To this I did not object, +believing that I had reserved the right to state the +conditions on which the work should be his own. I +remember that when the bills were being printed, +I violently opposed them, but the time was too +short, as I was still writing the work. In all the +fire of inspiration, and absorbed in my composition, +I scarcely thought at all on the subject. Immediately +after the first concert in the University Hall, +I was told on all sides, and by people on whom I +could rely, that Maelzel had everywhere given out +he had paid me 400 gold ducats for the Symphony. +I sent what follows to a newspaper, but the +editor would not insert it, as Maelzel stands well +with them all. As soon as the first concert was +over, I repaid Maelzel his fifty ducats, declaring that +having discovered his real character, nothing should +ever induce me to travel with him; justly indignant +that, without consulting me, he had stated in the bills +that all the arrangements for the concert were most +defective. His own despicable want of patriotism +too is proved by the following expressions: "I care +nothing at all about L.; if it is only said in London +that people have paid ten gulden for admission here, +that is all I care about; the wounded are nothing +to me." Moreover, I told him that he might take +the work to London on certain conditions, which I +would inform him of. He then asserted that it was +a <i>friendly gift</i>, and made use of this phrase in the +newspapers after the second concert, without giving +me the most remote hint on the subject. As Maelzel +is a rude, churlish man, entirely devoid of education +or cultivation, it is easy to conceive the tenor +of his conduct to me during this time, which still +further irritated me. Who could bear to be forced +to bestow a <i>friendly gift</i> on such a man? I was +offered an opportunity to send the work to the +Prince Regent, [afterwards George IV.] It was +therefore quite impossible for me to <i>give away the +work unconditionally</i>.</p> + +<p>He then called on a mutual friend to make proposals. +He was told on what day to return for an +answer, but he never appeared, set off on his travels, +and performed the work in Munich. How did he +obtain it? He could not possibly <i>steal</i> it; but Herr +Maelzel had several of the parts for some days in +his house, and he caused the entire work to be harmonized +by some obscure musical journeyman, and +is now hawking it about the world. Herr Maelzel +promised me ear-trumpets. I harmonized the +"Battle Symphony" for his panharmonica from a +wish to keep him to his word. The ear-trumpets +came at last, but were not of the service to me that +I expected. For this slight trouble Herr Maelzel, +after my having arranged the "Battle Symphony" +for a full orchestra, and composed a battle-piece in +addition, declared that I ought to have made over +these works to him as <i>his own exclusive property</i>. +Even allowing that I am in some degree obliged to +him for the ear-trumpets, this is entirely balanced +by his having made at least 500 gulden in Munich +by my mutilated or stolen battle-piece. He has +therefore paid himself in full. He had actually the +audacity to say here that he was in possession of the +battle-piece; in fact he showed it, written out, to +various persons. I did not believe this; and, in +fact, with good reason, as the whole is not by me, +but compiled by some one else. Indeed the credit +he assumes for the work should alone be sufficient +compensation.</p> + +<p>The secretary at the War Office made no allusion +whatever to me, and yet every work performed at +both concerts was of my composition.</p> + +<p>Herr Maelzel thinks fit to say that he has delayed +his visit to London on account of the battle-piece, +which is a mere subterfuge. He stayed to finish +his patchwork, as the first attempt did not succeed.</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let128">128.<br> +TO HERR J. KAUKA, DOCTOR OF LAWS IN PRAGUE, IN THE +KINGDOM OF BOHEMIA.</h3> + +<p class="date">The Summer of 1814.</p> + +<p>A thousand thanks, my esteemed Kauka. At +last I meet with a <i>legal representative</i> and a <i>man</i>, +who can both write and think without using unmeaning +formulas. You can scarcely imagine how +I long for the end of this affair, as it not only interferes +with my domestic expenditure, but is injurious +to me in various ways. You know yourself that a +sensitive spirit ought not to be fettered by miserable +anxieties, and much that might render my life happy +is thus abstracted from it. Even my inclination and +the duty I assigned myself, to serve suffering humanity +by means of my art, I have been obliged to +limit, and must continue to do so.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote90">[1]</a></sup></p> + +<p>I write nothing about our monarchs and monarchies, +for the newspapers give you every information +on these subjects.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote91">[2]</a></sup> The intellectual realm is +the most precious in my eyes, and far above all +temporal and spiritual monarchies. Write to me, +however, what you wish <i>for yourself</i> from my poor +musical capabilities, that I may, in so far as it lies +in my power, supply something for your own musical +sense and feeling. Do you not require all the +papers connected with the Kinsky case? If so I +will send them to you, as they contain most important +testimony, which, indeed, I believe you read +when with me. Think of me and do not forget +that you represent a disinterested artist in opposition +to a niggardly family. How gladly do men withhold +from the poor artist in one respect <i>what they +pay him in another</i>, and there is no longer a Zeus +with whom an artist can invite himself to feast on +ambrosia. Strive, my dear friend, to accelerate the +tardy steps of justice. Whenever I feel myself +elevated high, and in happy moments revel in my +artistic sphere, circumstances drag me down again, +and none more than these two lawsuits. You too +have your disagreeable moments, though with the +views and capabilities I know you to possess, +especially in your profession, I could scarcely have +believed this; still I must recall your attention to +myself. I have drunk to the dregs a cup of bitter +sorrow, and already earned martyrdom in art +through my beloved artistic disciples and colleagues. +I beg you will think of me every day, and imagine +it to be an <i>entire world</i>, for it is really asking rather +too much of you to think of so humble an <i>individual</i> +as myself.</p> + +<p>I am, with the highest esteem and friendship,</p> + +<p class="signature">Your obedient<br> +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote90"><p>[Footnote 1: He supported a consumptive brother and his wife and child.]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote91"><p>[Footnote 2: At the Vienna Congress Beethoven was received with much distinction +by the potentates present.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let129">129.<br> +ADDRESS AND APPEAL TO LONDON ARTISTS BY L. VAN BEETHOVEN.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, July 25, 1814.</p> + +<p>Herr Maelzel, now in London, on his way +thither performed my "Battle Symphony" and +"Wellington's Battle of Vittoria" in Munich, and +no doubt he intends to produce them at London +concerts, as he wished to do in Frankfort. This +induces me to declare that I never in any way made +over or transferred the said works to Herr Maelzel; +that no one possesses a copy of them, and that the +only one verified by me I sent to his Royal Highness +the Prince Regent of England. The performance +of these works, therefore, by Herr Maelzel is +either an imposition on the public, as the above +declaration proves that he does not possess them, or +if he does, he has been guilty of a breach of faith +towards me, inasmuch as he must have got them in +a surreptitious manner.</p> + +<p>But even in the latter case the public will still be +deluded, for the works that Herr Maelzel performs +under the titles of "Wellington's Battle of Vittoria" +and "Battle Symphony" are beyond all doubt spurious +and mutilated, as he never had any portion +of either of these works of mine, except some of the +parts for a few days.</p> + +<p>This suspicion becomes a certainty from the testimony +of various artists here, whose names I am +authorized to give if necessary. These gentlemen +state that Herr Maelzel, before he left Vienna, +declared that he was in possession of these works, +and showed various portions, which, however, as I +have already proved, must be counterfeit. The +question whether Herr Maelzel be capable of doing +me such an injury is best solved by the following +fact,--In the public papers he named himself as sole +giver of the concert on behalf of our wounded +soldiers, whereas my works alone were performed +there, and yet he made no allusion whatsoever to +me.</p> + +<p>I therefore appeal to the London musicians not +to permit such a grievous wrong to be done to their +fellow-artist by Herr Maelzel's performance of the +"Battle of Vittoria" and the "Battle Symphony," +and also to prevent the London public being so +shamefully imposed upon.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let130">130.<br> +TO DR. KAUKA.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, August 22, 1814</p> + +<p>You have shown a feeling for harmony, and you +can resolve a great discord in my life, which causes +me much discomfort, into more pleasing melody, if +you will. I shortly expect to hear something of +what you understand is likely to happen, as I eagerly +anticipate the result of this most <i>unjust</i> affair +with the Kinskys. When the Princess was here, +she seemed to be well disposed towards me; still I +do not know how it will end. In the mean time I +must restrict myself in everything, and await with +entire confidence what is <i>rightfully my own</i> and <i>legally +devolves on me</i>; and though unforeseen occurrences +caused changes in this matter, still two witnesses +recently bore testimony to the wish of the +deceased Prince that my appointed salary in <i>Banco +Zettel</i> should be paid in <i>Einlösung Schein</i>, making +up the original sum, and the Prince himself gave +me sixty gold ducats <i>on account</i> of my claim.</p> + +<p>Should the affair turn out badly for me by the +conduct of the Kinsky family, I will publish it in +every newspaper, to their disgrace. If there had +been an heir, and the facts had been told to him <i>in +all their truth</i>, just as I narrated them, I am convinced +that he would at once have adopted the +words and deeds of his predecessor. Has Dr. Wolf +[the previous advocate] shown you the papers, or +shall I make you acquainted with them? As I am +by no means sure that this letter will reach you +safely, I defer sending you the pianoforte arrangement +of my opera "Fidelio," which is ready to be +dispatched.</p> + +<p>I hope, in accordance with your usual friendliness, +soon to hear from you. I am also writing to +Dr. Wolf (who certainly does not treat any one +<i>wolfishly</i>), in order not to arouse his <i>passion</i>, so that +he may have <i>compassion</i> on me, and neither take +my purse nor my life.</p> + +<p class="signature">I am, with esteem, your true friend,<br> +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let131">131.<br> +TO COUNT MORITZ LICHNOWSKY.</h3> + +<p class="date">Baden, Sept. 21, 1841.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote92">[1]</a></sup></p> + +<p class="salutation">MOST ESTEEMED COUNT AND FRIEND,--</p> + +<p>I unluckily only got your letter yesterday. A +thousand thanks for your remembrance of me. +Pray express my gratitude also to your charming +Princess Christiane [wife of Prince Carl Lichnowsky]. +I had a delightful walk yesterday with +a friend in the Brühl, and in the course of our +friendly chat you were particularly mentioned, and +lo! and behold! on my return I found your kind +letter. I see you are resolved to continue to load +me with benefits.</p> + +<p>As I am unwilling you should suppose that a +step I have already taken is prompted by your recent +favors, or by any motive of the sort, I must +tell you that a sonata of mine [Op. 90] is about to +appear, <i>dedicated to you</i>. I wished to give you a +surprise, as this dedication has been long designed +for you, but your letter of yesterday induces me to +name the fact. I required no new motive thus +publicly to testify my sense of your friendship and +kindness. But as for anything approaching to a +gift in return, you would only distress me, by thus +totally misinterpreting my intentions, and I should +at once decidedly refuse such a thing.</p> + +<p>I beg to kiss the hand of the Princess for her +kind message and all her goodness to me. <i>Never +have I forgotten what I owe to you all</i>, though an +unfortunate combination of circumstances prevented +my testifying this as I could have wished.</p> + +<p>From what you tell me about Lord Castlereagh, I +think the matter in the best possible train. If I +were to give an opinion on the subject, I should +say that Lord Castlereagh ought to hear the work +given here before writing to Wellington. I shall +soon be in Vienna, when we can consult together +about a grand concert. Nothing is to be effected +at Court; I made the application, but--but--</p> + +<p> +<img src="images/allein.png" alt="[picture of music]"> +</p> + +<p><i>Silentium!!!</i></p> + +<p>Farewell, my esteemed friend; pray continue to +esteem me worthy of your friendship. Yours,</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<p>A thousand compliments to the illustrious Princess.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote92"><p>[Footnote 1: The date reversed, as written by Beethoven, is here given.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let132">132.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">1814.</p> + +<p>I perceive that Y.R.H. wishes to try the effect +of my music even upon horses.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote93">[1]</a></sup> We shall see +whether its influence will cause the riders to throw +some clever summersets. Ha! ha! I can't help +laughing at Y.R.H. thinking of me on such an +occasion; for which I shall remain so long as I live, +&c., &c., &c. The horse-music that Y.R.H. desires +shall set off to you full gallop.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote93"><p>[Footnote 1: A tournament was held on the 23d November, 1814, in the Royal +Riding School. Beethoven was probably requested by the Archduke +to compose some music for it, which, however, has not been traced.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let133">133.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">1814.</p> + +<p>It is impossible for me to-day to wait on you, +much as I wish it. I am dispatching the work on +Wellington's victory<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote94">[1]</a></sup> to London. Such matters +have their appointed and fixed time, which cannot +be delayed without final loss. To-morrow I hope +to be able to call on Y.R.H.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote94"><p>[Footnote 1: The Cantata <i>Der glorreiche Augenblick</i>, the poetry by Dr. Alois +Weissenbach, set to music by Beethoven for chorus and orchestra (Op. +136), was first given in Vienna on the 29th November, 1814, and repeated +on the 2d December.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let134">134.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">(In a different hand) Dec. 1814.</p> + +<p>I really feel that I can never deserve your +goodness towards me. I beg to offer my most respectful +thanks for Y.R.H.'s gracious intervention +in my affairs at Prague. I will punctually attend +to the score of the Cantata.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote95">[1]</a></sup> I trust Y.R.H. will +forgive my not having yet been to see you. After +the concert for the poor, comes one in the theatre, +equally for the benefit of the <i>impresario in angustia</i>, +for they have felt some just shame, and have let +me off with one third and one half of the usual +charges. I have now some fresh work on hand, +and then there is a new opera to be begun,<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote96">[2]</a></sup> the +subject of which I am about to decide on. Moreover, +I am again far from well, but a few days +hence I will wait on Y.R.H. If I could be of +any service to Y.R.H., the most eager and anxious +wish of my life would be fulfilled.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote95"><p>[Footnote 1: What concert Beethoven alludes to I cannot discover, but no mention +of it being made in the very exact <i>Allgemeine Leipziger Musikalische +Zeitung</i>, it appears not to have taken place.]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote96"><p>[Footnote 2: The new opera, with the subject of which Beethoven was occupied, +was no doubt Treitschke's <i>Romulus</i>.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let135">135.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">1814.</p> + +<p>My warmest thanks for your present.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote97">[1]</a></sup> I only +regret that you could not participate in the music. +I have now the honor to send you the score of the +Cantata [see No. 134]. Y.R.H. can keep it for +some days, and afterwards I shall take care that it +is copied for you as soon as possible.</p> + +<p>I feel still quite exhausted from fatigue and +worry, pleasure and delight!--all combined! I +shall have the honor of waiting on you in the course +of a few days. I hope to hear favorable accounts +of Y.R.H.'s health. How gladly would I sacrifice +many nights, were it in my power to restore +you entirely!</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote97"><p>[Footnote 1: The present he refers to was probably for the concert of November +29th, or December 2d, 1814.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let136">136.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">1814.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote98">[1]</a></sup></p> + +<p>I see with real pleasure that I may dismiss all +fears for your well-being. As for myself, I hope +(always feeling happy when able to give you any +pleasure) that my health is also rapidly recruiting, +when I intend forthwith to compensate both you +and myself for the <i>pauses</i> that have occurred. As +for Prince Lobkowitz, his <i>pauses</i> with me still continue, +and I fear he will never again come in at +the right place; and in Prague (good heavens! +with regard to Prince Kinsky's affair) they scarcely +as yet know what a figured bass is, for they sing in +slow, long-drawn choral notes; some of these sustained +through sixteen bars |======|. As all these +discords seem likely to be very slowly resolved, it +is best to bring forward only those which we can +ourselves resolve, and to give up the rest to inevitable +fate. Allow me once more to express my delight +at the recovery of Y.R.H.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote98"><p>[Footnote 1: 1814 or 1815. Prince Lobkowitz was still alive at that time (died +December 21st, 1816).]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let137">137.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">1814.</p> + +<p>As you were so kind as to let me know through +Count Troyer<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote99">[1]</a></sup> that you would write a few lines on +my affairs in Prague to the <i>Oberstburggraf</i> Count +Kolowrat, I take the liberty to enclose my letter to +Count K.; I do not believe that it contains anything +to which Y.R.H. will take exception. There +is no chance of my being allowed payment in <i>Einlösung +Schein</i>, for, in spite of all the proofs, the +guardians cannot be persuaded to consent to this; +still it is to be hoped that by the friendly steps we +have meanwhile had recourse to, <i>extra-judicially</i>, a +more favorable result may be obtained,--as, for +instance, the rate of the scale to be higher. If, +however, Y.R.H. will either write a few words +yourself, or cause it to be done in your name, the +affair will certainly be <i>much accelerated</i>, which induces +me earnestly to entreat Y.R.H. to perform +your gracious promise to me. This affair has now +gone on for three years, and is still--undecided.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote99"><p>[Footnote 1: Count Ferdinand Troyer was one of the Archduke's chamberlains.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let138">138.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">1814.</p> + +<p>I have again for a fortnight past been afflicted +with severe headaches, though constantly hoping to +get better, but in vain. Now, however, that the +weather is improved, my physician promises me a +speedy cure. Though as each day I expected to be +the last of my suffering, I did not write to you on +the subject; besides, I thought that Y.R.H. probably +did not require me, as it is so long since Y.R.H. +sent for me. During the festivities in honor of +the Princess of Baden,<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote100">[1]</a></sup> and the injury to Y.R.H.'s +finger, I began to work very assiduously, and as +the fruit of this, among others, is a new pianoforte +trio.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote101">[2]</a></sup> Myself very much occupied, I had no idea +that I had incurred the displeasure of Y.R.H., +though I now begin almost to think this to be the +case. In the mean time I hope soon to be able to +present myself before your tribunal.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote100"><p>[Footnote 1: The festivities in honor of the Princess of Baden were probably +during the Congress, 1814.]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote101"><p>[Footnote 2: The new trio, if the one in B flat for the pianoforte, violin, and +violoncello, Op. 97, was first performed on the 11th April, 1814, in the +hall of the "Komischer Kaiser." Letter 139 also mentions this trio, +composed in 1811 and published in July, 1816.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let139">139.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">1814.</p> + +<p>I beg you will be so good as to let me have the +Trio in B flat with all the parts, and also both parts +of the violin Sonata in G,<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote102">[1]</a></sup> as I must have them +written out for myself with all speed, not being able +to hunt out my own scores among so many others. +I hope that this detestable weather has had no bad +effect on Y.R.H.'s health; I must own that it +rather deranges me. In three or four days at least +I shall have the honor to restore both works to +their proper place.</p> + +<p>Do the musical pauses still continue?</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote102"><p>[Footnote 1: The Sonata for pianoforte and violin in G major, Op. 96, was purchased +by Haslinger, April 1st, 1815, and published the end of July, +1816. It was composed in 1814--perhaps in 1813. Thayer thinks in +1810.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let140">140.<br> +TO HERR KAUKA.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, Jan. 11, 1815.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY GOOD, WORTHY K.,--</p> + +<p>I received Baron Pasqualati's letter to-day, by +which I perceive that you wish me to defer any +fresh measures. In the mean time all the necessary +papers are lodged with Pasqualati; so be so good as +to inform him that he must delay taking any further +steps. To-morrow a council is to be held here, and +you and P. shall learn the result probably to-morrow +evening. Meanwhile I wish you to look through +the paper I sent to the Court through Pasqualati, +and read the appendix carefully. You will then +see that Wolf and others have not given you correct +information.</p> + +<p>One thing is certain, that there are sufficient +proofs <i>for any one who wishes to be convinced</i>. How +could it ever occur to me <i>to think of written legal +testimony</i> with such a man as Kinsky, whose integrity +and generosity were everywhere acknowledged? +I remain, with the warmest affection and esteem,</p> + +<p class="signature">In haste, your friend,<br> +B.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let141">141.<br> +TO HERR KAUKA.</h3> + +<p class="date">1815.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY DEAR AND ESTEEMED K.,--</p> + +<p>What can I think, or say, or feel? As for W. +[Wolf], it seems to me that he not only showed <i>his +weak points</i>, but gave himself no trouble to conceal +them. It is impossible that he can have drawn up +his statement in accordance with all the actual evidence +he had. The order on the treasury about +the rate of exchange was given by Kinsky previous +to his consent to pay me my salary in <i>Einlösung +Schein</i>, as the documents prove; indeed it is only +necessary to examine the date to show this, so the +first instruction is of importance. The <i>species facti</i> +prove that I was more than six months absent from +Vienna. As I was not anxious to get the money, +I allowed the affair to stand over; so the Prince +thus forgot to recall his former order to the treasury, +but that he neither forgot his promise to me, +nor to Varnhagen [an officer] in my behalf, is +evident by the testimony of Herr von Oliva, to +whom shortly before his departure from hence--and +indeed into another world--he repeated his +promise, making an appointment to see him when +he should return to Vienna, in order to arrange the +matter with the treasury, which of course was +prevented by his untimely death.</p> + +<p>The testimony of the officer Varnhagen is accompanied +by a document (he being at present with +the Russian army), in which he states that he is +prepared to <i>take his oath</i> on the affair. The evidence +of Herr Oliva is also to the effect that he is +willing to confirm his evidence by oath before the +Court. As I have sent away the testimony of Col. +Count Bentheim, I am not sure of its tenor, but I +believe the Count also says that he is prepared at +any time to make an affidavit on the matter in +Court, and I am myself <i>ready to swear before the +Court</i> that Prince Kinsky said to me in Prague, +"he thought it only fair to me that my salary +should be paid in <i>Einlösung Schein</i>." These were +his own words.</p> + +<p>He gave me himself sixty gold ducats in Prague, +on account (good for about 600 florins), as, owing +to my state of health, I could remain no longer, and +set off for Töplitz. The Prince's word was <i>sacred</i> +in my eyes, never having heard anything of him +to induce me either to bring two witnesses with me +or to ask him for any written pledge. I see from +all this that Dr. Wolf has miserably mismanaged +the business, and has not made you sufficiently acquainted +with the papers.</p> + +<p>Now as to the step I have just taken. The Archduke +Rudolph asked me some time since whether +the Kinsky affair was yet terminated, having probably +heard something of it. I told him that it +looked very bad, as I knew nothing, absolutely +nothing, of the matter. He offered to write himself, +but desired me to add a memorandum, and +also to make him acquainted with all the papers +connected with the Kinsky case. After having +informed himself on the affair, he wrote to the +<i>Oberstburggraf</i>, and enclosed my letter to him.</p> + +<p>The <i>Oberstburggraf</i> answered both the Duke and +myself immediately. In the letter to me he said +"that I was to present a petition to the Provincial +Court of Justice in Prague, along with all the proofs, +whence it would be forwarded to him, and that he +would do his utmost to further my cause." He also +wrote in the most polite terms to the Archduke; +indeed, he expressly said "that he was thoroughly +cognizant of the late Prince Kinsky's intentions +with regard to me and this affair, and that I might +present a petition," &c. The Archduke instantly +sent for me, and desired me to prepare the document +and to show it to him; he also thought that +I ought to solicit payment in <i>Einlösung Schein</i>, as +there was ample proof, if not in strictly legal form, +of the intentions of the Prince, and no one could +doubt that if he had survived he would have adhered +to his promise. If he [the Archduke] were +this day the heir, <i>he would demand no other proofs +than those already furnished</i>. I sent this paper to +Baron Pasqualati, who is kindly to present it himself +to the Court. Not till after the affair had gone +so far did Dr. Adlersburg receive a letter from Dr. +Wolf, in which he mentioned that he had made a +claim for 1500 florins. As we have come so far +as 1500 florins with the <i>Oberstburggraf</i>, we may +possibly get on to 1800 florins. I do not esteem +this any <i>favor</i>, for the late Prince was one of those +who urged me most to refuse a salary of 600 gold +ducats per annum, offered to me from Westphalia; +and he said at the time "that he was resolved I +should have no chance of eating hams in Westphalia." +Another summons to Naples somewhat +later I equally declined, and I am entitled to demand +a fair compensation for the loss I incurred. +If the salary were to be paid in bank-notes, what +should I get? Not 400 florins in <i>Conventionsgeld</i>!!! +in lieu of such a salary as 600 ducats! There +are ample proofs for those who wish to act justly; +and what does the <i>Einlösung Schein</i> now amount +to??!!! It is even at this moment no equivalent +for what I refused. This affair was pompously +announced in all the newspapers while I was nearly +reduced to beggary. The intentions of the Prince +are evident, and in my opinion the family are bound +to act in accordance with them unless they wish to +be disgraced. Besides, the revenues have rather +increased than diminished by the death of the +Prince; so there is no sufficient ground for curtailing +my salary.</p> + +<p>I received your friendly letter yesterday, but +am too weary at this moment to write all that I +feel towards you. I can only commend my case to +your sagacity. It appears that the <i>Oberstburggraf</i> +is the chief person; so what he wrote to the Archduke +must be kept a profound secret, for it might +not be advisable that any one should know of it but +you and Pasqualati. You have sufficient cause on +looking through the papers to show how improperly +Dr. Wolf has conducted the affair, and that another +course of action is necessary. I rely on your +friendship to act as you think best for my interests.</p> + +<p>Rest assured of my warmest thanks, and pray +excuse my writing more to-day, for a thing of this +kind is very fatiguing,--more so than the greatest +musical undertaking. My heart has found something +for you to which yours will respond, and this +you shall soon receive.</p> + +<p>Do not forget me, poor tormented creature that +I am! and <i>act for me</i> and <i>effect for me</i> all that is +possible.</p> + +<p class="signature">With high esteem, your true friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let142">142.<br> +TO HERR KAUKA.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, Jan. 14, 1815.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY GOOD AND WORTHY K.,--</p> + +<p>The long letter I enclose was written when we +were disposed to claim the 1800 florins. Baron +Pasqualati's last letter, however, again made me +waver, and Dr. Adlersburg advised me to adhere +to the steps already taken; but as Dr. Wolf writes +that he has offered in your name to accept 1500 +florins a year, I beg you will at least make every +effort to get that sum. For this purpose I send you +the long letter written before we received Baron +P.'s dissuasive one, as you may discover in it many +reasons for demanding <i>at least</i> the 1500 florins. +The Archduke, too, has written a second time to +the <i>Oberstburggraf</i>, and we may conclude from his +previous reply that he will certainly exert himself, +and that we shall at all events succeed in getting +the 1500 florins.</p> + +<p>Farewell! I cannot write another syllable; such +things exhaust me. May your friendship accelerate +this affair!--if it ends badly, then I must leave +Vienna, because I could not possibly live on my +income, for here things have come to such a pass +that everything has risen to the highest price, and +that price must be paid. The last two concerts I +gave cost me 1508 florins, and had it not been for +the Empress's munificent present I should scarcely +have derived any profit whatever.</p> + +<p class="signature">Your faithful friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let143">143.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote103">[1]</a></sup><br> +TO THE HONORABLE MEMBERS OF THE LANDRECHT.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, 1815.</p> + +<p class="salutation">GENTLEMEN,--</p> + +<p>Quite ignorant of law proceedings, and believing +that all claims on an inheritance could not fail to be +liquidated, I sent to my lawyer in Prague [Dr. +Kauka] the contract signed by the Archduke Rudolph, +Prince Lobkowitz, and Prince von Kinsky, +in which these illustrious personages agreed to settle +on me an annual allowance of 4000 florins. My +constant efforts to obtain a settlement of my claim, +and also, as I am bound to admit, my reproaches to +Dr. Kauka for not conducting the affair properly +(his application to the guardians having proved +fruitless), no doubt prompted him to have recourse +to law.</p> + +<p>None but those who are fully aware of my esteem +for the deceased Prince can tell how repugnant +it is to my feelings to appear as a complainant +against my benefactor.</p> + +<p>Under these circumstances I have recourse to a +shorter path, in the conviction that the guardians +of the Prince's estate will be disposed to mark their +appreciation of art, and also their desire to fulfil +the engagements of the late Prince. According to +the terms of the contract in question, the Archduke +Rudolph, Prince Lobkowitz, and Prince v. Kinsky +granted me these 4000 florins until I should obtain +a situation of equal value; and further, if by misfortune +or old age I was prevented exercising my +art, these distinguished contracting parties secured +this pension to me for life, while I, in return, +pledged myself not to leave Vienna.</p> + +<p>This promise was generous, and equally generous +was its fulfilment, for no difficulty ever occurred, +and I was in the peaceful enjoyment of my pension +till the Imperial Finance Patent appeared. The +consequent alteration in the currency made no difference +in the payments of the Archduke Rudolph, for +I received his share in <i>Einlösung Schein</i>, as I had +previously done in bank-notes, without any reference +to the new scale. The late illustrious Prince v. +Kinsky also at once assured me that his share (1800 +florins) should also be paid in <i>Einlösung Schein</i>. As +however, he omitted giving the order to his cashier, +difficulties arose on the subject. Although my circumstances +are not brilliant, I would not have ventured +to bring this claim before the notice of the +guardians of the estate, if respectable, upright men +had not received the same pledge from the late +Prince's own lips, namely, that he would pay my +past as well as my future claims in Vienna currency, +which is proved by the papers B, C, D, appended +to the pleas. Under these circumstances I leave +the guardians to judge whether, after so implicitly +relying on the promise of the deceased Prince, I +have not cause to complain of my delicacy being +wounded by the objection advanced by the curators +to the witnesses, from their not having been present +together at the time the promise was made, which +is most distressing to my feelings.</p> + +<p>In order to extricate myself from this most disagreeable +lawsuit, I take the liberty to give an +assurance to the guardians that I am prepared, both +as to the past and the future, to be satisfied with +the 1800 florins, Vienna currency; and I flatter +myself that these gentlemen will admit that I on +my part make thus no small sacrifice, as it was +solely from my esteem for those illustrious Princes +that I selected Vienna for my settled abode, at a +time when the most advantageous offers were +made to me elsewhere.</p> + +<p>I therefore request the Court to submit this proposal +to the guardians of the Kinsky estates for their +opinion, and to be so good as to inform me of the +result.</p> + +<p class="signature">L. V. BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote103"><p>[Footnote 1: See No. 94. On the 18th January, 1815, the Court of Justice at +Prague decreed that the trustees of Prince Kinsky's estate should pay +to L. v. Beethoven the sum of 1200 florins W.W. from November 3d, +1812, instead of the original written agreement of 1800 florins. Dr. +Constant, of Wurzbach, in his <i>Biographical Austrian Lexicon</i>, states +that Beethoven dedicated his splendid song <i>An die Hoffnung</i>, Op. 94, +to Princess Kinsky, wife of Prince Ferdinand Kinsky, who died in +1812.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let144">144.<br> +TO BARON VON PASQUALATI.</h3> + +<p class="date">January, 1815.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY ESTEEMED FRIEND,--</p> + +<p>I beg you will kindly send me by the bearer the +proper form for the Kinsky receipt (<i>but sealed</i>) for +600 florins half-yearly from the month of April. I +intend to send the receipt forthwith to Dr. Kauka +in Prague,<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote104">[1]</a></sup> who on a former occasion procured the +money for me so quickly. I will deduct your debt +from this, but if it be possible to get the money here +before the remittance arrives from Prague, I will +bring it at once to you myself.</p> + +<p>I remain, with the most profound esteem,</p> + +<p class="signature">Your sincere friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote104"><p>[Footnote 1: This man, now ninety-four years of age and quite blind, was at +that time Beethoven's counsel in Prague. Pasqualati was that benefactor +of Beethoven's who always kept rooms for him in his house on +the Mölker Bastei, and whose kind aid never deserted him to the close +of his life.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let145">145.<br> +TO HERR KAUKA.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, Feb. 24, 1815.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY MUCH ESTEEMED K.,--</p> + +<p>I have repeatedly thanked you through Baron +Pasqualati for your friendly exertions on my behalf, +and I now beg to express one thousand thanks myself. +The intervention of the Archduke could not +be very palatable to you, and perhaps has prejudiced +you against me. You had already done all that +was possible when the Archduke interfered. If this +had been the case sooner, and we had not employed +that one-sided, or many-sided, or weak-sided Dr. +Wolf, then, according to the assurances of the +<i>Oberstburggraf</i> himself, the affair might have had a +still more favorable result. I shall therefore ever +and always be grateful to you for your services. +The Court now deduct the sixty ducats I mentioned +of my own accord, and to which the late Prince +never alluded either to his treasurer or any one else. +Where truth could injure me it has been accepted, +so why reject it when it could have benefited me? +How unfair! Baron Pasqualati requires information +from you on various points.</p> + +<p>I am again very tired to-day, having been obliged +to discuss many things with poor P.; such matters +exhaust me more than the greatest efforts in composition. +It is a new field, the soil of which I ought +not to be required to till. This painful business has +cost me many tears and much sorrow. The time +draws near when Princess Kinsky must be written +to. Now I must conclude. How rejoiced shall I +be when I can write you the pure effusions of my +heart once more; and this I mean to do as soon as +I am extricated from all these troubles. Pray +accept again my heartfelt thanks for all that you +have done for me, and continue your regard for</p> + +<p class="signature">Your attached friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let146">146.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">1815.</p> + +<p>I heard yesterday, and it was indeed confirmed +by meeting Count Troyer, that Y.R.H. is now +here. I therefore send the dedication of the Trio +[in B flat] to Y.R.H., whose name is inscribed on +it; but all my works on which I place any value, +though the name does not appear, are equally designed +for Y.R.H. I trust, however, that you will +not think I have a motive in saying this,--men of +high rank being apt to suspect self-interest in such +expressions,--and I mean on this occasion to risk the +imputation so far as <i>appearances</i> go, by at once asking +a favor of Y.R.H. My well-grounded reasons +for so doing you will no doubt at once perceive, and +graciously vouchsafe to grant my request. I have +been very much indisposed in Baden since the beginning +of last October; indeed, from the 5th of +October I have been entirely confined to my bed, +or to my room, till about a week ago. I had a very +serious inflammatory cold, and am still able to go +out very little, which has also been the cause of my +not writing to Y.R.H. in Kremsir. May all the +blessings that Heaven can shower upon earth attend +you.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + + + + +<h2><a name="part2">SECOND PART.</a><br> +<br> +LIFE'S MISSION.<br> +1815 TO 1822.</h2> + + + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let147">147.<br> +WRITTEN IN SPOHR'S ALBUM.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote105">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, March 3, 1815.</p> + +<p> +<img src="images/kurz1.png" alt="[picture of music]"> +</p> +<p> +<img src="images/kurz2.png" alt="[picture of music]"> +</p> + +<p>Whenever, dear Spohr, you chance to find true +art and true artists, may you kindly remember</p> + +<p class="signature">Your friend,<br> +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote105"><p>[Footnote 1: From the fac-simile in Spohr's <i>Autobiography</i>, Vol. I.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let148">148.<br> +TO HERR KAUKA.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, April 8, 1815.</p> + +<p>It seems scarcely admissible to be on the friendly +terms on which I consider myself with you, and yet +to be on such unfriendly ones that we should live +close to each other and never meet!!!!!<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote106">[1]</a></sup> You +write "<i>tout à vous</i>." Oh! you humbug! said I. +No! no! it is really too bad. I should like to thank +you 9000 times for all your efforts on my behalf, +and to reproach you 20,000 that you came and +went as you did. So all is a delusion! friendship, +kingdom, empire; all is only a vapor which +every breeze wafts into a different form!! Perhaps +I may go to Töplitz, but it is not certain. I might +take advantage of that opportunity to let the people +of Prague hear something--what think you? if +<i>indeed you still think of me at all</i>! As the affair +with Lobkowitz is now also come to a close, we may +write <i>Finis</i>, though it far from <i>fine is</i> for me.</p> + +<p>Baron Pasqualati will no doubt soon call on you +again; he also has taken much trouble on my +account. Yes, indeed! it is easy to talk of <i>justice</i>, +but to obtain it from others is <i>no easy matter</i>. In +what way can I be of service to you in my own +art? Say whether you prefer my celebrating the +monologue of a fugitive king, or the perjury of a +usurper--or the true friends, who, though near +neighbors, never saw each other? In the hope of +soon hearing from you--for being now so far +asunder it is easier to hold intercourse than when +nearer!--I remain, with highest esteem,</p> + +<p class="signature">Your ever-devoted friend,<br> +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote106"><p>[Footnote 1: Kauka evidently had been recently in Vienna without visiting +Beethoven.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let149">149.<br> +TO HERR KAUKA.</h3> + +<p class="date">1815.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY DEAR AND WORTHY K.,--</p> + +<p>I have just received from the Syndic Baier in R. +the good news that you told him yourself about +Prince F.K. As for the rest, you shall be perfectly +satisfied.</p> + +<p>I take the liberty to ask you again to look after +my interests with the Kinsky family, and I subjoin +the necessary receipt for this purpose [see No. 144]. +Perhaps some other way may be found, though it +does not as yet occur to me, by means of which I +need not importune you in future. On the 15th October +[1815] I was attacked by an inflammatory +cold, from the consequences of which I still suffer, +and my art likewise; but it is to be hoped that I shall +now gradually recover, and at all events be able +once more to display the riches of my little realm +of sweet sounds. Yet I am very poor in all else--owing +to the times? to poverty of spirit? or +what???? Farewell! Everything around disposes +us to <i>profound silence</i>; but this shall not be +the case as to the bond of friendship and soul that +unites us. I loudly proclaim myself, now as ever,</p> + +<p class="signature">Your loving friend and admirer,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let150">150.<br> +TO HERR KAUKA.</h3> + +<p class="date">1815.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY MOST WORTHY FRIEND,--</p> + +<p>My second letter follows that of yesterday, May +2d. Pasqualati tells me to-day, after the lapse of +a month and six days, that the house of Ballabene +is too <i>high and mighty</i> to assist me in this matter. +I must therefore appeal to your <i>insignificance</i> (as I +myself do not hesitate to be so mean as to serve +other people). My house-rent amounts to 550 +florins, and must be paid out of the sum in question.</p> + +<p>As soon as the newly engraved pianoforte pieces +appear, you shall receive copies, and also of the +"Battle," &c., &c. Forgive me, forgive me, my +generous friend; some other means must be found +to forward this affair with due promptitude.</p> + +<p class="signature">In haste, your friend and admirer,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let151">151.<br> +TO MR. SALOMON,--LONDON.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote107">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, June 1, 1815.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY GOOD FELLOW-COUNTRYMAN,--</p> + +<p>I always hoped to meet you one day in London, +but many obstacles have intervened to prevent the +fulfilment of this wish, and as there seems now no +chance of such a thing, I hope you will not refuse +a request of mine, which is that you will be so obliging +as to apply to some London publisher, and offer +him the following works of mine. Grand Trio for +piano, violin, and violoncello [Op. 97], 80 ducats. +Pianoforte Sonata, with violin accompaniment [Op. +96], 60 ducats. Grand Symphony in A (one of +my very best); a short Symphony in F [the 8th]; +Quartet for two violins, viola, and violoncello in F +minor [Op. 95]; Grand Opera in score, 30 ducats. +Cantata with Choruses and Solos ["The Glorious +Moment"], 30 ducats. Score of the "Battle of +Vittoria" and "Wellington's Victory," 80 ducats; +also the pianoforte arrangement of the same, if not +already published, which, I am told here, is the case. +I have named the prices of some of these works, on +a scale which I hold to be suitable for England, but +I leave it to you to say what sum should be asked +both for these and the others. I hear, indeed, that +Cramer [John, whose pianoforte-playing was highly +estimated by Beethoven] is also a publisher, but my +scholar Ries lately wrote to me that Cramer not +long since <i>publicly expressed his disapproval of my +works</i>: I trust from no motive but that of <i>being of +service to art</i>, and if so I have no right to object to +his doing this. If, however, Cramer should wish to +possess any of my <i>pernicious</i> works, I shall be as +well satisfied with him as with any other publisher; +but I reserve the right to give these works to be +published here, so that they may appear at the same +moment in London and Vienna.</p> + +<p>Perhaps you may also be able to point out to me +in what way I can recover from the Prince Regent +[afterwards George IV.] the expenses of transcribing +the "Battle Symphony" on Wellington's victory +at Vittoria, to be dedicated to him, for I have +long ago given up all hope of receiving anything +from that quarter. I have not even been deemed +worthy of an answer, whether I am to be authorized +to dedicate the work to the Prince Regent; and +when at last I propose to publish it here, I am informed +that it has already appeared in London. +What a fatality for an author!!! While the +English and German papers are filled with accounts +of the success of the work, as performed at Drury +Lane, and that theatre drawing great receipts from +it, the author has not one friendly line to show, not +even payment for the cost of copying the work, and +is thus deprived of all profit.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote108">[2]</a></sup> For if it be true that +the pianoforte arrangement is soon to be published +by a German publisher, copied from the London +one, then I lose both my fame and my <i>honorarium</i>. +The well-known generosity of your character leads +me to hope that you will take some interest in the +matter, and actively exert yourself on my behalf.</p> + +<p>The inferior paper-money of this country is now +reduced to one fifth of its value, and I am paid according +to this scale. After many struggles and +considerable loss, I at length succeeded in obtaining +the full value; but at this moment the old paper-money +has again risen far beyond the fifth part, so +that it is evident my salary becomes for the second +time almost <i>nil</i>, and there is no hope of any compensation. +My whole income is derived from my +works. If I could rely on a good sale in England, +it would doubtless be very beneficial to me. Pray +be assured of my boundless gratitude. I hope soon, +very soon, to hear from you.</p> + +<p class="signature">I am, with esteem, your sincere friend,<br> +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote107"><p>[Footnote 1: J.P. Salomon was likewise a native of Bonn, and one of the most +distinguished violin-players of his time. He had been Kapellmeister +to Prince Heinrich of Prussia, and then went to London, where he was +very active in the introduction of German music. It was through his +agency that Beethoven's connection with Birchall, the music publisher, +first commenced, to whom a number of his letters are addressed.]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote108"><p>[Footnote 2: Undoubtedly the true reading of these last words, which in the +copy before me are marked as "difficult to decipher."]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let152">152.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">1815.</p> + +<p>Pray forgive my asking Y.R.H. to send me the +two Sonatas with violin <i>obbligato</i><sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote109">[1]</a></sup> which I caused +to be transcribed for Y.R.H. I require them only +for a few days, when I will immediately return +them.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote109"><p>[Footnote 1: If by the two Sonatas for the pianoforte with violoncello <i>obbligato</i>, +Op. 102 is meant, they were composed in July-August, 1815, and +appeared on Jan. 13th, 1819. The date of the letter appears also to be +1815.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let153">153.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">1815.</p> + +<p>I beg you will kindly send me the Sonata in E +minor,<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote110">[1]</a></sup> as I wish to correct it. On Monday I shall +inquire for Y.R.H. in person. <i>Recent occurrences</i><sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote111">[2]</a></sup> +render it indispensable to complete many works of +mine about to be engraved as quickly as possible; +besides, my health is only partially restored. I earnestly +entreat Y.R.H. to desire <i>some one</i> to write +me a few lines as to the state of your own health. +I trust I shall hear a better--nay, the best report +of it.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote110"><p>[Footnote 1: The letters 152 and 153 speak sometimes expressly of the pianoforte +Sonata in E minor, Op. 90, these being engraved or under revision, +and sometimes only indicate them. This Sonata, dedicated to +Count Lichnowsky, was composed on August 14th, 1814, and published +in June, 1815.]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote111"><p>[Footnote 2: What "recent occurrences" Beethoven alludes to, unless indeed +his well-known misfortunes as to his salary and guardianship we cannot +discover.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let154">154.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">1815.</p> + +<p>You must almost think my illness a mere fiction, +but that is assuredly not the case. I am obliged +always to come home early in the evening. The +first time that Y.R.H. was graciously pleased to +send for me, I came home immediately afterwards, +but feeling much better since then, I made an attempt +the evening before last to stay out a little +later. If Y.R.H. does not countermand me, I intend +to have the honor of waiting on you this evening +at five o'clock. I will bring the new Sonata +with me, merely for to-day, for it is so soon to be +engraved that it is not worth while to have it written +out.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let155">155.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">1815.</p> + +<p>I intended to have given you this letter myself, +but my personal attendance might possibly be an +intrusion; so I take the liberty once more to urge +on Y.R.H. the request it contains. I should also +be glad if Y.R.H. would send me back my last +MS. Sonata, for as I <i>must</i> publish it, it would be +labor lost to have it transcribed, and I shall soon +have the pleasure of presenting it to you engraved. +I will call again in a few days. I trust these joyous +times may have a happy influence on your precious +health.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let156">156.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, July 23, 1815.</p> + +<p>When you were recently in town, the enclosed +Chorus<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote112">[1]</a></sup> occurred to me. I hurried home to write +it down, but was detained longer in doing so than +I at first expected, and thus, to my great sorrow, I +missed Y.R.H. The bad custom I have followed +from childhood, instantly to write down my first +thoughts, otherwise they not unfrequently go astray, +has been an injury to me on this occasion. I therefore +send Y.R.H. my impeachment and my justification, +and trust I may find grace in your eyes. +I hope soon to present myself before Y.R.H., +and to inquire after a health so precious to us all.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote112"><p>[Footnote 1: In 1815 the Chorus of <i>Die Meeresstille</i> was composed by Beethoven. +Was this the chorus which occurred to him? The style of the +letter leaves his meaning quite obscure.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let157">157.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">1815.</p> + +<p>It is neither presumption, nor the pretension of +advocating any one's cause, still less from the wish +of arrogating to myself the enjoyment of any especial +favor with Y.R.H., that induces me to make +a suggestion which is in itself very simple. Old +Kraft<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote113">[1]</a></sup> was with me yesterday; he wished to know +if it were possible for him to be lodged in your palace, +in return for which he would be at Y.R.H.'s +service as often as you please it. He has lived for +twenty years in the house of Prince Lobkowitz, and +during a great part of that time he received no salary; +he is now obliged to vacate his rooms without +receiving any compensation whatever. The position +of the poor deserving old man is hard, and I +should have considered myself equally hard, had I +not ventured to lay his case before you. Count +Troyer will request an answer from Y.R.H. As +the object in view is to brighten the lot of a fellow-creature, +pray forgive your, &c., &c.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote113"><p>[Footnote 1: Old Kraft was a clever violoncello-player who had an appointment +in Prince Lobkowitz's band, but when the financial crisis occurred in +the Prince's affairs he lost his situation, and was obliged to give up his +lodging.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let158">158.<br> +WRITTEN IN ENGLISH TO MR. BIRCHALL, MUSIC PUBLISHER, +LONDON.</h3> + +<p>Mr. Beethoven send word to Mr. Birchall that +it is severall days past that he has sent for London +Wellington's Battel Sinphonie and that Mr. +B[irchall] may send for it at Thomas Coutts. Mr. +Beethoven wish Mr. B. would make ingrave the +sayd Sinphonie so soon as possible and send him +word in time the day it will be published that he +may prevend in time the Publisher in Vienna.</p> + +<p>In regard the 3. Sonata which Mr. Birchall receive +afterwerths there is not wanted such a g't +hurry and Mr. B. will take the liberty to fixe the +day when the are to be published.</p> + +<p>Mr. B[irchall] sayd that Mr. Salomon has a +good many tings to say concerning the Synphonie +in G [? A].</p> + +<p>Mr. B[eethoven] wish for a answer so soon as +possible concerning the days of the publication.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let159">159.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="date">October 16, 1815.</p> + +<p>I only wish to let you know that I am <i>here</i>, and +not <i>elsewhere</i>, and wish in return to hear if you are +<i>elsewhere</i> or <i>here</i>. I should be glad to speak to you +for a few minutes when I know that you are at +home and alone. <i>Farewell</i>--but not <i>too well</i>--sublime +Commandant Pacha of various mouldering +fortresses!!!</p> + +<p class="signature">In haste, your friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let160">160.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">Nov. 16, 1815.</p> + +<p>Since yesterday afternoon I have been lying in +a state of exhaustion, owing to my great distress of +mind caused by the sudden death of my unhappy +brother. It was impossible for me to send an answer +to Y.R.H. yesterday, and I trust you will +graciously receive my present explanation. I expect, +however, certainly to wait on Y.R.H. to-morrow.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let161">161.<br> +TO THE MESSRS. BIRCHALL,--LONDON.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, Nov. 22, 1815.</p> + +<p>You will herewith receive the pianoforte arrangement +of the Symphony in A. "Wellington's +Battle Symphony," and "Victory at Vittoria" +were sent a month since, through Herr Neumann, +to the care of Messrs. Coutts; so you have no doubt +received them long ere this.</p> + +<p>In the course of a fortnight you shall have the +Trio and Sonata, when you are requested to pay +into the hands of Messrs. Coutts the sum of 130 +gold ducats. I beg you will make no delay in +bringing out these works, and likewise let me know +on what day the "Wellington Symphony" is to +appear, so that I may take my measures here accordingly. +I am, with esteem,</p> + +<p class="signature">Your obedient<br> +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let162">162.<br> +TO RIES.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, Wednesday, Nov. 22, 1815.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY DEAR RIES,--</p> + +<p>I hasten to apprise you that I have to-day forwarded +by post the pianoforte arrangement of the +Symphony in A, to the care of Messrs Coutts. As +the Court is absent, few, indeed almost no couriers +go from here; moreover, the post is the safest way. +The Symphony ought to be brought out about +March; the precise day I will fix myself. So +much time has already been lost on this occasion +that I could not give an earlier notice of the period +of publication. The Trio in [??] and the violin +Sonata may be allowed more time, and both will be +in London a few weeks hence. I earnestly entreat +you, dear Ries, to take charge of these matters, and +also to see that I get the money; I require it, and +it costs me a good deal before all is sent off.</p> + +<p>I have lost 600 florins of my yearly salary; at +the time of the <i>bank-notes</i> there was no loss, but +then came the <i>Einlösungsscheine</i> [reduced paper-money], +which deprives me of these 600 florins, +after entailing on me several years of annoyance, +and now the total loss of my salary. We are at +present arrived at a point when the <i>Einlösungsscheine</i> +are even lower than the <i>bank-notes</i> ever were. +I pay 1000 florins for house-rent: you may thus +conceive all the misery caused by paper-money.</p> + +<p>My poor unhappy brother [Carl v. Beethoven, a +cashier in Vienna] is just dead [Nov. 15th, 1815]; +he had a bad wife. For some years past he has +been suffering from consumption, and from my wish +to make his life less irksome I may compute what +I gave him at 10,000 florins (<i>Wiener Währung</i>). +This indeed does not seem much to an Englishman, +but it is a great deal for a poor German, or rather +Austrian. The unhappy man was latterly much +changed, and I must say I lament him from my +heart, though I rejoice to think I left nothing undone +that could contribute to his comfort.</p> + +<p>Tell Mr. Birchall that he is to repay the postage +of my letters to you and Mr. Salomon, and also +yours to me; he may deduct this from the sum he +owes me; I am anxious that those who work for +me should lose as little as possible by it. "Wellington's +Victory at Vittoria"<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote114">[1]</a></sup> must have arrived +long ago through the Messrs. Coutts. Mr. Birchall +need not send payment till he is in possession +of all the works; only do not delay letting me know +when the day is fixed for the publication of the +pianoforte arrangement. For to-day, I only further +earnestly recommend my affairs to your care; I +shall be equally at your service at any time. Farewell, +dear Ries.</p> + +<p class="signature">Your friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote114"><p>[Footnote 1: "This is also to be the title of the pianoforte arrangement." (Note +by Beethoven.)]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let163">163.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="date">Jan. 1816.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY GOOD ZMESKALL,--</p> + +<p>I was shocked to discover to-day that I had +omitted replying to a proposal from the "Society +of Friends to Music in the Austrian States" to +write an Oratorio for them.</p> + +<p>The death of my brother two months ago, which, +owing to the guardianship of my nephew having +devolved on me, has involved me in all sorts of annoyances +and perplexities, has caused this delay in +my answer. In the mean time, the poem of Herr +van Seyfried is already begun, and I purpose +shortly to set it to music. I need not tell you how +very flattering I consider such a commission, for +how could I think otherwise? and I shall endeavor +to acquit myself as honorably as my poor talents +will admit of.</p> + +<p><i>With regard to our artistic resources</i>, when the +time for the performance arrives I shall certainly +take into consideration those usually at our disposal, +without, however, strictly limiting myself to them. +I hope I have made myself clearly understood on +this point. As I am urged to say what gratuity I +require in return, I beg to know whether the Society +will consider 400 gold ducats a proper remuneration +for such a work? I once more entreat +the forgiveness of the Society for the delay in my +answer, but I am in some degree relieved by knowing +that, at all events, you, my dear friend, have +already verbally apprised the Society of my readiness +to write a work of the kind.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote115">[1]</a></sup></p> + +<p class="signature">Ever, my worthy Z., your<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote115"><p>[Footnote 1: In the <i>Fischof'sche Handschrift</i> we are told:--"The allusion to +'our artistic resources' requires some explanation. Herr v. Zmeskall +had at that time received instructions to give a hint to the great composer +(who paid little regard to the difficulty of executing his works) +that he must absolutely take into consideration the size of the orchestra, +which at grand concerts amounted to 700 performers. The Society +only stipulated for the exclusive right to the work for one year, and +did not purchase the copyright; they undertook the gratuity for the +poem also, so they were obliged to consult their pecuniary resources, +and informed the composer that they were prepared to give him 200 +gold ducats for the use of the work for a year, as they had proposed. +Beethoven was quite satisfied, and made no objection whatever; he +received an advance on this sum according to his own wish, the receipt +of which he acknowledged in 1819. Beethoven rejected the first poem +selected, and desired to have another. The Society left his choice +quite free. Herr Bernhard undertook to supply a new one. Beethoven +and he consulted together in choosing the subject, but Herr +Bernhard, overburdened by other business, could only send the poem +bit by bit. Beethoven, however, would not begin till the whole was +in his hands."]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let164">164.<br> +TO MDLLE. MILDER-HAUPTMANN.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote116">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, Jan. 6, 1816.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY HIGHLY VALUED MDLLE. MILDER, MY DEAR FRIEND,--</p> + +<p>I have too long delayed writing to you. How +gladly would I personally participate in the enthusiasm +you excite at Berlin in "Fidelio!" A thousand +thanks on my part for having so faithfully adhered +to <i>my</i> "Fidelio." If you will ask Baron de +la Motte-Fouqué, in my name, to discover a good +subject for an opera, and one suitable likewise to +yourself, you will do a real service both to me and +to the German stage; it is also my wish to write it +expressly for the <i>Berlin Theatre</i>, as no new opera +can ever succeed in being properly given here under +this very penurious direction. Answer me +soon, very soon--quickly, very quickly--as +quickly as possible--as quick as lightning--and +say whether such a thing is practicable. Herr +Kapellmeister B. praised you up to the skies to me, +and he is right; well may he esteem himself happy +who has the privilege of enjoying your muse, your +genius, and all your splendid endowments and talents;--it +is thus I feel. Be this as it may, those +around can only call themselves your fellow-creatures +[Nebenmann], whereas I alone have a right +to claim the honored name of captain [<i>Hauptmann</i>].</p> + +<p class="signature">In my secret heart, your true friend and admirer,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<p>My poor unfortunate brother is dead, which has +been the cause of my long silence. As soon as you +have replied to this letter, I will write myself to +Baron de la Motte-Fouqué. No doubt your influence +in Berlin will easily obtain for me a commission +to write a grand opera (in which you shall be especially +studied) on favorable terms; but do answer +me soon, that I may arrange my other occupations +accordingly.</p> + +<p> +<img src="images/hauptmann.png" alt="[picture of music]"> +</p> + +<p>Away with all other false <i>Hauptmänner</i>! [captains.]</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote116"><p>[Footnote 1: Mdlle. Milder married Hauptmann, a jeweller in Munich, in 1810, +travelled in 1812, and was engaged at Berlin in 1816.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let165">165.<br> +TO RIES</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, Jan. 20, 1816.</p> + +<p class="salutation">DEAR RIES,--</p> + +<p>The Symphony is to be dedicated to the Empress +of Russia. The pianoforte score of the Symphony +in A must not, however, appear before June, for +the publisher here cannot be ready sooner. Pray, +dear Ries, inform Mr. Birchall of this at once. +The Sonata with violin accompaniment, which will +be sent from here by the next post, can likewise +be published in London in May, but the Trio at a +later date (it follows by the next post); I will myself +name the time for its publication. And now, +dear Ries, pray receive my heartfelt thanks for +your kindness, and especially for the corrections of +the proofs. May Heaven bless you more and more, +and promote your progress, in which I take the +most sincere interest. My kind regards to your +wife. Now as ever,</p> + +<p class="signature">Your sincere friend,<br> +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let166">166.<br> +TO MR. BIRCHALL,--LONDON.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienne, le 3. Febr. den 1816</p> + +<p class="salutation">VOUS RECEUES CI JOINT--</p> + +<p>Le grand Trio p. Pf. V. et Vllo. Sonata pour +Pf. et Violin--qui form le reste de ce qu'il vous a +plus à me comettre. Je vous prie de vouloir payer +la some de 130 Ducats d'Holland come le poste +lettre a Mr. Th. Cutts et Co. de votre ville e de +me croire avec toute l'estime et consideration</p> + +<p class="signature">Votre tres humble Serviteur,<br> +LOUIS VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let167">167.<br> +TO CZERNY.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote117">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="salutation">MY DEAR CZERNY,--</p> + +<p>Pray give the enclosed to your parents for the +dinners the boy had recently at your house; I positively +will not accept these <i>gratis</i>. Moreover, I +am very far from wishing that your lessons should +remain without remuneration,--even those already +given must be reckoned up and paid for; only I +beg you to have a little patience for a time, as nothing +can be <i>demanded</i> from the widow, and I had +and still have heavy expenses to defray;--but I +<i>borrow</i> from you for the moment only. The boy is +to be with you to-day, and I shall come later.</p> + +<p class="signature">Your friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote117"><p>[Footnote 1: Carl Czerny, the celebrated pianist and composer, for whom Beethoven +wrote a testimonial in 1805 (see No. 42). He gave lessons to +Beethoven's nephew in 1815, and naturally protested against any payment, +which gave rise to the expressions on the subject in many of his +notes to Czerny, of which there appear to be a great number.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let168">168.<br> +TO CZERNY.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote118">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, Feb. 12, 1816.</p> + +<p class="salutation">DEAR CZERNY,--</p> + +<p>I cannot see you to-day, but I will call to-morrow +being desirous to talk to you. I spoke out so +bluntly yesterday that I much regretted it afterwards. +But you must forgive this on the part of +an author, who would have preferred hearing his +work as he wrote it, however charmingly you +played it. I will, however, <i>amply</i> atone for this by +the violoncello Sonata.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote119">[2]</a></sup></p> + +<p>Rest assured that I cherish the greatest regard +for you as an artist, and I shall always endeavor to +prove this.</p> + +<p class="signature">Your true friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote118"><p>[Footnote 1: Czerny, in the <i>A.M. Zeitung</i>, 1845, relates:--"On one occasion +(in 1812), at Schuppanzigh's concert, when playing Beethoven's quintet +with wind-instruments, I took the liberty, in my youthful levity, +to make many alterations,--such as introducing difficulties into +the passages, making use of the upper octaves, &c., &c. Beethoven +sternly and deservedly reproached me for this, in the presence of +Schuppanzigh, Linke, and the other performers."]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote119"><p>[Footnote 2: Opera 69, which Czerny (see <i>A.M. Zeitung</i>) was to perform with +Linke the following week.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let169">169.<br> +TO RIES,--LONDON.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, Feb. 28, 1816.</p> + +<p>... For some time past I have been far from +well; the loss of my brother affected both my spirits +and my works. Salomon's death grieves me much, +as he was an excellent man whom I have known +from my childhood. You are his executor by will, +while I am the guardian of my late poor brother's +child. You can scarcely have had as much vexation +from Salomon's death as I have had from that +of my brother!--but I have the sweet consolation +of having rescued a poor innocent child from the +hands of an unworthy mother. Farewell, dear +Ries; if I can in any way serve you, look on me as</p> + +<p class="signature">Your true friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let170">170.<br> +TO GIANNATASIO DEL RIO,--VIENNA.</h3> + +<p class="date">Feb. 1816.</p> + +<p class="salutation">SIR,--</p> + +<p>I have great pleasure in saying that at last I intend +to-morrow to place under your care the dear +pledge intrusted to me. But I must impress on +you not to permit any influence on the mother's +part to decide when and where she is to see her +son. We can, however, discuss all this more minutely +to-morrow.... You must keep a watchful +eye on your servant, for mine was <i>bribed by her</i> +on one occasion. More as to this verbally, though +it is a subject on which I would fain be silent; but +the future welfare of the youth you are to train +renders this unpleasant communication necessary. +I remain, with esteem,</p> + +<p class="signature">Your faithful servant and friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let171">171.<br> +TO G. DEL RIO.</h3> + +<p class="date">1816.</p> + +<p>Your estimable lady, Mdme. A.G. [Giannatasio] +is politely requested to let the undersigned know +as soon as possible (that I may not be obliged to +keep it all in my head) how many pairs of stockings, +trousers, shoes, and drawers are required, and +how many yards of kerseymere to make a pair of +black trousers for my tall nephew; and for the +sake of the "Castalian Spring" I beg, without any +further reminders on my part, that I may receive +an answer to this.</p> + +<p>As for the Lady Abbess [a nickname for their +only daughter], there shall be a conference held +on Carl's affair to-night, viz., if things are to continue +as they are.</p> + +<p class="signature">Your well (and ill) born<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let172">172.<br> +TO G. DEL RIO.</h3> + +<p class="date">1816.</p> + +<p>I heard yesterday evening, unluckily at too late +an hour, that you had something to give me; had +it not been for this, I would have called on you. I +beg, however, that you will send it, as I have no +doubt it is a letter for me from the "Queen of the +Night."<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote120">[1]</a></sup> Although you gave me permission to +fetch Carl twice already, I must ask you to let him +come to me when I send for him at eleven o'clock +to-morrow, as I wish to take him with me to hear +some interesting music. It is also my intention to +make him play to me to-morrow, as it is now some +time since I heard him. I hope you will urge him +to study more closely than usual to-day, that he +may in some degree make up for his holiday. I +embrace you cordially, and remain,</p> + +<p class="signature">Yours truly,<br> +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote120"><p>[Footnote 1: The "Queen of the Night" was the name given to Carl's mother +by Beethoven. She was a person of great levity of conduct and bad +reputation, and every effort was made by Beethoven to withdraw her +son from her influence, on which account he at once removed him from +her care, and placed him in this institution. She consequently appealed +to the law against him,--the first step in a long course of legal proceedings +of the most painful nature.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let173">173.<br> +TO G. DEL RIO.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote121">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">1816.</p> + +<p>I send you, dear sir, the cloak, and also a school-book +of my Carl's, and request you will make out +a list of his clothes and effects, that I may have it +copied for myself, being obliged, as his guardian, to +look carefully after his property. I intend to call +for Carl to-morrow about half-past twelve o'clock, +to take him to a little concert, and wish him to dine +with me afterwards, and shall bring him back myself. +With respect to his mother, I desire that +<i>under the pretext</i> of the boy being <i>so busy</i>, you will +not let her see him; no man on earth can know or +judge of this matter better than myself, and by any +other line of conduct all my well-matured plans for +the welfare of the child might be materially injured. +I will myself discuss with you when the mother is +henceforth to have access to Carl, for I am anxious +on every account to prevent the occurrence of yesterday +ever being repeated. I take all the responsibility +on myself; indeed, so far as I am concerned, +the Court conferred on me full powers, and the +authority at once to counteract anything adverse to +the welfare of the boy. If they could have looked +on her in the light of an estimable mother, they +assuredly would not have excluded her from the +guardianship of her child. Whatever she may +think fit to assert, nothing has been done in a clandestine +manner against her. There was but one +voice in the whole council on the subject. I hope +to have no further trouble in this matter, for the +burden is already heavy enough.</p> + +<p>From a conversation I had yesterday with Adlersburg +[his lawyer], it would appear that a long +time must yet elapse before the Court can decide +what really belongs to the child. In addition to +all these anxieties am I also to endure a persecution +such as I have recently experienced, and from +which I thought I <i>was entirely rescued by your Institution</i>? +Farewell!</p> + +<p class="signature">I am, with esteem, your obedient<br> +L. V. BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote121"><p>[Footnote 1: Beethoven's arbitrary authority had been previously sanctioned +by a decree of the Court, and the mother deprived of all power over +her son.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let174">174.<br> +TO FERDINAND RIES,--LONDON.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, March 8, 1816.</p> + +<p>My answer has been too long delayed; but I +was ill, and had a great press of business. Not a +single farthing is yet come of the ten gold ducats, +and I now almost begin to think that the English +are only liberal when in foreign countries. It is +the same with the Prince Regent, who has not +even sent me the cost of copying my "Battle Symphony," +nor one verbal or written expression of +thanks. My whole income consists of 3400 florins +in paper-money. I pay 1100 for house-rent, and +900 to my servant and his wife; so you may reckon +for yourself what remains. Besides this, the entire +maintenance of my young nephew devolves on +me. At present he is at school, which costs 1100 +florins, and is by no means a good one; so that I +must arrange a proper household and have him +with me. How much money must be made to live +at all here! and yet there seems no end to +it--because!--because!--because!--but you know +well what I mean.</p> + +<p>Some commissions from the Philharmonic would +be very acceptable to me, besides, the concert. +Now let me say that my dear scholar Ries must set +to work and dedicate something valuable to me, to +which his master may respond, and repay him in +his own coin. How can I send you my portrait? +My kind regards to your wife. I, alas! have none. +One alone I wished to possess, but never shall I +call her mine!<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote122">[1]</a></sup> This, however, has not made me +a woman-hater.</p> + +<p class="signature">Your true friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote122"><p>[Footnote 1: See the statement of Fräulein del Rio in the <i>Grenzboten</i>. We +read:--"My father's idea was that marriage alone could remedy the +sad condition of Beethoven's household matters; so he asked him +whether he knew any one, &c., &c. Our long-existing presentiment +was then realized." His love was unfortunate. Five years ago he +had become acquainted with a person with whom he would have +esteemed it the highest felicity of his life to have entered into closer ties; +but it was vain to think of it, being almost an impossibility! a chimera! +and yet his feelings remained the same as the very first day he +had seen her! He added, "that never before had he found such +harmony! but no declaration had ever been made, not being able to +prevail on himself to do so." This conversation took place in Sept. +1816, at Helenenthal, in Baden, and the person to whom he alluded +was undoubtedly Marie L. Pachler-Koschak in Gratz. (See No. 80.)]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let175">175.<br> +TO F. RIES.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, April 3, 1816.</p> + +<p>Neate<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote123">[1]</a></sup> is no doubt in London by this time. +He took several of my works with him, and promised +to do the best he could for me.</p> + +<p>The Archduke Rudolph [Beethoven's pupil, +see No. 70] also plays your works with me, my +dear Ries; of these "Il Sogno" especially pleased +us. Farewell! Remember me to your charming +wife, and to any fair English ladies who care to +receive my greetings.</p> + +<p class="signature">Your true friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote123"><p>[Footnote 1: Charles Neate, a London artist, as Schindler styles him in his +<i>Biography</i> (II. 254), was on several different occasions for some time +resident in Vienna, and very intimate with Beethoven, whom he tried +to persuade to come to London. He also was of great service in promoting +the sale of his works. A number of Neate's letters, preserved +in the Berlin State Library, testify his faithful and active devotion and +attachment to the master.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let176">176.<br> +POWER OF ATTORNEY.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, May 2, 1816.</p> + +<p>I authorize Herr v. Kauka, Doctor of Laws in +the kingdom of Bohemia, relying on his friendship, +to obtain for me the receipt of 600 florins W.W., +payable at the treasury of Prince Kinsky, from the +house of Ballabene in Prague, and after having +drawn the money to transmit the same to me as +soon as possible.</p> + +<p class="signature">Witness my hand and seal.<br> +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let177">177.<br> +TO F. RIES.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, June 11, 1816.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY DEAR RIES,--</p> + +<p>I regret much to put you to the expense of postage +on my account; gladly as I assist and serve +every one, I am always unwilling myself to have +recourse to others. I have as yet seen nothing of +the ten ducats, whence I draw the inference that in +England, just as with us, there are idle talkers who +prove false to their word. I do not at all blame +you in this matter. I have not heard a syllable +from Neate; so I do wish you would ask him +whether he has disposed of the F minor Concerto. +I am almost ashamed to allude to the other works I +intrusted to him, and equally so of myself, for having +given them to him so confidingly, devoid of all +conditions save those suggested by his own friendship +and zeal for my interests.</p> + +<p>A translation has been sent to me of an article +in the "Morning Chronicle" on the performance +of the Symphony. Probably it will be the same as +to this and all the other works Neate took with +him as with the "Battle Symphony;" the only +profit I shall derive will be reading a notice of their +performance in the newspapers.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let178">178.<br> +TO G. DEL RIO.</h3> + +<p class="date">1816.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY WORTHY G.,--</p> + +<p>I beg you will send Carl to me with the bearer +of this letter; otherwise I shall not be able to see +him all day, which would be contrary to his own +interest, as my influence seems to be required; in +the same view, I beg you will give him a few lines +with a report of his conduct, so that I may enter +at once on any point where improvement is necessary.</p> + +<p>I am going to the country to-day, and shall not +return till rather late at night; being always unwilling +to infringe your rules, I beg you will send +some night-things with Carl, so that if we return +too late to bring him to you to-day, I can keep him +all night, and take him back to you myself early +next morning.</p> + +<p class="signature">In haste, always yours,<br> +L. V. BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let179">179.<br> +TO G. DEL RIO.</h3> + +<p class="date">1816.</p> + +<p>I must apologize to you, my good friend, for +Carl having come home at so late an hour. We +were obliged to wait for a person who arrived so +late that it detained us, but I will not soon repeat +this breach of your rules. As to Carl's mother, I +have now decided that your wish not to see her +again in your house shall be acceded to. This +course is far more safe and judicious for our dear +Carl, experience having taught me that every visit +from his mother leaves a root of bitterness in the +boy's heart, which may injure, but never can benefit +him. I shall strive to arrange occasional meetings +at my house, which is likely to result in everything +being entirely broken off with her. As we +thoroughly agree on the subject of Carl's mother, +we can mutually decide on the mode of his education.</p> + +<p class="signature">Your true friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let180">180.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, July 11, 1816.</p> + +<p>Your kindness towards me induces me to hope +that you will not attribute to any <i>selfish</i> design on +my part the somewhat audacious (though only as to +the surprise) dedication annexed. The work<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote124">[1]</a></sup> was +written for Y.R.H., or rather, it owes its existence +to you, and this the world (the musical world) +ought to know. I shall soon have the honor of +waiting on Y.R.H. in Baden. Notwithstanding +all the efforts of my physician, who will not allow +me to leave this, the weakness in my chest is no +better, though my general health is improved. I +hope to hear all that is cheering of your own health, +about which I am always so much interested.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote124"><p>[Footnote 1: Does Beethoven here allude to the dedication of the Sonata for +pianoforte and violin in G major, Op. 96, which, though sold to a publisher +in April, 1815, was designated as quite new in the <i>Allgemeine +Zeitung</i> on July, 29, 1816?]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let181">181.<br> +WRITTEN IN ENGLISH TO MR. BIRCHALL.</h3> + +<p class="date">1816.</p> + +<p>Received, March, 1816, of Mr. Robert Birchall, +music-seller, 133 New Bond Street, London, the +sum of one hundred and thirty gold Dutch ducats, +value in English currency sixty-five pounds, for all +my copyright and interest, present and future, +vested or contingent, or otherwise within the United +kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland in the four +following compositions or pieces of music composed +or arranged by me, viz.:--</p> + +<p>1st. A Grand Battle Sinfonia, descriptive of the +battle and victory at Vittoria, adapted for the +pianoforte and dedicated to his Royal Highness the +Prince Regent--40 ducats.</p> + +<p>2d. A Grand Symphony in the key of A, adapted +to the pianoforte and dedicated to--</p> + +<p>3d. A Grand Trio for the pianoforte, violin, and +violoncello in the key of B.</p> + +<p>4th. A Sonata for the pianoforte, with an accompaniment +for the violin in the key of G, dedicated +to--</p> + +<p>And, in consideration of such payment I hereby, +for myself, my executors, and administrators, promise +and engage to execute a proper anignment thereof +to him, his executors and administrators or anignees, +at his or their request and costs, as he or they shall +direct. And I likewise promise and engage as +above, that none of the above shall be published +in any foreign country, before the time and day +fixed and agreed on for such publication between +R. Birchall and myself shall arrive.</p> + +<p class="signature">L. VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let182">182.<br> +WRITTEN IN FRENCH TO MR. BIRCHALL,--LONDON.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienne 22. Juilliet, 1816.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MONSIEUR,--</p> + +<p>J'ai reçu la déclaration de proprieté de mes +Oeuvres entierement cedé a Vous pour y adjoindre +ma Signature. Je suis tout a fait disposer a seconder +vos voeux si tôt, que cette affaire sera entierement +en ordre, en egard de la petite somme de 10 # +d'or la quelle me vient encore pour le fieux de la +Copieture de poste de lettre etc. comme j'avois +l'honneur de vous expliquier dans une note detaillé +sur ses objectes. Je vous invite donc Monsieur de +bien vouloir me remettre ces petits objects, pour +me mettre dans l'état de pouvoir vous envoyer le +Document susdit. Agrées Monsieur l'assurance +de l'estime la plus parfait avec la quelle j'ai l'honneur +de me dire</p> + +<p class="signature">LOUIS VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<pre> +Copying . . . . 1. 10. 0. +Postage to Amsterdam 1. 0. 0. + ---- Trio . . . 2. 10. -- + ----------- + £5. 0. 0. +</pre> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let183">183.<br> +TO G. DEL RIO.</h3> + +<p class="date">July 28, 1816.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY GOOD FRIEND,--</p> + +<p>Various circumstances compel me to take charge +of Carl myself; with this view permit me to enclose +you the amount due at the approaching quarter, +at the expiry of which Carl is to leave you. +Do not, I beg, ascribe this to anything derogatory +either to yourself or to your respected institution, +but to other pressing motives connected with Carl's +welfare. It is only an experiment, and when it is +actually carried out I shall beg you to fortify me +by your advice, and also to permit Carl sometimes +to visit your institution. I shall always feel the +most sincere gratitude to you, and never can forget +your solicitude, and the kind care of your excellent +wife, which has fully equalled that of the best +of mothers. I would send you at least four times +the sum I now do, if my position admitted of it; +but at all events I shall avail myself at a future and, +I hope, a brighter day, of every opportunity to acknowledge +and to do justice to the foundation <i>you</i> +have laid for the moral and physical good of my +Carl. With regard to the "Queen of the Night," +our system must continue the same; and as Carl is +about to undergo an operation in your house which +will cause him to feel indisposed, and consequently +make him irritable and susceptible, you must be +more careful than ever to prevent her having access +to him; otherwise she might easily contrive to +revive all those impressions in his mind which we +are so anxious to avoid. What confidence can be +placed in any promise to reform on her part, the impertinent +scrawl I enclose will best prove [in reference, +no doubt, to an enclosed note]. I send it +merely to show you how fully I am justified in the +precautions I have already adopted with regard to +her. On this occasion, however, I did not answer +like a Sarastro, but like a Sultan. I would gladly +spare you the anxiety of the operation on Carl, +but as it must take place in your house, I beg you +will inform me of the outlay caused by the affair, +and the expenses consequent on it, which I will +thankfully repay. Now farewell! Say all that is +kind from me to your dear children and your excellent +wife, to whose continued care I commend +my Carl. I leave Vienna to-morrow at five o'clock +A.M., but shall frequently come in from Baden.</p> + +<p class="signature">Ever, with sincere esteem, your<br> +L. V. BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let184">184.<br> +TO G. DEL RIO.</h3> + +<p>Mdme. A.G. is requested to order several pairs +of good linen drawers for Carl. I intrust Carl to +her kindness, and entirely rely on her motherly +care.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let185">185.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="date">Baden, September 5, 1816.</p> + +<p class="salutation">DEAR Z.,--</p> + +<p>I don't know whether you received a note that I +recently left on the threshold of your door, for the +time was too short to enable me to see you. I +must therefore repeat my request about another +servant, as the conduct of my present one is such +that I cannot possibly keep him.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote125">[1]</a></sup> He was engaged +on the 25th of April, so on the 25th of September +he will have been five months with me, and he received +50 florins on account. The money for his +boots will be reckoned from the third month (in +my service), and from that time at the rate of 40 +florins per annum; his livery also from the third +month. From the very first I resolved not to keep +him, but delayed discharging him, as I wished to +get back the value of my florins. In the mean time +if I can procure another, I will let this one leave +my service on the 15th of the month, and also give +him 20 florins for boot money, and 5 florins a +month for livery (both reckoned from the third +month), making altogether 35 florins. I ought +therefore still to receive 15 florins, but these I am +willing to give up; in this way I shall at all events +receive some equivalent for my 50 florins. If you +can find a suitable person, I will give him 2 florins +a day while I am in Baden, and if he knows how +to cook he can use my firewood in the kitchen. (I +have a kitchen, though I do not cook in it.) If +not, I will add a few kreutzers to his wages. As +soon as I am settled in Vienna, he shall have 40 +florins a month, and board and livery as usual, +reckoned from the third month in my service, like +other servants. It would be a good thing if he +understood a little tailoring. So now you have my +proposals, and I beg for an answer by the 10th of +this month at the latest, that I may discharge my +present servant on the 2d, with the usual fortnight's +warning; otherwise I shall be obliged to +keep him for another month, and every moment I +wish to get rid of him. As for the new one, you +know pretty well what I require,--<i>good, steady +conduct</i>, a <i>good character</i>, and <i>not to be of a bloodthirsty +nature</i>, that I may feel my life to be safe, as, +for the sake of various scamps in this world, I +should like to live a little longer. By the 10th, +therefore, I shall expect to hear from you on this +affair. If you don't run restive, I will soon send +you my treatise on the four violoncello strings, very +profoundly handled; the first chapter devoted exclusively +to entrails in general, the second to catgut +in particular. I need scarcely give you any further +warnings, as you seem to be quite on your guard +against wounds inflicted before certain fortresses. +The most <i>profound peace</i> everywhere prevails!!! +Farewell, my good <i>Zmeskällchen</i>! I am, as ever, +<i>un povero musico</i> and your friend,</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<p>N.B. I shall probably only require my new +servant for some months, as, for the sake of my +Carl, I must shortly engage a housekeeper.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote125"><p>[Footnote 1: During a quarrel, the servant scratched Beethoven's face.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let186">186.<br> +TO HERR KAUKA.</h3> + +<p class="date">Baden, Sept. 6, 1816.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY WORTHY K.,--</p> + +<p>I send you herewith the receipt, according to +your request, and beg that you will kindly arrange +that I should have the money by the 1st October, +and without any deduction, which has hitherto been +the case; I also particularly beg <i>you will not assign +the money to Baron P</i>. (I will tell you why when +we meet; for the present let this remain between +ourselves.) Send it either direct to myself, or, if +it must come through another person, do not let it +be Baron P. It would be best for the future, as +the house-rent is paid here for the great house belonging +to Kinsky, that my money should be paid +at the same time. This is only my own idea. +The Terzet you heard of will soon be engraved, +which is infinitely preferable to all written music; +you shall therefore receive an engraved copy, and +likewise some more of my unruly offspring. In the +mean time I beg that you will see only what is +truly good in them, and look with an indulgent eye +on the human frailties of these poor innocents. +Besides, I am full of cares, being in reality father +to my late brother's child; indeed I might have +ushered into the world a second part of the "Flauto +Magico," having also been brought into contact with +a "Queen of the Night." I embrace you from my +heart, and hope soon in so far to succeed that you +may owe some thanks to my Muse. My dear, +worthy Kauka, I ever am your truly attached +friend,</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let187">187.<br> +QUERY?</h3> + +<p>What would be the result were I to leave this, +and indeed the kingdom of Austria altogether? +Would the life-certificate, if signed by the authorities +of a non-Austrian place, still be valid?</p> + +<p><i>A tergo.</i></p> + +<p>I beg you will let me know the postage all my +letters have cost you.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let188">188.<br> +TO G. DEL RIO.</h3> + +<p class="date">Sunday, September 22, 1816.</p> + +<p>Certain things can never be fully expressed. Of +this nature are my feelings, and especially my +gratitude, on hearing the details of the operation on +Carl from you. You will excuse my attempting +even remotely to shape these into words. I feel +certain, however, that you will not decline the +tribute I gladly pay you; but I say no more. +You can easily imagine my anxiety to hear how +my dear son is going on; do not omit to give me +your exact address, that I may write to you direct. +After you left this I wrote to Bernhard [Bernard], +to make inquiries at your house, but have not yet +got an answer; so possibly you may have thought +me a kind of half-reckless barbarian, as no doubt +Herr B. has neglected to call on you, as well as to +write to me. I can have no uneasiness about Carl +when your admirable wife is with him: that is quite +out of the question. You can well understand how +much it grieves me not to be able to take part in +the sufferings of my Carl, and that I at least wish +to hear frequently of his progress. As I have renounced +such an unfeeling, unsympathizing friend +as Herr B. [Bernard], I must have recourse to +your friendship and complaisance on this point also, +and shall hope soon to receive a few lines from you. +I beg to send my best regards and a thousand +thanks to your admirable wife.</p> + +<p class="signature">In haste, your<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<p>I wish you to express to Smetana [the surgeon] +my esteem and high consideration.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let189">189.<br> +TO G. DEL RIO.</h3> + +<p>If you do not object, I beg you will allow Carl to +come to me with the bearer of this. I forgot, in +my haste, to say that all the love and goodness +which Mdme. A.G. [Giannatasio] showed my +Carl during his illness are inscribed in the list of +my obligations, and I hope one day to show that +they are ever present in my mind. Perhaps I may +see you to-day with Carl.</p> + +<p class="signature">In haste, your sincere friend,<br> +L. V. BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let190">190.<br> +TO WEGELER.</h3> + +<p>I take the opportunity through J. Simrock to +remind you of myself. I hope you received the +engraving of me [by Letronne], and likewise the +Bohemian glass. When I next make a pilgrimage +through Bohemia you shall have something more +of the same kind. Farewell! You are a husband +and a father; so am I, but without a wife. +My love to your dear ones--to <i>our</i> dear ones.</p> + +<p class="signature">Your friend,<br> +L. V. BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let191">191.<br> +WRITTEN IN ENGLISH TO MR. BIRCHALL, MUSIC SELLER, LONDON.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, 1. Oct. 1816.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY DEAR SIR,--</p> + +<p>I have duly received the £5 and thought previously +you would non increase the number of +Englishmen neglecting their word and honor, as I +had the misfortune of meeting with two of this sort. +In replic to the other topics of your favor, I have no +objection to write variations according to your plan, +and I hope you will not find £30 too much, the +Accompaniment will be a Flute or Violin or a Violoncello; +you'll either decide it when you send me +the approbation of the price, or you'll leave it to +me. I expect to receive the songs or poetry--the +sooner the better, and you'll favor me also +with the probable number of Works of Variations +you are inclined to receive of me. The Sonata in +G with the accompan't of a Violin to his Imperial +Highnesse Archduke Rodolph of Austria--it is +Op'a 96. The Trio in Bb is dedicated to the same +and is Op. 97. The Piano arrangement of the +Symphony in A is dedicated to the Empress of the +Russians--meaning the Wife of the Emp'r Alexander--Op. +98.</p> + +<p>Concerning the expences of copying and packing +it is not possible to fix him before hand, they are at +any rate not considerable, and you'll please to consider +that you have to deal with a man of honor, +who will not charge one 6p. more than he is charged +for himself. Messrs. Fries & Co. will account with +Messrs. Coutts & Co.--The postage may be lessened +as I have been told. I offer you of my +Works the following new ones. A Grand Sonata +for the Pianoforte alone £40. A Trio for the +Piano with accomp't of Violin and Violoncello for +£50. It is possible that somebody will offer you +other works of mine to purchase, for ex. the score +of the Grand Symphony in A.--With regard to +the arrangement of this Symphony for the Piano I +beg you not to forget that you are not to publish it +until I have appointed the day of its publication +here in Vienna. This cannot be otherwise without +making myself guilty of a dishonorable act--but +the Sonata with the Violin and the Trio in B fl. +may be published without any delay.</p> + +<p>With all the <i>new works</i>, which you will have +of me or which I offer you, it rests with you to +name the day of their publication at your own +choice: I entreat you to honor me as soon as possible +with an answer having many ordres for compositions +and that you may not be delayed. My address +or direction is</p> + +<p>Monsieur Louis van Beethoven<br> +No. 1055 & 1056 Sailerstette 3d. Stock. Vienna.</p> + +<p>You may send your letter, if you please, direct +to your most humble servant</p> + +<p class="signature">LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let192">192.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="date">Oct. 24, 1816.</p> + +<p class="salutation">WELL BORN, AND YET EVIL BORN! (AS WE ALL ARE!)</p> + +<p>We are in Baden to-day, and intend to bring the +celebrated naturalist Ribini a collection of dead +leaves. To-morrow we purpose paying you not +only a <i>visit</i> but a <i>visitation</i>.</p> + +<p class="signature">Your devoted<br> +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let193">193.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">November, 1816.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote126">[1]</a></sup></p> + +<p>I have been again much worse, so that I can only +venture to go out a little in the daytime; I am, +however, getting better, and hope now to have the +honor of waiting on Y.R.H. three times a week. +Meanwhile, I have many and great cares in these +terrible times (which surpass anything we have +ever experienced), and which are further augmented +by having become the father since last November +of a poor orphan. All this tends to retard my entire +restoration to health. I wish Y.R.H. all +imaginable good and happiness, and beg you will +graciously receive and not misinterpret</p> + +<p class="signature">Your, &c., &c.<br> +[K.]</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote126"><p>[Footnote 1: A year after Carl von Beethoven's death (Nov. 15, 1815).]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let194">194.<br> +TO FREIHERR VON SCHWEIGER.</h3> + +<p class="salutation">BEST!<br> +MOST AMIABLE!<br> +FIRST AND FOREMOST TURNER MEISTER OF EUROPE!</p> + +<p>The bearer of this is a poor devil! (like many +another!!!) You could assist him by asking your +gracious master whether he is disposed to purchase +one of his small but neat pianos. I also beg you +will recommend him to any of the Chamberlains +or Adjutants of the Archduke Carl, to see whether +it is possible that H.R.H. would buy one of these +instruments for his Duchess. We therefore request +an introduction from the illustrious <i>Turner Meister</i> +for this poor devil<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote127">[1]</a></sup> to the Chamberlains and Adjutants +of the household.</p> + +<p class="signature">Likewise<br> +1<br> +poor devil,<br> +[K.] L. V. BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote127"><p>[Footnote 1: A name cannot now be found for the "poor devil."]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let195">195.<br> +TO G. DEL RIO.</h3> + +<p class="date">Nov. 16, 1816.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY DEAR FRIEND,--</p> + +<p>My household seems about to make shipwreck, +or something very like it. You know that I was +duped into taking this house on false pretexts; besides, +my health does not seem likely to improve in +a hurry. To engage a tutor under such circumstances, +whose character and whose very exterior +even are unknown to me, and thus to intrust my +Carl's education to hap-hazard, is quite out of the +question, no matter how great the sacrifices which +I shall be again called on to make. I beg you, +therefore, to keep Carl for the ensuing quarter, +commencing on the 9th. I will in so far comply +with your proposal as to the cultivation of the +science of music, that Carl may come to me two or +three times a week, leaving you at six o'clock in +the evening and staying with me till the following +morning, when he can return to you by eight +o'clock. It would be too fatiguing for Carl to come +every day, and indeed too great an effort and tie +for me likewise, as the lessons must be given at the +same fixed hour.</p> + +<p>During this quarter we can discuss more minutely +the most suitable plan for Carl, taking into consideration +both his interests and my own. I must, +alas! mention my own also in these times, which +are daily getting worse. If your garden residence +had agreed with my health, everything might have +been easily adjusted. With regard to my debt to +you for the present quarter, I beg you will be so +obliging as to call on me, that I may discharge it; +the bearer of this has the good fortune to be endowed +by Providence with a vast amount of stupidity, +which I by no means grudge him the benefit +of, provided others do not suffer by it. As to the +remaining expenses incurred for Carl, either during +his illness or connected with it, I must, for a few +days only, request your indulgence, having great +calls on me at present from all quarters. I wish +also to know what fee I ought to give Smetana for +the successful operation he performed; were I rich, +or not in the same sad position in which all are +who have linked their fate to this country (always +excepting <i>Austrian usurers</i>), I would make no +inquiries on the subject; and I only wish you to +give me a rough estimate of the proper fee. Farewell! +I cordially embrace you, and shall always +look on you as a friend of mine and of Carl's.</p> + +<p class="signature">I am, with esteem, your<br> +L. V. BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let196">196.<br> +TO G. DEL RIO.</h3> + +<p>Though I would gladly spare you all needless +disagreeable trouble, I cannot, unluckily, do so on +this occasion. Yesterday, in searching for some +papers, I found this pile, which has been sent to +me respecting Carl. I do not quite understand +them, and you would oblige me much by employing +some one to make out a regular statement of +all your outlay for Carl, so that I may send for it +to-morrow. I hope you did not misunderstand me +when I yesterday alluded to <i>magnanimity</i>, which +certainly was not meant for you, but solely for the +"Queen of the Night," who is never weary of +hoisting the sails of her vindictiveness against me; +so on this account I require vouchers, more for the +satisfaction of others than for her sake (as I never +will submit to render her any account of my actions). +No stamp is required, and the sum alone +for each quarter need be specified, for I believe +most of the accounts are forthcoming; so all you +have to do is to append them to your <i>prospectus</i> +[the conclusion illegible].</p> + +<p class="signature">L. V. BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let197">197.<br> +TO G. DEL RIO.</h3> + +<p class="date">Nov. 14, 1816.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY GOOD FRIEND,--</p> + +<p>I beg you will allow Carl to come to me to-morrow, +as it is the anniversary of his father's death +[Nov. 15th], and we wish to visit his grave together. +I shall probably come to fetch him between +twelve and one o'clock. I wish to know +the effect of my treatment of Carl, after your recent +complaints. In the mean time, it touched me +exceedingly to find him so susceptible as to his +honor. Before we left your house I gave him +some hints on his want of industry, and while +walking together in a graver mood than usual, he +pressed my hand vehemently, but met with no response +from me. At dinner he scarcely eat anything, +and said that he felt very melancholy, the +cause of which I could not extract from him. At +last, in the course of our walk, he owned that <i>he +was vexed because he had not been so industrious +as usual</i>. I said what I ought on the subject, but +in a kinder manner than before. This, however, +proves a certain delicacy of feeling, and such <i>traits</i> +lead me to augur all that is good. If I cannot +come to you to-morrow, I hope you will let me +know by a few lines the result of my conference +with Carl.</p> + +<p>I once more beg you to let me have the account +due for the last quarter. I thought that you had +misunderstood my letter, or even worse than that. +I warmly commend my poor orphan to your good +heart, and, with kind regards to all, I remain</p> + +<p class="signature">Your friend,<br> +L. V. BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let198">198.<br> +TO G. DEL RIO.</h3> + +<p class="salutation">MY GOOD FRIEND,--</p> + +<p>Pray forgive me for having allowed the enclosed +sum to be ready for you during the last twelve days +or more, and not having sent it. I have been very +much occupied, and am only beginning to recover, +though indeed the word <i>recovery</i> has not yet been +pronounced.</p> + +<p class="signature">In haste, with much esteem, ever yours,<br> +L. V. BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let199">199.<br> +TO HERR TSCHISCHKA.</h3> + +<p class="salutation">SIR,--</p> + +<p>It is certainly of some moment to me <i>not to appear +in a false light</i>, which must account for the accompanying +statement being so prolix. As to the +future system of education, I can at all events congratulate +myself on having done all that I could +possibly effect at present <i>for the best</i>, and trust <i>that +the future may be in accordance with it</i>. But if the +welfare of my nephew demands a <i>change</i>, I shall be +the first not only to propose such a step, but <i>to +carry it out</i>. I am no self-interested guardian, but I +wish to establish a new monument to my name +through my nephew. I <i>have no need of my nephew</i>, +but he has need of me. Idle talk and calumnies are +beneath the dignity of a man with proper self-respect, +and what can be said when these extend even +to the subject of linen!!! This might cause me +great annoyance, <i>but a just man ought to be able to +bear injustice</i> without in the <i>most remote degree</i> deviating +from the path of <i>right</i>. In this conviction I +will stand fast, and nothing shall make me flinch. +To deprive me of my nephew would indeed entail a +heavy responsibility. As a matter of <i>policy</i> as well +as of morality, such a step would be productive of +evil results to my nephew. <i>I urgently recommend +his interests to you.</i> As for me, <i>my actions</i> for <i>his</i> +benefit (not for my <i>own</i>) must speak for me.</p> + +<p class="signature">I remain, with esteem,<br> +Your obedient<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<p>Being very busy, and rather indisposed, I must +claim your indulgence for the writing of the memorial.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let200">200.<br> +WRITTEN IN ENGLISH TO MR. BIRCHALL,--LONDON.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna 14. December 1816--1055 Sailerstette.</p> + +<p class="salutation">DEAR SIR,--</p> + +<p>I give you my word of honor that I have signed +and delivered the receipt to the home Fries and Co. +some day last August, who as they say have transmitted +it to Messrs. Coutts and Co. where you'll +have the goodness to apply. Some error might +have taken place that instead of Messrs. C. sending +it to you they have been directed to keep it till +fetched. Excuse this irregularity, but it is not my +fault, nor had I ever the idea of withholding it from +the circumstance of the £5 not being included. +Should the receipt not come forth as Messrs. C., I +am ready to sign any other, and you shall have it +directly with return of post.</p> + +<p>If you find Variations--in my style--too dear +at £30, I will abate for the sake of your friendship +one third--and you have the offer of such Variations +as fixed in our former lettres for £20 each +Air.</p> + +<p>Please to publish the Symphony in A immediately--as +well as the Sonata--and the Trio--they +being ready here. The Grand Opera Fidelio +is my work. The arrangement for the Pianoforte +has been published here under my care, but the +score of the Opera itself is not yet published. I +have given a copy of the score to Mr. Neate under +the seal of friendship and whom I shall direct to +treat for my account in case an offer should present.</p> + +<p>I anxiously hope your health is improving, give +me leave to subscrive myself</p> + +<p class="signature">Dear Sir<br> +Your very obedient Serv.<br> +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let201">201.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="date">Dec. 16, 1816.</p> + +<p>With this, dear Zmeskall, you will receive my +friendly dedication [a stringed quartet, Op. 95], +which may, I hope, serve as a pleasant memorial +of our long-enduring friendship here; pray accept +it as a proof of my esteem, and not merely as the +extreme end of a thread long since spun out (for +you are one of my earliest friends in Vienna).</p> + +<p>Farewell! Beware of mouldering fortresses! for +an attack on them will be more trying than on +those in a better state of preservation! As ever,</p> + +<p class="signature">Your friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<p>N.B. When you have a moment's leisure, let +me know the probable cost of a livery, without +linen, but including hat and boots. Strange +changes have come to pass in my house. The man +is off to the devil, I am thankful to say, whereas his +wife seems the more resolved to take root here.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let202">202.<br> +TO FRAU VON STREICHER--NÉE STEIN.</h3> + +<p class="date">Dec. 28, 1816.</p> + +<p>N---- ought to have given you the New Year's +tickets yesterday, but it seems she did not do so. +The day before I was occupied with Maelzel, whose +business was pressing, as he leaves this so soon; +otherwise you may be sure that I would have hurried +up again to see you. Your dear kind daughter +was with me yesterday, but I scarcely ever remember +being so ill; my <i>precious servants</i> were occupied +from seven o'clock till ten at night in trying to heat +the stove. The bitter cold, particularly in my room, +caused me a chill, and the whole of yesterday I +could scarcely move a limb. All day I was coughing, +and had the most severe headache I ever had +in my life; so by six o'clock in the evening I was +obliged to go to bed, where I still am, though feeling +somewhat better. Your brother dined with me +yesterday, and has shown me great kindness. You +are aware that on the same day, the 27th of December, +I discharged B. [Baberl]. I cannot endure +either of these vile creatures; I wonder if Nany +will behave rather better from the departure of her +colleague? I doubt it--but in that case I shall +send her <i>packing</i> without any ceremony. She is +too uneducated for a housekeeper, indeed quite a +<i>beast</i>; but the other, in spite of her pretty face, is +even <i>lower than the beasts</i>. As the New Year +draws near, I think five florins will be enough for +Nany; I have not paid her the charge for <i>making +her spencer</i>, on account of her <i>bad behavior to you</i>. +The other certainly <i>deserves no New Year's gift</i>; +besides, she has nine florins of mine on hand, and +when she leaves I don't expect to receive more +than four or five florins of that sum. I wish to +have <i>your opinion about all this</i>. Pray accept my +best wishes for your welfare, which are offered in +all sincerity. I am your debtor in so many ways, +that I really often feel quite ashamed. Farewell; +I trust I may always retain your friendship.</p> + +<p class="signature">Now, as ever, your friend,<br> +L. V. BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let203">203.<br> +TO FRAU VON STREICHER.</h3> + +<p>I thank you for the interest you take in me. I +am rather better, though to-day again I have been +obliged to endure a great deal from Nany; but I +shied half a dozen books at her head by way of a +New Year's gift. We have stripped off the leaves +(by sending off Baberl) and lopped off the branches, +but we must extirpate the <i>roots</i>, till nothing is left +but the actual soil.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let204">204.<br> +TO FRAU VON STREICHER.</h3> + +<p>Nany is not strictly <i>honest</i>, and an odiously stupid +<i>animal</i> into the bargain. Such people must be +managed not by <i>love</i> but by <i>fear</i>. I now see this +clearly. Her account-book alone cannot show you +everything clearly; you must often drop in unexpectedly +at dinner-time, like an avenging angel, to +see with your own eyes <i>what</i> we actually have. I +never dine at home now, <i>unless</i> I have some friend +as my guest, for I have no wish to pay as much for +one person as would serve for four. I shall <i>now +soon</i> have my dear son Carl with me, so economy +is more necessary than ever. I cannot prevail on +myself to go to you; I know you will forgive this. +I am very sensitive, and not used to such things, so +the less ought I to expose myself to them. In addition +to twelve kreutzers for bread, Nany has a roll +of white bread every morning. Is this usual?--and +it is the same with the cook. A daily roll for +breakfast comes to eighteen florins a year. <i>Farewell</i>, +and <i>work well</i> for me. Mdlle. Nany is wonderfully +changed for the better since I sent the +half-dozen books at her head. Probably they +chanced to come in collision with her <i>dull brain</i> or +her <i>bad heart</i>; at all events, she now plays the +part of a penitent swindler!!!</p> + +<p class="signature">In haste, yours,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let205">205.<br> +TO FRAU VON STREICHER.</h3> + +<p>Nany yesterday took me to task in the vulgar +manner usual with people of her <i>low class</i>, about +my complaining to you; so she evidently knew that +I had written to you on the subject. All the devilry +began again yesterday morning, but I made +short work of it by throwing the heavy arm-chair +beside my bed at B.'s head, which procured me +peace for the rest of the day. They always take +their revenge on me when I write to you, or when +they discover any communication between us.</p> + +<p>I do thank Heaven that I everywhere find men +who interest themselves in me; one of the <i>most +distinguished Professors</i> in this University has in +the kindest manner undertaken <i>all that concerns +Carl's education</i>. If you happen to meet any of +the Giannatasios at Czerny's, you had better <i>know +nothing of what is going on about Carl</i>, and say that +it is <i>contrary</i> to my <i>usual habit to disclose my plans, +as when a project is told to others it is no longer exclusively +your own</i>. They would like to interfere +in the matter, and I do not choose that these <i>commonplace +people should do so, both for</i> my <i>own sake +and Carl's</i>. Over their portico is inscribed, in +golden letters, "Educational Institution," whereas +"<i>Non</i>-Educational Institution" would be more appropriate.</p> + +<p>As for the servants, there is only <i>one voice</i> about +their immorality, to which <i>all</i> the other annoyances +here may be ascribed.</p> + +<p>Pray receive my benediction in place of that of +the Klosterneuburgers.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote128">[1]</a></sup></p> + +<p class="signature">In haste, your friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote128"><p>[Footnote 1: Frau von Streicher was at that time in Klosterneuburg.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let206">206.<br> +TO FRAU VON STREICHER.</h3> + +<p>Judgment was executed to-day on the notorious +criminal! She bore it nearly in the same spirit as +Caesar did Brutus's dagger, except that in the former +case truth formed the basis, while in hers only +wicked malice. The kitchen-maid seems more +handy than the former <i>ill-conducted beauty</i>; she no +longer shows herself,--a sign that she does not expect +a <i>good character</i> from me, though I really had +some thoughts of giving her one. The kitchen-maid +at first made rather a wry face about carrying +wood, &c.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let207">207.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">Last day of December, 1816.</p> + +<p>I have been again obliged to keep my room ever +since the Burgher concert,<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote129">[1]</a></sup> and some time must +no doubt elapse before I shall be able to dismiss all +precautions as to my health. The year is about to +close; and with this new year my warmest wishes +are renewed for the welfare of Y.R.H.; but +indeed these have neither beginning nor end with +me, for every day I cherish the same aspirations +for Y.R.H. If I may venture to add a wish for +myself to the foregoing, it is, that I may daily thrive +and prosper more in Y.R.H.'s good graces. The +master will always strive not to be unworthy of the +favor of his illustrious master and pupil.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote129"><p>[Footnote 1: Beethoven directed his A major Symphony in the Burgher concert +in the Royal Redoutensaal on the 25th December, 1816.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let208">208.<br> +TO G. DEL RIO.</h3> + +<p>... As to his mother, she urgently requested to +see Carl in my house. You have sometimes seen +me tempted to place more confidence in her, and +my feelings would lead me to guard against harshness +towards her, especially as it is not in her power +to injure Carl. But you may well imagine that to +one usually so independent of others, the annoyances +to which I am exposed through Carl are often +utterly insupportable, and above all with regard to +his mother; I am only too glad to hear nothing of +her, which is the cause of my avoiding her name. +With respect to Carl, I beg you will enforce the +strictest discipline on him, and if he refuses to obey +your orders or to do his duty, I trust you will at +once <i>punish</i> him. Treat him as if he were your +own child rather than a <i>mere pupil</i>, for I already +told you that during his father's lifetime he only +submitted to the discipline of blows, which was a +bad system; still, such was the fact, and we must +not forget it.</p> + +<p>If you do not see much of me, pray ascribe it +solely to the little inclination I have for society, +which is sometimes more developed and sometimes +less; and this you might attribute to a change in +my feelings, but it is not so. What is good alone +lives in my memory, and not what is painful. Pray +impute therefore solely to these hard times my not +more practically showing my gratitude to you on +account of Carl. God, however, directs all things; +so my position may undergo a favorable change, +when I shall hasten to show you how truly I am, +with sincere esteem, your grateful friend,</p> + +<p class="signature">L. V. BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<p>I beg you will read this letter to Carl.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let209">209.<br> +TO G. DEL RIO.</h3> + +<p>Carl must be at H.B.'s to-day before four +o'clock; I must request you therefore to ask his +professor to dismiss him at half-past three o'clock; +if this cannot be managed he must not go into +school at all. In the latter case, I will come myself +and fetch him; in the former, I will meet him in the +passage of the University. To avoid all confusion, +I beg for an explicit answer as to what you settle. +As you have been loudly accused of showing great +party feeling, I will take Carl myself. If you do +not see me, attribute it to my distress of mind, for +I am now only beginning to feel the full force of +this terrible incident.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote130">[1]</a></sup></p> + +<p class="signature">In haste, your<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote130"><p>[Footnote 1: Probably the reversal of the first decree in the lawsuit with Carl's +mother, who in order to procure a verdict more favorable to her claims, +pointed out to the Austrian "Landrecht," where the lawsuit had been +hitherto carried on, an error in their proceedings, the "Van," prefixed +to Beethoven's name, having been considered by them a sign of nobility. +Beethoven was cited to appear, and on the appointed day, pointing +to his head and his heart, he said, "My nobility is here, and +here." The proceedings were then transferred to the "magistrate," +who was in universal bad odor from his mode of conducting his business.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let210">210.<br> +TO G. DEL RIO.</h3> + +<p>The assertions of this wicked woman have made +such a painful impression on me, that I cannot possibly +answer every point to-day; to-morrow you +shall have a detailed account of it all; but on no +pretext whatever allow her to have access to Carl, +and adhere to your rule that she is only to see him +once a month. As she has been once this month +already, she cannot come again till the next.</p> + +<p class="signature">In haste, your<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let211">211.<br> +TO HOFRATH VON MOSEL.</h3> + +<p class="date">1817.</p> + +<p class="salutation">SIR,--</p> + +<p>I sincerely rejoice that we take the same view as +to the terms in use to denote the proper time in +music which have descended to us from barbarous +times. For example, what can be more irrational +than the general term <i>allegro</i>, which only means +<i>lively</i>; and how far we often are from comprehending +the real time, so that the piece itself <i>contradicts +the designation</i>. As for the four chief movements,--which +are, indeed, far from possessing the truth +or accuracy of the four cardinal points,--we readily +agree <i>to dispense with them</i>, but it is quite another +matter as to the words that indicate the character +of the music; these we cannot consent to do away +with, for while the time is, as it were, part and +parcel of the piece, the <i>words denote the spirit in +which it is conceived</i>.</p> + +<p>So far as I am myself concerned, I have long purposed +giving up those inconsistent terms <i>allegro</i>, +<i>andante</i>, <i>adagio</i>, and <i>presto</i>; and Maelzel's metronome +furnishes us with the best opportunity of +doing so. I here <i>pledge</i> myself <i>no longer</i> to make +use of them in any of my new compositions. It is +another question whether we can by this means attain +the necessary universal use of the metronome. +I scarcely think we shall! I make no doubt that +we shall be loudly proclaimed as <i>despots</i>; but if the +cause itself were to derive benefit from this, it +would at least be better than to incur the reproach +of Feudalism! In our country, where music has +become a national requirement, and where the use +of the metronome must be enjoined on every +village schoolmaster, the best plan would be for +Maelzel to endeavor to sell a certain number of +metronomes by subscription, at the present higher +prices, and as soon as the number covers his expenses, +he can sell the metronomes demanded by +the national requirements at so cheap a rate, that +we may certainly anticipate their <i>universal use</i> and +<i>circulation</i>. Of course some persons must take the +lead in giving an impetus to the undertaking. You +may safely rely on my doing what is in my power, +and I shall be glad to hear what post you mean to +assign to me in the affair.</p> + +<p class="signature">I am, sir, with esteem, your obedient<br> +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let212">212.<br> +TO S.A. STEINER, MUSIC PUBLISHER,--VIENNA.</h3> + +<p class="salutation">HIGHEST BORN! MOST ADMIRABLE! AND MARVELLOUS LIEUTENANT-GENERAL!<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote131">[1]</a></sup></p> + +<p>We beg you to give us bank-notes for twenty-four +gold ducats at yesterday's rate of exchange, +and to send them to us this evening or to-morrow, +in order that we may forthwith <i>remit</i> and <i>transmit</i> +them. I should be glad and happy if your trustworthy +Adjutant were to bring me these, as I have +something particular to say to him. He must forget +all his resentment, like a good Christian; we +acknowledge his merits and do not contest his demerits. +In short, and once for all, we wish to see +him. This evening would suit us best.</p> + +<p>We have the honor to remain, most astounding +Lieutenant-General! your devoted</p> + +<p class="signature">GENERALISSIMUS.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote131"><p>[Footnote 1: Beethoven styled himself "Generalissimus," Herr A. Steiner +"Lieutenant-General," and his partner, Tobias Haslinger, "Adjutant" +and "Adjutant-General."]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let213">213.<br> +TO LIEUTENANT-GENERAL VON STEINER.--PRIVATE.</h3> + +<p class="salutation">PUBLICANDUM,--</p> + +<p>After due consideration, and by the advice of +our Council, we have determined and decreed that +henceforth on all our works published with German +titles, the word <i>Pianoforte</i> is to be replaced by that +of <i>Hammer Clavier</i>, and our worthy Lieutenant-General, +his Adjutant, and all whom it may concern, +are charged with the execution of this order.</p> + +<p>Instead of Pianoforte--<i>Hammer Clavier</i>.</p> + +<p>Such is our will and pleasure.</p> + +<p>Given on the 23d of January, 1817, by the +<i>Generalissimus</i>.</p> + +<p class="signature"><i>Manu propria.</i></p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let214">214.<br> +TO STEINER.</h3> + +<p>The following dedication occurred to me of my +new Sonata:--</p> + +<p style="text-align:center"> + "Sonata for the Pianoforte,<br> + or<br> + <i>Hammer Clavier</i>.<br> +Composed and dedicated to Frau Baronin Dorothea<br> + Ertmann--née Graumann,<br> + by<br> + Ludwig van Beethoven." +</p> + +<p>If the title is already engraved, I have the two +following proposals to make; viz., that I pay for +one title--I mean that it should be at my expense, +or reserved for another new sonata of mine, for +which purpose the mines of the Lieutenant-General +(or <i>pleno titulo</i>, Lieutenant-General and First Councillor +of State) must be opened to usher it into the +light of day; the title to be previously shown to +a good linguist. <i>Hammer Clavier</i> is certainly German, +and so is the device. Honor to whom honor +is due! How is it, then, that I have as yet received +no reports of the carrying out of my orders, +which, however, have no doubt been attended to?</p> + +<p class="signature">Ever and always your attached<br> + +<i>Amicus<br> +ad Amicum<br> +de Amico.</i> +</p> + +<p> +<img src="images/adjutant.png" alt="[picture of music]"> +</p> + +<p>N.B. I beg you will observe the most profound +silence about the dedication, as I wish it to be a +surprise!</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let215">215.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="date">Jan. 30, 1817.</p> + +<p class="salutation">DEAR Z.,--</p> + +<p>You seem to place me on a level with Schuppanzigh, +&c., and have distorted the plain and simple +meaning of my words. You are not my debtor, +but I am yours, and now you make me so more than +ever. I cannot express to you the pain your gift +has caused me, and I must candidly say that I cannot +give you one friendly glance <i>in return</i>. Although +you confine yourself to the practice of +music, still you have often recourse to the power +of imagination, and it seems to me that this not +unfrequently leads to uncalled-for caprice on your +part; at least, so it appeared to me from your letter +after my dedication. Loving as my sentiments +are towards you, and much as I prize all your +goodness, still I feel provoked!--much provoked!--terribly +provoked!</p> + +<p class="signature">Your debtor afresh,<br> +Who will, however, contrive to have his revenge,<br> +L. VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div>*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 13065 ***</div> +</body> +</html> + + + + + diff --git a/13065-h/images/adjutant.png b/13065-h/images/adjutant.png Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..63f0525 --- /dev/null +++ b/13065-h/images/adjutant.png diff --git a/13065-h/images/allein.png b/13065-h/images/allein.png Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..9698d45 --- /dev/null +++ b/13065-h/images/allein.png diff --git a/13065-h/images/baron1.png b/13065-h/images/baron1.png Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..a0e1ced --- /dev/null +++ b/13065-h/images/baron1.png diff --git a/13065-h/images/baron2.png b/13065-h/images/baron2.png Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..0f578a0 --- /dev/null +++ b/13065-h/images/baron2.png diff --git a/13065-h/images/baron3.png b/13065-h/images/baron3.png Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..6545561 --- /dev/null +++ b/13065-h/images/baron3.png diff --git a/13065-h/images/graf.png b/13065-h/images/graf.png Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..fd9a4bb --- /dev/null +++ b/13065-h/images/graf.png diff --git a/13065-h/images/hauptmann.png b/13065-h/images/hauptmann.png Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..1b10ccb --- /dev/null +++ b/13065-h/images/hauptmann.png diff --git a/13065-h/images/kurz1.png b/13065-h/images/kurz1.png Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..b60c058 --- /dev/null +++ b/13065-h/images/kurz1.png diff --git a/13065-h/images/kurz2.png b/13065-h/images/kurz2.png Binary files differnew file mode 100644 index 0000000..2ede0b0 --- /dev/null +++ b/13065-h/images/kurz2.png diff --git a/LICENSE.txt b/LICENSE.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..6312041 --- /dev/null +++ b/LICENSE.txt @@ -0,0 +1,11 @@ +This eBook, including all associated images, markup, improvements, +metadata, and any other content or labor, has been confirmed to be +in the PUBLIC DOMAIN IN THE UNITED STATES. + +Procedures for determining public domain status are described in +the "Copyright How-To" at https://www.gutenberg.org. + +No investigation has been made concerning possible copyrights in +jurisdictions other than the United States. Anyone seeking to utilize +this eBook outside of the United States should confirm copyright +status under the laws that apply to them. diff --git a/README.md b/README.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..4ef3f30 --- /dev/null +++ b/README.md @@ -0,0 +1,2 @@ +Project Gutenberg (https://www.gutenberg.org) public repository for +eBook #13065 (https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/13065) diff --git a/old/13065-8.txt b/old/13065-8.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..d0d4f9a --- /dev/null +++ b/old/13065-8.txt @@ -0,0 +1,7970 @@ +The Project Gutenberg EBook of Beethoven's Letters 1790-1826, Vol 1 of 2 +by Lady Wallace + +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with +almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: Beethoven's Letters 1790-1826, Volume 1 of 2 + +Author: Lady Wallace + +Release Date: July 31, 2004 [EBook #13065] + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1 + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK BEETHOVEN'S LETTERS 1790-1826 *** + + + + +Produced by Juliet Sutherland, John Williams and the Online +Distributed Proofreading Team. + + + + + + + + + +BEETHOVEN'S LETTERS. + +(1790-1826.) + +FROM THE COLLECTION OF DR. LUDWIG NOHL. + + +ALSO HIS + +LETTERS TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH, CARDINAL-ARCHBISHOP +OF OLMÜTZ, K.W., FROM THE COLLECTION OF DR. +LUDWIG RITTER VON KÖCHEL. + + +TRANSLATED BY +LADY WALLACE. + + +_WITH A PORTRAIT AND FAC-SIMILE._ + + +IN TWO VOLUMES. + +VOL. I. + + +BOSTON: + +OLIVER DITSON & CO., 277 WASHINGTON STREET. + +NEW YORK: C.H. DITSON & CO. + + + + +TRANSLATOR'S PREFACE. + + +Since undertaking the translation of Dr. Ludwig Nohl's valuable edition of +"Beethoven's Letters," an additional collection has been published by Dr. +Ludwig Ritter von Köchel, consisting of many interesting letters addressed +by Beethoven to his illustrious pupil, H.R.H. the Archduke Rudolph, +Cardinal-Archbishop of Olmütz. These I have inserted in chronological +order, and marked with the letter K., in order to distinguish them from the +correspondence edited by Dr. Nohl. I have only omitted a few brief notes, +consisting merely of apologies for non-attendance on the Archduke. + +The artistic value of these newly discovered treasures will no doubt be as +highly appreciated in this country as in the great _maestro's_ Father-land. + +I must also express my gratitude to Dr. Th.G. v. Karajan, for permitting an +engraving to be made expressly for this work, from an original Beethoven +portrait in his possession, now for the first time given to the public. The +grand and thoughtful countenance forms a fitting introduction to letters so +truly depicting the brilliant, fitful genius of the sublime master, as well +as the touching sadness and gloom pervading his life, which his devotion to +Art alone brightened, through many bitter trials and harassing cares. + +The love of Beethoven's music is now become so universal in England, that I +make no doubt his Letters will receive a hearty welcome from all those +whose spirits have been elevated and soothed by the genius of this +illustrious man. + +GRACE WALLACE. + +AINDERBY HALL, March 28, 1866. + + + + +PREFACE + +BY DR. LUDWIG NOHL + +TO THE + +LETTERS OF LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +In accompanying the present edition of the Letters of Ludwig van Beethoven +with a few introductory remarks, I at once acknowledge that the compilation +of these letters has cost me no slight sacrifices. I must also, however, +mention that an unexpected Christmas donation, generously bestowed on me +with a view to further my efforts to promote the science of music, enabled +me to undertake one of the journeys necessary for my purpose, and also to +complete the revision of the Letters and of the press, in the milder air +and repose of a country residence, long since recommended to me for the +restoration of my health, undermined by overwork. + +That, in spite of every effort, I have not succeeded in seeing the original +of each letter, or even discovering the place where it exists, may well be +excused, taking into consideration the slender capabilities of an +individual, and the astonishing manner in which Beethoven's Letters are +dispersed all over the world. At the same time, I must state that not only +have the hitherto inaccessible treasures of Anton Schindler's "Beethoven's +Nachlass" been placed at my disposal, but also other letters from private +sources, owing to various happy chances, and the kindness and complaisance +of collectors of autographs. I know better, however, than most +people--being in a position to do so--that in the present work there can be +no pretension to any thing approaching to a complete collection of +Beethoven's Letters. The master, so fond of writing, though he often rather +amusingly accuses himself of being a lazy correspondent, may very probably +have sent forth at least double the amount of the letters here given, and +there is no doubt whatever that a much larger number are still extant in +the originals. The only thing that can be done at this moment, however, is +to make the attempt to bring to light, at all events, the letters that +could be discovered in Germany. The mass of those which I gradually +accumulated, and now offer to the public (with the exception of some +insignificant notes), appeared to me sufficiently numerous and important to +interest the world, and also to form a substantial nucleus for any letters +that may hereafter be discovered. On the other hand, as many of Beethoven's +Letters slumber in foreign lands, especially in the unapproachable cabinets +of curiosities belonging to various close-fisted English collectors, an +entire edition of the correspondence could only be effected by a most +disproportionate outlay of time and expense. + +When revising the text of the Letters, it seemed to me needless perpetually +to impair the pleasure of the reader by retaining the mistakes in +orthography; but enough of the style of writing of that day is adhered to, +to prevent its peculiar charm being entirely destroyed. Distorted and +incorrect as Beethoven's mode of expression sometimes is, I have not +presumed to alter his grammar, or rather syntax, in the smallest degree: +who would presume to do so with an individuality which, even amid startling +clumsiness of style, displays those inherent intellectual powers that often +did violence to language as well as to his fellow-men? Cyclopean masses of +rock are here hurled with Cyclopean force; but hard and massive as they +are, the man is not to be envied whose heart is not touched by these +glowing fragments, flung apparently at random right and left, like meteors, +by a mighty intellectual being, however perverse the treatment language may +have received from him. + +The great peculiarity, however, in this strange mode of expression is, that +even such incongruous language faithfully reflects the mind of the man +whose nature was of prophetic depth and heroic force; and who that knows +anything of the creative genius of a Beethoven can deny him these +attributes? + +The antique dignity pervading the whole man, the ethical contemplation of +life forming the basis of his nature, prevented even a momentary wish on my +part to efface a single word of the oft-recurring expressions so painfully +harsh, bordering on the unaesthetic, and even on the repulsive, provoked by +his wrath against the meanness of men. In the last part of these genuine +documents, we learn with a feeling of sadness, and with almost a tragic +sensation, how low was the standard of moral worth, or rather how great was +the positive unworthiness, of the intimate society surrounding the master, +and with what difficulty he could maintain the purity of the nobler part of +his being in such an atmosphere. The manner, indeed, in which he strives to +do so, fluctuating between explosions of harshness and almost weak +yieldingness, while striving to master the base thoughts and conduct of +these men, though never entirely succeeding in doing so, is often more a +diverting than an offensive spectacle. In my opinion, nevertheless, even +this less pleasing aspect of the Letters ought not to be in the slightest +degree softened (which it has hitherto been, owing to false views of +propriety and morality), for it is no moral deformity here displayed. +Indeed, even when the irritable master has recourse to expressions +repugnant to our sense of conventionality, and which may well be called +harsh and rough, still the wrath that seizes on our hero is a just and +righteous wrath, and we disregard it, just as in Nature, whose grandeur +constantly elevates us above the inevitable stains of an earthly soil. The +coarseness and ill-breeding, which would claim toleration because this +great man now and then showed such feelings, must beware of doing so, being +certain to make shipwreck when coming in contact with the massive rock of +true morality on which, with all his faults and deficiencies, Beethoven's +being was surely grounded. Often, indeed, when absorbed in the +unsophisticated and genuine utterances of this great man, it seems as if +these peculiarities and strange asperities were the results of some +mysterious law of Nature, so that we are inclined to adopt the paradox by +which a wit once described the singular groundwork of our nature,--"The +faults of man are the night in which he rests from his virtues." + +Indeed, I think that the lofty morality of such natures is not fully +evident until we are obliged to confess with regret, that even the great +ones of the earth must pay their tribute to humanity, and really do pay it +(which is the distinction between them and base and petty characters), +without being ever entirely hurled from their pedestal of dignity and +virtue. The soul of that man cannot fail to be elevated, who can seize the +real spirit of the scattered pages that a happy chance has preserved for +us. If not fettered by petty feelings, he will quickly surmount the casual +obstacles and stumbling-blocks which the first perusal of these Letters may +seem to present, and quickly feel himself transported at a single stride +into a stream, where a strange roaring and rushing is heard, but above +which loftier tones resound with magic and exciting power. For a peculiar +life breathes in these lines; an under-current runs through their +apparently unconnected import, uniting them as with an electric chain, and +with firmer links than any mere coherence of subjects could have effected. +I experienced this myself, to the most remarkable degree, when I first made +the attempt to arrange, in accordance with their period and substance, the +hundreds of individual pages bearing neither date nor address, and I was +soon convinced that a connecting text (such as Mozart's Letters have, and +ought to have) would be here entirely superfluous, as even the best +biographical commentary would be very dry work, interrupting the electric +current of the whole, and thus destroying its peculiar effect. + +And now, what is this spirit which, for an intelligent mind, binds together +these scattered fragments into a whole, and what is its actual power? I +cannot tell; but I feel to this day just as I felt to the innermost depths +of my heart in the days of my youth when I first heard a symphony of +Beethoven's,--that a spirit breathes from it bearing us aloft with giant +power out of the oppressive atmosphere of sense, stirring to its inmost +recesses the heart of man, bringing him to the full consciousness of his +loftier being, and of the undying within him. And even more distinctly than +when a new world was thus disclosed to his youthful feelings is the _man_ +fully conscious that not only was this a new world to him, but a new world +of feeling in itself, revealing to the spirit phases of its own, which, +till Beethoven appeared, had never before been fathomed. Call it by what +name you will, when one of the great works of the sublime master is heard, +whether indicative of proud self-consciousness, freedom, spring, love, +storm, or battle, it grasps the soul with singular force, and enlarges the +laboring breast. Whether a man understands music or not, every one who has +a heart beating within his breast will feel with enchantment that here is +concentrated the utmost promised to us by the most imaginative of our +poets, in bright visions of happiness and freedom. Even the only great hero +of action, who in those memorable days is worthy to stand beside the great +master of harmony, having diffused among mankind new and priceless earthly +treasures, sinks in the scale when we compare these with the celestial +treasures of a purified and deeper feeling, and a more free, enlarged, and +sublime view of the world, struggling gradually and distinctly upwards out +of the mere frivolity of an art devoid of words to express itself, and +impressing its stamp on the spirit of the age. They convey, too, the +knowledge of this brightest victory of genuine German intellect to those +for whom the sweet Muse of Music is as a book with seven seals, and reveal, +likewise, a more profound sense of Beethoven's being to many who already, +through the sweet tones they have imbibed, enjoy some dawning conviction of +the master's grandeur, and who now more and more eagerly lend a listening +ear to the intellectual clearly worded strains so skilfully interwoven, +thus soon to arrive at the full and blissful comprehension of those grand +outpourings of the spirit, and finally to add another bright delight to the +enjoyment of those who already know and love Beethoven. All these may be +regarded as the objects I had in view when I undertook to edit his Letters, +which have also bestowed on myself the best recompense of my labors, in the +humble conviction that by this means I may have vividly reawakened in the +remembrance of many the mighty mission which our age is called on to +perform for the development of our race, even in the realm of +harmony,--more especially in our Father-land. + +LUDWIG NOHL. + +LA TOUR DE PERLZ--LAKE OF GENEVA, +March, 1865. + + + + +CONTENTS OF VOLUME I. + + +FIRST PART. + +LIFE'S JOYS AND SORROWS +1783-1816. + + + 1. To the Elector of Cologne, Frederick Maximilian. + 2. To Dr. Schade, Augsburg + 3. To the Elector Maximilian Francis + 4. To Eleonore von Breuning, Bonn + 5. To the Same + 6. To Herr Schenk + 7. To Dr. Wegeler, Vienna + 8. To the Same + 9. Lines written in the Album of L. von Breuning + 10. To Baron Zmeskall von Domanowecz + 11. Ukase to Zmeskall, Schuppanzigh, and Lichnowsky + 12. To Pastor Amenda, Courland + 13. To the Same + 14. To Wegeler + 15. To Countess Giulietta Guicciardi + 16. To Matthisson + 17. To Frau Frank, Vienna + 18. To Wegeler + 19. To Kapellmeister Hofmeister, Leipzig + 20. To the Same + 21. To the Same + 22. To the Same + 23. Dedication to Dr. Schmidt + 24. To Ferdinand Ries + 25. To Herr Hofmeister, Leipzig + 26. To Carl and Johann Beethoven + 27. Notice + 28. To Ferdinand Ries + 29. To Herr Hofmeister, Leipzig + 30. Caution + 31. To Ries + 32. To the Same + 33. To the Same + 34. To the Same + 35. To the Composer Leidesdorf, Vienna + 36. To Ries + 37. To the Same + 38. To the Same + 39. To Messrs. Artaria & Co. + 40. To Princess Liechtenstein + 41. To Herr Meyer + 42. Testimonial for C. Czerny + 43. To Herr Röckel + 44. To Herr Collin, Court Secretary and Poet + 45. To Herr Gleichenstein + 46. To the Directors of the Court Theatre + 47. To Count Franz von Oppersdorf + 48. Notice of a Memorial to the Archduke Rudolph, Prince Kinsky, + and Prince Lobkowitz + 49. Memorial to the Same + 50. To Zmeskall + 51. To Ferdinand Ries + 52. To Zmeskall + 53. To the Same + 54. To the Same + 55. To the Same + 56. To the Same + 57. To the Same + 58. To the Same + 59. To Freiherr von Hammer-Purgstall + 60. To the Same + 61. To Baroness von Drossdick + 62. To Mdlle. de Gerardi + 63. To Zmeskall + 64. To Wegeler + 65. To Zmeskall + 66. To Bettina Brentano + 67. To the Same + 68. To Zmeskall + 69. To the Same + 70. To the Archduke Rudolph + 71. To a Dear Friend + 72. To the Dramatic Poet Treitschke + 73. To Zmeskall + 74. To the Same + 75. To the Same + 76. To the Same + 77. To the Same + 78. To the Same + 79. To the Same + 80. To Kammerprocurator Varenna, Gratz + 81. To Zmeskall + 82. To the Same + 83. To Varenna, Gratz + 84. To Zmeskall + 85. To Varenna + 86. To Archduke Rudolph + 87. To the Same + 88. To Varenna, Gratz + 89. To Joseph Freiherr von Schweiger + 90. To Varenna, Gratz + 91. Lines written in the Album of Mdme. Auguste Sebald + 92. To Archduke Rudolph + 93. To Bettina von Arnim + 94. To Princess Kinsky + 95. To Archduke Rudolph + 96. To the Same + 97. To the Same + 98. To Princess Kinsky + 99. To the Same +100. To Zmeskall +101. To Herr Joseph Varenna, Gratz +102. To the Same +103. To Zmeskall +104. To the Same +105. To the Same +106. To the Same +107. To the Same +108. To the Same +109. To the Same +110. To Archduke Rudolph +111. To the Same +112. To the Same +113. To Freiherr Josef von Schweiger +114. To Herr von Baumeister +115. To Zmeskall +116. Letter of Thanks +117. To the Archduke Rudolph +118. To the Same +119. To the Same +120. To Treitschke +121. To the Same +122. To the Same +123. To Count Lichnowsky. +124. To the Same +125. To the Archduke Rudolph +126. To the Same +127. Deposition +128. To Dr. Kauka, Prague. +129. Address and Appeal to London Artists +130. To Dr. Kauka +131. To Count Moritz Lichnowsky +132. To the Archduke Rudolph +133. To the Same +134. To the Same +135. To the Same +136. To the Same +137. To the Same +138. To the Same +139. To the Same +140. To Dr. Kauka +141. To the Same +142. To the Same +143. To the Members of the Landrecht +144. To Baron von Pasqualati +145. To Dr. Kauka +146. To the Archduke Rudolph + + + + +SECOND PART. + +LIFE'S MISSION. +1815-1822. + + +147. Music written in Spohr's Album +148. To Dr. Kauka +149. To the Same +150. To the Same +151. To Mr. Salomon, London +152. To the Archduke Rudolph +153. To the Same +154. To the Same +155. To the Same +156. To the Same +157. To the Same +158. To Mr. Birchall, Music Publisher, London +159. To Zmeskall +160. To the Archduke Rudolph +161. To Messrs. Birchall, London +162. To Herr Ries +163. To Zmeskall +164. To Mdlle. Milder-Hauptmann +165. To Ries +166. To Mr. Birchall, London +167. To Czerny +168. To the Same +169. To Ries, London +170. To Giannatasio del Rio, Vienna +171. To the Same +172. To the Same +173. To the Same +174. To Ferdinand Ries, London +175. To the Same +176. Power of Attorney +177. To Ferdinand Ries +178. To Giannatasio del Rio +179. To the Same +180. To the Archduke Rudolph +181. To Mr. Birchall London +182. To the Same +183. To Giannatasio del Rio +184. To the Same +185. To Zmeskall +186. To Dr. Kauka +187. Query +188. To Giannatasio del Rio +189. To the Same +190. To Wegeler +191. To Mr. Birchall, London +192. To Zmeskall +193. To the Archduke Rudolph +194. To Freiherr von Schweiger +195. To Giannatasio del Rio +196. To the Same +197. To the Same +198. To the Same +199. To Herr Tschischka +200. To Mr. Birchall +201. To Zmeskall +202. To Frau von Streicher +203. To the Same +204. To the Same +205. To the Same +206. To the Same +207. To the Archduke Rudolph +208. To Giannatasio del Rio +209. To the Same +210. To the Same +211. To Hofrath von Mosel +212. To S.A. Steiner, Music Publisher, Vienna +213. To the Same +214. To the Same +215. To Zmeskall + + + + +FIRST PART. + + +LIFE'S JOYS AND SORROWS. +1783 TO 1815. + + + + +BEETHOVEN'S LETTERS. + + +PART I. + + +1. + +TO THE ELECTOR OF COLOGNE, FREDERICK MAXIMILIAN.[1] + +ILLUSTRIOUS PRINCE,-- + +Music from my fourth year has ever been my favorite pursuit. Thus early +introduced to the sweet Muse, who attuned my soul to pure harmony, I loved +her, and sometimes ventured to think that I was beloved by her in return. I +have now attained my eleventh year, and my Muse often whispered to me in +hours of inspiration,--Try to write down the harmonies in your soul. Only +eleven years old! thought I; does the character of an author befit me? and +what would more mature artists say? I felt some trepidation; but my Muse +willed it--so I obeyed, and wrote. + +May I now, therefore, Illustrious Prince, presume to lay the first-fruits +of my juvenile labors at the foot of your throne? and may I hope that you +will condescend to cast an encouraging and kindly glance on them? You will; +for Art and Science have ever found in you a judicious protector and a +generous patron, and rising talent has always prospered under your +fostering and fatherly care. Encouraged by this cheering conviction, I +venture to approach you with these my youthful efforts. Accept them as the +pure offering of childlike reverence, and graciously vouchsafe to regard +with indulgence them and their youthful composer, + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: The dedication affixed to this work, "Three Sonatas for the +Piano, dedicated to my illustrious master, Maximilian Friedrich, Archbishop +and Elector of Cologne, by Ludwig van Beethoven in his eleventh year," is +probably not written by the boy himself, but is given here as an amusing +contrast to his subsequent ideas with regard to the homage due to rank.] + + +2. + +TO DR. SCHADE,--AUGSBURG. + +Bonn, 1787. Autumn. + +MY MOST ESTEEMED FRIEND,-- + +I can easily imagine what you must think of me, and I cannot deny that you +have too good grounds for an unfavorable opinion. I shall not, however, +attempt to justify myself, until I have explained to you the reasons why my +apologies should be accepted. I must tell you that from the time I left +Augsburg[1] my cheerfulness, as well as my health, began to decline; the +nearer I came to my native city, the more frequent were the letters from my +father, urging me to travel with all possible speed, as my mother's health +was in a most precarious condition. I therefore hurried forwards as fast as +I could, although myself far from well. My longing once more to see my +dying mother overcame every obstacle, and assisted me in surmounting the +greatest difficulties. I found my mother indeed still alive, but in the +most deplorable state; her disease was consumption, and about seven weeks +ago, after much pain and suffering, she died [July 17]. She was indeed a +kind, loving mother to me, and my best friend. Ah! who was happier than I, +when I could still utter the sweet name of mother, and it was heard? But to +whom can I now say it? Only to the silent form resembling her, evoked by +the power of imagination. I have passed very few pleasant hours since my +arrival here, having during the whole time been suffering from asthma, +which may, I fear, eventually turn to consumption; to this is added +melancholy,--almost as great an evil as my malady itself. Imagine yourself +in my place, and then I shall hope to receive your forgiveness for my long +silence. You showed me extreme kindness and friendship by lending me three +Carolins in Augsburg, but I must entreat your indulgence for a time. My +journey cost me a great deal, and I have not the smallest hopes of earning +anything here. Fate is not propitious to me in Bonn. Pardon my intruding on +you so long with my affairs, but all that I have said was necessary for my +own justification. + +I do entreat you not to deprive me of your valuable friendship; nothing do +I wish so much as in any degree to become worthy of your regard. I am, with +all esteem, your obedient servant and friend, + +L. V. BEETHOVEN, + +_Cologne Court Organist._ + +[Footnote 1: On his return from Vienna, whither Max Franz had sent him for +the further cultivation of his talents.] + + +3. + +TO THE ELECTOR MAXIMILIAN FRANCIS.[1] + +1793. + +MOST ILLUSTRIOUS AND GRACIOUS PRINCE,-- + +Some years ago your Highness was pleased to grant a pension to my father, +the Court tenor Van Beethoven, and further graciously to decree that 100 R. +Thalers of his salary should be allotted to me, for the purpose of +maintaining, clothing, and educating my two younger brothers, and also +defraying the debts incurred by our father. It was my intention to present +this decree to your Highness's treasurer, but my father earnestly implored +me to desist from doing so, that he might not be thus publicly proclaimed +incapable himself of supporting his family, adding that he would engage to +pay me the 25 R.T. quarterly, which he punctually did. After his death, +however (in December last), wishing to reap the benefit of your Highness's +gracious boon, by presenting the decree, I was startled to find that my +father had destroyed it. + +I therefore, with all dutiful respect, entreat your Highness to renew this +decree, and to order the paymaster of your Highness's treasury to grant me +the last quarter of this benevolent addition to my salary (due the +beginning of February). I have the honor to remain, + +Your Highness's most obedient and faithful servant, + +LUD. V. BEETHOVEN, + +_Court Organist._ + +[Footnote 1: An electoral decree was issued in compliance with this request +on May 3, 1793.] + + +4. + +TO ELEONORE VON BREUNING,--BONN. + +Vienna, Nov. 2, 1793. + +MY HIGHLY ESTEEMED ELEONORE, MY DEAREST FRIEND,-- + +A year of my stay in this capital has nearly elapsed before you receive a +letter from me, and yet the most vivid remembrance of you is ever present +with me. I have often conversed in thought with you and your dear family, +though not always in the happy mood I could have wished, for that fatal +misunderstanding still hovered before me, and my conduct at that time is +now hateful in my sight. But so it was, and how much would I give to have +the power wholly to obliterate from my life a mode of acting so degrading +to myself, and so contrary to the usual tenor of my character! + +Many circumstances, indeed, contributed to estrange us, and I suspect that +those tale-bearers who repeated alternately to you and to me our mutual +expressions were the chief obstacles to any good understanding between us. +Each believed that what was said proceeded from deliberate conviction, +whereas it arose only from anger, fanned by others; so we were both +mistaken. Your good and noble disposition, my dear friend, is sufficient +security that you have long since forgiven me. We are told that the best +proof of sincere contrition is to acknowledge our faults; and this is what +I wish to do. Let us now draw a veil over the whole affair, learning one +lesson from it,--that when friends are at variance, it is always better to +employ no mediator, but to communicate directly with each other. + +With this you will receive a dedication from me [the variations on "Se vuol +ballare"]. My sole wish is that the work were greater and more worthy of +you. I was applied to here to publish this little work, and I take +advantage of the opportunity, my beloved Eleonore, to give you a proof of +my regard and friendship for yourself, and also a token of my enduring +remembrance of your family. Pray then accept this trifle, and do not forget +that it is offered by a devoted friend. Oh! if it only gives you pleasure, +my wishes will be fulfilled. May it in some degree recall the time when I +passed so many happy hours in your house! Perhaps it may serve to remind +you of me till I return, though this is indeed a distant prospect. Oh! how +we shall then rejoice together, my dear Eleonore! You will, I trust, find +your friend a happier man, all former forbidding, careworn furrows smoothed +away by time and better fortune. + +When you see B. Koch [subsequently Countess Belderbusch], pray say that it +is unkind in her never once to have written to me. I wrote to her twice, +and three times to Malchus (afterwards Westphalian Minister of Finance), +but no answer. Tell her that if she does not choose to write herself, I beg +that she will at least urge Malchus to do so. At the close of my letter I +venture to make one more request--I am anxious to be so fortunate as again +to possess an Angola waistcoat knitted by your own hand, my dear friend. +Forgive my indiscreet request; it proceeds from my great love for all that +comes from you; and I may privately admit that a little vanity is connected +with it, namely, that I may say I possess something from the best and most +admired young lady in Bonn. I still have the one you were so good as to +give me in Bonn; but change of fashion has made it look so antiquated, that +I can only treasure it in my wardrobe as your gift, and thus still very +dear to me. You would make me very happy by soon writing me a kind letter. +If mine cause you any pleasure, I promise you to do as you wish, and write +as often as it lies in my power; indeed everything is acceptable to me that +can serve to show you how truly I am your admiring and sincere friend, + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + +P.S. The variations are rather difficult to play, especially the shake in +the _Coda_; but do not be alarmed at this, being so contrived that you only +require to play the shake, and leave out the other notes, which also occur +in the violin part. I never would have written it in this way, had I not +occasionally observed that there was a certain individual in Vienna who, +when I extemporized the previous evening, not unfrequently wrote down next +day many of the peculiarities of my music, adopting them as his own [for +instance, the Abbé Gelinek]. Concluding, therefore, that some of these +things would soon appear, I resolved to anticipate this. Another reason +also was to puzzle some of the pianoforte teachers here, many of whom are +my mortal foes; so I wished to revenge myself on them in this way, knowing +that they would occasionally be asked to play the variations, when these +gentlemen would not appear to much advantage. + +BEETHOVEN. + + +5. + +TO ELEONORE VON BREUNING,--BONN. + +The beautiful neckcloth, embroidered by your own hand, was the greatest +possible surprise to me; yet, welcome as the gift was, it awakened within +me feelings of sadness. Its effect was to recall former days, and to put me +to shame by your noble conduct to me. I, indeed, little thought that you +still considered me worthy of your remembrance. + +Oh! if you could have witnessed my emotions yesterday when this incident +occurred, you would not think that I exaggerate in saying that such a token +of your recollection brought tears to my eyes, and made me feel very sad. +Little as I may deserve favor in your eyes, believe me, my dear _friend_, +(let me still call you so,) I have suffered, and still suffer severely from +the privation of your friendship. Never can I forget you and your dear +mother. You were so kind to me that your loss neither can nor will be +easily replaced. I know what I have forfeited, and what you were to me, but +in order to fill up this blank I must recur to scenes equally painful for +you to hear and for me to detail. + +As a slight requital of your kind _souvenir_, I take the liberty to send +you some variations, and a Rondo with violin accompaniment. I have a great +deal to do, or I would long since have transcribed the Sonata I promised +you. It is as yet a mere sketch in manuscript, and to copy it would be a +difficult task even for the clever and practised Paraquin [counter-bass in +the Electoral orchestra]. You can have the Rondo copied, and return the +score. What I now send is the only one of my works at all suitable for you; +besides, as you are going to Kerpen [where an uncle of the family lived], I +thought these trifles might cause you pleasure. + +Farewell, my friend; for it is impossible for me to give you any other +name. However indifferent I may be to you, believe me, I shall ever +continue to revere you and your mother as I have always done. If I can in +any way contribute to the fulfilment of a wish of yours, do not fail to let +me know, for I have no other means of testifying my gratitude for past +friendship. + +I wish you an agreeable journey, and that your dear mother may return +entirely restored to health! Think sometimes of your affectionate friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +6. + +TO HERR SCHENK. + +June, 1794. + +DEAR SCHENK,[1]-- + +I did not know that I was to set off to-day to Eisenstadt. I should like to +have talked to you again. In the mean time rest assured of my gratitude for +your obliging services. I shall endeavor, so far as it lies in my power, to +requite them. I hope soon to see you, and once more to enjoy the pleasure +of your society. Farewell, and do not entirely forget your + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Schenk, afterwards celebrated as the composer of the "Dorf +Barbier," was for some time Beethoven's teacher in composition. This note +appears to have been written in June, 1794, and first printed in the +"Freischütz," No. 183, about 1836, at the time of Schenk's death, when his +connection with Beethoven was mentioned.] + + +7. + +TO DR. WEGELER,--VIENNA.[1] + +... In what an odious light have you exhibited me to myself! Oh! I +acknowledge it, I do not deserve your friendship. It was no intentional or +deliberate malice that induced me to act towards you as I did, but +inexcusable thoughtlessness alone. + +I say no more. I am coming to throw myself into your arms, and to entreat +you to restore me my lost friend; and you will give him back to me, to your +penitent, loving, and ever-grateful + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Dr. Wegeler, in answer to my request that he would send me the +entire letter, replied that "the passages omitted in the letter consisted +chiefly in eulogiums of his father, and enthusiastic expressions of +friendship, which did not seem to him to be of any value; but besides this, +the same reasons that induced his father to give only a portion of the +letter were imperative with him also." I do not wish to contest the point +with the possessor of the letter; still I may remark that all the +utterances and letters of a great man belong to the world at large, and +that in a case like the present, the conscientious biographer, who strives +faithfully to portray such a man, is alone entitled to decide what portion +of these communications is fitted for publication, and what is not. Any +considerations of a personal character seem to me very trivial.] + + +8. + +TO DR. WEGELER,--VIENNA. + +Vienna, May 1797. + +God speed you, my dear friend! I owe you a letter which you shall shortly +have, and my newest music besides, _I am going on well; indeed, I may say +every day better._ Greet those to whom it will give pleasure from me. +Farewell, and do not forget your + +BEETHOVEN. + + +9. + +WRITTEN IN THE ALBUM OF LENZ VON BREUNING. + +Vienna, Oct. 1, 1797. + + Truth for the wise, + Beauty for a feeling heart, + And both for each other. + +MY DEAR, GOOD BREUNING,-- + +Never can I forget the time I passed with you, not only in Bonn, but here. +Continue your friendship towards me, for you shall always find me the same +true friend, + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + + +10. + +TO BARON ZMESKALL VON DOMANOWECZ. + +1800.[1] + +[Music: Alto, Tenor, Bass clefs, C Major, 4/4 time, Grave. +ALTO. Ba-ron. +TENORE. Ba-ron. +BASSO. Ba-ron. Ba-ron. Ba-ron.] + +MY CHEAPEST (NOT DEAREST) BARON,-- + +Desire the guitar-player to come to me to-day. Amenda (instead of an +_amende_ [fine], which he sometimes deserves for not observing his rests +properly) must persuade this popular guitarist to visit me, and if possible +to come at five o'clock this evening; if not then, at five or six o'clock +to-morrow morning; but he must not waken me if I chance to be still asleep. +_Adieu, mon ami à bon marché._ Perhaps we may meet at the "Swan"? + +[Footnote 1: As it appears from the following letters that Amenda was again +at home in 1800, the date of this note is thus ascertained. It is +undoubtedly addressed to Baron Zmeskall von Domanowecz, Royal Court +Secretary, a good violoncello-player, and one of Beethoven's earliest +friends in Vienna. The "guitarist" was probably the celebrated Giuliani, +who lived in Vienna.] + + +11. + +The musical Count is from this day forth _cashiered_ with infamy. The first +violin [Schuppanzigh] ruthlessly transported to _Siberia_. The Baron [see +No. 10] for a whole month _strictly interdicted from asking questions_; no +longer to be so hasty, and to devote himself exclusively to his _ipse +miserum_.[1] + +B. + +[Footnote 1: Written in gigantic characters in pencil on a large sheet of +paper. The "musical Count" is probably Count Moritz Lichnowsky, brother of +Prince Carl Lichnowsky, in whose house were held those musical performances +in which Beethoven's works were first produced. Even at that time he +behaved in a very dictatorial manner to those gentlemen when his +compositions were badly executed. Thence the name given him by Haydn of +"The Great Mogul."] + + +12. + +TO PASTOR AMENDA,--COURLAND. + +Does Amenda think that I can ever forget him, because I do not write? in +fact, never have written to him?--as if the memory of our friends could +only thus be preserved! The _best man I ever knew_ has a thousand times +recurred to my thoughts! Two persons alone once possessed my whole love, +one of whom still lives, and you are now the third. How can my remembrance +of you ever fade? You will shortly receive a long letter about my present +circumstances and all that can interest you. Farewell, beloved, good, and +noble friend! Ever continue your love and friendship towards me, just as I +shall ever be your faithful + +BEETHOVEN. + + +13. + +TO PASTOR AMENDA. + +1800. + +MY DEAR, MY GOOD AMENDA, MY WARM-HEARTED FRIEND,-- + +I received and read your last letter with deep emotion, and with mingled +pain and pleasure. To what can I compare your fidelity and devotion to me? +Ah! it is indeed delightful that you still continue to love me so well. I +know how to prize you, and to distinguish you from all others; you are not +like my Vienna friends. No! you are one of those whom the soil of my +fatherland is wont to bring forth; how often I wish that you were with me, +for your Beethoven is very unhappy. You must know that one of my most +precious faculties, that of hearing, is become very defective; even while +you were still with me I felt indications of this, though I said nothing; +but it is now much worse. Whether I shall ever be cured remains yet to be +seen; it is supposed to proceed from the state of my digestive organs, but +I am almost entirely recovered in that respect. I hope indeed that my +hearing may improve, but I scarcely think so, for attacks of this kind are +the most incurable of all. How sad my life must now be!--forced to shun all +that is most dear and precious to me, and to live with such miserable +egotists as ----, &c. I can with truth say that of all my friends +Lichnowsky [Prince Carl] is the most genuine. He last year settled 600 +florins on me, which, together with the good sale of my works, enables me +to live free from care as to my maintenance. All that I now write I can +dispose of five times over, and be well paid into the bargain. I have been +writing a good deal latterly, and as I hear that you have ordered some +pianos from ----, I will send you some of my compositions in the +packing-case of one of these instruments, by which means they will not cost +you so much. + +To my great comfort, a person has returned here with whom I can enjoy the +pleasures of society and disinterested friendship,--one of the friends of +my youth [Stephan von Breuning]. I have often spoken to him of you, and +told him that since I left my fatherland, you are one of those to whom my +heart specially clings. Z. [Zmeskall?] does not seem quite to please him; +he is, and always will be, too weak for true friendship, and I look on him +and ---- as mere instruments on which I play as I please, but never can +they bear noble testimony to my inner and outward energies, or feel true +sympathy with me; I value them only in so far as their services deserve. +Oh! how happy should I now be, had I my full sense of hearing; I would then +hasten to you; whereas, as it is, I must withdraw from everything. My best +years will thus pass away, without effecting what my talents and powers +might have enabled me to perform. How melancholy is the resignation in +which I must take refuge! I had determined to rise superior to all this, +but how is it possible? If in the course of six months my malady be +pronounced incurable then, Amenda! I shall appeal to you to leave all else +and come to me, when I intend to travel (my affliction is less distressing +when playing and composing, and most so in intercourse with others), and +you must be my companion. I have a conviction that good fortune will not +forsake me, for to what may I not at present aspire? Since you were here I +have written everything except operas and church music. You will not, I +know, refuse my petition; you will help your friend to bear his burden and +his calamity. I have also very much perfected my pianoforte playing, and I +hope that a journey of this kind may possibly contribute to your own +success in life, and you would thenceforth always remain with me. I duly +received all your letters, and though I did not reply to them, you were +constantly present with me, and my heart beats as tenderly as ever for you. +I beg you will keep the fact of my deafness a profound secret, and not +confide it to any human being. Write to me frequently; your letters, +however short, console and cheer me; so I shall soon hope to hear from you. + +Do not give your quartet to any one [in F, Op. 18, No. 1], as I have +altered it very much, having only now succeeded in writing quartets +properly; this you will at once perceive when you receive it. Now, +farewell, my dear kind friend! If by any chance I can serve you here, I +need not say that you have only to command me. + +Your faithful and truly attached + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + + +14. + +TO WEGELER. + +Vienna, June 29, 1800. + +MY DEAR AND VALUED WEGELER,-- + +How much I thank you for your remembrance of me, little as I deserve it, or +have sought to deserve it; and yet you are so kind that you allow nothing, +not even my unpardonable neglect, to discourage you, always remaining the +same true, good, and faithful friend. That I can ever forget you or yours, +once so dear and precious to me, do not for a moment believe. There are +times when I find myself longing to see you again, and wishing that I could +go to stay with you. My father-land, that lovely region where I first saw +the light, is still as distinct and beauteous in my eyes as when I quitted +you; in short, I shall esteem the time when I once more see you, and again +greet Father Rhine, as one of the happiest periods of my life. When this +may be I cannot yet tell; but at all events I may say that you shall not +see me again till I have become eminent, not only as an artist, but better +and more perfect as a man; and if the condition of our father-land be then +more prosperous, my art shall be entirely devoted to the benefit of the +poor. Oh, blissful moment!--how happy do I esteem myself that I can +expedite it and bring it to pass! + +You desire to know something of my position; well! it is by no means bad. +However incredible it may appear, I must tell you that Lichnowsky has been, +and still is, my warmest friend (slight dissensions occurred occasionally +between us, and yet they only served to strengthen our friendship). He +settled on me last year the sum of 600 florins, for which I am to draw on +him till I can procure some suitable situation. My compositions are very +profitable, and I may really say that I have almost more commissions than +it is possible for me to execute. I can have six or seven publishers or +more for every piece, if I choose; they no longer bargain with me--I +demand, and they pay--so you see this is a very good thing. For instance, I +have a friend in distress, and my purse does not admit of my assisting him +at once; but I have only to sit down and write, and in a short time he is +relieved. I am also become more economical than formerly. If I finally +settle here, I don't doubt I shall be able to secure a particular day every +year for a concert, of which I have already given several. That malicious +demon, however, bad health, has been a stumbling-block in my path; my +hearing during the last three years has become gradually worse. The chief +cause of this infirmity proceeds from the state of my digestive organs, +which, as you know, were formerly bad enough, but have latterly become much +worse, and being constantly afflicted with diarrhoea, has brought on +extreme weakness. Frank [Director of the General Hospital] strove to +restore the tone of my digestion by tonics, and my hearing by oil of +almonds; but alas! these did me no good whatever; my hearing became worse, +and my digestion continued in its former plight. This went on till the +autumn of last year, when I was often reduced to utter despair. Then some +medical _asinus_ recommended me cold baths, but a more judicious doctor the +tepid ones of the Danube, which did wonders for me; my digestion improved, +but my hearing remained the same, or in fact rather got worse. I did indeed +pass a miserable winter; I suffered from most dreadful spasms, and sank +back into my former condition. Thus it went on till about a month ago, when +I consulted Vering [an army surgeon], under the belief that my maladies +required surgical advice; besides, I had every confidence in him. He +succeeded in almost entirely checking the violent diarrhoea, and ordered me +the tepid baths of the Danube, into which I pour some strengthening +mixture. He gave me no medicine, except some digestive pills four days ago, +and a lotion for my ears. I certainly do feel better and stronger, but my +ears are buzzing and ringing perpetually, day and night. I can with truth +say that my life is very wretched; for nearly two years past I have avoided +all society, because I find it impossible to say to people, _I am deaf!_ In +any other profession this might be more tolerable, but in mine such a +condition is truly frightful. Besides, what would my enemies say to +this?--and they are not few in number. + +To give you some idea of my extraordinary deafness, I must tell you that in +the theatre I am obliged to lean close up against the orchestra in order to +understand the actors, and when a little way off I hear none of the high +notes of instruments or singers. It is most astonishing that in +conversation some people never seem to observe this; being subject to fits +of absence, they attribute it to that cause. I often can scarcely hear a +person if speaking low; I can distinguish the tones, but not the words, and +yet I feel it intolerable if any one shouts to me. Heaven alone knows how +it is to end! Vering declares that I shall certainly improve, even if I be +not entirely restored. How often have I cursed my existence! Plutarch led +me to resignation. I shall strive if possible to set Fate at defiance, +although there must be moments in my life when I cannot fail to be the most +unhappy of God's creatures. I entreat you to say nothing of my affliction +to any one, not even to Lorchen [see Nos. 4 and 5]. I confide the secret to +you alone, and entreat you some day to correspond with Vering on the +subject. If I continue in the same state, I shall come to you in the +ensuing spring, when you must engage a house for me somewhere in the +country, amid beautiful scenery, and I shall then become a rustic for a +year, which may perhaps effect a change. Resignation!--what a miserable +refuge! and yet it is my sole remaining one. You will forgive my thus +appealing to your kindly sympathies at a time when your own position is sad +enough. Stephan Breuning is here, and we are together almost every day; it +does me so much good to revive old feelings! He has really become a capital +good fellow, not devoid of talent, and his heart, like that of us all, +pretty much in the right place. [See No. 13.] + +I have very charming rooms at present, adjoining the Bastei [the ramparts], +and peculiarly valuable to me on account of my health [at Baron +Pasqualati's]. I do really think I shall be able to arrange that Breuning +shall come to me. You shall have your Antiochus [a picture], and plenty of +my music besides--if, indeed, it will not cost you too much. Your love of +art does honestly rejoice me. Only say how it is to be done, and I will +send you all my works, which now amount to a considerable number, and are +daily increasing. I beg you will let me have my grandfather's portrait as +soon as possible by the post, in return for which I send you that of his +grandson, your loving and attached Beethoven. It has been brought out here +by Artaria, who, as well as many other publishers, has often urged this on +me. I intend soon to write to Stoffeln [Christoph von Breuning], and +plainly admonish him about his surly humor. I mean to sound in his ears our +old friendship, and to insist on his promising me not to annoy you further +in your sad circumstances. I will also write to the amiable Lorchen. Never +have I forgotten one of you, my kind friends, though you did not hear from +me; but you know well that writing never was my _forte_, even my best +friends having received no letters from me for years. I live wholly in my +music, and scarcely is one work finished when another is begun; indeed, I +am now often at work on three or four things at the same time. Do write to +me frequently, and I will strive to find time to write to you also. Give my +remembrances to all, especially to the kind Frau Hofräthin [von Breuning], +and say to her that I am still subject to an occasional _raptus_. As for +K----, I am not at all surprised at the change in her: Fortune rolls like a +ball, and does not always stop before the best and noblest. As to Ries +[Court musician in Bonn], to whom pray cordially remember me, I must say +one word. I will write to you more particularly about his son [Ferdinand], +although I believe that he would be more likely to succeed in Paris than in +Vienna, which is already overstocked, and where even those of the highest +merit find it a hard matter to maintain themselves. By next autumn or +winter, I shall be able to see what can be done for him, because then all +the world returns to town. Farewell, my kind, faithful Wegeler! Rest +assured of the love and friendship of your + +BEETHOVEN. + + +15. + +TO COUNTESS GIULIETTA GUICCIARDI.[1] + +Morning, July 6, 1800. + +MY ANGEL! MY ALL! MY SECOND SELF! + +Only a few words to-day, written with a pencil (your own). My residence +cannot be settled till to-morrow. What a tiresome loss of time! Why this +deep grief when necessity compels?--can our love exist without sacrifices, +and by refraining from desiring all things? Can you alter the fact that you +are not wholly mine, nor I wholly yours? Ah! contemplate the beauties of +Nature, and reconcile your spirit to the inevitable. Love demands all, and +has a right to do so, and thus it is _I feel towards you_ and _you towards +me_; but you do not sufficiently remember that I must live both _for you_ +and _for myself_. Were we wholly united, you would feel this sorrow as +little as I should. My journey was terrible. I did not arrive here till +four o'clock yesterday morning, as no horses were to be had. The drivers +chose another route; but what a dreadful one it was! At the last stage I +was warned not to travel through the night, and to beware of a certain +wood, but this only incited me to go forward, and I was wrong. The carriage +broke down, owing to the execrable roads, mere deep rough country lanes, +and had it not been for the postilions I must have been left by the +wayside. Esterhazy, travelling the usual road, had the same fate with eight +horses, whereas I had only four. Still I felt a certain degree of pleasure, +which I invariably do when I have happily surmounted any difficulty. But I +must now pass from the outer to the inner man. We shall, I trust, soon meet +again; to-day I cannot impart to you all the reflections I have made, +during the last few days, on my life; were our hearts closely united +forever, none of these would occur to me. My heart is overflowing with all +I have to say to you. Ah! there are moments when I find that speech is +actually nothing. Take courage! Continue to be ever my true and only love, +my all! as I am yours. The gods must ordain what is further to be and shall +be! + +Your faithful + +LUDWIG. + +Monday Evening, July 6. + +You grieve! dearest of all beings! I have just heard that the letters must +be sent off very early. Mondays and Thursdays are the only days when the +post goes to K. from here. You grieve! Ah! where I am, there you are ever +with me; how earnestly shall I strive to pass my life with you, and what a +life will it be!!! Whereas now!! without you!! and persecuted by the +kindness of others, which I neither deserve nor try to deserve! The +servility of man towards his fellow-man pains me, and when I regard myself +as a component part of the universe, what am I, what is he who is called +the greatest?--and yet herein are displayed the godlike feelings of +humanity!--I weep in thinking that you will receive no intelligence from me +till probably Saturday. However dearly you may love me, I love you more +fondly still. Never conceal your feelings from me. Good-night! As a patient +at these baths, I must now go to rest [a few words are here effaced by +Beethoven himself]. Oh, heavens! so near, and yet so far! Is not our love a +truly celestial mansion, but firm as the vault of heaven itself? + +July 7. + +GOOD-MORNING! + +Even before I rise, my thoughts throng to you, my immortal +beloved!--sometimes full of joy, and yet again sad, waiting to see whether +Fate will hear us. I must live either wholly with you, or not at all. +Indeed I have resolved to wander far from you [see No. 13] till the moment +arrives when I can fly into your arms, and feel that they are my home, and +send forth my soul in unison with yours into the realm of spirits. Alas! it +must be so! You will take courage, for you know my fidelity. Never can +another possess my heart--never, never! Oh, heavens! Why must I fly from +her I so fondly love? and yet my existence in W. was as miserable as here. +Your love made me the most happy and yet the most unhappy of men. At my +age, life requires a uniform equality; can this be found in our mutual +relations? My angel! I have this moment heard that the post goes every day, +so I must conclude, that you may get this letter the sooner. Be calm! for +we can only attain our object of living together by the calm contemplation +of our existence. Continue to love me. Yesterday, to-day, what longings for +you, what tears for you! for you! for you! my life! my all! Farewell! Oh! +love me forever, and never doubt the faithful heart of your lover, L. + +Ever thine. +Ever mine. +Ever each other's. + +[Footnote 1: These letters to his "immortal beloved," to whom the C sharp +minor Sonata is dedicated, appear here for the first time in their +integrity, in accordance with the originals written in pencil on fine +notepaper, and given in Schindler's _Beethoven's Nachlass_. There has been +much discussion about the date. It is certified, in the first place, in the +church register which Alex. Thayer saw in Vienna, that Giulietta was +married to Count Gallenberg in 1801; and in the next place, the 6th of July +falls on a Monday in 1800. The other reasons which induce me decidedly to +fix this latter year as the date of the letter, I mean to give at full +length in the second volume of _Beethoven's Biography_. I may also state +that Beethoven was at baths in Hungary at that time. Whether the K---- in +the second letter means Komorn, I cannot tell.] + + +16. + +TO MATTHISSON. + +Vienna, August 4, 1800. + +MOST ESTEEMED FRIEND,-- + +You will receive with this one of my compositions published some years +since, and yet, to my shame, you probably have never heard of it. I cannot +attempt to excuse myself, or to explain why I dedicated a work to you which +came direct from my heart, but never acquainted you with its existence, +unless indeed in this way, that at first I did not know where you lived, +and partly also from diffidence, which led me to think I might have been +premature in dedicating a work to you before ascertaining that you approved +of it. Indeed, even now I send you "Adelaide" with a feeling of timidity. +You know yourself what changes the lapse of some years brings forth in an +artist who continues to make progress; the greater the advances we make in +art, the less are we satisfied with our works of an earlier date. My most +ardent wish will be fulfilled if you are not dissatisfied with the manner +in which I have set your heavenly "Adelaide" to music, and are incited by +it soon to compose a similar poem; and if you do not consider my request +too indiscreet, I would ask you to send it to me forthwith, that I may +exert all my energies to approach your lovely poetry in merit. Pray regard +the dedication as a token of the pleasure which your "Adelaide" conferred +on me, as well as of the appreciation and intense delight your poetry +always has inspired, and _always will inspire in me_. + +When playing "Adelaide," sometimes recall + +Your sincere admirer, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +17. + +TO FRAU FRANK,--VIENNA + +October, 1800. + +DEAR LADY,-- + +At the second announcement of our concert, you must remind your husband +that the public should be made acquainted with the names of those whose +talents are to contribute to this concert. Such is the custom here; and +indeed, were it not so, what is there to attract a larger audience? which +is after all our chief object. Punto [the celebrated horn-player, for whom +Beethoven wrote Sonata 17] is not a little indignant about the omission, +and I must say he has reason to be so; but even before seeing him it was my +intention to have reminded you of this, for I can only explain the mistake +by great haste or great forgetfulness. Be so good, then, dear lady, as to +attend to my hint; otherwise you will certainly expose yourself to _many +annoyances_. Being at last convinced in my own mind, and by others, that I +shall not be quite superfluous in this concert, I know that not only I, but +also Punto, Simoni [a tenorist], and Galvani will demand that the public +should be apprised of our zeal for this charitable object; otherwise we +must all conclude that we are not wanted. + +Yours, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +18. + +TO HERR VON WEGELER. + +Vienna, Nov. 16, 1800. + +MY DEAR WEGELER,-- + +I thank you for this fresh proof of your interest in me, especially as I so +little deserve it. You wish to know how I am, and what remedies I use. +Unwilling as I always feel to discuss this subject, still I feel less +reluctant to do so with you than with any other person. For some months +past Vering has ordered me to apply blisters on both arms, of a particular +kind of bark, with which you are probably acquainted,--a disagreeable +remedy, independent of the pain, as it deprives me of the free use of my +arms for a couple of days at a time, till the blisters have drawn +sufficiently. The ringing and buzzing in my ears have certainly rather +decreased, particularly in the left ear, in which the malady first +commenced, but my hearing is not at all improved; in fact I fear that it is +become rather worse. My health is better, and after using the tepid baths +for a time, I feel pretty well for eight or ten days. I seldom take tonics, +but I have begun applications of herbs, according to your advice. Vering +will not hear of plunge baths, but I am much dissatisfied with him; he is +neither so attentive nor so indulgent as he ought to be to such a malady; +if I did not go to him, which is no easy matter, I should never see him at +all. What is your opinion of Schmidt [an army surgeon]? I am unwilling to +make any change, but it seems to me that Vering is too much of a +practitioner to acquire new ideas by reading. On this point Schmidt appears +to be a very different man, and would probably be less negligent with +regard to my case. I hear wonders of galvanism; what do you say to it? A +physician told me that he knew a deaf and dumb child whose hearing was +restored by it (in Berlin), and likewise a man who had been deaf for seven +years, and recovered his hearing. I am told that your friend Schmidt is at +this moment making experiments on the subject. + +I am now leading a somewhat more agreeable life, as of late I have been +associating more with other people. You could scarcely believe what a sad +and dreary life mine has been for the last two years; my defective hearing +everywhere pursuing me like a spectre, making me fly from every one, and +appear a misanthrope; and yet no one is in reality less so! This change has +been wrought by a lovely fascinating girl [undoubtedly Giulietta], who +loves me and whom I love. I have once more had some blissful moments during +the last two years, and it is the first time I ever felt that marriage +could make me happy. Unluckily, she is not in my rank of life, and indeed +at this moment I can marry no one; I must first bestir myself actively in +the world. Had it not been for my deafness, I would have travelled half +round the globe ere now, and this I must still do. For me there is no +pleasure so great as to promote and to pursue my art. + +Do not suppose that I could be happy with you. What indeed could make me +happier? Your very solicitude would distress me; I should read your +compassion every moment in your countenance, which would make me only still +more unhappy. What were my thoughts amid the glorious scenery of my +father-land? The hope alone of a happier future, which would have been mine +but for this affliction! Oh! I could span the world were I only free from +this! I feel that my youth is only now commencing. Have I not always been +an infirm creature? For some time past my bodily strength has been +increasing, and it is the same with my mental powers. I feel, though I +cannot describe it, that I daily approach the object I have in view, in +which alone can your Beethoven live. No rest for him!--I know of none but +in sleep, and I do grudge being obliged to sacrifice more time to it than +formerly.[1] Were I only half cured of my malady, then I would come to you, +and, as a more perfect and mature man, renew our old friendship. + +You should then see me as happy as I am ever destined to be here below--not +unhappy. No! that I could not endure; I will boldly meet my fate, never +shall it succeed in crushing me. Oh! it is so glorious to live one's life a +thousand times over! I feel that I am no longer made for a quiet existence. +You will write to me as soon as possible? Pray try to prevail on Steffen +[von Breuning] to seek an appointment from the Teutonic Order somewhere. +Life here is too harassing for his health; besides, he is so isolated that +I do not see how he is ever to get on. You know the kind of existence here. +I do not take it upon myself to say that society would dispel his +lassitude, but he cannot be persuaded to go anywhere. A short time since, I +had some music in my house, but our friend Steffen stayed away. Do +recommend him to be more calm and self-possessed, which I have in vain +tried to effect; otherwise he can neither enjoy health nor happiness. Tell +me in your next letter whether you care about my sending you a large +selection of music; you can indeed dispose of what you do not want, and +thus repay the expense of the carriage, and have my portrait into the +bargain. Say all that is kind and amiable from me to Lorchen, and also to +mamma and Christoph. You still have some regard for me? Always rely on the +love as well as the friendship of your + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: "Too much sleep is hurtful" is marked by a thick score in the +Odyssey (45, 393) by Beethoven's hand. See Schindler's _Beethoven's +Nachlass_.] + + +19. + +TO KAPELLMEISTER HOFMEISTER,--LEIPZIG.[1] + +Vienna, Dec. 15, 1800. + +MY DEAR BROTHER IN ART,-- + +I have often intended to answer your proposals, but am frightfully lazy +about all correspondence; so it is usually a good while before I can make +up my mind to write dry letters instead of music. I have, however, at last +forced myself to answer your application. _Pro primo_, I must tell you how +much I regret that you, my much-loved brother in the science of music, did +not give me some hint, so that I might have offered you my quartets, as +well as many other things that I have now disposed of. But if you are as +conscientious, my dear brother, as many other publishers, who grind to +death us poor composers, you will know pretty well how to derive ample +profit when the works appear. I now briefly state what you can have from +me. 1st. A Septet, _per il violino, viola, violoncello, contra-basso, +clarinetto, corno, fagotto;--tutti obbligati_ (I can write nothing that is +not _obbligato_, having come into the world with an _obbligato_ +accompaniment!) This Septet pleases very much. For more general use it +might be arranged for one more _violino, viola_, and _violoncello_, instead +of the three wind-instruments, _fagotto, clarinetto_, and _corno_.[2] 2d. A +Grand Symphony with full orchestra [the 1st]. 3rd. A pianoforte Concerto +[Op. 19], which I by no means assert to be one of my best, any more than +the one Mollo is to publish here [Op. 15], (this is for the benefit of the +Leipzig critics!) because _I reserve the best for myself_ till I set off on +my travels; still the work will not disgrace you to publish. 4th. A Grand +Solo Sonata [Op. 22]. These are all I can part with at this moment; a +little later you can have a quintet for stringed instruments, and probably +some quartets also, and other pieces that I have not at present beside me. +In your answer you can yourself fix the prices; and as you are neither an +_Italian_ nor a _Jew_, nor am I either, we shall no doubt quickly agree. +Farewell, and rest assured, + +My dear brother in art, of the esteem of your + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: The letters to Hofmeister, formerly of Vienna, who conducted +the correspondence with Beethoven in the name of the firm of "Hofmeister & +Kühnel, Bureau de Musique," are given here as they first appeared in 1837 +in the _Neue Zeitschrift für Musik_. On applying to the present +representative of that firm, I was told that those who now possess these +letters decline giving them out of their own hands, and that no copyist can +be found able to decipher or transcribe them correctly.] + +[Footnote 2: This last phrase is not in the copy before me, but in Marx's +_Biography_, who appears to have seen the original.] + + +20. + +TO KAPELLMEISTER HOFMEISTER. + +Vienna, Jan. 15 (or thereabouts), 1801. + +I read your letter, dear brother and friend, with much pleasure, and I +thank you for your good opinion of me and of my works, and hope I may +continue to deserve it. I also beg you to present all due thanks to Herr K. +[Kühnel] for his politeness and friendship towards me. I, on my part, +rejoice in your undertakings, and am glad that when works of art do turn +out profitable, they fall to the share of true artists, rather than to that +of mere tradesmen. + +Your intention to publish Sebastian Bach's works really gladdens my heart, +which beats with devotion for the lofty and grand productions of this our +father of the science of harmony, and I trust I shall soon see them appear. +I hope when golden peace is proclaimed, and your subscription list opened, +to procure you many subscribers here.[1] + +With regard to our own transactions, as you wish to know my proposals, they +are as follows. I offer you at present the following works:--The Septet +(which I already wrote to you about), 20 ducats; Symphony, 20 ducats; +Concerto, 10 ducats; Grand Solo Sonata, _allegro, adagio, minuetto, rondo_, +20 ducats. This Sonata [Op. 22] is well up to the mark, my dear brother! + +Now for explanations. You may perhaps be surprised that I make no +difference of price between the sonata, septet, and symphony. I do so +because I find that a septet or a symphony has not so great a sale as a +sonata, though a symphony ought unquestionably to be of the most value. +(N.B. The septet consists of a short introductory _adagio_, an _allegro, +adagio, minuetto, andante_, with variations, _minuetto_, and another short +_adagio_ preceding a _presto_.) I only ask ten ducats for the concerto, +for, as I already wrote to you, I do not consider it one of my best. I +cannot think that, taken as a whole, you will consider these prices +exorbitant; at least, I have endeavored to make them as moderate as +possible for you. + +With regard to the banker's draft, as you give me my choice, I beg you will +make it payable by Germüller or Schüller. The entire sum for the four works +will amount to 70 ducats; I understand no currency but Vienna ducats, so +how many dollars in gold they make in your money is no affair of mine, for +really I am a very bad man of business and accountant. Now this +_troublesome_ business is concluded;--I call it so, heartily wishing that +it could be otherwise here below! There ought to be only one grand _dépôt_ +of art in the world, to which the artist might repair with his works, and +on presenting them receive what he required; but as it now is, one must be +half a tradesman besides--and how is this to be endured? Good heavens! I +may well call it _troublesome_! + +As for the Leipzig oxen,[2] let them talk!--they certainly will make no man +immortal by their prating, and as little can they deprive of immortality +those whom Apollo destines to attain it. + +Now may Heaven preserve you and your colleagues! I have been unwell for +some time; so it is rather difficult for me at present to write even music, +much more letters. I trust we shall have frequent opportunities to assure +each other how truly you are my friend, and I yours. + +I hope for a speedy answer. Adieu! + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: I have at this moment in my hands this edition of Bach, bound +in one thick volume, together with the first part of Nägeli's edition of +the _Wohltemperirtes Clavier_, also three books of exercises (D, G, and C +minor), the _Toccata in D Minor_, and _Twice Fifteen Inventions_.] + +[Footnote 2: It is thus that Schindler supplies the gap. It is probably an +allusion to the _Allgemeine Musikalische Zeitung_, founded about three +years previously.] + + +21. + +TO HERR HOFMEISTER. + +Vienna, April 22, 1801. + +You have indeed too good cause to complain not a little of me. My excuse is +that I have been ill, and in addition had so much to do, that I could +scarcely even think of what I was to send you. Moreover, the only thing in +me that resembles a genius is, that my papers are never in very good order, +and yet no one but myself can succeed in arranging them. For instance, in +the score of the concerto, the piano part, according to my usual custom, +was not yet written down; so, owing to my hurry, you will receive it in my +own very illegible writing. In order that the works may follow as nearly as +possible in their proper order, I have marked the numbers to be placed on +each, as follows:-- + +Solo Sonata, Op. 22. +Symphony, Op. 21. +Septet, Op. 20. +Concerto, Op. 19. + +I will send you their various titles shortly. + +Put me down as a subscriber to Sebastian Bach's works [see Letter 20], and +also Prince Lichnowsky. The arrangement of Mozart's Sonatas as quartets +will do you much credit, and no doubt be profitable also. I wish I could +contribute more to the promotion of such an undertaking, but I am an +irregular man, and too apt, even with the best intentions, to forget +everything; I have, however, mentioned the matter to various people, and I +everywhere find them well disposed towards it. It would be a good thing if +you would arrange the septet you are about to publish as a quintet, with a +flute part, for instance; this would be an advantage to amateurs of the +flute, who have already importuned me on the subject, and who would swarm +round it like insects and banquet on it. + +Now to tell you something of myself. I have written a ballet +["Prometheus"], in which the ballet-master has not done his part so well as +might be. The F---- von L---- has also bestowed on us a production which by +no means corresponds with the ideas of his genius conveyed by the newspaper +reports. F---- seems to have taken Herr M---- (Wenzel Müller?) as his ideal +at the Kusperle, yet without even rising to his level. Such are the fine +prospects before us poor people who strive to struggle upwards! My dear +friend, pray lose no time in bringing the work before the notice of the +public, and write to me soon, that I may know whether by my delay I have +entirely forfeited your confidence for the future. Say all that is civil +and kind to your partner, Kühnel. Everything shall henceforth be sent +finished, and in quick succession. So now farewell, and continue your +regards for + +Your friend and brother, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +22. + +TO HERR HOFMEISTER. + +Vienna, June, 1801. + +I am rather surprised at the communication you have desired your business +agent here to make to me; I may well feel offended at your believing me +capable of so mean a trick. It would have been a very different thing had I +sold my works to rapacious shopkeepers, and then secretly made another good +speculation; but, from _one artist to another_, it is rather a strong +measure to suspect me of such a proceeding! The whole thing seems to be +either a device to put me to the test, or a mere suspicion. In any event I +may tell you that before you received the septet from me I had sent it to +Mr. Salomon in London (to be played at his own concert, which I did solely +from friendship), with the express injunction to beware of its getting into +other hands, as it was my intention to have it engraved in Germany, and, if +you choose, you can apply to him for the confirmation of this. But to give +you a further proof of my integrity, "I herewith give you the faithful +assurance that I have neither sold the septet, the symphony, the concerto, +nor the sonata to any one but to Messrs. Hofmeister and Kühnel, and that +they may consider them to be their own exclusive property. And to this I +pledge my honor." You may make what use you please of this guarantee. + +Moreover, I believe Salomon to be as incapable of the baseness of engraving +the septet as I am of selling it to him. I was so scrupulous in the matter, +that when applied to by various publishers to sanction a pianoforte +arrangement of the septet, I at once declined, though I do not even know +whether you proposed making use of it in this way. Here follow the +long-promised titles of the works. There will no doubt be a good deal to +alter and to amend in them; but this I leave to you. I shall soon expect a +letter from you, and, I hope, the works likewise, which I wish to see +engraved, as others have appeared, and are about to appear, in connection +with these numbers. I look on your statement as founded on mere rumors, +which you have believed with too much facility, or based entirely on +supposition, induced by having perchance heard that I had sent the work to +Salomon; I cannot, therefore, but feel some coolness towards such a +credulous friend, though I still subscribe myself + +Your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +23. + +DEDICATION TO DR. SCHMIDT.[1] + +1801. + +MONSIEUR,-- + +Je sens parfaitement bien, que la Celebrité de Votre nom ainsi que l'amitié +dont Vous m'honorez, exigeroient de moi la dédicace d'un bien plus +important ouvrage. La seule chose qui a pu me déterminer à Vous offrir +celui-ci de préférence, c'est qu'il me paroît d'une exécution plus facile +et par la même plus propre à contribuer à la Satisfaction dont Vous +jouissez dans l'aimable Cercle de Votre Famille.--C'est surtout, lorsque +les heureux talents d'une fille chérie se seront developpés davantage, que +je me flatte de voir ce but atteint. Heureux si j'y ai réussi et si dans +cette faible marque de ma haute estime et de ma gratitude Vous reconnoissez +toute la vivacité et la cordialité de mes sentiments. + +LOUIS VAN BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Grand Trio, Op. 38.] + + +24. + +TO HIS SCHOLAR, FERDINAND RIES.[1] + +1801. + +DEAR RIES,-- + +I send you herewith the four parts corrected by me; please compare the +others already written out with these. I also enclose a letter to Count +Browne. I have told him that he must make an advance to you of fifty +ducats, to enable you to get your outfit. This is absolutely necessary, so +it cannot offend him; for after being equipped, you are to go with him to +Baden on the Monday of the ensuing week. I must, however, reproach you for +not having had recourse to me long ago. Am I not your true friend? Why did +you conceal your necessities from me? No friend of mine shall ever be in +need, so long as I have anything myself. I would already have sent you a +small sum, did I not rely on Browne; if he fails us, then apply at once to +your + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Ries names 1801 as the date of this letter, and it was no +doubt during that summer that Count Browne was in Baden. Ries's father had +assisted the Beethoven family in every way in his power at the time of the +mother's death.] + + +25. + +TO HERR HOFMEISTER,--LEIPZIG. + +Vienna, April 8, 1802. + +Do you mean to go post-haste to the devil, gentlemen, by proposing that I +should write _such_ a _sonata_? During the revolutionary fever, a thing of +the kind might have been appropriate, but now, when everything is falling +again into the beaten track, and Bonaparte has concluded a _Concordat_ with +the Pope--such a sonata as this? If it were a _missa pro Sancta Maria à tre +voci_, or a _vesper_, &c., then I would at once take up my pen and write a +_Credo in unum_, in gigantic semibreves. But, good heavens! such a sonata, +in this fresh dawning Christian epoch. No, no!--it won't do, and I will +have none of it. + +Now for my answer in quickest _tempo_. The lady can have a sonata from me, +and I am willing to adopt the general outlines of her plan in an +_aesthetical_ point of view, without adhering to the keys named. The price +to be five ducats; for this sum she can keep the work a year for her own +amusement, without either of us being entitled to publish it. After the +lapse of a year, the sonata to revert to me--that is, I can and will then +publish it, when, if she considers it any distinction, she may request me +to dedicate it to her. + +I now, gentlemen, commend you to the grace of God. My Sonata [Op. 22] is +well engraved, but you have been a fine time about it! I hope you will +usher my Septet into the world a little quicker, as the P---- is waiting +for it, and you know the Empress has it; and when there are in this +imperial city people like ----, I cannot be answerable for the result; so +lose no time! + +Herr ---- [Mollo?] has lately published my Quartets [Op. 18] full of faults +and _errata_, both large and small, which swarm in them like fish in the +sea; that is, they are innumerable. _Questo è un piacere per un +autore_--this is what I call engraving [_stechen_, stinging] with a +vengeance.[1] In truth, my skin is a mass of punctures and scratches from +this fine edition of my Quartets! Now farewell, and think of me as I do of +you. Till death, your faithful + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: In reference to the musical piracy at that time very prevalent +in Austria.] + + +26.[1] + +TO MY BROTHERS CARL AND JOHANN BEETHOVEN. + +Heiligenstadt, Oct. 6, 1802. + +Oh! ye who think or declare me to be hostile, morose, and misanthropical, +how unjust you are, and how little you know the secret cause of what +appears thus to you! My heart and mind were ever from childhood prone to +the most tender feelings of affection, and I was always disposed to +accomplish something great. But you must remember that six years ago I was +attacked by an incurable malady, aggravated by unskilful physicians, +deluded from year to year, too, by the hope of relief, and at length forced +to the conviction of a _lasting affliction_ (the cure of which may go on +for years, and perhaps after all prove impracticable). + +Born with a passionate and excitable temperament, keenly susceptible to the +pleasures of society, I was yet obliged early in life to isolate myself, +and to pass my existence in solitude. If I at any time resolved to surmount +all this, oh! how cruelly was I again repelled by the experience, sadder +than ever, of my defective hearing!--and yet I found it impossible to say +to others: Speak louder; shout! for I am deaf! Alas! how could I proclaim +the deficiency of a sense which ought to have been more perfect with me +than with other men,--a sense which I once possessed in the highest +perfection, to an extent, indeed, that few of my profession ever enjoyed! +Alas, I cannot do this! Forgive me therefore when you see me withdraw from +you with whom I would so gladly mingle. My misfortune is doubly severe from +causing me to be misunderstood. No longer can I enjoy recreation in social +intercourse, refined conversation, or mutual outpourings of thought. +Completely isolated, I only enter society when compelled to do so. I must +live like an exile. In company I am assailed by the most painful +apprehensions, from the dread of being exposed to the risk of my condition +being observed. It was the same during the last six months I spent in the +country. My intelligent physician recommended me to spare my hearing as +much as possible, which was quite in accordance with my present +disposition, though sometimes, tempted by my natural inclination for +society, I allowed myself to be beguiled into it. But what humiliation when +any one beside me heard a flute in the far distance, while I heard +_nothing_, or when others heard _a shepherd singing_, and I still heard +_nothing_! Such things brought me to the verge of desperation, and wellnigh +caused me to put an end to my life. _Art! art_ alone, deterred me. Ah! how +could I possibly quit the world before bringing forth all that I felt it +was my vocation to produce?[2] And thus I spared this miserable life--so +utterly miserable that any sudden change may reduce me at any moment from +my best condition into the worst. It is decreed that I must now choose +_Patience_ for my guide! This I have done. I hope the resolve will not fail +me, steadfastly to persevere till it may please the inexorable Fates to cut +the thread of my life. Perhaps I may get better, perhaps not. I am prepared +for either. Constrained to become a philosopher in my twenty-eighth +year![3] This is no slight trial, and more severe on an artist than on any +one else. God looks into my heart, He searches it, and knows that love for +man and feelings of benevolence have their abode there! Oh! ye who may one +day read this, think that you have done me injustice, and let any one +similarly afflicted be consoled, by finding one like himself, who, in +defiance of all the obstacles of Nature, has done all in his power to be +included in the ranks of estimable artists and men. My brothers Carl and +Johann, as soon as I am no more, if Professor Schmidt [see Nos. 18 and 23] +be still alive, beg him in my name to describe my malady, and to add these +pages to the analysis of my disease, that at least, so far as possible, the +world may be reconciled to me after my death. I also hereby declare you +both heirs of my small fortune (if so it may be called). Share it fairly, +agree together and assist each other. You know that anything you did to +give me pain has been long forgiven. I thank you, my brother Carl in +particular, for the attachment you have shown me of late. My wish is that +you may enjoy a happier life, and one more free from care, than mine has +been. Recommend _Virtue_ to your children; that alone, and not wealth, can +ensure happiness. I speak from experience. It was _Virtue_ alone which +sustained me in my misery; I have to thank her and Art for not having ended +my life by suicide. Farewell! Love each other. I gratefully thank all my +friends, especially Prince Lichnowsky and Professor Schmidt. I wish one of +you to keep Prince L----'s instruments; but I trust this will give rise to +no dissension between you. If you think it more beneficial, however, you +have only to dispose of them. How much I shall rejoice if I can serve you +even in the grave! So be it then! I joyfully hasten to meet Death. If he +comes before I have had the opportunity of developing all my artistic +powers, then, notwithstanding my cruel fate, he will come too early for me, +and I should wish for him at a more distant period; but even then I shall +be content, for his advent will release me from a state of endless +suffering. Come when he may, I shall meet him with courage. Farewell! Do +not quite forget me, even in death; I deserve this from you, because during +my life I so often thought of you, and wished to make you happy. Amen! + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + +(_Written on the Outside._) + +Thus, then, I take leave of you, and with sadness too. The fond hope I +brought with me here, of being to a certain degree cured, now utterly +forsakes me. As autumn leaves fall and wither, so are my hopes blighted. +Almost as I came, I depart. Even the lofty courage that so often animated +me in the lovely days of summer is gone forever. O Providence! vouchsafe me +one day of pure felicity! How long have I been estranged from the glad echo +of true joy! When! O my God! when shall I again feel it in the temple of +Nature and of man?--never? Ah! that would be too hard! + +(_Outside._) + +To be read and fulfilled after my death by my brothers Carl and Johann. + +[Footnote 1: This beautiful letter I regret not to have seen in the +original, it being in the possession of the violin _virtuoso_ Ernst, in +London. I have adhered to the version given in the Leipzig _Allgemeine +Musikalische Zeitung_, Oct. 1827.] + +[Footnote 2: A large portion of the _Eroica_ was written in the course of +this summer, but not completed till August, 1804.] + +[Footnote 3: Beethoven did not at that time know in what year he was born. +See the subsequent letter of May 2, 1810. He was then far advanced in his +thirty-third year.] + + +27. + +NOTICE. + +November, 1802. + +I owe it to the public and to myself to state that the two quintets in C +and E flat major--one of these (arranged from a symphony of mine) published +by Herr Mollo in Vienna, and the other (taken from my Septet, Op. 20) by +Herr Hofmeister in Leipzig--are not original quintets, but only versions of +the aforesaid works given by the publishers. Arrangements in these days (so +fruitful in--arrangements) an author will find it vain to contend against; +but we may at least justly demand that the fact should be mentioned in the +title-page, neither to injure the reputation of the author nor to deceive +the public. This notice is given to prevent anything of the kind in future. +I also beg to announce that shortly a new original quintet of my +composition, in C major, Op. 29, will appear at Breitkopf & Härtel's in +Leipzig. + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +28. + +TO FERDINAND RIES. + +Summer of 1803. + +You no doubt are aware that I am here. Go to Stein, and ask if he can send +me an instrument, on hire. I am afraid of bringing mine here. Come to me +this evening about seven o'clock. I lodge in Oberdöbling, on the left side +of the street, No. 4, going down the hill towards Heiligenstadt. + + +29. + +TO HERR HOFMEISTER,--LEIPZIG. + +Vienna, Sept. 22, 1803. + +I hereby declare all the works you have ordered to be your property. The +list of these shall be made out and sent to you with my signature, as the +proof of their being your own. I also agree to accept the sum of fifty +ducats for them. Are you satisfied? + +Perhaps, instead of the variations with violoncello and violin,[1] I may +send you variations for the piano, arranged as a duet on a song of mine; +but Goethe's poetry must also be engraved, as I wrote these variations in +an album, and consider them better than the others. Are you satisfied? + +The arrangements are not by me, though I have revised and much improved +various passages; but I do not wish you to say that I have arranged them, +for it would be false, and I have neither time nor patience to do so. Are +you satisfied? + +Now farewell! I sincerely wish that all may go well with you. I would +gladly make you a present of all my works, if I could do so and still get +on in the world; but--remember most people are provided for, and know what +they have to live on, while, good heavens! where can an appointment be +found at the Imperial Court for such a _parvum talentum com ego_? + +Your friend, + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: These are the six variations in D, on the air _Ich denke Dein_ +written in 1800 in the album of the Countesses Josephine Deym and Thérèse +of Brunswick.] + + +30. + +CAUTION. + +November, 1803. + +Herr Carl Zulehner, a piratical engraver in Mayence, has announced an +edition of my collected works for the pianoforte and also stringed +instruments. I consider it my duty publicly to inform all friends of music +that I have no share whatever in this edition. + +I would never have in any way authorized any collection of my works (which, +moreover, I consider premature) without previously consulting the +publishers of single pieces, and ensuring that correctness in which +editions of my individual works are so deficient. I must also observe that +this illegal edition cannot be complete, as several new works of mine are +shortly to appear in Paris, and these Herr Zulehner, being a French +subject, dare not pirate. I intend to take another opportunity of +enumerating the details of the collection of my works to be brought out +under my own auspices and careful revision. + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +31. + +TO HERR RIES.[1] + +1804. + +Be so good as to make out a list of the mistakes and send it at once to +Simrock, and say that the work must appear as soon as possible. I will send +him the Sonata [Op. 47] and the Concerto the day after to-morrow. + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Ries relates that the three following notes refer to the +pianoforte Sonata, Op. 31, No. 1, carefully engraved by Nägeli in Zurich, +which Beethoven consequently sent forthwith to Simrock in Bonn, desiring +him to bring out "_une édition très-correcte_" of the work. He also states +that Beethoven was residing in Heiligenstadt at the time the work was first +sent [see No. 26]. In Nottebohm's _Skizzenbuch von Beethoven_, he says (p. +43) that the first notice of the appearance of this sonata was on May 21st, +1803; but Simrock writes to me that the date of the document making over +the sonata to him is 1804.] + + +32. + +TO HERR RIES. + +I must again ask you to undertake the disagreeable task of making a fair +copy of the errors in the Zurich Sonata. I have got your list of _errata_ +"_auf der Wieden_." + + +33. + +TO HERR RIES. + +DEAR RIES,-- + +The signs are wrongly marked, and many of the notes misplaced; so be +careful! or your labor will be vain. _Ch' a detto l' amato bene?_ + + +34. + +TO HERR RIES. + +DEAR RIES,-- + +May I beg you to be so obliging as to copy this _andante_ [in the Kreuzer +Sonata] for me, however indifferently? I must send it off to-morrow, and as +Heaven alone knows what its fate may then be, I wish to get it transcribed. +But I must have it back to-morrow about one o'clock. The cause of my +troubling you is that one of my copyists is already very much occupied with +various things of importance, and the other is ill. + + +35. + +TO THE COMPOSER LEIDESDORF,--VIENNA.[1] + +DORF DES LEIDES [VILLAGE OF SORROW--LEIDESDORF],-- + +Let the bearer of this, Herr Ries, have some easy duets, and, better still, +let him have them for nothing. Conduct yourself in accordance with the +reformed doctrines. Farewell! + +BEETHOVEN + +_Minimus._ + +[Footnote 1: Date unknown. Leidesdorf was also a music-seller.] + + +36. + +TO HERR RIES. + +Baden, July 14, 1804. + +DEAR RIES,-- + +If you can find me better lodgings, I shall be very glad. Tell my brothers +not to engage these at once; I have a great desire to get one in a +spacious, quiet square or on the Bastei. It it really inexcusable in my +brother not to have provided wine, as it is so beneficial and necessary to +me. I shall take care to be present at the rehearsal on Wednesday. I am not +pleased to hear that it is to be at Schuppanzigh's. He may well be grateful +to me if my impertinences make him thinner! Farewell, dear Ries! We have +bad weather here, and I am not safe from visitors; so I must take flight in +order to be alone. + +Your true friend, + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + + +37. + +TO HERR RIES. + +Baden, July, 1804. + +DEAR RIES,-- + +As Breuning [see Nos. 13, 14, and 18] by his conduct has not scrupled to +display my character to you and the house-steward as that of a mean, petty, +base man, I beg you will convey my reply at once in person to Breuning. I +answer only one point, the first in his letter, and I do so solely because +it is the only mode of justifying myself in your eyes. Say also to him that +I had no intention of reproaching him on account of the delay of the notice +to quit, and even if Breuning were really to blame for this, our harmonious +relations are so dear and precious in my sight, that, for the sake of a few +hundreds more or less, I would never subject any friend of mine to +vexation. You are aware, indeed, that I jestingly accused you as the cause +of the notice arriving too late. I am quite sure that you must remember +this. I had entirely forgotten the whole matter, but at dinner my brother +began to say that he thought Breuning was to blame in the affair, which I +at once denied, saying that you were in fault. I think this shows plainly +enough that I attributed no blame to Breuning; but on this he sprang up +like a madman, and insisted on sending for the house-steward. Such +behavior, in the presence of all those with whom I usually associate, and +to which I am wholly unaccustomed, caused me to lose all self-control; so I +also started up, upset my chair, left the room, and did not return. This +conduct induced Breuning to place me in a pretty light to you and the +house-steward, and also to send me a letter which I only answered by +silence. I have not another word to say to Breuning. His mode of thinking +and of acting, with regard to me, proves that there never ought to have +been such friendly intimacy between us, and assuredly it can never more be +restored. I wished to make you acquainted with this, as your version of the +occurrence degraded both my words and actions. I know that, had you been +aware of the real state of the affair, you would not have said what you +did, and with this I am satisfied. + +I now beg of you, dear Ries, to go to my brother, the apothecary, as soon +as you receive this letter, and say to him that I mean to leave Baden in +the course of a few days, and that he is to engage the lodging in Döbling +as soon as you have given him this message. I had nearly left this to-day; +I detest being here--I am sick of it. For Heaven's sake urge him to close +the bargain at once, for I want to take possession immediately. Neither +show nor speak to any one of what is written in the previous page of this +letter. I wish to prove to him in every respect that I am not so meanly +disposed as he is. Indeed I have written to him, although my resolve as to +the dissolution of our friendship remains firm and unchangeable. + +Your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +38. + +TO HERR RIES. + +Berlin, July 24, 1804. + +... You were no doubt not a little surprised about the affair with +Breuning; believe me, my dear friend, that the ebullition on my part was +only an outbreak caused by many previous scenes of a disagreeable nature. I +have the gift of being able to conceal and to repress my susceptibility on +many occasions; but if attacked at a time when I chance to be peculiarly +irritable, I burst forth more violently than any one. Breuning certainly +possesses many admirable qualities, but he thinks himself quite faultless; +whereas the very defects that he discovers in others are those which he +possesses himself to the highest degree. From my childhood I have always +despised his petty mind. My powers of discrimination enabled me to foresee +the result with Breuning, for our modes of thinking, acting, and feeling +are entirely opposite; and yet I believed that these difficulties might be +overcome, but experience has disproved this. So now I want no more of his +friendship! I have only found two friends in the world with whom I never +had a misunderstanding; but what men these were! One is dead, the other +still lives. Although for nearly six years past we have seen nothing of +each other, yet I know that I still hold the first place in his heart, as +he does in mine [see No. 12]. The true basis of friendship is to be found +in sympathy of heart and soul. I only wish you could have read the letter I +wrote to Breuning, and his to me. No! never can he be restored to his +former place in my heart. The man who could attribute to his friend so base +a mode of thinking, and could himself have recourse to so base a mode of +acting towards him, is no longer worthy of my friendship. + +Do not forget the affair of my apartments. Farewell! Do not be too much +addicted to tailoring,[1] remember me to the fairest of the fair, and send +me half a dozen needles. + +I never could have believed that I could be so idle as I am here. If this +be followed by a fit of industry, something worth while may be produced. + +_Vale!_ Your + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Ries says, in Wegeler's _Biographical Notices_:--"Beethoven +never visited me more frequently than when I lived in the house of a +tailor, with three very handsome but thoroughly respectable daughters."] + + +39. + +TO MESSRS. ARTARIA & CO.[1] + +Vienna, June 1, 1805. + +I must inform you that the affair about the new quintet is settled between +Count Fries and myself. + +The Count has just assured me that he intends to make you a present of it; +it is too late to-day for a written agreement on the subject, but one shall +be sent early in the ensuing week. This intelligence must suffice for the +present, and I think I at all events deserve your thanks for it. + +Your obedient servant, + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: The quintet is probably not that in C, Op. 29, dedicated to +Count v. Fries, previously published in 1803 by Breitkopf & Härtel [see No. +27]. It is more likely that he alludes to a new quintet which the Count had +no doubt ordered.] + + +40. + +TO MADAME LA PRINCESSE LIECHTENSTEIN, &C.[1] + +November, 1805. + +Pray pardon me, illustrious Princess, if the bearer of this should cause +you an unpleasant surprise. Poor Ries, my scholar, is forced by this +unhappy war to shoulder a musket, and must moreover leave this in a few +days, being a foreigner. He has nothing, literally nothing, and is obliged +to take a long journey. All chance of a concert on his behalf is thus +entirely at an end, and he must have recourse to the benevolence of others. +I recommend him to you. I know you will forgive the step I have taken. A +noble-minded man would only have recourse to such measures in the most +utter extremity. Confident of this, I send the poor youth to you, in the +hope of somewhat improving his circumstances. He is forced to apply to all +who know him. + +I am, with the deepest respect, yours, + +L. VAN BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Communicated by Ries himself, who, to Beethoven's extreme +indignation, did not deliver the note. See Wegeler's work, p. 134. The +following remark is added:--"Date unknown; written a few days before the +entrance of the French in 1805" (which took place Nov. 13). Ries, a native +of Bonn, was now a French subject, and recalled under the laws of +conscription. The Sonata, Op. 27, No. 1, is dedicated to Princess +Liechtenstein.] + + +41. + +TO HERR MEYER.[1] + +1805. + +DEAR MEYER,-- + +Pray try to persuade Herr v. Seyfried to direct my Opera, as I wish on this +occasion to see and hear it myself _from a distance_; in this way my +patience will at all events not be so severely tried as when I am close +enough to hear my music so bungled. I really do believe that it is done on +purpose to annoy me! I will say nothing of the wind-instruments; but all +_pp._'s, _cresc._, _discresc._, and all _f._'s and _ff._'s may as well be +struck out of my Opera, for no attention whatever is paid to them. I shall +lose all pleasure in composing anything in future, if I am to hear it given +thus. To-morrow or the day after I will come to fetch you to dinner. To-day +I am again unwell. + +Your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +If the Opera is to be performed the day after to-morrow, there must be +another private rehearsal to-morrow, or _each time it will be given worse +and worse_. + +[Footnote 1: Meyer, the husband of Mozart's eldest sister-in-law, Josepha +(Hofer's widow), sang the part of Pizarro at the first performance of +_Fidelio_, Nov. 20, 1805, and also at a later period. Seyfried was at that +time Kapellmeister at the Theatre "an der Wien."] + + +42. + +TESTIMONIAL FOR C. CZERNY. + +Vienna, Dec. 7, 1805. + +I, the undersigned, am glad to bear testimony to young Carl Czerny having +made the most extraordinary progress on the pianoforte, far beyond what +might be expected at the age of fourteen. I consider him deserving of all +possible assistance, not only from what I have already referred to, but +from his astonishing memory, and more especially from his parents having +spent all their means in cultivating the talent of their promising son. + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +43. + +TO HERR RÖCKEL.[1] + +DEAR RÖCKEL,-- + +Be sure that you arrange matters properly with Mdlle. Milder, and say to +her previously from me, that I hope she will not sing anywhere else. I +intend to call on her to-morrow, to kiss the hem of her garment. Do not +also forget Marconi, and forgive me for giving you so much trouble. + +Yours wholly, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Röckel, in 1806 tenor at the Theatre "an der Wien," sang the +part of Florestan in the spring of that year, when _Fidelio_ was revived. +Mdlle. Milder, afterwards Mdme. Hauptmann, played Leonore; Mdme. Marconi +was also prima donna.] + + +44. + +TO HERR COLLIN,[1] COURT SECRETARY AND POET. + +MY ESTEEMED COLLIN,-- + +I hear that you are about to fulfil my greatest wish and your own purpose. +Much as I desire to express my delight to you in person, I cannot find time +to do so, having so much to occupy me. Pray do not then ascribe this to any +want of proper attention towards you. I send you the "Armida"; as soon as +you have entirely done with it, pray return it, as it does not belong to +me. I am, with sincere esteem, + +Yours, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Collin, Court Secretary, was the author of _Coriolanus_, a +tragedy for which Beethoven in 1807 wrote the celebrated Overture dedicated +to that poet. According to Reichardt, Collin offered the libretto of +_Bradamante_ to Beethoven in 1808, which Reichardt subsequently composed. +This note evidently refers to a _libretto_.] + + +45. + +TO HERR GLEICHENSTEIN.[1] + +I should like very much, my good Gleichenstein, to speak to you this +forenoon between one and two o'clock, or in the afternoon, and where you +please. To-day I am too busy to call early enough to find you at home. Give +me an answer, and don't forget to appoint the place for us to meet. +Farewell, and continue your regard for your + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Probably in reference to a conference with regard to a +contract for the publication of his works, Op. 58, 59, 60, 61, and 62, that +Beethoven had made on the 20th April, 1807, with Muzio Clementi, who had +established a large music firm in London; it was also signed by Baron +Gleichen. + +Beethoven's first intention was to dedicate Op. 58 to him, which is evident +from a large page in Schindler's work, on which is written in bold +characters, by the master's own hand, "_Quatrième Concerto pour le Piano, +avec accompagnement, etc., dédié à son ami Gleichenstein_," &c. The name of +the Archduke Rudolph had been previously written, and was eventually +adopted, and Gleichenstein afterwards received the dedication of the Grand +Sonata with violoncello, Op. 69.] + + +46. + +TO THE DIRECTORS OF THE COURT THEATRE.[1] + +Vienna, December, 1807. + +The undersigned has cause to flatter himself that during the period of his +stay in Vienna he has gained some favor and approbation from the highest +nobility, as well as from the public at large, his works having met with an +honorable reception both in this and other countries. Nevertheless he has +had difficulties of every kind to contend against, and has not hitherto +been so fortunate as to acquire a position that would enable him _to live +solely for art_, and to develop his talents to a still higher degree of +perfection, which ought to be the aim of every artist, thus ensuring future +independence instead of mere casual profits. + +The mere wish _to gain a livelihood_ has never been the leading clew that +has hitherto guided the undersigned on his path. His great aim has been the +_interest of art_ and the ennobling of taste, while his genius, soaring to +a higher ideal and greater perfection, frequently compelled him to +sacrifice his talents and profits to the Muse. Still works of this kind won +for him a reputation in distant lands, securing him the most favorable +reception in various places of distinction, and a position befitting his +talents and acquirements. + +The undersigned does not, however, hesitate to say that this city is above +all others the most precious and desirable in his eyes, owing to the number +of years he has lived here, the favor and approval he has enjoyed from both +high and low, and his wish fully to realize the expectations he has had the +good fortune to excite, but most of all, he may truly say, from his +_patriotism as a German_. Before, therefore, making up his mind to leave a +place so dear to him, he begs to refer to a hint which the reigning Prince +Lichnowsky was so kind as to give him, to the effect that the directors of +the theatre were disposed to engage the undersigned on reasonable +conditions in the service of their theatre, and to ensure his remaining in +Vienna by securing to him a permanent position, more propitious to the +further exercise of his talents. As this assurance is entirely in +accordance with the wishes of the undersigned, he takes the liberty, with +all due respect, to place before the directors his readiness to enter into +such an engagement, and begs to state the following conditions for their +gracious consideration. + +1. The undersigned undertakes and pledges himself to compose each year at +least _one grand opera_, to be selected by the directors and himself; in +return for this he demands a _fixed salary_ of 2400 florins a year, and +also a free benefit at the third performance of each such opera. + +2. He also agrees to supply the directors annually with a little _operetta_ +or a _divertissement_, with choruses or occasional music of the kind, as +may be required, _gratis_; he feels confident that on the other hand the +directors will not refuse, in return for these various labors, to grant him +_a benefit concert_ at all events once a year in one of the theatres. +Surely the above conditions cannot be thought exorbitant or unreasonable, +when the expenditure of time and energy entailed by the production of an +_opera_ is taken into account, as it entirely excludes the possibility of +all other mental exertion; in other places, too, the author and his family +have a share in the profits of every individual performance, so that even +_one_ successful work at once ensures the future fortunes of the composer. +It must also be considered how prejudicial the present rate of exchange is +to artists here, and likewise the high price of the necessaries of life, +while a residence in foreign countries is open to them. + +But in any event, whether the directors accede to or decline this present +proposal, the undersigned ventures to request that he may be permitted to +give a concert for his own benefit in one of the theatres. For if his +conditions be accepted, the undersigned must devote all his time and +talents to the composition of such an opera, and thus be prevented working +in any other way for profit. In case of the non-acceptance of these +proposals, as the concert he was authorized to give last year did not take +place owing to various obstacles, he would entreat, as a parting token of +the favor hitherto vouchsafed to him, that the promise of last year may now +be fulfilled. In the former case, he would beg to suggest _Annunciation +Day_ [March 25.] for his concert, and in the latter a day during the +ensuing Christmas vacation. + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN, M.P. + +[_Manu propria._] + +[Footnote 1: This application was fruitless. See Reichardt's _Vertraute +Briefe_. "These two (Lobkowitz and Esterhazy) are the heads of the great +theatrical direction, which consists entirely of princes and counts, who +conduct all the large theatres on their own account and at their own risk." +The close of this letter shows that it was written in December.] + + +47. + +TO COUNT FRANZ VON OPPERSDORF.[1] + +Vienna, Nov. 1, 1808 [_sic!_]. + +MY DEAR COUNT,-- + +I fear you will look on me with displeasure when I tell you that necessity +compelled me not only to dispose of the symphony I wrote for you, but to +transfer another also to some one else. Be assured, however, that you shall +soon receive the one I intend for you. I hope that both you and the +Countess, to whom I beg my kind regards, have been well since we met. I am +at this moment staying with Countess Erdödy in the apartments below those +of Prince Lichnowsky. I mention this in case you do me the honor to call on +me when you are in Vienna. My circumstances are improving, without having +recourse to the intervention of people _who treat their friends +insultingly_. I have also the offer of being made _Kapellmeister_ to the +King of Westphalia, and it is possible that I may accept the proposal. +Farewell, and sometimes think of your attached friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: The fourth Symphony is dedicated to Count Oppersdorf.] + + +48.[1] + +I fear I am too late for to-day, but I have only now been able to get back +your memorial from C----, because H---- wished to add various items here +and there. I do beg of you to dwell chiefly on the great importance to me +of adequate opportunities to exercise my art; by so doing you will write +what is most in accordance with my head and my heart. The preamble must set +forth what I am to have in Westphalia--600 ducats in gold, 150 ducats for +travelling expenses; all I have to do in return for this sum being to +direct the King's [Jerome's] concerts, which are short and few in number. I +am not even bound to direct any opera I may write. So, thus freed from all +care, I shall be able to devote myself entirely to the most important +object of my art--to write great works. An orchestra is also to be placed +at my disposition. + +N.B. As member of a theatrical association, the title need not be insisted +on, as it can produce nothing but annoyance. With regard to the _Imperial +service_, I think that point requires delicate handling, and not less so +the solicitation for the title of _Imperial Kapellmeister_. It must, +however, be made quite clear that I am to receive a sufficient salary from +the Court to enable me to renounce the annuity which I at present receive +from the gentlemen in question [the Archduke Rudolph, Prince Kinsky, and +Prince Lobkowitz], which I think will be most suitably expressed by my +stating that it is my hope, and has ever been my most ardent wish, to enter +the Imperial service, when I shall be ready to give up as much of the above +salary as the sum I am to receive from His Imperial Majesty amounts to. +(N.B. We must have it to-morrow at twelve o'clock, as we go to Kinsky then. +I hope to see you to-day.) + +[Footnote 1: This note, now first published, refers to the call Beethoven +had received, mentioned in the previous No. The sketch of the memorial that +follows is not, however, in Beethoven's writing, and perhaps not even +composed by him [see also No. 46]. It is well known that the Archduke +Rudolph, Prince Kinsky, and Prince Lobkowitz had secured to the _maestro_ a +salary of 4000 gulden.] + + +49. + +The aim and endeavor of every true artist must be to acquire a position in +which he can occupy himself exclusively with the accomplishment of great +works, undisturbed by other avocations or by considerations of economy. A +composer, therefore, can have no more ardent wish than to devote himself +wholly to the creation of works of importance, to be produced before the +public. He must also keep in view the prospect of old age, in order to make +a sufficient provision for that period. + +The King of Westphalia has offered Beethoven a salary of 600 gold ducats +for life, and 150 ducats for travelling expenses, in return for which his +sole obligations are, occasionally to play before His Majesty, and to +conduct his chamber concerts, which are both few and short. This proposal +is of a most beneficial nature both to art and the artist. + +Beethoven, however, much prefers a residence in this capital, feeling so +much gratitude for the many proofs of kindness he has received in it, and +so much patriotism for his adopted father-land, that he will never cease to +consider himself an Austrian artist, nor take up his abode elsewhere, if +anything approaching to the same advantages are conferred on him here. + +As many persons of high, indeed of the very highest rank, have requested +him to name the conditions on which he would be disposed to remain here, in +compliance with their wish he states as follows:-- + +1. Beethoven must receive from some influential nobleman security for a +permanent salary for life: various persons of consideration might +contribute to make up the amount of this salary, which, at the present +increased price of all commodities, must not consist of less than 4000 +florins _per annum_. Beethoven's wish is that the donors of this sum should +be considered as cooperating in the production of his future great works, +by thus enabling him to devote himself entirely to these labors, and by +relieving him from all other occupations. + +2. Beethoven must always retain the privilege of travelling in the +interests of art, for in this way alone can he make himself known, and +acquire some fortune. + +3. His most ardent desire and eager wish is to be received into the +Imperial service, when such an appointment would enable him partly or +wholly to renounce the proposed salary. In the mean time the title of +_Imperial Kapellmeister_ would be very gratifying to him; and if this wish +could be realized, the value of his abode here would be much enhanced in +his eyes. + +If his desire be fulfilled, and a salary granted by His Majesty to +Beethoven, he will renounce so much of the said 4000 florins as the +Imperial salary shall amount to; or if this appointment be 4000 florins, he +will give up the whole of the former sum. + +4. As Beethoven wishes from time to time to produce before the public at +large his new great works, he desires an assurance from the present +directors of the theatre on their part, and that of their successors, that +they will authorize him to give a concert for his own benefit every year on +Palm Sunday, in the Theatre "an der Wien." In return for which Beethoven +agrees to arrange and direct an annual concert for the benefit of the poor, +or, if this cannot be managed, at all events to furnish a new work of his +own for such a concert. + + +50. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +December, 1808. + +MY EXCELLENT FRIEND,-- + +All would go well now if we had only a curtain, without it the _Aria_ ["Ah! +Perfido"] _will be a failure_.[1] I only heard this to-day from S. +[Seyfried], and it vexes me much: a curtain of any kind will do, even a +bed-curtain, or merely a _kind of gauze screen_, which could be instantly +removed. There must be something; for the Aria is in the _dramatic style_, +and better adapted for the stage than for effect in a concert-room. +_Without a curtain, or something of the sort, the Aria will be devoid of +all meaning, and ruined! ruined! ruined!! Devil take it all!_ The Court +will probably be present. Baron Schweitzer [Chamberlain of the Archduke +Anton] requested me earnestly to make the application myself. Archduke Carl +granted me an audience and promised to come. The Empress _neither promised +nor refused_. + +A hanging curtain!!!! or the Aria and I will both be hanged to-morrow. +Farewell! I embrace you as cordially on this new year as in the old one. +_With or without a curtain!_ Your + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Reichardt, in his _Vertraute Briefe_ relates among other +things about the concert given by Beethoven in the Royal Theatre "an der +Wien," Oct. 22, 1808, as follows:--"Poor Beethoven, who derived from this +concert the first and only net profits which accrued to him during the +whole year, met with great opposition and very slender support in arranging +and carrying it out. First came the _Pastoral Symphony; or, Reminiscences +of Rural Life_; then followed, as the sixth piece, a long Italian _scena_, +sung by Demoiselle Killitzky, a lovely Bohemian with a lovely voice." The +above note [to Zmeskall?] certainly refers to this concert.] + + +51. + +TO FERDINAND RIES.[1] + +1809. + +MY DEAR FELLOW,-- + +Your friends have at any rate given you very bad advice; but I know all +about them: they are the very same to whom you sent that fine news about me +from Paris; the very same who inquired about my age--information that you +contrived to supply so correctly!--the very same who have often before +injured you in my opinion, but now permanently. Farewell! + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Ries himself gives the date of this note as 1809, though he +cannot recall what gave rise to it. It is probably connected with a fact +mentioned by Wegeler, p. 95, that Reichardt, who was at that time in +Vienna, had advised Beethoven's young pupil, Ries, to apply to the King of +Westphalia for the appointment of Kapellmeister, which he had recently +given up. This was reported to Beethoven, and roused his ire. Ries, too, +had written from Paris that the taste in music there was very indifferent; +that Beethoven's works were little known or played in that city. Beethoven +was also very susceptible with regard to his age. At the request of some of +Beethoven's friends, Ries, in 1806, obtained Beethoven's baptismal +certificate, and sent it to Vienna. But the _maestro's_ wrath on this +occasion passed away as quickly as usual.] + + +52. + +TO ZMESKALL.[1] + +March 7, 1809. + +It is just what I expected! As to the blows, that is rather far-fetched. +The story is at least three months' old, and very different from what he +now makes it out to be. The whole stupid affair was caused by a female +huckster and a couple of low fellows. I lose very little. He no doubt was +corrupted in the very house where I am now living. + +[Footnote 1: [See No. 10.] The notes to Zmeskall generally have the dates +written by himself. This one bears the date March 7, 1809. In all points +connected with domestic life, and especially in household matters and +discords, Zmeskall was always a kind and consolatory friend. Beethoven at +that time lived in the same house with Countess Erdödy. [See No. 74.]] + + +53. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +My most excellent, high, and well-born Herr v. Zmeskall, Court Secretary +and Member of the Society of the Single Blessed,--If I come to see you +to-day, ascribe it to the fact that a person wishes to speak to me at your +house whom I could not refuse to see. I come without any _card_ from you, +but I hope you will not on that account _discard_ me. + +Yours truly--most truly, + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + + +54. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +It seems to me, dear Zmeskall, if war really does break out, when it comes +to an end you will be the very man for an appointment in the Peace +Legation. What a glorious office!!! I leave it entirely to you to do the +best you can about my servant, only henceforth Countess Erdödy must not +attempt to exercise the smallest influence over him. She says she made him +a present of twenty-five florins, and gave him five florins a month, solely +to induce him to stay with me. I cannot refuse to believe this trait of +generosity, but I do not choose that it should be repeated. Farewell! I +thank you for your friendship, and hope soon to see you. + +Yours ever, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +55. + +TO ZMESKALL.[1] + +April 16, 1809. + +If I cannot come to-day, dear Zmeskall which is very possible, ask Baroness +von ---- [name illegible] to give you the pianoforte part of the Trios, and +be so good as to send them and the other parts to me to-day. + +In haste, your + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: April 16, 1809. By the Terzetts he no doubt means the Trios, +Op. 70, dedicated to Countess Erdödy.] + + +56. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +April 17, 1809. + +DEAR Z.,-- + +A suitable lodging has just been found out for me, but I need some one to +help me in the affair. I cannot employ my brother, because he only +recommends what costs least money. Let me know, therefore, if we can go +together to look at the house. It is in the Klepperstall.[1] + +[Footnote 1: An der Mölker Bastei.] + + +57. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +April 25, 1809. + +I shall be glad, right glad, to play. I send you the violoncello part; if +you find that you can manage it, play it yourself, or let old Kraft[1] do +so. I will tell you about the lodging when we meet. + +Your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Anton Kraft (and likewise his son, Nicolaus Kraft) was a most +admirable violoncello-player, with whom Beethoven from the earliest days of +his residence in Vienna had played a great deal at Prince Lichnowsky's. +Kraft was at that time in Prince Lobkowitz's band.] + + +58. + +TO ZMESKALL.[1] + +May 14, 1809. + +MY DEAR LITTLE MUSICAL OLD COUNT!-- + +I think after all it would be advisable to let old Kraft play, as the trios +are to be heard for the first time (in society), and you can play them +afterwards; but I leave it all to your own option. If you meet with any +difficulties, one of which may possibly be that Kraft and S. [Schuppanzigh] +do not harmonize well together, then Herr v. Zmeskall must distinguish +himself, not as a mere musical Count, but as an energetic musician. + +Your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Kraft and Schuppanzigh were then each giving quartet +_soirées_.] + + +59. + +TO FREIHERR V. HAMMER-PURGSTALL.[1] + +1809. + +I feel almost ashamed of your complaisance and kindness in permitting me to +see the MS. of your as yet unknown literary treasures. Pray receive my +sincere thanks. I also beg to return both your operettas. Wholly engrossed +by my professional avocations, it is impossible for me to give an opinion, +especially with regard to the Indian Operetta; as soon as time permits, I +will call on you for the purpose of discussing this subject, and also the +Oratorio of "The Deluge." Pray always include me among the warm admirers of +your great talents. + +I am, sir, with sincere esteem, your obedient + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: I see in Schindler's _Beethoven_, that he wished to have "an +Indian Chorus of a religious character" from this renowned Orientalist, +who, in sending his _Persian Operetta_, written "rather with an ideal than +a musical object," and likewise an oratorio, _The Deluge_, +remarks:--"Should you not find these works in all respects executed quite +to your taste, still I feel convinced that through the genius of a +Beethoven alone can music portray the rising of the great flood and the +pacifying of the surging waters."] + + +60. + +TO FREIHERR V. HAMMER-PURGSTALL.[1] + +1809. + +Forgive me, my dear H----, for not having brought you the letter for Paris. +I have been, and still am, so much occupied, that day after day I am +obliged to delay writing it, but you shall have it to-morrow, even if I am +unable to come myself to see you, which I am most anxious to do. + +There is another matter that I would most earnestly press on you; perhaps +you might succeed in doing something for a _poor unfortunate man_. I allude +to Herr Stoll, son of the celebrated physician. With many persons the +question is whether a man has been ruined by his own fault or by that of +others, but this is not so with either you or me; it is sufficient that +Stoll is unfortunate, and looks on a journey to Paris as his sole resource, +having last year made many influential acquaintances, who, when he goes +there, are to endeavor to procure him a professorship in Westphalia. Stoll +has therefore applied to Herr v. Neumann, in the State Chancery Office, to +send him with a government courier to Paris, but the latter refuses to take +him for less than twenty-five louis d'or. Now I request you, my dear +friend, to speak to Herr v. Neumann to arrange, if possible, that the +courier should either take Stoll _gratis_, or for a small sum. I am +persuaded that if there is nothing particular against it, you will be glad +to interest yourself in poor Stoll. I return to the country to-day, but +hope soon to be so fortunate as to enjoy an hour of your society. In the +mean time I send you my best wishes, and beg you will believe in the +sincere esteem of + +Your obedient + +LUDWIG v. BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Reichardt states that Stoll was in Vienna in the spring of +1809, which fixes the date of this letter. Napoleon bestowed a pension on +the young poet (who appears to have gone to Paris), mistaking him for his +father, the celebrated physician.] + + +61. + +TO BARONESS VON DROSSDICK. + +MY ESTEEMED THÉRÈSE,-- + +You will receive with this what I promised. Had not many serious obstacles +intervened, I would have sent you more, in order to show you that where my +friends are concerned _I always perform more than I promise_. I hope, and +do not doubt, that you are agreeably occupied and enjoying society, but not +too much, I trust, to prevent your thinking of us. It would show too much +confidence in you, or too high an estimation of my own merits, were I to +attribute the sentiment to you, "That people are not together only when +present, but that the absent and the dead also live with us." Who could +ascribe such a thought to the volatile Thérèse, who takes the world so +lightly? Among your various occupations, do not forget the piano, or +rather, music in general, for which you have so fine a talent: why not then +seriously cultivate it? You, who have so much feeling for the good and the +beautiful, should strive to recognize the perfections of so charming an +art, which in return always casts so bright a reflection on us. + +I live in entire quiet and solitude, and even though occasional flashes of +light arouse me, still since you all left this I feel a hopeless void which +even my art, usually so faithful to me, has not yet triumphed over. Your +pianoforte is ordered, and you shall soon have it. What a difference you +must have discovered between the treatment of the theme I extemporized on +the other evening and the mode in which I have recently written it out for +you? You must explain this yourself, only do not find the solution in the +punch! How happy you are to get away so soon to the country! I cannot enjoy +this luxury till the 8th. I look forward to it with the delight of a child. +What happiness I shall feel in wandering among groves and woods, and among +trees, and plants, and rocks! No man on earth can love the country as I do! +Thickets, trees, and rocks supply the echo man longs for! + +You shall soon receive some more of my compositions, which will not cause +you to complain so much of difficulties. Have you read Goethe's "Wilhelm +Meister," and Schlegel's "Translations of Shakspeare"? People have so much +leisure in the country, that perhaps you would like me to send you these +works? It happens that I have an acquaintance in your neighborhood; so +perhaps you may see me some morning early for half an hour, after which I +must be off again. You will also observe that I intend to bore you for as +short a time as possible.[1] + +Commend me to the regard of your father and mother, though I have as yet no +right to claim it. Remember me also to your cousin M. [Mathilde]. Farewell, +my esteemed Thérèse; I wish you all the good and charm that life can offer. +Think of me kindly, and forget my follies. Rest assured that no one would +more rejoice to hear of your happiness, even were you to feel no interest +in your devoted servant and friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +N.B. It would be very amiable in you to write me a few lines, to say if I +can be of any use to you here. + +[Footnote 1: Herr v. Malfatti Rohrenbach, nephew of the renowned physician +who was so prominent in Beethoven's last illness, lately related to me in +Vienna as follows:--Beethoven went to pay a visit to young Frau Thérèse, +Baroness Drossdick, at Mödling, but not finding her at home, he tore a +sheet of music-paper out of a book, and wrote some music to a verse of +Matthisson's, and on the other side, inscribed, in large letters, "To my +dear Thérèse." The "Mathilde" mentioned farther on was, according to +Bärmann, a Baroness Gleichenstein. [See No. 45.]] + + +62. + +À MDLLE. MDLLE. DE GERARDI.[1] + +DEAR MDLLE. G.,-- + +I cannot with truth deny that the verses you sent have considerably +embarrassed me. It causes a strange sensation to see and hear yourself +praised, and yet to be conscious of your own defects, as I am. I consider +such occurrences as mere incitements to strive to draw nearer the +unattainable goal set before us by Art and Nature, difficult as it may be. +These verses are truly beautiful, with the exception of one fault that we +often find in poets, which is, their being misled by Fancy to believe that +they really do see and hear _what they wish to see and hear_, and yet even +this is far below their ideal. You may well believe that I wish to become +acquainted with the poet or poetess; pray receive also yourself my thanks +for the kindly feeling you show towards your sincere friend, + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Nothing has hitherto been ascertained respecting either the +date of this note, or the lady to whom it is addressed.] + + +63. + +TO ZMESKALL.[1] + +January 23, 1810. + +What are you about? My gayety yesterday, though only assumed, has not only +vexed but offended you. The _uninvited guests_ seemed so little to deserve +your ill-humor, that I endeavored to use all my friendly influence to +prevent your giving way to it, by my pretended flow of spirits. I am still +suffering from indigestion. Say whether you can meet me at the "Swan" +to-day. + +Your true friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: The cause that gave rise to this note is not known.] + + +64. + +TO WEGELER. + +Vienna, May 2, 1810. + +MY DEAR OLD FRIEND,-- + +These lines may very possibly cause you some surprise, and yet, though you +have no written proof of it, I always retain the most lively remembrance of +you. Among my MSS. is one that has long been destined for you, and which +you shall certainly receive this summer. For the last two years my secluded +and quiet life has been at an end, and I have been forcibly drawn into the +vortex of the world; though as yet I have attained no good result from +this,--nay, perhaps rather the reverse,--but who has not been affected by +the storms around us? Still I should not only be happy, but the happiest of +men, if a demon had not taken up his settled abode in my ears. Had I not +somewhere read that man must not voluntarily put an end to his life while +he can still perform even one good deed, I should long since have been no +more, and by my own hand too! Ah! how fair is life; but for me it is +forever poisoned! + +You will not refuse me one friendly service, which is to procure me my +baptismal certificate. As Steffen Breuning has an account with you, he can +pay any expenses you may incur, and I will repay him here. If you think it +worth while to make the inquiry in person, and choose to make a journey +from Coblenz to Bonn, you have only to charge it all to me. I must, +however, warn you that I had an _elder brother_ whose name was also Ludwig, +with the second name of _Maria_, who died. In order to know my precise age, +the date of my birth must be first ascertained, this circumstance having +already led others into error, and caused me to be thought older than I +really am. Unluckily, I lived for some time without myself knowing my age +[see Nos. 26 and 51]. I had a book containing all family incidents, but it +has been lost, Heaven knows how! So pardon my urgently requesting you to +try to discover _Ludwig Maria's_ birth, as well as that of the present +Ludwig. The sooner you can send me the certificate of baptism the more +obliged shall I be.[1] I am told that you sing one of my songs in your +Freemason Lodge, probably the one in E major, which I have not myself got; +send it to me, and I promise to compensate you threefold and fourfold.[2] +Think of me with kindness, little as I apparently deserve it. Embrace your +dear wife and children, and all whom you love, in the name of your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Wegeler says:--"I discovered the solution of the enigma (why +the baptismal certificate was so eagerly sought) from a letter written to +me three months afterwards by my brother-in-law, Stephan von Breuning, in +which he said: 'Beethoven tells me at least once a week that he means to +write to you; but I believe his _intended marriage is broken off_; he +therefore feels no ardent inclination to thank you for having procured his +baptismal certificate.'"] + +[Footnote 2: Beethoven was mistaken; Wegeler had only supplied other music +to the words of Matthisson's _Opfer Lied_.] + + +65. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +July 9, 1810. + +DEAR Z.,-- + +You are about to travel, and so am I on account of my health. In the mean +time all goes topsy-turvy with me. The _Herr_[1] wants to have me with him, +and Art is not less urgent in her claims. I am partly in Schönbrunn and +partly here; every day assailed by messages from strangers and new +acquaintances, and even as regards art I am often driven nearly distracted +by my undeserved fame. Fortune seeks me, and for that very reason I almost +dread some new calamity. As for your "Iphigénie," the facts are these. I +have not seen it for the last two years and a half, and have no doubt lent +it to some one; but to whom?--that is the question. I have sent in all +directions, and have not yet discovered it, but hope still to find it. If +lost, you shall be indemnified. Farewell, my dear Z. I trust that when we +meet again you will find that my art has made some progress in the interim. + +Ever remain my friend, as much as I am yours, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: The "Herr" is his pupil, the Archduke Rudolph.] + + +66. + +TO BETTINA BRENTANO.[1] + +Vienna, August 11, 1810. + +MY DEAREST FRIEND,-- + +Never was there a lovelier spring than this year; I say so, and feel it +too, because it was then I first knew you. You have yourself seen that in +society I am like a fish on the sand, which writhes and writhes, but cannot +get away till some benevolent Galatea casts it back into the mighty ocean. +I was indeed fairly stranded, dearest friend, when surprised by you at a +moment in which moroseness had entirely mastered me; but how quickly it +vanished at your aspect! I was at once conscious that you came from another +sphere than this absurd world, where, with the best inclinations, I cannot +open my ears. I am a wretched creature, and yet I complain of others!! You +will forgive this from the goodness of heart that beams in your eyes, and +the good sense manifested by your ears; at least they understand how to +flatter, by the mode in which they listen. My ears are, alas! a +partition-wall, through which I can with difficulty hold any intercourse +with my fellow-creatures. Otherwise, perhaps, I might have felt more +assured with you; but I was only conscious of the full, intelligent glance +from your eyes, which affected me so deeply that never can I forget it. My +dear friend! dearest girl!--Art! who comprehends it? with whom can I +discuss this mighty goddess? How precious to me were the few days when we +talked together, or, I should rather say, corresponded! I have carefully +preserved the little notes with your clever, charming, most charming +answers; so I have to thank my defective hearing for the greater part of +our fugitive intercourse being written down. Since you left this I have had +some unhappy hours,--hours of the deepest gloom, when I could do nothing. +I wandered for three hours in the Schönbrunn Allée after you left us, but +no _angel_ met me there to take possession of me as you did. Pray forgive, +my dear friend, this deviation from the original key, but I must have such +intervals as a relief to my heart. You have no doubt written to Goethe +about me? I would gladly bury my head in a sack, so that I might neither +see nor hear what goes on in the world, because I shall meet you there no +more; but I shall get a letter from you? Hope sustains me, as it does half +the world; through life she has been my close companion, or what would have +become of me? I send you "Kennst Du das Land," written with my own hand, as +a remembrance of the hour when I first knew you; I send you also another +that I composed since I bade you farewell, my dearest, fairest sweetheart! + + Herz, mein Herz, was soll das geben, + Was bedränget dich so sehr; + Welch ein neues fremdes Leben, + Ich erkenne dich nicht mehr. + +Now answer me, my dearest friend, and say what is to become of me since my +heart has turned such a rebel. Write to your most faithful friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: The celebrated letters to Bettina are given here exactly as +published in her book, _Ilius Pamphilius und die Ambrosia_ (Berlin, Arnim, +1857) in two volumes. I never myself had any doubts of their being genuine +(with the exception of perhaps some words in the middle of the third +letter), nor can any one now distrust them, especially after the +publication of _Beethoven's Letters_. But for the sake of those for whom +the weight of innate conviction is not sufficient proof, I may here mention +that in December, 1864, Professor Moritz Carrière, in Munich, when +conversing with me about _Beethoven's Letters_, expressly assured me that +these three letters were genuine, and that he had seen them in Berlin at +Bettina v. Arnim's in 1839, and read them most attentively and with the +deepest interest. From their important contents, he urged their immediate +publication; and when this shortly after ensued, no change whatever struck +him as having been made in the original text; on the contrary, he still +perfectly remembered that the much-disputed phraseology (and especially the +incident with Goethe) was precisely the same as in the originals. This +testimony seems to me the more weighty, as M. Carrière must not in such +matters be looked on as a novice, but as a competent judge, who has +carefully studied all that concerns our literary heroes, and who would not +permit anything to be falsely imputed to Beethoven any more than to Goethe. +Beethoven's biography is, however, the proper place to discuss more closely +such things, especially his character and his conduct in this particular +case. At present we only refer in general terms to the first chapter of +_Beethoven's Jugend_, which gives all the facts connected with these +letters to Bettina and the following ones--a characteristic likeness of +Beethoven thus impressed itself on the mind of the biographer, and was +reproduced in a few bold outlines in his _Biography_. These letters could +not, however, possibly be given _in extenso_ in a general introduction to a +comprehensive biography.] + + +67. + +TO BETTINA BRENTANO. + +Vienna, Feb. 10, 1811. + +DEAR AND BELOVED FRIEND,-- + +I have now received two letters from you, while those to Tonie show that +you still remember me, and even too kindly. I carried your letter about +with me the whole summer, and it often made me feel very happy; though I do +not frequently write to you, and you never see me, still I write you +letters by thousands in my thoughts. I can easily imagine what you feel at +Berlin in witnessing all the noxious frivolity of the world's rabble,[1] +even had you not written it to me yourself. Such prating about art, and yet +no results!!! The best description of this is to be found in Schiller's +poem "Die Flüsse," where the river Spree is supposed to speak. You are +going to be married, my dear friend, or are already so, and I have had no +chance of seeing you even once previously. May all the felicity that +marriage ever bestowed on husband and wife attend you both! What can I say +to you of myself? I can only exclaim with Johanna, "Compassionate my fate!" +If I am spared for some years to come, I will thank the Omniscient, the +Omnipotent, for the boon, as I do for all other weal and woe. If you +mention me when you write to Goethe, strive to find words expressive of my +deep reverence and admiration. I am about to write to him myself with +regard to "Egmont," for which I have written some music solely from my love +for his poetry, which always delights me. Who can be sufficiently grateful +to a great poet,--the most precious jewel of a nation! Now no more, my dear +sweet friend! I only came home this morning at four o'clock from an orgy, +where I laughed heartily, but to-day I feel as if I could weep as sadly; +turbulent pleasures always violently recoil on my spirits. As for Clemens +[Brentano, her brother], pray thank him for his complaisance; with regard +to the Cantata, the subject is not important enough for us here--it is very +different in Berlin; and as for my affection, the sister engrosses so large +a share, that little remains for the brother. Will he be content with this? + +Now farewell, my dear, dear friend; I imprint a sorrowful kiss on your +forehead, thus impressing my thoughts on it as with a seal. Write soon, +very soon, to your brother, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: An expression which, as well as many others, he no doubt +borrowed from Bettina, and introduced to please her.] + + +68. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +1811. + +I am disposed to engage a man who has just offered me his services,--a +music-copyist. His parents live in Vienna, which might be convenient in +many respects, but I first wish to speak to you about the terms; and as you +are disengaged to-morrow, which I, _alas_! am every day, I beg you will +take coffee with me in the afternoon, when we can discuss the matter, and +then proceed from _words to deeds_. We have also the honor to inform you +that we intend shortly to confer on you some of the decorations of the +Order of our Household,--the first class for yourself, the others for any +one you choose, except a priest. We shall expect your answer early +to-morrow. We now present you with some blotches of ink. Your + +BEETHOVEN. + + +69. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +1811. + +MOST HIGH-BORN OF MEN!-- + +We beg you to confer some goose-quills on us; we will in return send you a +whole bunch of the same sort, that you may not be obliged to pluck out your +own. It is just possible that you may yet receive the Grand Cross of the +Order of the Violoncello. We remain your gracious and most friendly of all +friends, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +70. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.[1] + +The Spring of 1811. + +YOUR ROYAL HIGHNESS,-- + +As in spite of every effort I can find no copyist to write in my house, I +send you my own manuscript; all you have to do is to desire Schlemmer to +get you an efficient copyist, who must, however, write out the Trio in your +palace, otherwise there would be no security against piracy. I am better, +and hope to have the honor of waiting on you in the course of a few days, +when we must strive to make up for lost time. I always feel anxious and +uneasy when I do not attend your Royal Highness as often or as assiduously +as I wish. It is certainly the truth when I say that the loss is mine, but +I trust I shall not soon again be so unwell. Be graciously pleased to +remember me; the time may yet come when I shall be able to show you doubly +and trebly that I deserve this more than ever. + +I am your Royal Highness's devoted servant, + +LUDWIG V. BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Schlemmer was for many years Beethoven's copyist.] + + +71. + +MY DEAR FRIEND,--[1] + +I have taken this trouble only that I might figure correctly, and thus be +able sometimes to lead others. As for mistakes, I scarcely ever required to +have them pointed out to me, having had from my childhood such a quick +perception, that I exercised it unconscious that it ought to be so, or in +fact could be otherwise. + +[Footnote 1: Written on a sheet of music-paper (oblong folio) numbered 22, +and evidently torn out of a large book. On the other side (21) is written, +in Beethoven's hand, instructions on the use of the fourth in retardations, +with five musical examples. The leaf is no doubt torn from one of the books +that Beethoven had compiled from various text-books, for the instruction of +the Archduke Rudolph. I have therefore placed Beethoven's remark here.] + + +72. + +TO THE DRAMATIC POET TREITSCHKE. + +June 6, 1811. + +DEAR TREITSCHKE,-- + +Have you read the book, and may I venture to hope that you will be +persuaded to undertake it? Be so good as to give me an answer, as I am +prevented going to you myself. If you have already read it, then send it +back to me, that I may also look over it again before you begin to work at +it. Above all, if it be your good pleasure that I should soar to the skies +on the wings of your poetry, I entreat you to effect this as soon as +possible. + +Your obedient servant, + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + + +73. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +Sept. 10, 1811. + +DEAR ZMESKALL,-- + +Let the rehearsal stand over for the present. I must see my doctor again +to-day, of whose bungling I begin to tire. Thanks for your metronome; let +us try whether we can measure Time into Eternity with it, for it is so +_simple_ and _easily managed_ that there seems to be no impediment to this! +In the mean time we will have a conference on the subject. The mathematical +precision of clockwork is of course greater; yet formerly, in watching the +little experiments you made in my presence, I thought there was something +worthy of notice in your metronome, and I hope we shall soon succeed in +_setting it thoroughly right_. Ere long I hope to see you. + +Your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +74. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +Oct. 26, 1811. + +I shall be at the "Swan" to-day, and hope to meet you there _to a +certainty_, but don't come too late. My foot is better; the author of so +many poetical _feet_ promises the _head_ author a sound foot within a +week's time. + + +75. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +Nov. 20, 1811. + +We are deucedly obliged to you. We beg you to be careful not to lose your +well-earned fame. You are exhorted to pursue the same course, and we remain +once more your deucedly attached + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +76. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +Jan. 19, 1812. + +I shall be at the "Swan" to-day, dear Z. I have, alas! _too much_ leisure, +and you _none_! Your + +BEETHOVEN. + + +77. + +TO ZMESKALL.[1] + +1812. + +CONFOUNDED LITTLE QUONDAM MUSICAL COUNT! + +What the deuce has become of you? Are you to be at the "Swan" to-day? No? +... Yes! See from this enclosure what I have done for Hungary. When a +German undertakes a thing, even without pledging his word, he acts very +differently from one of those Hungarian Counts, such as B. [Brunswick], who +allowed me to travel by myself--from what paltry, miserable motive who can +tell?--and kept me waiting, though he did not wait for me! + +My excellent little quondam musical Count, + +I am now, as ever, your attached + +BEETHÖVERL. + +Return the enclosure, for we wish to bring it, and something else, pretty +forcibly under the notice of the Count. + +[Footnote 1: The date of this and the following note is decided by the +allusion to his compositions written for Hungary (Pesth). See the +subsequent letter to Varenna.] + + +78. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +You are summoned to appear to-day at the "Swan;" Brunswick also comes. If +you do not appear, you are henceforth excluded from all that concerns us. +Excuses _per excellentiam_ cannot be accepted. Obedience is enjoined, +knowing that we are acting for your benefit, and that our motive is to +guard you against temptations and faithlessness _per excellentiam--dixi_. + +BEETHOVEN. + + +79. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +DEAR ZMESKALL,-- + +The well-known watchmaker who lives close to the Freiung is to call on you. +I want a first-rate repeater, for which he asks forty ducats. As you like +that kind of thing, I beg you will exert yourself on my behalf, and select +a really good watch for me. + +With the most enthusiastic admiration for a man like yourself, who is soon +to give me an opportunity of displaying in his favor my particular +knowledge of horn-playing, I am your + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +80. + +TO KAMMERPROCURATOR VARENNA,--GRATZ.[1] + +1812. + +If the wish to benefit the poor were not so evident in your letter, I +should have felt not a little offended by your accompanying your request to +me by the offer of payment. From my childhood, whenever my art could be +serviceable to poor suffering humanity, I have never allowed any other +motive to influence me, and never required anything beyond the heartfelt +gratification that it always caused me. With this you will receive an +Oratorio--(A), the performance of which occupies half an evening, also an +Overture and a Fantasia with Chorus--(B). If in your benevolent institution +you possess a _dépôt_ for such things, I beg you will deposit these three +works there, as a mark of my sympathy for the destitute; to be considered +as their property, and to be given at any concerts intended for their sole +benefit. In addition to these, you will receive an Introduction to the +"Ruins of Athens," the score of which shall be written out for you as soon +as possible. Likewise a Grand Overture to "Ungarn's erste Wohlthäter" +[Hungary's First Benefactors]. + +Both form part of two works that I wrote for the Hungarians at the opening +of their new theatre [in Pesth]. Pray give me, however, your written +assurance that these works shall not be performed elsewhere, as they are +not published, nor likely to be so for some time to come. You shall receive +the latter Grand Overture as soon as it is returned to me from Hungary, +which it will be in the course of a few days. + +The engraved Fantasia with Chorus could no doubt be executed by a lady, an +amateur, mentioned to me here by Professor Schneller.[2] The words after +the Chorus No. 4, in C major, were altered by the publishers, and are now +quite contrary to the musical expression; those written in _pencil_, +therefore, on the music must be sung. If you can make use of the Oratorio, +I can send you _all the parts written out_, so that the outlay may be less +for the poor. Write to me about this. + +Your obedient + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: The correspondence with Varenna, consisting of fourteen +letters and four notes, was purchased some years ago by a collector of +autographs in Leipzig, and sold again by public auction, probably to +different persons. It would be like pursuing leaves scattered by the wind +to try to recover these letters. Those here given have for the most part +appeared in newspapers; I cannot, therefore, be responsible for the text, +farther than their publication goes, which, however, has evidently been +conducted by a clever hand. The date of the first letter is to be gleaned +from the second, and we also learn from them that _The Ruins of Athens_ and +_King Stephen_ (or at all events the Overture) were already finished in +January, 1812.] + +[Footnote 2: This _dilettante_ was Mdlle. Marie Koschak, subsequently the +wife of Dr. Pachler, an advocate in Gratz, from whom two letters are given +by Schindler of the dates of August 15th, 1825, and November 5th, 1826, in +which she invites Beethoven to visit her in Gratz. Schindler considers as +applicable to this lady the words of a note in Beethoven's writing of which +he has given a fac-simile in his _Biography_, I. 95; the date 1817 or 1818. +They are as follows:--"Love alone, yes! love alone can make your life +happier. O God! grant that I may at last find her who can strengthen me in +virtue, whom I can legitimately call my own. On July 27th, when she drove +past me in Baden, she seemed to gaze at me." This lady also plays a +friendly part in Franz Schubert's _Life_. See her _Biography_ by Dr. +Kreissle.] + + +81. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +Feb. 2, 1812. + +By no means _extraordinary_, but _very ordinary_ mender of pens! whose +talent has failed on this occasion (for those I send require to be fresh +mended), when do you intend at last to cast off your fetters?--when? You +never for a moment think of me; accursed to me is life amid this Austrian +barbarism. I shall go now chiefly to the "Swan," as in other taverns I +cannot defend myself against intrusion. Farewell! that is, _fare as well_ +as I wish you to do without + +Your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +Most wonderful of men! We beg that your servant will engage a person to fit +up my apartment; as he is acquainted with the lodgings, he can fix the +proper price at once. Do this soon, you Carnival scamp!!!!!!! + +The enclosed note is at least a week old. + + +82. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +Feb. 8, 1812. + +Most extraordinary and first and foremost man of the pendulum in the world, +and without a lever too!!! + +I am much indebted to you for having imparted to me some share of your +motive power. I wish to express my gratitude in person, and therefore +invite you this morning to come to the "Swan,"--a tavern, the name of which +itself shows that it is a fitting place when such a subject is in question, + +Yours ever, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +83. + +TO VARENNA,--GRATZ. + +Vienna, Feb. 8, 1812. + +Herr Rettich has already got the parts of the Oratorio, and when you no +longer require them I beg you will send them back to me. It is not probable +that anything is wanting, but even in that case, as you have the score, you +can easily remedy this. I only yesterday received the Overtures from +Hungary, and shall have them copied and forwarded to you as soon as +possible. I likewise send a March with a vocal Chorus, also from the "Ruins +of Athens." Altogether you will now have sufficient to fill up the time. + +As these pieces are only in manuscript, I shall let you know at the time I +send them what precautions I wish you to take with regard to the Overtures +and the March with Chorus. + +As I do not publish any new work until a year after its composition, and, +when I do so, am obliged invariably to give a written assurance to the +publisher that no one is in possession of it, you can yourself perceive +that I must carefully guard against any possible contingency or casualty as +to these pieces. I must, however, assure you that I shall always be +disposed to show the warmest zeal in aid of your charity, and I here pledge +myself to send you every year works that exist solely in manuscript, or +compositions written expressly for this charitable purpose. I beg you will +also let me know what your future plans are with regard to your +institution, that I may act accordingly. + +Farewell! I remain, with the highest consideration, + +Your obedient + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +84. + +TO ZMESKALL.[1] + +Feb. 19, 1812. + +DEAR Z.,-- + +I only yesterday received the written information that the Archduke pays +his share in the new paper-money of the full value [_Einlösungsschein_]. I +beg you will write out for me, as nearly as you can, the substance of what +you said on Sunday, and which we thought it advisable to send to the other +two. I am offered a certificate that the Archduke is to pay in +_Einlösungsschein_, but I think this unnecessary, more especially as the +people about Court, in spite of all their apparent friendship for me, +declare that my demands are _not just_!!!! O Heaven! aid me in enduring +this! I am no Hercules, to help Atlas in carrying the world, or to strive +to do so in his place. It was only yesterday that I heard the particulars +of the handsome manner in which Baron von Kraft had judged and spoken of me +to Zisius! But never mind, dear Z.! My endurance of these shameful attacks +cannot continue much longer; persecuted art will everywhere find an +asylum--Daedalus, though imprisoned in a labyrinth, found wings to carry +him aloft. Oh! I too shall find wings! + +Yours ever, + +BEETHOVEN. + +If you have time, send me this morning the draft of the memorial;--probably +for nothing, and to receive nothing! so much time is already lost, and only +to be kept in suspense by civil words! + +[Footnote 1: The Finance Patent appeared in Austria in 1811, by which the +value of money was depreciated by a fifth. This also affected the salary +that Beethoven drew from the Archduke Rudolph, Prince Kinsky, and Prince +Lobkowitz. The first of these gentlemen paid his full share in +_Einlösungsschein_. Lobkowitz, at the request of Beethoven, soon after did +the same; with Kinsky's share alone difficulties arose subsequently, owing +to his death.] + + +85. + +TO VARENNA. + +Lent, 1812. + +In spite of my anxiety to serve the cause of your charity, I have been +quite unable to do so. I have no copyist of my own to write for me as +formerly, and the limited time renders it impossible for me to do so +myself; thus I am obliged to have recourse to strangers as copyists. One of +these promised to write out the Overtures, &c., &c., for you; but Passion +Week intervening, when there are so many concerts, prevented his being able +to keep his word, in spite of every effort on my part. Even if the +Overtures and the March with Chorus were transcribed, it would not be +possible to send them by this post, and if we wait for the next, the music +will arrive too late for Easter Sunday. Let me know if there are any means +you could adopt to gain a little more time, or any chance opportunity of +sending these works to you, and I will do all that lies in my power to aid +the cause of your charity. + +I am, with esteem, yours obediently, + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +86. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.[1] + +1812. + +YOUR IMPERIAL HIGHNESS,-- + +I was much vexed not to receive Y.I.H.'s message to come to you till very +late yesterday evening--indeed nearly at eleven o'clock. Contrary to my +usual custom, I did not go home at all during the afternoon, the fine +weather having tempted me to spend the whole afternoon in walking, and the +evening at the Banda, "auf der Wieden," and thus I was not aware of your +wish till I returned home. In the mean time, whenever Y.I.H. desires it, I +am ready at any hour or moment to place myself at your disposal. I +therefore await your gracious commands. + +I am your Imperial Highness's most obedient + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: The date 1812 is marked on the sheet by another hand, and the +close of the second note proves that it was at the commencement of this +year.] + + +87. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1812. + +YOUR IMPERIAL HIGHNESS,-- + +I was unable till to-day, when I leave my bed for the first time, to answer +your gracious letter. It will be impossible for me to wait on you +to-morrow, but perhaps the day after. I have suffered much during the last +few days, and I may say two-fold from not being in a condition to devote a +great part of my time to you, according to my heartfelt wish. I hope now, +however, to have cleared off all scores for spring and summer (I mean as to +health). + +I am your Imperial Highness's most obedient servant, + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +88. + +TO VARENNA,--GRATZ. + +Vienna, May 8, 1812. + +SIR,-- + +Being still far from well, and much occupied, I have been unable to reply +to your letters. How in the world did such an unfounded idea ever occur to +you as that I was displeased? It would certainly have been better had you +returned the music as soon as it had been performed; for at that period I +could have produced it here, whereas now, unluckily, it comes too late; but +I only say _unluckily_ because it prevents my being able to spare the +worthy ladies the expenses of copying. At any other time I would on no +account have allowed them to pay for writing out the works, but it so +happens that at this moment I am visited with every kind of _contretemps_, +so I cannot avoid doing so. Possibly Herr O., although with the best +intentions, has delayed informing you of this, which obliged me to apply to +him for repayment of the expenses of copying; perhaps, too, in my haste, I +did not express myself distinctly. You can now, esteemed sir, have the +Overture and the Chorus again if you require them. + +I feel convinced that in any event you will prevent my confidence being +abused; in the mean time you may keep the Overture on the conditions I have +stated. If I find that I am able to pay for the copying, I will redeem it +for my own use. + +The score of the Oratorio is a gift, and also the Overture to "Egmont." +Keep the parts of the Oratorio beside you till you can have it performed. + +Select whatever you choose for the concert which I hear you now intend to +give, and if you decide on the Chorus and the Overture, they shall be +forwarded to you at once. For the future concert, for the benefit of the +venerable Ursulines, I promise you an entirely new symphony at all events, +and perhaps also a work of some importance for voices, and as I have now a +favorable opportunity, the copying shall not cost you a farthing. My joy +would be beyond all bounds if the concert were to be successful, and I +could spare you all expense;--at all events, take my good-will for granted. + +Remember me to the admirable teachers of the children, and say to them that +I shed tears of joy at the happy result of my poor good-will, and that so +far as my humble capabilities can serve them, they shall always find in me +the warmest sympathy. + +My cordial thanks for your invitation; I would fain become acquainted with +the interesting scenery of Styria, and possibly I may one day enjoy that +pleasure. Farewell! I heartily rejoice in having found in you a friend to +the poor and needy, and am always yours to command. + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN, M.P. + + +89. + +TO JOSEPH FREIHERR VON SCHWEIGER, CHAMBERLAIN OF THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.[1] + +1812. + +The most insignificant of mortals has just been to wait on his gracious +master, when he found everything closed; so he came here, where indeed all +was _open_, but no one to be found except the trusty servant. I had a heavy +packet of music with me, in order to ensure a good musical evening before +we parted; but in vain. Malfatti[2] is resolved that I shall go to Töplitz, +which is anything but agreeable to me. As, however, I must obey, I hope at +least that my gracious master will not enjoy himself quite so much without +me. _O vanitas!_ for it is nothing else. Before I set off for Töplitz I +will either go to Baden to see you or write. Farewell! Pray present my +homage to my gracious master, and continue your regard for + +Your friend, + +[K.] BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: The journey to Töplitz took place in the year 1812.] + +[Footnote 2: A very celebrated physician in Vienna at that time, consulted +by Beethoven.] + + +90. + +TO VARENNA,--GRATZ. + +Töplitz, July 19, 1812. + +My thanks have been too long delayed for all the dainties which the worthy +ladies sent for my enjoyment; being constantly ill in Vienna, I was at last +forced to take refuge here. + +However, better late than never; so I beg you will say all sorts of kind +things in my name to the admirable Ursuline ladies, though I did not +deserve so much gratitude; indeed it is rather for me to thank Him who +enables me to render my art occasionally useful to others. When you next +wish to make use of my poor abilities for the benefit of the venerable +ladies, you have only to write to me. + +A new symphony is now ready for you, and as the Archduke Rudolph has had it +copied out, it will cost you nothing. Perhaps I may one of these days be +able to send you something vocal. I only wish and hope that you will not +ascribe my anxiety to serve these venerable ladies to a certain degree of +vanity or desire for fame, as this would grieve me exceedingly. If these +good ladies wish to do me any service in return, I beg they will include me +with their pupils in their pious orisons. I remain, with esteem, + +Your friend, + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + +I shall remain here for some weeks; so if there is any occasion to write, +address to me here. + + +91. + +WRITTEN IN THE ALBUM OF THE SINGER, MDME. AUGUSTE SEBALD. + +Töplitz, August 8, 1812. + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN, + + Who even if you would, + Forget you never should. + + +92. + +TO H.R. HIGHNESS THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +Franzensbrunn, Aug. 12, 1812. + +It was my bounden duty long ago to have recalled myself to Y.R.H.'s +recollection, but partly my occupations and the state of my health, as well +as my own insignificance, made me reluctant to do so. I missed Y.R.H. by +one night only in Prague; for when proceeding to pay my respects to you in +the morning, I found you had set off the very night before. In Töplitz I +heard a military band four times a day,--the only musical report which I +can give you. I was a great deal with Goethe.[1] My physician Staudenheim, +however, ordered me off to Carlsbad,[2] and from thence here, and probably +I shall have to go back to Töplitz from this. What flights! And yet it +seems very doubtful whether any improvement in my condition has hitherto +taken place. I receive the best accounts of Y.R.H.'s health, and also of +the persistent devotion you exhibit towards the musical Muse. Y.R.H. has no +doubt heard of a concert that I gave for the benefit of the sufferers by +fire in the Stadt Baden,[3] assisted by Herr Polledro.[4] The receipts were +nearly 1000 florins W.W., and if I had not been restricted in my +arrangements we might easily have taken 2000 florins. It was literally a +_poor concert for the poor_. I could only find at the publisher's here some +of my earlier sonatas with violin accompaniments, and as Polledro had set +his heart on these, I was obliged to content myself with playing an old +Sonata.[5] The entire concert consisted of a trio, in which Polledro +played, my Sonata with violin, then again something was played by Polledro, +and, lastly, I extemporized. Meanwhile I do sincerely rejoice that by this +means something has fallen to the share of the poor _Badeners_. Pray deign +to accept my best wishes for your welfare, and my entreaty that you will +sometimes think of me. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: Beethoven speaks very briefly of his meeting with Goethe. +Goethe in his _Tag- und Jahrschriften_ of 1812 makes no allusion to +Beethoven during his stay at Töplitz. It does not, therefore, appear that +either of these master-minds found any particular pleasure in each other +when they met personally. Beethoven, indeed, dedicated to "the immortal +Goethe" (1812) his composition the _Meeresstille und glückliche Fahrt_, but +only wrote once to him in 1823 to obtain a subscription from the Grand Duke +of Weimar for his Grand Mass, and received no answer from Goethe. In the +complete edition of Goethe's works Beethoven's name is only once mentioned +by Goethe, when he refers to his funeral obsequies.] + +[Footnote 2: Dr. Staudenheim was, like Malfatti, one of the most celebrated +physicians in Vienna. Beethoven, too, was well acquainted with Staudenheim, +but in his regimen he neither followed the prescriptions of Staudenheim nor +of Malfatti.] + +[Footnote 3: The Stadt Baden, near Vienna, had been visited on July 16th by +a most destructive conflagration.] + +[Footnote 4: Giov. Batt. Polledro, Kapellmeister in Turin, born 1776, +travelled through Germany as a violinist from 1809 to 1812. He gave a +concert in Vienna in March, 1812.] + +[Footnote 5: The violin Sonata with pianoforte was probably Op. 47 +(composed in 1803 and published in 1805, according to Thayer, No. 111), or +one of his earlier compositions, Op. 30, or 24, or 23.] + + +93. + +TO BETTINA VON ARNIM. + +Töplitz, August 15, 1812. + +MY MOST DEAR KIND FRIEND,-- + +Kings and princes can indeed create professors and privy-councillors, and +confer titles and decorations, but they cannot make great men,--spirits +that soar above the base turmoil of this world. There their powers fail, +and this it is that forces them to respect us.[1] When two persons like +Goethe and myself meet, these grandees cannot fail to perceive what such as +we consider great. Yesterday, on our way home, we met the whole Imperial +family; we saw them coming some way off, when Goethe withdrew his arm from +mine, in order to stand aside; and, say what I would, I could not prevail +on him to make another step in advance. I pressed down my hat more firmly +on my head, buttoned up my great-coat, and, crossing my arms behind me, I +made my way through the thickest portion of the crowd. Princes and +courtiers formed a lane for me; Archduke Rudolph took off his hat, and the +Empress bowed to me first. These great ones of the earth _know me_. To my +infinite amusement, I saw the procession defile past Goethe, who stood +aside with his hat off, bowing profoundly. I afterwards took him sharply to +task for this; I gave him no quarter, and upbraided him with all his sins, +especially towards you, my dear friend, as we had just been speaking of +you. Heavens! if I could have lived with you as _he_ did, believe me I +should have produced far greater things. A musician is also a poet, he too +can feel himself transported into a brighter world by a pair of fine eyes, +where loftier spirits sport with him and impose heavy tasks on him. What +thoughts rushed into my mind when I first saw you in the Observatory during +a refreshing May shower, so fertilizing to me also![2] The most beautiful +themes stole from your eyes into my heart, which shall yet enchant the +world when Beethoven no longer _directs_. If God vouchsafes to grant me a +few more years of life, I must then see you once more, my dear, most dear +friend, for the voice within, to which I always listen, demands this. +Spirits may love one another, and I shall ever woo yours. Your approval is +dearer to me than all else in the world. I told Goethe my sentiments as to +the influence praise has over men like us, and that we desire our equals to +listen to us with their understanding. Emotion suits women only; (forgive +me!) music ought to strike fire from the soul of a man. Ah! my dear girl, +how long have our feelings been identical on all points!!! The sole real +good is some bright kindly spirit to sympathize with us, whom we thoroughly +comprehend, and from whom we need not hide our thoughts. _He who wishes to +appear something, must in reality be something._ The world must acknowledge +us, it is not always unjust; but for this I care not, having a higher +purpose in view. I hope to get a letter from you in Vienna; write to me +soon and fully, for a week hence I shall be there. The Court leaves this +to-morrow, and to-day they have another performance. The Empress has +studied her part thoroughly. The Emperor and the Duke wished me to play +some of my own music, but I refused, for they are both infatuated with +_Chinese porcelain_. A little indulgence is required, for reason seems to +have lost its empire; but I do not choose to minister to such perverse +folly--I will not be a party to such absurd doings to please those princes +who are constantly guilty of eccentricities of this sort. Adieu! adieu! +dear one; your letter lay all night next my heart, and cheered me. +Musicians permit themselves great license. _Heavens! how I love you!_ Your +most faithful friend and deaf brother, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Fräulein Giannatasio del Rio, in the journal she sent to the +_Grenz Boten_ in 1857, states that Beethoven once declared, "It is very +pleasant to associate with the great of the earth, but one must possess +some quality which inspires them with respect."] + +[Footnote 2: According to Bettina (see _Goethe's Correspondence with a +Child_, II. 193), their first acquaintance was made in Beethoven's +apartments.] + + +94. + +TO PRINCESS KINSKY,--PRAGUE + +Vienna, Dec. 30, 1812. + +YOUR HIGHNESS,-- + +The dreadful event which deprived you of your husband, Prince von Kinsky, +snatching him from his father-land and from all those who love him,[1] as +well as from many whom he generously supported, filling every heart capable +of appreciating goodness and greatness with the deepest sorrow, affected me +also in the most profound and painful degree. The stern duty of +self-interest compels me to lay before your Highness a humble petition, the +reasonable purport of which may, I hope, plead my excuse for intruding on +your Highness at a time when so many affairs of importance claim your +attention. Permit me to state the matter to your Highness. + +Y.H. is no doubt aware that when I received a summons to Westphalia in the +year 1809, his Highness Prince von Kinsky, your late husband, together with +his I.H. Archduke Rudolph and H.H. the Prince von Lobkowitz, offered to +settle on me for life an annual income of 4000 gulden, provided I declined +the proposal in question, and determined to remain in Austria. Although +this sum was by no means in proportion to that secured to me in Westphalia, +still my predilection for Austria, as well as my sense of this most +generous proposal, induced me to accept it without hesitation. The share +contributed by H.H. Prince Kinsky consisted of 1800 florins, which I have +received by quarterly instalments since 1809 from the Prince's privy purse. +Though subsequent occurrences partially diminished this sum, I rested +satisfied, till the appearance of the Finance Patent, reducing bank-notes +into _Einlösung Schein_. I applied to H.I.H. the Archduke Rudolph to +request that the portion of the annuity contributed by H.I.H. should in +future be paid in _Einlösung Schein_. This was at once granted, and I +received a written assurance to that effect from H.I.H. Prince von +Lobkowitz agreed to the same with regard to his share,--700 florins [see +No. 84]. H.H. Prince von Kinsky being at that time in Prague, I addressed +my respectful petition to him last May, through Herr Varnhagen von Ense, an +officer in the Vogelsang Regiment, that his Highness's contribution to my +salary--1800 florins--should be paid like the rest in _Einlösung Schein_. +Herr von Varnhagen wrote as follows, and the original of the letter is +still extant:-- + +"I had yesterday the desired interview with Prince Kinsky. With the highest +praise of Beethoven, he at once acceded to his demand, and is prepared to +pay up the arrears, and also all future sums from the date of the +_Einlösung Schein_, in that currency. The cashier here has received the +necessary instructions, and Beethoven can draw for the whole sum on his way +through Prague, or, if he prefers it, in Vienna, as soon as the Prince +returns there. + +"Prague, June 9, 1812." + +When passing through Prague some weeks afterwards, I took the opportunity +of waiting on the Prince, and received from him the fullest confirmation of +this promise. H.H. likewise assured me that he entirely admitted the +propriety of my demand, and considered it quite reasonable. As I could not +remain in Prague till this affair was finally settled, H.H. was so kind as +to make me a payment of sixty ducats on account, which, according to H.H.'s +calculation, were good for 600 florins Vienna currency. The arrears were to +be paid up on my return to Vienna, and an order given to the cashier to pay +my salary in future in _Einlösung Schein_. Such was H.H.'s pleasure. My +illness increasing in Töplitz, I was obliged to remain there longer than I +originally intended. In the month of September I therefore addressed to +H.H., who was then in Vienna, through one of my friends here, Herr Oliva, a +written memorial, claiming his promise, when H.H. graciously repeated to +this friend the assurance he had already given me, adding that in the +course of a few days he would give the necessary instructions on the +subject to his cashier. + +A short time afterwards he left Vienna. When I arrived there, I inquired +from the Prince's secretary whether H.H. had given directions about my +salary before leaving Vienna, when, to my surprise, I was told that H.H. +had done nothing in the matter. + +My title to the liquidation of my claim is proved by the testimony of the +Herren von Varnhagen and Oliva, to whom H.H. spoke on the subject, +reiterating his consent. I feel convinced that the illustrious heirs and +family of this prince will in the same spirit of benevolence and generosity +strive to fulfil his intentions. I therefore confidently place in Y.H.'s +hands my respectful petition, viz., "to pay up the arrears of my salary in +_Einlösung Schein_, and to instruct your cashier to transmit me the amount +in future, in the same currency." Relying on your sense of justice +according me a favorable decision, I remain Y.H.'s + +Most obedient servant, + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Prince Josef Ferdinand Kinsky, born December, 1781, and killed +by a fall from his horse, November 3, 1812.] + + +95. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1813.[1] + +I have been far from well since last Sunday, but have suffered more in mind +than in body. I beg your forgiveness a thousand times for not having sooner +sent my apologies; each day I had the strongest inclination to wait on you, +but Heaven knows that in spite of the best will that I always entertain for +the best of masters I was unable to do so, distressing as it is to me not +to have it in my power to sacrifice all to him for whom I cherish the +highest esteem, love, and veneration. Y.R.H. would perhaps act wisely in +making a pause at present with the Lobkowitz concerts; even the most +brilliant talent may lose its effect by too great familiarity. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: Prince Franz Josef Lobkowitz died December 25th, 1816. His +musical meetings were certainly continued till 1813, or longer.] + + +96. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1813.[1] + +At early dawn to-morrow the copyist shall begin the last movement. As I am +in the mean time writing several other works, I did not hurry myself much +with this last movement merely for the sake of punctuality, especially as I +must write this more deliberately, with a view to Rode's[2] playing; we +like quick, full-toned passages in our _Finales_, which do not suit R., and +this rather cramps me. At all events, all is sure to go well next Tuesday. +I very much doubt whether I shall be able to present myself at Y.R.H.'s on +that evening, in spite of my zeal in your service; but to make up for this, +I mean to come to you to-morrow forenoon and to-morrow afternoon, that I +may entirely fulfil the wishes of my illustrious pupil. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: 1813. January-February.] + +[Footnote 2: Pierre Rode, the violinist, arrived in Vienna in January, +1813, and gave a concert in the Redoutensaal on February 6th, but did not +give universal satisfaction (_A.M.Z._, 1813, p. 114), and a second concert +that he had projected does not appear to have taken place. He played in +Gratz on February 20th and 27th. It seems that Rode was to play with +Beethoven at the Archduke Rudolph's, for which occasion Beethoven prepared +a composition for them both. Was this the Sonata for pianoforte and violin, +Op. 36, which he afterwards dedicated to the Archduke? Thayer states that +it was written by Beethoven in 1810, and sold to the music-publisher +Steiner in Vienna in April, 1815. No other composition for the violin and +pianoforte is so likely to be the one as this. It is, however, a mistake in +the _Bibliothèque Universelle_, tome xxxvi. p. 210, to state that Beethoven +during Rode's stay in Vienna composed the "délicieuse Romance" which was +played with so much expression by De Baillot on the violin. There are only +two Romances known for the violin by Beethoven, the one in G major, Op. 40, +in the year 1803, and the second in F major, Op. 50, published in 1805. +(Thayer, 102 and 104.)] + + +97. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1813. + +I had just gone out yesterday when your gracious letter reached me. As for +my health, it is pretty much the same, particularly as moral causes affect +it, which do not seem likely to be removed; particularly as I can have +recourse to no one but myself for aid, and can find help in my own head +alone; and more particularly still, because in these days neither words, +nor honor, nor written pledges, seem binding on any one. As for my +occupations, I have come to an end with some of them, and, even without +your gracious invitation, I intended to appear at the usual hour to-day. +With regard to Rode [see No. 96], I beg Y.R.H. to be so good as to let me +have the part by the bearer of this, and I will send it to him at once, +with a polite note from me. _He certainly will not take amiss my sending +him the part. Oh! certainly not! Would to Heaven that I were obliged to ask +his forgiveness on this account! for in that case things would really be in +a better position._ Is it your pleasure that I should come to you this +evening at five o'clock as usual, or does Y.R.H. desire another hour? I +shall endeavor to arrange accordingly, and punctually to fulfil your +wishes. + +[K.] + + +98. + +TO PRINCESS KINSKY. + +Vienna, Feb. 12, 1813. + +YOUR HIGHNESS!-- + +You were so gracious as to declare with regard to the salary settled on me +by your deceased husband, that you saw the propriety of my receiving it in +Vienna currency, but that the authority of the court of law which has +assumed the guardianship of the estate must first be obtained. Under the +conviction that the authorities who represent their princely wards could +not fail to be influenced by the same motives that actuated the late Prince +in his conduct towards me, I think I am justified in expecting the +ratification of my claim from the aforesaid court, as I can prove, by the +testimony of well-known, respectable, and upright men, the promise and +intentions of H.H. in my behalf, which cannot fail to be binding on his +heirs and children. If, therefore, the proofs submitted should even be +found deficient in legal formality, I cannot doubt that this want will be +supplied by the noble mode of thinking of this illustrious house, and by +their own inclination to generous actions. + +Possibly another question may at present arise from the condition of the +inheritance, which is no doubt heavily burdened, both owing to the +melancholy and sudden death of the late Prince, and by the state of the +times, which renders it equally just and indispensable to husband carefully +all possible resources. On this account it is far from my wish to claim +more than is absolutely necessary for my own livelihood, and grounded on +the contract itself,--the legality of such a claim on the heirs of the late +Prince not being in any way disputed. + +I beg, then, that Y.H. will be pleased to direct the arrears of my salary, +due since the 1st September, 1811, calculated in Vienna currency, in +accordance with the scale of the contract, making in W.W. 1088 florins 42 +kreuzers, to be paid, and _in the interim_, the question whether this +salary ought to be paid in Vienna currency can be deferred until the +affairs are settled, when the subject is again brought before the trustees, +and my claims admitted to be just by their consent and authority. The late +Prince having given me sixty ducats merely on account of my salary, which +was to be paid by agreement in Vienna currency, and as this agreement (as +every intelligent man will inform Y.H.) must be accepted to its full +extent, or at all events not cause me loss, it follows as a matter of +course that Y.H. will not object to my considering the sixty ducats as only +an instalment of the arrears due to me beyond the usual scale of payment, +agreed to be paid in Vienna currency, so that the amount must not be +deducted from the sum still due to me. + +I feel sure that Y.H.'s noble feelings will do justice to the equity of my +proposal, and my wish to enter into every detail of this affair, so far as +circumstances permit, and also my readiness to postpone my claims to suit +your convenience. The same elevated sentiments which prompted you to fulfil +the engagement entered into by the late Prince, will also make Y.H. +apprehend the absolute necessity entailed on me by my position again to +solicit immediate payment of the arrears of my salary, which are +indispensable for my maintenance. + +Anxiously hoping for a favorable answer to my petition, I have the honor to +remain, with profound respect, + +Y.R.H.'s obedient servant, + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +99. + +TO PRINCESS KINSKY. + +HIGHLY HONORED PRINCESS!-- + +As the Prince's counsel declared that my claim could not be heard till the +choice of a guardian had been made, and as I now hear that Y.H. has been +graciously pleased yourself to assume that office, but decline receiving +any one, I present my humble petition in writing, requesting at the same +time your early consideration; for you can easily understand that, relying +on a thing as a certainty, it is painful to be so long deprived of it, +especially as I am obliged entirely to support an unfortunate sickly +brother and his whole family,[1] which (not computing my own wants) has +entirely exhausted my resources, having expected to provide for myself by +the payment of my salary. You may perceive the justice of my claims from +the fact of my faithfully naming the receipt of the sixty ducats, advanced +to me by the late Prince in Prague, the Prince's counsel himself declaring +that I might have said nothing about this sum, the late Prince not having +mentioned it either to him or to his cashier. + +Forgive my being obliged to intrude this affair on you, but necessity +compels me to do so. Some days hence I shall take the liberty of making +inquiries on the subject from the Prince's counsel, or from any one Y.H. +may appoint. + +I remain, most esteemed and illustrious Princess, + +Your devoted servant, + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: See a letter to Ries, Nov. 22d, 1815:--"He was consumptive for +some years, and, in order to make his life easier, I can safely compute +what I gave him at 10,000 florins W.W."] + + +100. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +DEAR Z.,-- + +Forward the accompanying letter to-day without fail to Brunswick, that it +may arrive as soon and as safely as possible. Excuse the trouble I give +you. I have been again applied to, to send some of my works to Gratz, in +Styria, for a concert to be given in aid of the Ursuline convent and its +schools: last year they had very large receipts by this means. Including +this concert, and one I gave in Carlsbad for the benefit of the sufferers +from fire at Baden, three concerts have been given by me, and through me, +for benevolent purposes in one year; and yet if I ask a favor, people are +as deaf as a post. Your + +BEETHOVEN. + +I. Letter to Sclowonowitsch (Maître des bureaux des postes) in Cassel. I +can no longer do without the books of Tiedge and Frau von der Recke, as I +am expected to give some opinion about them. + + +101. + +TO HERR JOSEPH VARENNA,--GRATZ. + +MY GOOD SIR,-- + +Rode was not quite correct in all that he said of me; my health is not +particularly good, and from no fault of my own,--my present condition being +the most unfortunate of my life. But neither this nor anything in the world +shall prevent me from assisting, so far as it lies in my power, the +innocent and distressed ladies of your convent by my poor works. I +therefore place at your disposal two new symphonies, a bass aria with +chorus, and several minor choruses; if you desire again to perform +"Hungaria's Benefactors," which you gave last year, it is also at your +service. Among the choruses you will find a "Dervise Chorus," a capital +bait for a mixed public. + +In my opinion, your best plan would be to select a day when you could give +the "Mount of Olives," which has been everywhere performed. This would +occupy one half of the concert, and the other half might consist of a new +symphony, the overtures, and various choruses, and likewise the above-named +bass aria and chorus; thus the evening would not be devoid of variety. But +you can settle all this more satisfactorily with the aid of your own +musical authorities. I think I can guess what you mean about a gratuity for +me from a _third person_. Were I in the same position as formerly, I would +at once say, "Beethoven never accepts anything _where the benefit of +humanity is concerned_;" but owing to my own too great benevolence I am +reduced to a low ebb, the cause of which, however, does not put me to +shame, being combined with other circumstances for which men devoid of +honor and principle are alone to blame; so I do not hesitate to say that I +would not refuse the contribution of the rich man to whom you allude.[1] +But there is no question here of any _claim_. If, however, the affair with +the _third person_ comes to nothing, pray rest assured that I shall be +equally disposed to confer the same benefit as last year on my friends the +respected Ursuline ladies, and shall at all times be ready to succor the +poor and needy so long as I live. And now farewell! Write soon, and I will +zealously strive to make all necessary arrangements. My best wishes for the +convent. + +I am, with esteem, your friend, + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Reichardt, on the 1st March, 1809, writes in his _Vertraute +Briefe_,--"Beethoven, by 'a rich third person,' as the following letter +proves, meant Louis Bonaparte, who, after abdicating the Dutch throne, +lived in Gratz."] + + +102. + +TO VARENNA. + +MY EXCELLENT V. [VARENNA],-- + +I received your letter with much pleasure, but with much displeasure the +100 florins allotted to me by our poor convent ladies; in the mean time I +will apply part of this sum to pay the copyists--the surplus and the +accounts for copying shall be sent to these good ladies. + +I never accept anything for such a purpose. I thought that perhaps the +_third person_ to whom you alluded might be the Ex-King of Holland, in +which case I should have had no scruples, under my present circumstances, +in accepting a gratuity from him, who has no doubt taken enough from the +Dutch in a less legitimate way; but as it is, I must decline (though in all +friendship) any renewal of this subject. + +Let me know whether, were I to come myself to Gratz, I could give a +concert, and what the receipts would probably be; for Vienna, alas! can no +longer continue my place of abode. Perhaps it is now too late? but any +information from you on the point will be very welcome. + +The works are being copied, and you shall have them as soon as possible. +You may do just what you please with the Oratorio; where it will be of most +use it will best fulfil my intentions. + +I am, with esteem, your obedient + +BEETHOVEN. + +P.S. Say all that is kind from me to the worthy Ursuline ladies. I rejoice +in being able to serve them. + + +103. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +Confounded, invited guest! _Domanowetz!_--not musical Count, but gobbling +Count! dinner Count! supper Count! &c., &c. The Quartet is to be tried over +to-day at ten o'clock or half-past, at Lobkowitz's.[1] His Highness, whose +wits are generally astray, is not yet arrived; so pray join us, if you can +escape from your Chancery jailer. Herzog is to see you to-day. He intends +to take the post of my man-servant; you may agree to give him thirty +florins, with his wife _obbligata_. Firing, light, and morning livery +found. I must have some one who knows how to cook, for if my food continues +as bad as it now is, I shall always be ill. I dine at home to-day, because +I get better wine. If you will only order what you like, I very much wish +you to come to me. You shall have the wine _gratis_, and of far better +quality than what you get at the scoundrelly "Swan." + +Your very insignificant + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Reichardt, in his _Vertraute Briefe_, writes: "The beautiful +quartets and evening concerts for the Archduke Rudolph still continue at +Prince von Lobkowitz's, although the Prince himself is about to join his +battalion in Bohemia." Reichardt, Vol. I. p. 182, calls Lobkowitz "an +indefatigable, insatiable, genuine enthusiast for art."] + + +104. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +Feb. 25, 1813. + +I have been constantly indisposed, dear Zmeskall, since I last saw you; in +the mean time the servant who lived with you before your present one has +applied for my situation. I do not recollect him, but he told me he had +been with you, and that you had nothing to say against him, except that he +did not dress your hair as you wished. I gave him earnest-money, though +only a florin. Supposing you have no other fault to find with the man (and +if so I beg you will candidly mention it), I intend to engage him, for you +know that it is no object with me to have my hair dressed; it would be more +to the purpose if my finances could be dressed, or _re-dressed_. I hope to +get an answer from you to day. If there is no one to open the door to your +servant, let him leave the note in the entrance to the left, and should he +find no one there either, he must give it to the porter's wife below +stairs. May Heaven prosper you in your musical undertakings! Your + +BEETHOVEN, + +_Miserabilis._ + + +105. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +Feb. 28, 1813. + +Let us leave things as they are for to-day, dear Z., till we meet [and so +on about the servant]. + +Farewell! Carefully guard the fortresses of the realm, which, as you know, +are no longer virgins, and have already received many a shot. + +Your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +106. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +MOST WORTHY COUNSELLOR, OWNER OF MINES AND LORD OF FASTNESSES IN BURGUNDY +AND BUDA!-- + +Be so good as to let me know how matters stand, as this afternoon at latest +I shall take advantage of your reply to my question, by giving my servant +warning for this day fortnight. His wages, &c., &c. [The rest relates to +his servant.] + + +107. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +April 19, 1813. + +MY DEAR ZMESKALL,-- + +I have been refused the University Hall. I heard this two days since; but +being indisposed yesterday I could not go to see you, nor can I to-day +either. We have no resource now but the Kärnthnerthor Theatre, or the one +"an der Wien." I believe there will only be one concert. If both these +fail, we must then have recourse to the Augarten, in which case we ought +certainly to give two concerts. Reflect on this, my dear friend, and let me +have your opinion. To-morrow the symphonies may perhaps be tried over at +the Archduke's if I am able to go out, of which I will apprise you. + +Your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +108. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +April 23, 1813. + +DEAR Z.,-- + +All will go right, the Archduke being resolved to take this Prince +_Fizlypuzly_ roundly to task. Let me know if you are to dine at the tavern +to-day, or where? Pray tell me if "Sentivany" is properly spelt, as I wish +to write to him at the same time about the Chorus. We must also consult +together what day to choose. By the by, be cautious not to mention the +intercession of the Archduke, for Prince _Fizlypuzly_ is not to be with him +till Sunday, and if that evil-minded creditor had any previous hint of the +affair, he would still try to evade us. + +Yours ever, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +109. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +April 26, 1813. + +Lobkowitz will give me a day on the 15th of May, or after that period, +which seems to me scarcely better than none at all; so I am almost disposed +to give up all idea of a concert. But the Almighty will no doubt prevent my +being utterly ruined. + +Yours, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +110. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +Baden, May 27, 1813. + +I have the honor to inform you of my arrival in Baden, which is indeed +still very empty of human beings, but with all the greater luxuriance and +full lustre does Nature shine in her enchanting loveliness. Where I fail, +or ever have failed, be graciously indulgent towards me, for so many trying +occurrences, succeeding each other so closely, have really almost +bewildered me; still I am convinced that the resplendent beauties of Nature +here, and the charming environs, will gradually restore my spirits, and a +double share of tranquillity be my portion, as by my stay here I likewise +fulfil the wishes of Y.R.H. Would that my desire soon to hear that Y.R.H. +is fully restored were equally fulfilled! This is indeed my warmest wish, +and how much I grieve that I cannot at this moment contribute to your +recovery by means of _my_ art! This is reserved for the goddess Hygeia +alone, and I, alas! am only a poor mortal, who commends himself to Y.R.H., +and sincerely hopes soon to be permitted to wait on you. + +[K.] + + +111. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +Vienna, July 24, 1813. + +From day to day I have been expecting to return to Baden; in the mean time, +the discords that detain me here may possibly be resolved by the end of the +ensuing week. To me a residence in a town during the summer is misery, and +when I also remember that I am thus prevented waiting on Y.R.H., it is +still more vexatious and annoying. It is, in fact, the Lobkowitz and Kinsky +affairs that keep me here. Instead of pondering over a number of bars, I am +obliged constantly to reflect on the number of peregrinations I am forced +to make; but for this, I could scarcely endure to the end. Y.R.H. has no +doubt heard of Lobkowitz's misfortunes,[1] which are much to be regretted; +but after all, to be rich is no such great happiness! It is said that Count +Fries alone paid 1900 gold ducats to Duport, for which he had the security +of the ancient Lobkowitz house. The details are beyond all belief. I hear +that Count Rasumowsky[2] intends to go to Baden, and to take his Quartet +with him, which is really very pretty, and I have no doubt that Y.R.H. will +be much pleased with it. I know no more charming enjoyment in the country +than quartet music. I beg Y.R.H. will accept my heartfelt wishes for your +health, and also compassionate me for being obliged to pass my time here +under such disagreeable circumstances. But I will strive to compensate +twofold in Baden for what you have lost. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: Prince Lobkowitz's "misfortunes" probably refer to the great +pecuniary difficulties which befell this music and pomp loving Prince +several years before his death. Beethoven seems to have made various +attempts to induce the Prince to continue the payment of his share of the +salary agreed on, though these efforts were long fruitless. The subject, +however, appears to have been again renewed in 1816, for on the 8th of +March in this year Beethoven writes to Ries to say that his salary consists +of 3400 florins E.S., and this sum he received till his death.] + +[Footnote 2: Those who played in Count Rasumowsky's Quartets, to whom +Beethoven dedicated various compositions, were the _virtuosi_ Schuppanzigh +(1st), Sina (2d violin), Linke (violoncello), Weiss (violin).] + + +112. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1813.[1] + +I beg to inquire whether, being in some degree restored, I am to wait on +you this evening? I at the same time take the liberty to make a humble +request. I was in hopes that by this time, at all events, my melancholy +circumstances would have brightened, but all continues in its old state, so +I must determine on giving two concerts.[2] I find that I am compelled to +give up my former resolution never to give any except for benevolent +purposes; as self-maintenance demands that I should do so. The hall of the +University would be the most advantageous and distinguished for my present +object, and my humble request consists in entreating Y.R.H. to be so +gracious as to send a line to the present _Rector Magnificus_ of the +University, through Baron Schweiger, which would certainly ensure my +getting the hall. In the hope of a favorable answer, I remain, &c., &c. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: Late in the autumn of 1813.] + +[Footnote 2: The concerts here referred to were given in the University +Hall on the 8th and 12th December, 1813, when the _Battle of Vittoria_ and +the A major Symphony were performed for the first time. Beethoven himself +conducted.] + + +113. + +TO FREIHERR JOSEF VON SCHWEIGER. + +Late in the Autumn of 1813. + +MY DEAR FRIEND,-- + +I have to-day applied (by letter) to my gracious master to interest himself +in procuring the University Hall for two concerts which I think of giving, +and in fact must give, for all remains as it was. Always considering you, +both in good and evil fortune, my best friend, I suggested to the Duke that +you should apply in his name for this favor to the present Rector of the +University. Whatever may be the result, let me know H.R.H.'s decision as +soon as possible, that I may make further efforts to extricate myself from +a position so detrimental to me and to my art. I am coming this evening to +the Archduke. + +Your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[K.] + + +114. + +TO HERR VON BAUMEISTER.[1] + +DEAR SIR,-- + +I request you will send me the parts of the Symphony in A, and likewise my +score. His I.H. can have the MS. again, but I require it at present for the +music in the Augarten to-morrow. I have just received two tickets, which I +send to you, and beg you will make use of them. + +I am, with esteem, yours, + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Private Secretary to the Archduke Rudolph.] + + +115. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +Oct. 9, 1813. + +MY DEAR GOOD Z.,-- + +Don't be indignant with me for asking you to address the enclosed letter +properly; the person for whom it is intended is constantly complaining that +he gets no letters from me. Yesterday I took one myself to the post-office, +when I was asked where the letter was meant to go. I see, therefore, that +my writing seems to be as little understood as myself. Thence my request to +you. Your + +BEETHOVEN. + + +116. + +LETTER OF THANKS. + +I esteem it my duty to express my gratitude for the great zeal shown by all +those artists who so kindly coöperated on the 8th and 12th December [1813] +in the concerts given for the benefit of the Austrian and Bavarian soldiers +wounded at the battle of Hanau. It was a rare combination of eminent +artists, where all were inspired by the wish to be of use to their +father-land, and to contribute by the exercise of their talents to the +fulfilment of the undertaking, while, regardless of all precedence, they +gladly accepted subordinate places.[1] While an artist like Herr +Schuppanzigh was at the head of the first violins, and by his fiery and +expressive mode of conducting kindled the zeal of the whole orchestra, Herr +Kapellmeister Salieri did not scruple to give the time to the drums and +cannonades; Herr Spohr and Herr Mayseder, each worthy from his talents to +fill the highest post, played in the second and third rank. Herr Siboni and +Herr Giuliani also filled subordinate places. The conducting of the whole +was only assigned to me from the music being my own composition; had it +been that of any one else, I would willingly, like Herr Hummel, have taken +my place at the big drum, as the only feeling that pervaded all our hearts +was true love for our father-land, and the wish cheerfully to devote our +powers to those who had sacrificed so much for us. Particular thanks are +due to Herr Maelzel, inasmuch as he first suggested the idea of this +concert, and the most troublesome part of the enterprise, the requisite +arrangements, management, and regulations, devolved on him. I more +especially thank him for giving me an opportunity by this concert of +fulfilling a wish I have long cherished, to compose for such a benevolent +object (exclusive of the works already made over to him) a comprehensive +work more adapted to the present times, to be laid on the altar of my +father-land.[2] As a notice is to be published of all those who assisted on +this occasion, the public will be enabled to judge of the noble self-denial +exercised by a mass of the greatest artists, working together with the same +benevolent object in view. + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: The A major Symphony and _Wellington's Victory at Vittoria_ +were performed.] + +[Footnote 2: "Obsolete" is written in pencil by Beethoven.] + + +117. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.[1] + +1814. + +I beg you will send me the score of the "Final Chorus"[2] for half a day, +as the theatrical score is so badly written. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: The spring of 1814.] + +[Footnote 2: The _Schlusschor_, the score of which Beethoven requests the +Archduke to send him, is in all probability the Finale _Germania! +Germania!_ intended for Treitschke's Operetta _Die gute Nachricht_, which +refers to the taking of Paris by the Allies, and was performed for the +first time at Vienna in the Kärnthnerthor Theatre on the 11th April, 1814. +The same _Final Chorus_ was substituted for another of Beethoven's (_Es ist +vollbracht_) in Treitschke's Operetta _Die Ehrenpforten_, first given on +the 15th July, 1815, in the Kärnthnerthor Theatre. Both these choruses are +printed in score in Breitkopf & Härtel's edition of Beethoven's works.] + + +118. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1814. + +Having only so recently received the score of the "Final Chorus," I must +ask you to excuse your getting it back so late. The best thing H.R.H. can +do is to have it transcribed, for in its present form the score is of no +use. I would have brought it myself, but I have been laid up with a cold +since last Sunday, which is most severe, and obliges me to be very careful, +being so much indisposed. I never feel greater satisfaction than when +Y.R.H. derives any pleasure through me. I hope very soon to be able to wait +on you myself, and in the mean time I pray that you will keep me in +remembrance. + +[K.] + + +119. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1814. + +The song "Germania" belongs to the whole world who sympathize with the +subject, and to you beyond all others, just as I myself am wholly yours. I +wish you a good journey to Palermo. + +[K.] + + +120. + +TO TREITSCHKE. + +March, 1814. + +MY DEAR, WORTHY T.,-- + +I have read with the greatest satisfaction your amendments of the Opera +["Fidelio" which was about to be again performed]. It has decided me once +more to rebuild the desolate ruins of an ancient fortress. + +Your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +121. + +TO TREITSCHKE. + +The affair of the Opera is the most troublesome in the world, and there is +scarcely one part of it which quite satisfies me now, and that I have not +been obliged to _amend by something more satisfactory_. But what a +difference between this, and giving one's self up to freely flowing thought +and inspiration! + + +122. + +TO TREITSCHKE. + +1814. + +I request, my dear T., that you will send me the score of the song [in +"Fidelio," _Geld ist eine schöne Sache_], that the interpolated notes may +be transcribed in all the instrumental parts; though I shall not take it at +all amiss if you prefer that Girowetz or any other person, perhaps +Weinmüller [who sang the part of Rocco], should do so. This I have nothing +to say against, but I will not suffer my composition to be altered by any +one whatever, be he who he may. + +I am, with high consideration, + +Your obedient + +BEETHOVEN. + + +123. + +TO COUNT MORITZ LICHNOWSKY.[1] + +MY DEAR COUNT,-- + +If you wish to attend our council [about the alterations in "Fidelio"], I +beg to inform you that it assembles this afternoon at half-past three +o'clock, in the Spielmann Haus, auf dem Graben, No. 188, 4th Etage, at Herr +Weinmüller's. I shall be very glad if you have leisure to be present. + +[Footnote 1: The mention of Weinmüller decides the date of this note, as it +was in the spring of 1814 that he, together with the singers Saal and Vogl, +brought about the revival of _Fidelio_.] + + +124. + +TO COUNT MORITZ LICHNOWSKY.[1] + +My dear, victorious, and yet sometimes nonplussed (?) Count! I hope that +you rested well, most precious and charming of all Counts! Oh! most beloved +and unparalleled Count! most fascinating and prodigious Count! + +[Music: Treble clef, E-flat Major, 2/2 time. +Graf Graf Graf Graf (in 3-part harmony) +Graf (in 3-part counterpoint) +Graf Graf Graf, liebster Graf, liebstes Schaf, +bester Graf, bestes Schaf! Schaf! Schaf!] + +(_To be repeated at pleasure_.) + +At what hour shall we call on Walter to-day? My going or not depends +entirely on you. Your + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: In Schindler's _Beethoven's Nachlass_ there is also an +autograph Canon of Beethoven's in F major, 6/8, on Count Lichnowsky, on the +words, _Bester Herr Graf, Sie sind ein Schaf_, written (according to +Schindler) Feb. 20th, 1823, in the coffee-house "Die Goldne Birne," in the +Landstrasse, where Beethoven usually went every evening, though he +generally slipped in by the backdoor.] + + +125. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1814. + +I hope you forgive me for not having come to you. Your displeasure would be +totally undeserved, and I will amply compensate for lost time in a few +days. My Opera of "Fidelio"[1] is again to be performed, which gives me a +great deal to do; moreover, though I look well, I am not so in reality. The +arrangements for my second concert[2] are partly completed. I must write +something new for Mdlle. Milder.[3] Meanwhile it is a consolation to me to +hear that Y.R.H. is so much better. I hope I am not too sanguine in +thinking that I shall soon be able to contribute towards this. I have taken +the liberty to apprise my Lord Falstaff[4] that he is ere long to have the +honor of appearing before Y.R.H. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: Letters 125 and 126 refer to the revival of the Opera of +_Fidelio_, which had not been given since 1806, and was not again produced +on the stage till the 23d May, 1814, in the Kärnthnerthor Theatre. +Beethoven's benefit took place on the 8th July, two newly composed pieces +being inserted.] + +[Footnote 2: Beethoven gave a concert on the 2d January, 1814, when +_Wellington's Victory_ was performed, and on the 26th March another for the +benefit of the Theatrical Fund, at which the _Overture to Egmont_ and +_Wellingtons's Victory_ were given, directed by Beethoven himself.] + +[Footnote 3: Anna Milder, Royal Court opera singer, a pupil of Vogl's, who +first sang the part of Leonore in _Fidelio_.] + +[Footnote 4: By "my Lord Falstaff" he means the corpulent violinist +Schuppanzigh.] + + +126. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +Vienna, July 14, 1814. + +Whenever I inquire about you I hear nothing but good news. As for my own +insignificant self, I have been hitherto hopelessly detained in Vienna, and +unable to approach Y.R.H.; I am also thus deprived of the enjoyment of +beautiful Nature, so dear to me. The directors of the theatre are so +_conscientious_, that, contrary to their faithful promise, they have again +given my Opera of "Fidelio," without thinking of giving me any share in the +receipts. They would have exhibited the same commendable good faith a +second time, had I not been on the watch like a French custom-house officer +of other days. At last, after a great many troublesome discussions, it was +settled that the Opera of "Fidelio" should be given on Monday the 18th of +July, for my benefit. These _receipts_ at this season of the year may more +properly be called _deceits_; but if a work is in any degree successful it +often becomes a little feast for the author. To this feast the master +invites his illustrious pupil, and hopes--yes! I hope that Y.R.H. will +graciously consent to come, and thus add lustre to everything by your +presence. It would be a great boon if Y.R.H. would endeavor to persuade the +other members of the Imperial family to be present at the representation of +my Opera, and I on my part will not fail to take the proper steps on the +subject which duty commands. Vogl's illness[1] enabled me to satisfy my +desire to give the part of Pizarro to Forti,[2] his voice being better +suited to it; but owing to this there are daily rehearsals, which cannot +fail to have a favorable effect on the performance, but which render it +impossible for me to wait upon Y.R.H. before my benefit. Pray give this +letter your favorable consideration, and think graciously of me. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: Joh. Mich. Vogl, born August 10th, 1768, was Court opera +singer (tenor) in Vienna from 1794 to 1822; he died November 19th, 1840.] + +[Footnote 2: Forti, born June 8th, 1790, a member of the Royal Court +Theatre (a barytone), pensioned off in 1834.] + + +127. + +DEPOSITION. + +1814. + +I voluntarily presented Maelzel _gratis_ with a "Battle Symphony" for his +panharmonica. After having kept it for some time, he brought me back the +score, which he had already begun to engrave, saying that he wished it to +be harmonized for a full orchestra. The idea of a battle had already +occurred to me, which, however, could not be performed on his panharmonica. +We agreed to select this and some more of my works [see No. 116] to be +given at the concert for the benefit of disabled soldiers. At that very +time I became involved in the most frightful pecuniary difficulties. +Forsaken by every one in Vienna, and in daily expectation of remittances, +&c., Maelzel offered me fifty gold ducats, which I accepted, saying that I +would either repay them, or allow him to take the work to London, (provided +I did not go there myself with him,) referring him to an English publisher +for payment. + +I got back from him the score written for the panharmonica. The concerts +then took place, and during that time Herr Maelzel's designs and character +were first fully revealed. Without my consent, he stated on the bills of +the concert that the work was _his property_. Indignant at this, I insisted +on his destroying these bills. He then stated that I had given it to him as +a friendly act, because he was going to London. To this I did not object, +believing that I had reserved the right to state the conditions on which +the work should be his own. I remember that when the bills were being +printed, I violently opposed them, but the time was too short, as I was +still writing the work. In all the fire of inspiration, and absorbed in my +composition, I scarcely thought at all on the subject. Immediately after +the first concert in the University Hall, I was told on all sides, and by +people on whom I could rely, that Maelzel had everywhere given out he had +paid me 400 gold ducats for the Symphony. I sent what follows to a +newspaper, but the editor would not insert it, as Maelzel stands well with +them all. As soon as the first concert was over, I repaid Maelzel his fifty +ducats, declaring that having discovered his real character, nothing should +ever induce me to travel with him; justly indignant that, without +consulting me, he had stated in the bills that all the arrangements for the +concert were most defective. His own despicable want of patriotism too is +proved by the following expressions: "I care nothing at all about L.; if it +is only said in London that people have paid ten gulden for admission here, +that is all I care about; the wounded are nothing to me." Moreover, I told +him that he might take the work to London on certain conditions, which I +would inform him of. He then asserted that it was a _friendly gift_, and +made use of this phrase in the newspapers after the second concert, without +giving me the most remote hint on the subject. As Maelzel is a rude, +churlish man, entirely devoid of education or cultivation, it is easy to +conceive the tenor of his conduct to me during this time, which still +further irritated me. Who could bear to be forced to bestow a _friendly +gift_ on such a man? I was offered an opportunity to send the work to the +Prince Regent, [afterwards George IV.] It was therefore quite impossible +for me to _give away the work unconditionally_. + +He then called on a mutual friend to make proposals. He was told on what +day to return for an answer, but he never appeared, set off on his travels, +and performed the work in Munich. How did he obtain it? He could not +possibly _steal_ it; but Herr Maelzel had several of the parts for some +days in his house, and he caused the entire work to be harmonized by some +obscure musical journeyman, and is now hawking it about the world. Herr +Maelzel promised me ear-trumpets. I harmonized the "Battle Symphony" for +his panharmonica from a wish to keep him to his word. The ear-trumpets came +at last, but were not of the service to me that I expected. For this slight +trouble Herr Maelzel, after my having arranged the "Battle Symphony" for a +full orchestra, and composed a battle-piece in addition, declared that I +ought to have made over these works to him as _his own exclusive property_. +Even allowing that I am in some degree obliged to him for the ear-trumpets, +this is entirely balanced by his having made at least 500 gulden in Munich +by my mutilated or stolen battle-piece. He has therefore paid himself in +full. He had actually the audacity to say here that he was in possession of +the battle-piece; in fact he showed it, written out, to various persons. I +did not believe this; and, in fact, with good reason, as the whole is not +by me, but compiled by some one else. Indeed the credit he assumes for the +work should alone be sufficient compensation. + +The secretary at the War Office made no allusion whatever to me, and yet +every work performed at both concerts was of my composition. + +Herr Maelzel thinks fit to say that he has delayed his visit to London on +account of the battle-piece, which is a mere subterfuge. He stayed to +finish his patchwork, as the first attempt did not succeed. + +BEETHOVEN. + + +128. + +TO HERR J. KAUKA, DOCTOR OF LAWS IN PRAGUE, IN THE KINGDOM OF BOHEMIA. + +The Summer of 1814. + +A thousand thanks, my esteemed Kauka. At last I meet with a _legal +representative_ and a _man_, who can both write and think without using +unmeaning formulas. You can scarcely imagine how I long for the end of this +affair, as it not only interferes with my domestic expenditure, but is +injurious to me in various ways. You know yourself that a sensitive spirit +ought not to be fettered by miserable anxieties, and much that might render +my life happy is thus abstracted from it. Even my inclination and the duty +I assigned myself, to serve suffering humanity by means of my art, I have +been obliged to limit, and must continue to do so.[1] + +I write nothing about our monarchs and monarchies, for the newspapers give +you every information on these subjects.[2] The intellectual realm is the +most precious in my eyes, and far above all temporal and spiritual +monarchies. Write to me, however, what you wish _for yourself_ from my poor +musical capabilities, that I may, in so far as it lies in my power, supply +something for your own musical sense and feeling. Do you not require all +the papers connected with the Kinsky case? If so I will send them to you, +as they contain most important testimony, which, indeed, I believe you read +when with me. Think of me and do not forget that you represent a +disinterested artist in opposition to a niggardly family. How gladly do men +withhold from the poor artist in one respect _what they pay him in +another_, and there is no longer a Zeus with whom an artist can invite +himself to feast on ambrosia. Strive, my dear friend, to accelerate the +tardy steps of justice. Whenever I feel myself elevated high, and in happy +moments revel in my artistic sphere, circumstances drag me down again, and +none more than these two lawsuits. You too have your disagreeable moments, +though with the views and capabilities I know you to possess, especially in +your profession, I could scarcely have believed this; still I must recall +your attention to myself. I have drunk to the dregs a cup of bitter sorrow, +and already earned martyrdom in art through my beloved artistic disciples +and colleagues. I beg you will think of me every day, and imagine it to be +an _entire world_, for it is really asking rather too much of you to think +of so humble an _individual_ as myself. + +I am, with the highest esteem and friendship, + +Your obedient + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: He supported a consumptive brother and his wife and child.] + +[Footnote 2: At the Vienna Congress Beethoven was received with much +distinction by the potentates present.] + + +129. + +ADDRESS AND APPEAL TO LONDON ARTISTS BY L. VAN BEETHOVEN. + +Vienna, July 25, 1814. + +Herr Maelzel, now in London, on his way thither performed my "Battle +Symphony" and "Wellington's Battle of Vittoria" in Munich, and no doubt he +intends to produce them at London concerts, as he wished to do in +Frankfort. This induces me to declare that I never in any way made over or +transferred the said works to Herr Maelzel; that no one possesses a copy of +them, and that the only one verified by me I sent to his Royal Highness the +Prince Regent of England. The performance of these works, therefore, by +Herr Maelzel is either an imposition on the public, as the above +declaration proves that he does not possess them, or if he does, he has +been guilty of a breach of faith towards me, inasmuch as he must have got +them in a surreptitious manner. + +But even in the latter case the public will still be deluded, for the works +that Herr Maelzel performs under the titles of "Wellington's Battle of +Vittoria" and "Battle Symphony" are beyond all doubt spurious and +mutilated, as he never had any portion of either of these works of mine, +except some of the parts for a few days. + +This suspicion becomes a certainty from the testimony of various artists +here, whose names I am authorized to give if necessary. These gentlemen +state that Herr Maelzel, before he left Vienna, declared that he was in +possession of these works, and showed various portions, which, however, as +I have already proved, must be counterfeit. The question whether Herr +Maelzel be capable of doing me such an injury is best solved by the +following fact,--In the public papers he named himself as sole giver of the +concert on behalf of our wounded soldiers, whereas my works alone were +performed there, and yet he made no allusion whatsoever to me. + +I therefore appeal to the London musicians not to permit such a grievous +wrong to be done to their fellow-artist by Herr Maelzel's performance of +the "Battle of Vittoria" and the "Battle Symphony," and also to prevent the +London public being so shamefully imposed upon. + + +130. + +TO DR. KAUKA. + +Vienna, August 22, 1814. + +You have shown a feeling for harmony, and you can resolve a great discord +in my life, which causes me much discomfort, into more pleasing melody, if +you will. I shortly expect to hear something of what you understand is +likely to happen, as I eagerly anticipate the result of this most _unjust_ +affair with the Kinskys. When the Princess was here, she seemed to be well +disposed towards me; still I do not know how it will end. In the mean time +I must restrict myself in everything, and await with entire confidence what +is _rightfully my own_ and _legally devolves on me_; and though unforeseen +occurrences caused changes in this matter, still two witnesses recently +bore testimony to the wish of the deceased Prince that my appointed salary +in _Banco Zettel_ should be paid in _Einlösung Schein_, making up the +original sum, and the Prince himself gave me sixty gold ducats _on account_ +of my claim. + +Should the affair turn out badly for me by the conduct of the Kinsky +family, I will publish it in every newspaper, to their disgrace. If there +had been an heir, and the facts had been told to him _in all their truth_, +just as I narrated them, I am convinced that he would at once have adopted +the words and deeds of his predecessor. Has Dr. Wolf [the previous +advocate] shown you the papers, or shall I make you acquainted with them? +As I am by no means sure that this letter will reach you safely, I defer +sending you the pianoforte arrangement of my opera "Fidelio," which is +ready to be dispatched. + +I hope, in accordance with your usual friendliness, soon to hear from you. +I am also writing to Dr. Wolf (who certainly does not treat any one +_wolfishly_), in order not to arouse his _passion_, so that he may have +_compassion_ on me, and neither take my purse nor my life. + +I am, with esteem, your true friend, + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +131. + +TO COUNT MORITZ LICHNOWSKY. + +Baden, Sept. 21, 1841.[1] + +MOST ESTEEMED COUNT AND FRIEND,-- + +I unluckily only got your letter yesterday. A thousand thanks for your +remembrance of me. Pray express my gratitude also to your charming Princess +Christiane [wife of Prince Carl Lichnowsky]. I had a delightful walk +yesterday with a friend in the Brühl, and in the course of our friendly +chat you were particularly mentioned, and lo! and behold! on my return I +found your kind letter. I see you are resolved to continue to load me with +benefits. + +As I am unwilling you should suppose that a step I have already taken is +prompted by your recent favors, or by any motive of the sort, I must tell +you that a sonata of mine [Op. 90] is about to appear, _dedicated to you_. +I wished to give you a surprise, as this dedication has been long designed +for you, but your letter of yesterday induces me to name the fact. I +required no new motive thus publicly to testify my sense of your friendship +and kindness. But as for anything approaching to a gift in return, you +would only distress me, by thus totally misinterpreting my intentions, and +I should at once decidedly refuse such a thing. + +I beg to kiss the hand of the Princess for her kind message and all her +goodness to me. _Never have I forgotten what I owe to you all_, though an +unfortunate combination of circumstances prevented my testifying this as I +could have wished. + +From what you tell me about Lord Castlereagh, I think the matter in the +best possible train. If I were to give an opinion on the subject, I should +say that Lord Castlereagh ought to hear the work given here before writing +to Wellington. I shall soon be in Vienna, when we can consult together +about a grand concert. Nothing is to be effected at Court; I made the +application, but--but-- + +[Music: Treble clef, C major, 4/4 time, Adagio. +al-lein al-lein al-lein] + +_Silentium!!!_ + +Farewell, my esteemed friend; pray continue to esteem me worthy of your +friendship. Yours, + +BEETHOVEN. + +A thousand compliments to the illustrious Princess. + +[Footnote 1: The date reversed, as written by Beethoven, is here given.] + + +132. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1814. + +I perceive that Y.R.H. wishes to try the effect of my music even upon +horses.[1] We shall see whether its influence will cause the riders to +throw some clever summersets. Ha! ha! I can't help laughing at Y.R.H. +thinking of me on such an occasion; for which I shall remain so long as I +live, &c., &c., &c. The horse-music that Y.R.H. desires shall set off to +you full gallop. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: A tournament was held on the 23d November, 1814, in the Royal +Riding School. Beethoven was probably requested by the Archduke to compose +some music for it, which, however, has not been traced.] + + +133. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1814. + +It is impossible for me to-day to wait on you, much as I wish it. I am +dispatching the work on Wellington's victory[1] to London. Such matters +have their appointed and fixed time, which cannot be delayed without final +loss. To-morrow I hope to be able to call on Y.R.H. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: The Cantata _Der glorreiche Augenblick_, the poetry by Dr. +Alois Weissenbach, set to music by Beethoven for chorus and orchestra (Op. +136), was first given in Vienna on the 29th November, 1814, and repeated on +the 2d December.] + + +134. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +(In a different hand) Dec. 1814. + +I really feel that I can never deserve your goodness towards me. I beg to +offer my most respectful thanks for Y.R.H.'s gracious intervention in my +affairs at Prague. I will punctually attend to the score of the Cantata.[1] +I trust Y.R.H. will forgive my not having yet been to see you. After the +concert for the poor, comes one in the theatre, equally for the benefit of +the _impresario in angustia_, for they have felt some just shame, and have +let me off with one third and one half of the usual charges. I have now +some fresh work on hand, and then there is a new opera to be begun,[2] the +subject of which I am about to decide on. Moreover, I am again far from +well, but a few days hence I will wait on Y.R.H. If I could be of any +service to Y.R.H., the most eager and anxious wish of my life would be +fulfilled. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: What concert Beethoven alludes to I cannot discover, but no +mention of it being made in the very exact _Allgemeine Leipziger +Musikalische Zeitung_, it appears not to have taken place.] + +[Footnote 2: The new opera, with the subject of which Beethoven was +occupied, was no doubt Treitschke's _Romulus_.] + + +135. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1814. + +My warmest thanks for your present.[1] I only regret that you could not +participate in the music. I have now the honor to send you the score of the +Cantata [see No. 134]. Y.R.H. can keep it for some days, and afterwards I +shall take care that it is copied for you as soon as possible. + +I feel still quite exhausted from fatigue and worry, pleasure and +delight!--all combined! I shall have the honor of waiting on you in the +course of a few days. I hope to hear favorable accounts of Y.R.H.'s health. +How gladly would I sacrifice many nights, were it in my power to restore +you entirely! + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: The present he refers to was probably for the concert of +November 29th, or December 2d, 1814.] + + +136. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1814.[1] + +I see with real pleasure that I may dismiss all fears for your well-being. +As for myself, I hope (always feeling happy when able to give you any +pleasure) that my health is also rapidly recruiting, when I intend +forthwith to compensate both you and myself for the _pauses_ that have +occurred. As for Prince Lobkowitz, his _pauses_ with me still continue, and +I fear he will never again come in at the right place; and in Prague (good +heavens! with regard to Prince Kinsky's affair) they scarcely as yet know +what a figured bass is, for they sing in slow, long-drawn choral notes; +some of these sustained through sixteen bars |======|. As all these +discords seem likely to be very slowly resolved, it is best to bring +forward only those which we can ourselves resolve, and to give up the rest +to inevitable fate. Allow me once more to express my delight at the +recovery of Y.R.H. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: 1814 or 1815. Prince Lobkowitz was still alive at that time +(died December 21st, 1816).] + + +137. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1814. + +As you were so kind as to let me know through Count Troyer[1] that you +would write a few lines on my affairs in Prague to the _Oberstburggraf_ +Count Kolowrat, I take the liberty to enclose my letter to Count K.; I do +not believe that it contains anything to which Y.R.H. will take exception. +There is no chance of my being allowed payment in _Einlösung Schein_, for, +in spite of all the proofs, the guardians cannot be persuaded to consent to +this; still it is to be hoped that by the friendly steps we have meanwhile +had recourse to, _extra-judicially_, a more favorable result may be +obtained,--as, for instance, the rate of the scale to be higher. If, +however, Y.R.H. will either write a few words yourself, or cause it to be +done in your name, the affair will certainly be _much accelerated_, which +induces me earnestly to entreat Y.R.H. to perform your gracious promise to +me. This affair has now gone on for three years, and is still--undecided. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: Count Ferdinand Troyer was one of the Archduke's +chamberlains.] + + +138. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1814. + +I have again for a fortnight past been afflicted with severe headaches, +though constantly hoping to get better, but in vain. Now, however, that the +weather is improved, my physician promises me a speedy cure. Though as each +day I expected to be the last of my suffering, I did not write to you on +the subject; besides, I thought that Y.R.H. probably did not require me, as +it is so long since Y.R.H. sent for me. During the festivities in honor of +the Princess of Baden,[1] and the injury to Y.R.H.'s finger, I began to +work very assiduously, and as the fruit of this, among others, is a new +pianoforte trio.[2] Myself very much occupied, I had no idea that I had +incurred the displeasure of Y.R.H., though I now begin almost to think this +to be the case. In the mean time I hope soon to be able to present myself +before your tribunal. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: The festivities in honor of the Princess of Baden were +probably during the Congress, 1814.] + +[Footnote 2: The new trio, if the one in B flat for the pianoforte, violin, +and violoncello, Op. 97, was first performed on the 11th April, 1814, in +the hall of the "Komischer Kaiser." Letter 139 also mentions this trio, +composed in 1811 and published in July, 1816.] + + +139. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1814. + +I beg you will be so good as to let me have the Trio in B flat with all the +parts, and also both parts of the violin Sonata in G,[1] as I must have +them written out for myself with all speed, not being able to hunt out my +own scores among so many others. I hope that this detestable weather has +had no bad effect on Y.R.H.'s health; I must own that it rather deranges +me. In three or four days at least I shall have the honor to restore both +works to their proper place. + +Do the musical pauses still continue? + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: The Sonata for pianoforte and violin in G major, Op. 96, was +purchased by Haslinger, April 1st, 1815, and published the end of July, +1816. It was composed in 1814--perhaps in 1813. Thayer thinks in 1810.] + + +140. + +TO HERR KAUKA. + +Vienna, Jan. 11, 1815. + +MY GOOD, WORTHY K.,-- + +I received Baron Pasqualati's letter to-day, by which I perceive that you +wish me to defer any fresh measures. In the mean time all the necessary +papers are lodged with Pasqualati; so be so good as to inform him that he +must delay taking any further steps. To-morrow a council is to be held +here, and you and P. shall learn the result probably to-morrow evening. +Meanwhile I wish you to look through the paper I sent to the Court through +Pasqualati, and read the appendix carefully. You will then see that Wolf +and others have not given you correct information. + +One thing is certain, that there are sufficient proofs _for any one who +wishes to be convinced_. How could it ever occur to me _to think of written +legal testimony_ with such a man as Kinsky, whose integrity and generosity +were everywhere acknowledged? I remain, with the warmest affection and +esteem, + +In haste, your friend, + +B. + + +141. + +TO HERR KAUKA. + +1815. + +MY DEAR AND ESTEEMED K.,-- + +What can I think, or say, or feel? As for W. [Wolf], it seems to me that he +not only showed _his weak points_, but gave himself no trouble to conceal +them. It is impossible that he can have drawn up his statement in +accordance with all the actual evidence he had. The order on the treasury +about the rate of exchange was given by Kinsky previous to his consent to +pay me my salary in _Einlösung Schein_, as the documents prove; indeed it +is only necessary to examine the date to show this, so the first +instruction is of importance. The _species facti_ prove that I was more +than six months absent from Vienna. As I was not anxious to get the money, +I allowed the affair to stand over; so the Prince thus forgot to recall his +former order to the treasury, but that he neither forgot his promise to me, +nor to Varnhagen [an officer] in my behalf, is evident by the testimony of +Herr von Oliva, to whom shortly before his departure from hence--and indeed +into another world--he repeated his promise, making an appointment to see +him when he should return to Vienna, in order to arrange the matter with +the treasury, which of course was prevented by his untimely death. + +The testimony of the officer Varnhagen is accompanied by a document (he +being at present with the Russian army), in which he states that he is +prepared to _take his oath_ on the affair. The evidence of Herr Oliva is +also to the effect that he is willing to confirm his evidence by oath +before the Court. As I have sent away the testimony of Col. Count Bentheim, +I am not sure of its tenor, but I believe the Count also says that he is +prepared at any time to make an affidavit on the matter in Court, and I am +myself _ready to swear before the Court_ that Prince Kinsky said to me in +Prague, "he thought it only fair to me that my salary should be paid in +_Einlösung Schein_." These were his own words. + +He gave me himself sixty gold ducats in Prague, on account (good for about +600 florins), as, owing to my state of health, I could remain no longer, +and set off for Töplitz. The Prince's word was _sacred_ in my eyes, never +having heard anything of him to induce me either to bring two witnesses +with me or to ask him for any written pledge. I see from all this that Dr. +Wolf has miserably mismanaged the business, and has not made you +sufficiently acquainted with the papers. + +Now as to the step I have just taken. The Archduke Rudolph asked me some +time since whether the Kinsky affair was yet terminated, having probably +heard something of it. I told him that it looked very bad, as I knew +nothing, absolutely nothing, of the matter. He offered to write himself, +but desired me to add a memorandum, and also to make him acquainted with +all the papers connected with the Kinsky case. After having informed +himself on the affair, he wrote to the _Oberstburggraf_, and enclosed my +letter to him. + +The _Oberstburggraf_ answered both the Duke and myself immediately. In the +letter to me he said "that I was to present a petition to the Provincial +Court of Justice in Prague, along with all the proofs, whence it would be +forwarded to him, and that he would do his utmost to further my cause." He +also wrote in the most polite terms to the Archduke; indeed, he expressly +said "that he was thoroughly cognizant of the late Prince Kinsky's +intentions with regard to me and this affair, and that I might present a +petition," &c. The Archduke instantly sent for me, and desired me to +prepare the document and to show it to him; he also thought that I ought to +solicit payment in _Einlösung Schein_, as there was ample proof, if not in +strictly legal form, of the intentions of the Prince, and no one could +doubt that if he had survived he would have adhered to his promise. If he +[the Archduke] were this day the heir, _he would demand no other proofs +than those already furnished_. I sent this paper to Baron Pasqualati, who +is kindly to present it himself to the Court. Not till after the affair had +gone so far did Dr. Adlersburg receive a letter from Dr. Wolf, in which he +mentioned that he had made a claim for 1500 florins. As we have come so far +as 1500 florins with the _Oberstburggraf_, we may possibly get on to 1800 +florins. I do not esteem this any _favor_, for the late Prince was one of +those who urged me most to refuse a salary of 600 gold ducats per annum, +offered to me from Westphalia; and he said at the time "that he was +resolved I should have no chance of eating hams in Westphalia." Another +summons to Naples somewhat later I equally declined, and I am entitled to +demand a fair compensation for the loss I incurred. If the salary were to +be paid in bank-notes, what should I get? Not 400 florins in +_Conventionsgeld_!!! in lieu of such a salary as 600 ducats! There are +ample proofs for those who wish to act justly; and what does the _Einlösung +Schein_ now amount to??!!! It is even at this moment no equivalent for what +I refused. This affair was pompously announced in all the newspapers while +I was nearly reduced to beggary. The intentions of the Prince are evident, +and in my opinion the family are bound to act in accordance with them +unless they wish to be disgraced. Besides, the revenues have rather +increased than diminished by the death of the Prince; so there is no +sufficient ground for curtailing my salary. + +I received your friendly letter yesterday, but am too weary at this moment +to write all that I feel towards you. I can only commend my case to your +sagacity. It appears that the _Oberstburggraf_ is the chief person; so what +he wrote to the Archduke must be kept a profound secret, for it might not +be advisable that any one should know of it but you and Pasqualati. You +have sufficient cause on looking through the papers to show how improperly +Dr. Wolf has conducted the affair, and that another course of action is +necessary. I rely on your friendship to act as you think best for my +interests. + +Rest assured of my warmest thanks, and pray excuse my writing more to-day, +for a thing of this kind is very fatiguing,--more so than the greatest +musical undertaking. My heart has found something for you to which yours +will respond, and this you shall soon receive. + +Do not forget me, poor tormented creature that I am! and _act for me_ and +_effect for me_ all that is possible. + +With high esteem, your true friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +142. + +TO HERR KAUKA. + +Vienna, Jan. 14, 1815. + +MY GOOD AND WORTHY K.,-- + +The long letter I enclose was written when we were disposed to claim the +1800 florins. Baron Pasqualati's last letter, however, again made me waver, +and Dr. Adlersburg advised me to adhere to the steps already taken; but as +Dr. Wolf writes that he has offered in your name to accept 1500 florins a +year, I beg you will at least make every effort to get that sum. For this +purpose I send you the long letter written before we received Baron P.'s +dissuasive one, as you may discover in it many reasons for demanding _at +least_ the 1500 florins. The Archduke, too, has written a second time to +the _Oberstburggraf_, and we may conclude from his previous reply that he +will certainly exert himself, and that we shall at all events succeed in +getting the 1500 florins. + +Farewell! I cannot write another syllable; such things exhaust me. May your +friendship accelerate this affair!--if it ends badly, then I must leave +Vienna, because I could not possibly live on my income, for here things +have come to such a pass that everything has risen to the highest price, +and that price must be paid. The last two concerts I gave cost me 1508 +florins, and had it not been for the Empress's munificent present I should +scarcely have derived any profit whatever. + +Your faithful friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +143.[1] + +TO THE HONORABLE MEMBERS OF THE LANDRECHT. + +Vienna, 1815. + +GENTLEMEN,-- + +Quite ignorant of law proceedings, and believing that all claims on an +inheritance could not fail to be liquidated, I sent to my lawyer in Prague +[Dr. Kauka] the contract signed by the Archduke Rudolph, Prince Lobkowitz, +and Prince von Kinsky, in which these illustrious personages agreed to +settle on me an annual allowance of 4000 florins. My constant efforts to +obtain a settlement of my claim, and also, as I am bound to admit, my +reproaches to Dr. Kauka for not conducting the affair properly (his +application to the guardians having proved fruitless), no doubt prompted +him to have recourse to law. + +None but those who are fully aware of my esteem for the deceased Prince can +tell how repugnant it is to my feelings to appear as a complainant against +my benefactor. + +Under these circumstances I have recourse to a shorter path, in the +conviction that the guardians of the Prince's estate will be disposed to +mark their appreciation of art, and also their desire to fulfil the +engagements of the late Prince. According to the terms of the contract in +question, the Archduke Rudolph, Prince Lobkowitz, and Prince v. Kinsky +granted me these 4000 florins until I should obtain a situation of equal +value; and further, if by misfortune or old age I was prevented exercising +my art, these distinguished contracting parties secured this pension to me +for life, while I, in return, pledged myself not to leave Vienna. + +This promise was generous, and equally generous was its fulfilment, for no +difficulty ever occurred, and I was in the peaceful enjoyment of my pension +till the Imperial Finance Patent appeared. The consequent alteration in the +currency made no difference in the payments of the Archduke Rudolph, for I +received his share in _Einlösung Schein_, as I had previously done in +bank-notes, without any reference to the new scale. The late illustrious +Prince v. Kinsky also at once assured me that his share (1800 florins) +should also be paid in _Einlösung Schein_. As however, he omitted giving +the order to his cashier, difficulties arose on the subject. Although my +circumstances are not brilliant, I would not have ventured to bring this +claim before the notice of the guardians of the estate, if respectable, +upright men had not received the same pledge from the late Prince's own +lips, namely, that he would pay my past as well as my future claims in +Vienna currency, which is proved by the papers B, C, D, appended to the +pleas. Under these circumstances I leave the guardians to judge whether, +after so implicitly relying on the promise of the deceased Prince, I have +not cause to complain of my delicacy being wounded by the objection +advanced by the curators to the witnesses, from their not having been +present together at the time the promise was made, which is most +distressing to my feelings. + +In order to extricate myself from this most disagreeable lawsuit, I take +the liberty to give an assurance to the guardians that I am prepared, both +as to the past and the future, to be satisfied with the 1800 florins, +Vienna currency; and I flatter myself that these gentlemen will admit that +I on my part make thus no small sacrifice, as it was solely from my esteem +for those illustrious Princes that I selected Vienna for my settled abode, +at a time when the most advantageous offers were made to me elsewhere. + +I therefore request the Court to submit this proposal to the guardians of +the Kinsky estates for their opinion, and to be so good as to inform me of +the result. + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: See No. 94. On the 18th January, 1815, the Court of Justice at +Prague decreed that the trustees of Prince Kinsky's estate should pay to L. +v. Beethoven the sum of 1200 florins W.W. from November 3d, 1812, instead +of the original written agreement of 1800 florins. Dr. Constant, of +Wurzbach, in his _Biographical Austrian Lexicon_, states that Beethoven +dedicated his splendid song _An die Hoffnung_, Op. 94, to Princess Kinsky, +wife of Prince Ferdinand Kinsky, who died in 1812.] + + +144. + +TO BARON VON PASQUALATI. + +January, 1815. + +MY ESTEEMED FRIEND,-- + +I beg you will kindly send me by the bearer the proper form for the Kinsky +receipt (_but sealed_) for 600 florins half-yearly from the month of April. +I intend to send the receipt forthwith to Dr. Kauka in Prague,[1] who on a +former occasion procured the money for me so quickly. I will deduct your +debt from this, but if it be possible to get the money here before the +remittance arrives from Prague, I will bring it at once to you myself. + +I remain, with the most profound esteem, + +Your sincere friend, + +BEETHOVEN + +[Footnote 1: This man, now ninety-four years of age and quite blind, was at +that time Beethoven's counsel in Prague. Pasqualati was that benefactor of +Beethoven's who always kept rooms for him in his house on the Mölker +Bastei, and whose kind aid never deserted him to the close of his life.] + + +145. + +TO HERR KAUKA. + +Vienna, Feb. 24, 1815. + +MY MUCH ESTEEMED K.,-- + +I have repeatedly thanked you through Baron Pasqualati for your friendly +exertions on my behalf, and I now beg to express one thousand thanks +myself. The intervention of the Archduke could not be very palatable to +you, and perhaps has prejudiced you against me. You had already done all +that was possible when the Archduke interfered. If this had been the case +sooner, and we had not employed that one-sided, or many-sided, or +weak-sided Dr. Wolf, then, according to the assurances of the +_Oberstburggraf_ himself, the affair might have had a still more favorable +result. I shall therefore ever and always be grateful to you for your +services. The Court now deduct the sixty ducats I mentioned of my own +accord, and to which the late Prince never alluded either to his treasurer +or any one else. Where truth could injure me it has been accepted, so why +reject it when it could have benefited me? How unfair! Baron Pasqualati +requires information from you on various points. + +I am again very tired to-day, having been obliged to discuss many things +with poor P.; such matters exhaust me more than the greatest efforts in +composition. It is a new field, the soil of which I ought not to be +required to till. This painful business has cost me many tears and much +sorrow. The time draws near when Princess Kinsky must be written to. Now I +must conclude. How rejoiced shall I be when I can write you the pure +effusions of my heart once more; and this I mean to do as soon as I am +extricated from all these troubles. Pray accept again my heartfelt thanks +for all that you have done for me, and continue your regard for + +Your attached friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +146. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1815. + +I heard yesterday, and it was indeed confirmed by meeting Count Troyer, +that Y.R.H. is now here. I therefore send the dedication of the Trio [in B +flat] to Y.R.H., whose name is inscribed on it; but all my works on which I +place any value, though the name does not appear, are equally designed for +Y.R.H. I trust, however, that you will not think I have a motive in saying +this,--men of high rank being apt to suspect self-interest in such +expressions,--and I mean on this occasion to risk the imputation so far as +_appearances_ go, by at once asking a favor of Y.R.H. My well-grounded +reasons for so doing you will no doubt at once perceive, and graciously +vouchsafe to grant my request. I have been very much indisposed in Baden +since the beginning of last October; indeed, from the 5th of October I have +been entirely confined to my bed, or to my room, till about a week ago. I +had a very serious inflammatory cold, and am still able to go out very +little, which has also been the cause of my not writing to Y.R.H. in +Kremsir. May all the blessings that Heaven can shower upon earth attend +you. + +[K.] + + + + +SECOND PART. + + +LIFE'S MISSION. + +1815 TO 1822. + + + + +PART II. + + +147. + +WRITTEN IN SPOHR'S ALBUM.[1] + +Vienna, March 3, 1815. + +[Music: Treble clef, F Major, 3/4 time. +Kurz, kurz, kurz, kurz ist der Schmerz, der Schmerz, +e-wig, e-wig ist die Freu-de, ist die Freu-de, +ja die Freu-de, e-wig ist die Freu-de. +Kurz, kurz, kurz, kurz ist der Schmerz, der Schmerz, der Schmerz, +e-wig, e-wig ist die Freu-de, ist die Freu-de, +e-wig ist die Freude, e-wig, e-wig ist die Freu-de. +Kurz, kurz, kurz, kurz ist der Schmerz, der Schmerz, der Schmerz, +e-wig, e-wig ist die Freude, e-wig ist die Freu-de.] + +Whenever, dear Spohr, you chance to find true art and true artists, may you +kindly remember + +Your friend, + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: From the fac-simile in Spohr's _Autobiography_, Vol. I.] + + +148. + +TO HERR KAUKA. + +Vienna, April 8, 1815. + +It seems scarcely admissible to be on the friendly terms on which I +consider myself with you, and yet to be on such unfriendly ones that we +should live close to each other and never meet!!!!![1] You write "_tout à +vous_." Oh! you humbug! said I. No! no! it is really too bad. I should like +to thank you 9000 times for all your efforts on my behalf, and to reproach +you 20,000 that you came and went as you did. So all is a delusion! +friendship, kingdom, empire; all is only a vapor which every breeze wafts +into a different form!! Perhaps I may go to Töplitz, but it is not certain. +I might take advantage of that opportunity to let the people of Prague hear +something--what think you? if _indeed you still think of me at all_! As the +affair with Lobkowitz is now also come to a close, we may write _Finis_, +though it far from _fine is_ for me. + +Baron Pasqualati will no doubt soon call on you again; he also has taken +much trouble on my account. Yes, indeed! it is easy to talk of _justice_, +but to obtain it from others is _no easy matter_. In what way can I be of +service to you in my own art? Say whether you prefer my celebrating the +monologue of a fugitive king, or the perjury of a usurper--or the true +friends, who, though near neighbors, never saw each other? In the hope of +soon hearing from you--for being now so far asunder it is easier to hold +intercourse than when nearer!--I remain, with highest esteem, + +Your ever-devoted friend, + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Kauka evidently had been recently in Vienna without visiting +Beethoven.] + + +149. + +TO HERR KAUKA. + +1815. + +MY DEAR AND WORTHY K.,-- + +I have just received from the Syndic Baier in R. the good news that you +told him yourself about Prince F.K. As for the rest, you shall be perfectly +satisfied. + +I take the liberty to ask you again to look after my interests with the +Kinsky family, and I subjoin the necessary receipt for this purpose [see +No. 144]. Perhaps some other way may be found, though it does not as yet +occur to me, by means of which I need not importune you in future. On the +15th October [1815] I was attacked by an inflammatory cold, from the +consequences of which I still suffer, and my art likewise; but it is to be +hoped that I shall now gradually recover, and at all events be able once +more to display the riches of my little realm of sweet sounds. Yet I am +very poor in all else--owing to the times? to poverty of spirit? or +what???? Farewell! Everything around disposes us to _profound silence_; but +this shall not be the case as to the bond of friendship and soul that +unites us. I loudly proclaim myself, now as ever, + +Your loving friend and admirer, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +150. + +TO HERR KAUKA. + +1815. + +MY MOST WORTHY FRIEND,-- + +My second letter follows that of yesterday, May 2d. Pasqualati tells me +to-day, after the lapse of a month and six days, that the house of +Ballabene is too _high and mighty_ to assist me in this matter. I must +therefore appeal to your _insignificance_ (as I myself do not hesitate to +be so mean as to serve other people). My house-rent amounts to 550 florins, +and must be paid out of the sum in question. + +As soon as the newly engraved pianoforte pieces appear, you shall receive +copies, and also of the "Battle," &c., &c. Forgive me, forgive me, my +generous friend; some other means must be found to forward this affair with +due promptitude. + +In haste, your friend and admirer, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +151. + +TO MR. SALOMON,--LONDON.[1] + +Vienna, June 1, 1815. + +MY GOOD FELLOW-COUNTRYMAN,-- + +I always hoped to meet you one day in London, but many obstacles have +intervened to prevent the fulfilment of this wish, and as there seems now +no chance of such a thing, I hope you will not refuse a request of mine, +which is that you will be so obliging as to apply to some London publisher, +and offer him the following works of mine. Grand Trio for piano, violin, +and violoncello [Op. 97], 80 ducats. Pianoforte Sonata, with violin +accompaniment [Op. 96], 60 ducats. Grand Symphony in A (one of my very +best); a short Symphony in F [the 8th]; Quartet for two violins, viola, and +violoncello in F minor [Op. 95]; Grand Opera in score, 30 ducats. Cantata +with Choruses and Solos ["The Glorious Moment"], 30 ducats. Score of the +"Battle of Vittoria" and "Wellington's Victory," 80 ducats; also the +pianoforte arrangement of the same, if not already published, which, I am +told here, is the case. I have named the prices of some of these works, on +a scale which I hold to be suitable for England, but I leave it to you to +say what sum should be asked both for these and the others. I hear, indeed, +that Cramer [John, whose pianoforte-playing was highly estimated by +Beethoven] is also a publisher, but my scholar Ries lately wrote to me that +Cramer not long since _publicly expressed his disapproval of my works_: I +trust from no motive but that of _being of service to art_, and if so I +have no right to object to his doing this. If, however, Cramer should wish +to possess any of my _pernicious_ works, I shall be as well satisfied with +him as with any other publisher; but I reserve the right to give these +works to be published here, so that they may appear at the same moment in +London and Vienna. + +Perhaps you may also be able to point out to me in what way I can recover +from the Prince Regent [afterwards George IV.] the expenses of transcribing +the "Battle Symphony" on Wellington's victory at Vittoria, to be dedicated +to him, for I have long ago given up all hope of receiving anything from +that quarter. I have not even been deemed worthy of an answer, whether I am +to be authorized to dedicate the work to the Prince Regent; and when at +last I propose to publish it here, I am informed that it has already +appeared in London. What a fatality for an author!!! While the English and +German papers are filled with accounts of the success of the work, as +performed at Drury Lane, and that theatre drawing great receipts from it, +the author has not one friendly line to show, not even payment for the cost +of copying the work, and is thus deprived of all profit.[2] For if it be +true that the pianoforte arrangement is soon to be published by a German +publisher, copied from the London one, then I lose both my fame and my +_honorarium_. The well-known generosity of your character leads me to hope +that you will take some interest in the matter, and actively exert yourself +on my behalf. + +The inferior paper-money of this country is now reduced to one fifth of its +value, and I am paid according to this scale. After many struggles and +considerable loss, I at length succeeded in obtaining the full value; but +at this moment the old paper-money has again risen far beyond the fifth +part, so that it is evident my salary becomes for the second time almost +_nil_, and there is no hope of any compensation. My whole income is derived +from my works. If I could rely on a good sale in England, it would +doubtless be very beneficial to me. Pray be assured of my boundless +gratitude. I hope soon, very soon, to hear from you. + +I am, with esteem, your sincere friend, + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: J.P. Salomon was likewise a native of Bonn, and one of the +most distinguished violin-players of his time. He had been Kapellmeister to +Prince Heinrich of Prussia, and then went to London, where he was very +active in the introduction of German music. It was through his agency that +Beethoven's connection with Birchall, the music publisher, first commenced, +to whom a number of his letters are addressed.] + +[Footnote 2: Undoubtedly the true reading of these last words, which in the +copy before me are marked as "difficult to decipher."] + + +152. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1815. + +Pray forgive my asking Y.R.H. to send me the two Sonatas with violin +_obbligato_[1] which I caused to be transcribed for Y.R.H. I require them +only for a few days, when I will immediately return them. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: If by the two Sonatas for the pianoforte with violoncello +_obbligato_, Op. 102 is meant, they were composed in July-August, 1815, and +appeared on Jan. 13th, 1819. The date of the letter appears also to be +1815.] + + +153. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1815. + +I beg you will kindly send me the Sonata in E minor,[1] as I wish to +correct it. On Monday I shall inquire for Y.R.H. in person. _Recent +occurrences_[2] render it indispensable to complete many works of mine +about to be engraved as quickly as possible; besides, my health is only +partially restored. I earnestly entreat Y.R.H. to desire _some one_ to +write me a few lines as to the state of your own health. I trust I shall +hear a better--nay, the best report of it. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: The letters 152 and 153 speak sometimes expressly of the +pianoforte Sonata in E minor, Op. 90, these being engraved or under +revision, and sometimes only indicate them. This Sonata, dedicated to Count +Lichnowsky, was composed on August 14th, 1814, and published in June, +1815.] + +[Footnote 2: What "recent occurrences" Beethoven alludes to, unless indeed +his well-known misfortunes as to his salary and guardianship we cannot +discover.] + + +154. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1815. + +You must almost think my illness a mere fiction, but that is assuredly not +the case. I am obliged always to come home early in the evening. The first +time that Y.R.H. was graciously pleased to send for me, I came home +immediately afterwards, but feeling much better since then, I made an +attempt the evening before last to stay out a little later. If Y.R.H. does +not countermand me, I intend to have the honor of waiting on you this +evening at five o'clock. I will bring the new Sonata with me, merely for +to-day, for it is so soon to be engraved that it is not worth while to have +it written out. + +[K.] + + +155. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1815. + +I intended to have given you this letter myself, but my personal attendance +might possibly be an intrusion; so I take the liberty once more to urge on +Y.R.H. the request it contains. I should also be glad if Y.R.H. would send +me back my last MS. Sonata, for as I _must_ publish it, it would be labor +lost to have it transcribed, and I shall soon have the pleasure of +presenting it to you engraved. I will call again in a few days. I trust +these joyous times may have a happy influence on your precious health. + +[K.] + + +156. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +Vienna, July 23, 1815. + +When you were recently in town, the enclosed Chorus[1] occurred to me. I +hurried home to write it down, but was detained longer in doing so than I +at first expected, and thus, to my great sorrow, I missed Y.R.H. The bad +custom I have followed from childhood, instantly to write down my first +thoughts, otherwise they not unfrequently go astray, has been an injury to +me on this occasion. I therefore send Y.R.H. my impeachment and my +justification, and trust I may find grace in your eyes. I hope soon to +present myself before Y.R.H., and to inquire after a health so precious to +us all. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: In 1815 the Chorus of _Die Meeresstille_ was composed by +Beethoven. Was this the chorus which occurred to him? The style of the +letter leaves his meaning quite obscure.] + + +157. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1815. + +It is neither presumption, nor the pretension of advocating any one's +cause, still less from the wish of arrogating to myself the enjoyment of +any especial favor with Y.R.H., that induces me to make a suggestion which +is in itself very simple. Old Kraft[1] was with me yesterday; he wished to +know if it were possible for him to be lodged in your palace, in return for +which he would be at Y.R.H.'s service as often as you please it. He has +lived for twenty years in the house of Prince Lobkowitz, and during a great +part of that time he received no salary; he is now obliged to vacate his +rooms without receiving any compensation whatever. The position of the poor +deserving old man is hard, and I should have considered myself equally +hard, had I not ventured to lay his case before you. Count Troyer will +request an answer from Y.R.H. As the object in view is to brighten the lot +of a fellow-creature, pray forgive your, &c., &c. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: Old Kraft was a clever violoncello-player who had an +appointment in Prince Lobkowitz's band, but when the financial crisis +occurred in the Prince's affairs he lost his situation, and was obliged to +give up his lodging.] + + +158. + +WRITTEN IN ENGLISH TO MR. BIRCHALL, MUSIC PUBLISHER, LONDON. + +Mr. Beethoven send word to Mr. Birchall that it is severall days past that +he has sent for London Wellington's Battel Sinphonie and that Mr. +B[irchall] may send for it at Thomas Coutts. Mr. Beethoven wish Mr. B. +would make ingrave the sayd Sinphonie so soon as possible and send him word +in time the day it will be published that he may prevend in time the +Publisher in Vienna. + +In regard the 3. Sonata which Mr. Birchall receive afterwerths there is not +wanted such a g't hurry and Mr. B. will take the liberty to fixe the day +when the are to be published. + +Mr. B[irchall] sayd that Mr. Salomon has a good many tings to say +concerning the Synphonie in G [? A]. + +Mr. B[eethoven] wish for a answer so soon as possible concerning the days +of the publication. + + +159. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +October 16, 1815. + +I only wish to let you know that I am _here_, and not _elsewhere_, and wish +in return to hear if you are _elsewhere_ or _here_. I should be glad to +speak to you for a few minutes when I know that you are at home and alone. +_Farewell_--but not _too well_--sublime Commandant Pacha of various +mouldering fortresses!!! + +In haste, your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +160. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +Nov. 16, 1815. + +Since yesterday afternoon I have been lying in a state of exhaustion, owing +to my great distress of mind caused by the sudden death of my unhappy +brother. It was impossible for me to send an answer to Y.R.H. yesterday, +and I trust you will graciously receive my present explanation. I expect, +however, certainly to wait on Y.R.H. to-morrow. + +[K.] + + +161. + +TO THE MESSRS. BIRCHALL,--LONDON. + +Vienna, Nov. 22, 1815. + +You will herewith receive the pianoforte arrangement of the Symphony in A. +"Wellington's Battle Symphony," and "Victory at Vittoria" were sent a month +since, through Herr Neumann, to the care of Messrs. Coutts; so you have no +doubt received them long ere this. + +In the course of a fortnight you shall have the Trio and Sonata, when you +are requested to pay into the hands of Messrs. Coutts the sum of 130 gold +ducats. I beg you will make no delay in bringing out these works, and +likewise let me know on what day the "Wellington Symphony" is to appear, so +that I may take my measures here accordingly. I am, with esteem, + +Your obedient + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +162. + +TO RIES. + +Vienna, Wednesday, Nov. 22, 1815. + +MY DEAR RIES,-- + +I hasten to apprise you that I have to-day forwarded by post the pianoforte +arrangement of the Symphony in A, to the care of Messrs Coutts. As the +Court is absent, few, indeed almost no couriers go from here; moreover, the +post is the safest way. The Symphony ought to be brought out about March; +the precise day I will fix myself. So much time has already been lost on +this occasion that I could not give an earlier notice of the period of +publication. The Trio in [??] and the violin Sonata may be allowed more +time, and both will be in London a few weeks hence. I earnestly entreat +you, dear Ries, to take charge of these matters, and also to see that I get +the money; I require it, and it costs me a good deal before all is sent +off. + +I have lost 600 florins of my yearly salary; at the time of the +_bank-notes_ there was no loss, but then came the _Einlösungsscheine_ +[reduced paper-money], which deprives me of these 600 florins, after +entailing on me several years of annoyance, and now the total loss of my +salary. We are at present arrived at a point when the _Einlösungsscheine_ +are even lower than the _bank-notes_ ever were. I pay 1000 florins for +house-rent: you may thus conceive all the misery caused by paper-money. + +My poor unhappy brother [Carl v. Beethoven, a cashier in Vienna] is just +dead [Nov. 15th, 1815]; he had a bad wife. For some years past he has been +suffering from consumption, and from my wish to make his life less irksome +I may compute what I gave him at 10,000 florins (_Wiener Währung_). This +indeed does not seem much to an Englishman, but it is a great deal for a +poor German, or rather Austrian. The unhappy man was latterly much changed, +and I must say I lament him from my heart, though I rejoice to think I left +nothing undone that could contribute to his comfort. + +Tell Mr. Birchall that he is to repay the postage of my letters to you and +Mr. Salomon, and also yours to me; he may deduct this from the sum he owes +me; I am anxious that those who work for me should lose as little as +possible by it. "Wellington's Victory at Vittoria"[1] must have arrived +long ago through the Messrs. Coutts. Mr. Birchall need not send payment +till he is in possession of all the works; only do not delay letting me +know when the day is fixed for the publication of the pianoforte +arrangement. For to-day, I only further earnestly recommend my affairs to +your care; I shall be equally at your service at any time. Farewell, dear +Ries. + +Your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: "This is also to be the title of the pianoforte arrangement." +(Note by Beethoven.)] + + +163. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +Jan. 1816. + +MY GOOD ZMESKALL,-- + +I was shocked to discover to-day that I had omitted replying to a proposal +from the "Society of Friends to Music in the Austrian States" to write an +Oratorio for them. + +The death of my brother two months ago, which, owing to the guardianship of +my nephew having devolved on me, has involved me in all sorts of annoyances +and perplexities, has caused this delay in my answer. In the mean time, the +poem of Herr van Seyfried is already begun, and I purpose shortly to set it +to music. I need not tell you how very flattering I consider such a +commission, for how could I think otherwise? and I shall endeavor to acquit +myself as honorably as my poor talents will admit of. + +_With regard to our artistic resources_, when the time for the performance +arrives I shall certainly take into consideration those usually at our +disposal, without, however, strictly limiting myself to them. I hope I have +made myself clearly understood on this point. As I am urged to say what +gratuity I require in return, I beg to know whether the Society will +consider 400 gold ducats a proper remuneration for such a work? I once more +entreat the forgiveness of the Society for the delay in my answer, but I am +in some degree relieved by knowing that, at all events, you, my dear +friend, have already verbally apprised the Society of my readiness to write +a work of the kind.[1] + +Ever, my worthy Z., your + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: In the _Fischof'sche Handschrift_ we are told:--"The allusion +to 'our artistic resources' requires some explanation. Herr v. Zmeskall had +at that time received instructions to give a hint to the great composer +(who paid little regard to the difficulty of executing his works) that he +must absolutely take into consideration the size of the orchestra, which at +grand concerts amounted to 700 performers. The Society only stipulated for +the exclusive right to the work for one year, and did not purchase the +copyright; they undertook the gratuity for the poem also, so they were +obliged to consult their pecuniary resources, and informed the composer +that they were prepared to give him 200 gold ducats for the use of the work +for a year, as they had proposed. Beethoven was quite satisfied, and made +no objection whatever; he received an advance on this sum according to his +own wish, the receipt of which he acknowledged in 1819. Beethoven rejected +the first poem selected, and desired to have another. The Society left his +choice quite free. Herr Bernhard undertook to supply a new one. Beethoven +and he consulted together in choosing the subject, but Herr Bernhard, +overburdened by other business, could only send the poem bit by bit. +Beethoven, however, would not begin till the whole was in his hands."] + + +164. + +TO MDLLE. MILDER-HAUPTMANN.[1] + +Vienna, Jan. 6, 1816. + +MY HIGHLY VALUED MDLLE. MILDER, MY DEAR FRIEND,-- + +I have too long delayed writing to you. How gladly would I personally +participate in the enthusiasm you excite at Berlin in "Fidelio!" A thousand +thanks on my part for having so faithfully adhered to _my_ "Fidelio." If +you will ask Baron de la Motte-Fouqué, in my name, to discover a good +subject for an opera, and one suitable likewise to yourself, you will do a +real service both to me and to the German stage; it is also my wish to +write it expressly for the _Berlin Theatre_, as no new opera can ever +succeed in being properly given here under this very penurious direction. +Answer me soon, very soon--quickly, very quickly--as quickly as +possible--as quick as lightning--and say whether such a thing is +practicable. Herr Kapellmeister B. praised you up to the skies to me, and +he is right; well may he esteem himself happy who has the privilege of +enjoying your muse, your genius, and all your splendid endowments and +talents;--it is thus I feel. Be this as it may, those around can only call +themselves your fellow-creatures [Nebenmann], whereas I alone have a right +to claim the honored name of captain [_Hauptmann_]. + +In my secret heart, your true friend and admirer, + +BEETHOVEN. + +My poor unfortunate brother is dead, which has been the cause of my long +silence. As soon as you have replied to this letter, I will write myself to +Baron de la Motte-Fouqué. No doubt your influence in Berlin will easily +obtain for me a commission to write a grand opera (in which you shall be +especially studied) on favorable terms; but do answer me soon, that I may +arrange my other occupations accordingly. + +[Music: Tenor clef, C Major, 4/4 time. +Ich küs-se Sie, drü-cke Sie an's Herz! +Ich der Haupt-mann, der Haupt-mann.] + +Away with all other false _Hauptmänner_! [captains.] + +[Footnote 1: Mdlle. Milder married Hauptmann, a jeweller in Munich, in +1810, travelled in 1812, and was engaged at Berlin in 1816.] + + +165. + +TO RIES + +Vienna, Jan. 20, 1816. + +DEAR RIES,-- + +The Symphony is to be dedicated to the Empress of Russia. The pianoforte +score of the Symphony in A must not, however, appear before June, for the +publisher here cannot be ready sooner. Pray, dear Ries, inform Mr. Birchall +of this at once. The Sonata with violin accompaniment, which will be sent +from here by the next post, can likewise be published in London in May, but +the Trio at a later date (it follows by the next post); I will myself name +the time for its publication. And now, dear Ries, pray receive my heartfelt +thanks for your kindness, and especially for the corrections of the proofs. +May Heaven bless you more and more, and promote your progress, in which I +take the most sincere interest. My kind regards to your wife. Now as ever, + +Your sincere friend, + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +166. + +TO MR. BIRCHALL,--LONDON. + +Vienne, le 3. Febr. den 1816 + +VOUS RECEUES CI JOINT-- + +Le grand Trio p. Pf. V. et Vllo. Sonata pour Pf. et Violin--qui form le +reste de ce qu'il vous a plus à me comettre. Je vous prie de vouloir payer +la some de 130 Ducats d'Holland come le poste lettre a Mr. Th. Cutts et Co. +de votre ville e de me croire avec toute l'estime et consideration + +Votre tres humble Serviteur, + +LOUIS VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +167. + +TO CZERNY.[1] + +MY DEAR CZERNY,-- + +Pray give the enclosed to your parents for the dinners the boy had recently +at your house; I positively will not accept these _gratis_. Moreover, I am +very far from wishing that your lessons should remain without +remuneration,--even those already given must be reckoned up and paid for; +only I beg you to have a little patience for a time, as nothing can be +_demanded_ from the widow, and I had and still have heavy expenses to +defray;--but I _borrow_ from you for the moment only. The boy is to be with +you to-day, and I shall come later. + +Your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Carl Czerny, the celebrated pianist and composer, for whom +Beethoven wrote a testimonial in 1805 (see No. 42). He gave lessons to +Beethoven's nephew in 1815, and naturally protested against any payment, +which gave rise to the expressions on the subject in many of his notes to +Czerny, of which there appear to be a great number.] + + +168. + +TO CZERNY.[1] + +Vienna, Feb. 12, 1816. + +DEAR CZERNY,-- + +I cannot see you to-day, but I will call to-morrow being desirous to talk +to you. I spoke out so bluntly yesterday that I much regretted it +afterwards. But you must forgive this on the part of an author, who would +have preferred hearing his work as he wrote it, however charmingly you +played it. I will, however, _amply_ atone for this by the violoncello +Sonata.[2] + +Rest assured that I cherish the greatest regard for you as an artist, and I +shall always endeavor to prove this. + +Your true friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Czerny, in the _A.M. Zeitung_, 1845, relates:--"On one +occasion (in 1812), at Schuppanzigh's concert, when playing Beethoven's +quintet with wind-instruments, I took the liberty, in my youthful levity, +to make many alterations,--such as introducing difficulties into the +passages, making use of the upper octaves, &c., &c. Beethoven sternly and +deservedly reproached me for this, in the presence of Schuppanzigh, Linke, +and the other performers."] + +[Footnote 2: Opera 69, which Czerny (see _A.M. Zeitung_) was to perform +with Linke the following week.] + + +169. + +TO RIES,--LONDON. + +Vienna, Feb. 28, 1816. + +... For some time past I have been far from well; the loss of my brother +affected both my spirits and my works. Salomon's death grieves me much, as +he was an excellent man whom I have known from my childhood. You are his +executor by will, while I am the guardian of my late poor brother's child. +You can scarcely have had as much vexation from Salomon's death as I have +had from that of my brother!--but I have the sweet consolation of having +rescued a poor innocent child from the hands of an unworthy mother. +Farewell, dear Ries; if I can in any way serve you, look on me as + +Your true friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +170. + +TO GIANNATASIO DEL RIO,--VIENNA. + +Feb. 1816. + +SIR,-- + +I have great pleasure in saying that at last I intend to-morrow to place +under your care the dear pledge intrusted to me. But I must impress on you +not to permit any influence on the mother's part to decide when and where +she is to see her son. We can, however, discuss all this more minutely +to-morrow.... You must keep a watchful eye on your servant, for mine was +_bribed by her_ on one occasion. More as to this verbally, though it is a +subject on which I would fain be silent; but the future welfare of the +youth you are to train renders this unpleasant communication necessary. I +remain, with esteem, + +Your faithful servant and friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +171. + +TO G. DEL RIO. + +1816. + +Your estimable lady, Mdme. A.G. [Giannatasio] is politely requested to let +the undersigned know as soon as possible (that I may not be obliged to keep +it all in my head) how many pairs of stockings, trousers, shoes, and +drawers are required, and how many yards of kerseymere to make a pair of +black trousers for my tall nephew; and for the sake of the "Castalian +Spring" I beg, without any further reminders on my part, that I may receive +an answer to this. + +As for the Lady Abbess [a nickname for their only daughter], there shall be +a conference held on Carl's affair to-night, viz., if things are to +continue as they are. + +Your well (and ill) born + +BEETHOVEN. + + +172. + +TO G. DEL RIO. + +1816. + +I heard yesterday evening, unluckily at too late an hour, that you had +something to give me; had it not been for this, I would have called on you. +I beg, however, that you will send it, as I have no doubt it is a letter +for me from the "Queen of the Night."[1] Although you gave me permission to +fetch Carl twice already, I must ask you to let him come to me when I send +for him at eleven o'clock to-morrow, as I wish to take him with me to hear +some interesting music. It is also my intention to make him play to me +to-morrow, as it is now some time since I heard him. I hope you will urge +him to study more closely than usual to-day, that he may in some degree +make up for his holiday. I embrace you cordially, and remain, + +Yours truly, + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: The "Queen of the Night" was the name given to Carl's mother +by Beethoven. She was a person of great levity of conduct and bad +reputation, and every effort was made by Beethoven to withdraw her son from +her influence, on which account he at once removed him from her care, and +placed him in this institution. She consequently appealed to the law +against him,--the first step in a long course of legal proceedings of the +most painful nature.] + + +173. + +TO G. DEL RIO.[1] + +1816. + +I send you, dear sir, the cloak, and also a school-book of my Carl's, and +request you will make out a list of his clothes and effects, that I may +have it copied for myself, being obliged, as his guardian, to look +carefully after his property. I intend to call for Carl to-morrow about +half-past twelve o'clock, to take him to a little concert, and wish him to +dine with me afterwards, and shall bring him back myself. With respect to +his mother, I desire that _under the pretext_ of the boy being _so busy_, +you will not let her see him; no man on earth can know or judge of this +matter better than myself, and by any other line of conduct all my +well-matured plans for the welfare of the child might be materially +injured. I will myself discuss with you when the mother is henceforth to +have access to Carl, for I am anxious on every account to prevent the +occurrence of yesterday ever being repeated. I take all the responsibility +on myself; indeed, so far as I am concerned, the Court conferred on me full +powers, and the authority at once to counteract anything adverse to the +welfare of the boy. If they could have looked on her in the light of an +estimable mother, they assuredly would not have excluded her from the +guardianship of her child. Whatever she may think fit to assert, nothing +has been done in a clandestine manner against her. There was but one voice +in the whole council on the subject. I hope to have no further trouble in +this matter, for the burden is already heavy enough. + +From a conversation I had yesterday with Adlersburg [his lawyer], it would +appear that a long time must yet elapse before the Court can decide what +really belongs to the child. In addition to all these anxieties am I also +to endure a persecution such as I have recently experienced, and from which +I thought I _was entirely rescued by your Institution_? Farewell! + +I am, with esteem, your obedient + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Beethoven's arbitrary authority had been previously sanctioned +by a decree of the Court, and the mother deprived of all power over her +son.] + + +174. + +TO FERDINAND RIES,--LONDON. + +Vienna, March 8, 1816. + +My answer has been too long delayed; but I was ill, and had a great press +of business. Not a single farthing is yet come of the ten gold ducats, and +I now almost begin to think that the English are only liberal when in +foreign countries. It is the same with the Prince Regent, who has not even +sent me the cost of copying my "Battle Symphony," nor one verbal or written +expression of thanks. My whole income consists of 3400 florins in +paper-money. I pay 1100 for house-rent, and 900 to my servant and his wife; +so you may reckon for yourself what remains. Besides this, the entire +maintenance of my young nephew devolves on me. At present he is at school, +which costs 1100 florins, and is by no means a good one; so that I must +arrange a proper household and have him with me. How much money must be +made to live at all here! and yet there seems no end to +it--because!--because!--because!--but you know well what I mean. + +Some commissions from the Philharmonic would be very acceptable to me, +besides, the concert. Now let me say that my dear scholar Ries must set to +work and dedicate something valuable to me, to which his master may +respond, and repay him in his own coin. How can I send you my portrait? My +kind regards to your wife. I, alas! have none. One alone I wished to +possess, but never shall I call her mine![1] This, however, has not made me +a woman-hater. + +Your true friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: See the statement of Fräulein del Rio in the _Grenzboten_. We +read:--"My father's idea was that marriage alone could remedy the sad +condition of Beethoven's household matters; so he asked him whether he knew +any one, &c., &c. Our long-existing presentiment was then realized." His +love was unfortunate. Five years ago he had become acquainted with a person +with whom he would have esteemed it the highest felicity of his life to +have entered into closer ties; but it was vain to think of it, being almost +an impossibility! a chimera! and yet his feelings remained the same as the +very first day he had seen her! He added, "that never before had he found +such harmony! but no declaration had ever been made, not being able to +prevail on himself to do so." This conversation took place in Sept. 1816, +at Helenenthal, in Baden, and the person to whom he alluded was undoubtedly +Marie L. Pachler-Koschak in Gratz. (See No. 80.)] + + +175. + +TO F. RIES. + +Vienna, April 3, 1816. + +Neate[1] is no doubt in London by this time. He took several of my works +with him, and promised to do the best he could for me. + +The Archduke Rudolph [Beethoven's pupil, see No. 70] also plays your works +with me, my dear Ries; of these "Il Sogno" especially pleased us. Farewell! +Remember me to your charming wife, and to any fair English ladies who care +to receive my greetings. + +Your true friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Charles Neate, a London artist, as Schindler styles him in his +_Biography_ (II. 254), was on several different occasions for some time +resident in Vienna, and very intimate with Beethoven, whom he tried to +persuade to come to London. He also was of great service in promoting the +sale of his works. A number of Neate's letters, preserved in the Berlin +State Library, testify his faithful and active devotion and attachment to +the master.] + + +176. + +POWER OF ATTORNEY. + +Vienna, May 2, 1816. + +I authorize Herr v. Kauka, Doctor of Laws in the kingdom of Bohemia, +relying on his friendship, to obtain for me the receipt of 600 florins +W.W., payable at the treasury of Prince Kinsky, from the house of Ballabene +in Prague, and after having drawn the money to transmit the same to me as +soon as possible. + +Witness my hand and seal. + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +177. + +TO F. RIES. + +Vienna, June 11, 1816. + +MY DEAR RIES,-- + +I regret much to put you to the expense of postage on my account; gladly as +I assist and serve every one, I am always unwilling myself to have recourse +to others. I have as yet seen nothing of the ten ducats, whence I draw the +inference that in England, just as with us, there are idle talkers who +prove false to their word. I do not at all blame you in this matter. I have +not heard a syllable from Neate; so I do wish you would ask him whether he +has disposed of the F minor Concerto. I am almost ashamed to allude to the +other works I intrusted to him, and equally so of myself, for having given +them to him so confidingly, devoid of all conditions save those suggested +by his own friendship and zeal for my interests. + +A translation has been sent to me of an article in the "Morning Chronicle" +on the performance of the Symphony. Probably it will be the same as to this +and all the other works Neate took with him as with the "Battle Symphony;" +the only profit I shall derive will be reading a notice of their +performance in the newspapers. + + +178. + +TO G. DEL RIO. + +1816. + +MY WORTHY G.,-- + +I beg you will send Carl to me with the bearer of this letter; otherwise I +shall not be able to see him all day, which would be contrary to his own +interest, as my influence seems to be required; in the same view, I beg you +will give him a few lines with a report of his conduct, so that I may enter +at once on any point where improvement is necessary. + +I am going to the country to-day, and shall not return till rather late at +night; being always unwilling to infringe your rules, I beg you will send +some night-things with Carl, so that if we return too late to bring him to +you to-day, I can keep him all night, and take him back to you myself early +next morning. + +In haste, always yours, + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + + +179. + +TO G. DEL RIO. + +1816. + +I must apologize to you, my good friend, for Carl having come home at so +late an hour. We were obliged to wait for a person who arrived so late that +it detained us, but I will not soon repeat this breach of your rules. As to +Carl's mother, I have now decided that your wish not to see her again in +your house shall be acceded to. This course is far more safe and judicious +for our dear Carl, experience having taught me that every visit from his +mother leaves a root of bitterness in the boy's heart, which may injure, +but never can benefit him. I shall strive to arrange occasional meetings at +my house, which is likely to result in everything being entirely broken off +with her. As we thoroughly agree on the subject of Carl's mother, we can +mutually decide on the mode of his education. + +Your true friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +180. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +Vienna, July 11, 1816. + +Your kindness towards me induces me to hope that you will not attribute to +any _selfish_ design on my part the somewhat audacious (though only as to +the surprise) dedication annexed. The work[1] was written for Y.R.H., or +rather, it owes its existence to you, and this the world (the musical +world) ought to know. I shall soon have the honor of waiting on Y.R.H. in +Baden. Notwithstanding all the efforts of my physician, who will not allow +me to leave this, the weakness in my chest is no better, though my general +health is improved. I hope to hear all that is cheering of your own health, +about which I am always so much interested. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: Does Beethoven here allude to the dedication of the Sonata for +pianoforte and violin in G major, Op. 96, which, though sold to a publisher +in April, 1815, was designated as quite new in the _Allgemeine Zeitung_ on +July, 29, 1816?] + + +181. + +WRITTEN IN ENGLISH TO MR. BIRCHALL. + +1816. + +Received, March, 1816, of Mr. Robert Birchall, music-seller, 133 New Bond +Street, London, the sum of one hundred and thirty gold Dutch ducats, value +in English currency sixty-five pounds, for all my copyright and interest, +present and future, vested or contingent, or otherwise within the United +kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland in the four following compositions or +pieces of music composed or arranged by me, viz.:-- + +1st. A Grand Battle Sinfonia, descriptive of the battle and victory at +Vittoria, adapted for the pianoforte and dedicated to his Royal Highness +the Prince Regent--40 ducats. + +2d. A Grand Symphony in the key of A, adapted to the pianoforte and +dedicated to-- + +3d. A Grand Trio for the pianoforte, violin, and violoncello in the key of +B. + +4th. A Sonata for the pianoforte, with an accompaniment for the violin in +the key of G, dedicated to-- + +And, in consideration of such payment I hereby, for myself, my executors, +and administrators, promise and engage to execute a proper anignment +thereof to him, his executors and administrators or anignees, at his or +their request and costs, as he or they shall direct. And I likewise promise +and engage as above, that none of the above shall be published in any +foreign country, before the time and day fixed and agreed on for such +publication between R. Birchall and myself shall arrive. + +L. VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +182. + +WRITTEN IN FRENCH TO MR. BIRCHALL,--LONDON. + +Vienne 22. Juilliet, 1816. + +MONSIEUR,-- + +J'ai reçu la déclaration de proprieté de mes Oeuvres entierement cedé a +Vous pour y adjoindre ma Signature. Je suis tout a fait disposer a seconder +vos voeux si tôt, que cette affaire sera entierement en ordre, en egard de +la petite somme de 10 # d'or la quelle me vient encore pour le fieux de la +Copieture de poste de lettre etc. comme j'avois l'honneur de vous +expliquier dans une note detaillé sur ses objectes. Je vous invite donc +Monsieur de bien vouloir me remettre ces petits objects, pour me mettre +dans l'état de pouvoir vous envoyer le Document susdit. Agrées Monsieur +l'assurance de l'estime la plus parfait avec la quelle j'ai l'honneur de me +dire + +LOUIS VAN BEETHOVEN. + +Copying . . . . 1. 10. 0. +Postage to Amsterdam 1. 0. 0. + ---- Trio . . . 2. 10. -- + ----------- + £5. 0. 0. + + +183. + +TO G. DEL RIO. + +July 28, 1816. + +MY GOOD FRIEND,-- + +Various circumstances compel me to take charge of Carl myself; with this +view permit me to enclose you the amount due at the approaching quarter, at +the expiry of which Carl is to leave you. Do not, I beg, ascribe this to +anything derogatory either to yourself or to your respected institution, +but to other pressing motives connected with Carl's welfare. It is only an +experiment, and when it is actually carried out I shall beg you to fortify +me by your advice, and also to permit Carl sometimes to visit your +institution. I shall always feel the most sincere gratitude to you, and +never can forget your solicitude, and the kind care of your excellent wife, +which has fully equalled that of the best of mothers. I would send you at +least four times the sum I now do, if my position admitted of it; but at +all events I shall avail myself at a future and, I hope, a brighter day, of +every opportunity to acknowledge and to do justice to the foundation _you_ +have laid for the moral and physical good of my Carl. With regard to the +"Queen of the Night," our system must continue the same; and as Carl is +about to undergo an operation in your house which will cause him to feel +indisposed, and consequently make him irritable and susceptible, you must +be more careful than ever to prevent her having access to him; otherwise +she might easily contrive to revive all those impressions in his mind which +we are so anxious to avoid. What confidence can be placed in any promise to +reform on her part, the impertinent scrawl I enclose will best prove [in +reference, no doubt, to an enclosed note]. I send it merely to show you how +fully I am justified in the precautions I have already adopted with regard +to her. On this occasion, however, I did not answer like a Sarastro, but +like a Sultan. I would gladly spare you the anxiety of the operation on +Carl, but as it must take place in your house, I beg you will inform me of +the outlay caused by the affair, and the expenses consequent on it, which I +will thankfully repay. Now farewell! Say all that is kind from me to your +dear children and your excellent wife, to whose continued care I commend my +Carl. I leave Vienna to-morrow at five o'clock A.M., but shall frequently +come in from Baden. + +Ever, with sincere esteem, your + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + + +184. + +TO G. DEL RIO. + +Mdme. A.G. is requested to order several pairs of good linen drawers for +Carl. I intrust Carl to her kindness, and entirely rely on her motherly +care. + + +185. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +Baden, September 5, 1816. + +DEAR Z.,-- + +I don't know whether you received a note that I recently left on the +threshold of your door, for the time was too short to enable me to see you. +I must therefore repeat my request about another servant, as the conduct of +my present one is such that I cannot possibly keep him.[1] He was engaged +on the 25th of April, so on the 25th of September he will have been five +months with me, and he received 50 florins on account. The money for his +boots will be reckoned from the third month (in my service), and from that +time at the rate of 40 florins per annum; his livery also from the third +month. From the very first I resolved not to keep him, but delayed +discharging him, as I wished to get back the value of my florins. In the +mean time if I can procure another, I will let this one leave my service on +the 15th of the month, and also give him 20 florins for boot money, and 5 +florins a month for livery (both reckoned from the third month), making +altogether 35 florins. I ought therefore still to receive 15 florins, but +these I am willing to give up; in this way I shall at all events receive +some equivalent for my 50 florins. If you can find a suitable person, I +will give him 2 florins a day while I am in Baden, and if he knows how to +cook he can use my firewood in the kitchen. (I have a kitchen, though I do +not cook in it.) If not, I will add a few kreutzers to his wages. As soon +as I am settled in Vienna, he shall have 40 florins a month, and board and +livery as usual, reckoned from the third month in my service, like other +servants. It would be a good thing if he understood a little tailoring. So +now you have my proposals, and I beg for an answer by the 10th of this +month at the latest, that I may discharge my present servant on the 2d, +with the usual fortnight's warning; otherwise I shall be obliged to keep +him for another month, and every moment I wish to get rid of him. As for +the new one, you know pretty well what I require,--_good, steady conduct_, +a _good character_, and _not to be of a bloodthirsty nature_, that I may +feel my life to be safe, as, for the sake of various scamps in this world, +I should like to live a little longer. By the 10th, therefore, I shall +expect to hear from you on this affair. If you don't run restive, I will +soon send you my treatise on the four violoncello strings, very profoundly +handled; the first chapter devoted exclusively to entrails in general, the +second to catgut in particular. I need scarcely give you any further +warnings, as you seem to be quite on your guard against wounds inflicted +before certain fortresses. The most _profound peace_ everywhere prevails!!! +Farewell, my good _Zmeskällchen_! I am, as ever, _un povero musico_ and +your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +N.B. I shall probably only require my new servant for some months, as, for +the sake of my Carl, I must shortly engage a housekeeper. + +[Footnote 1: During a quarrel, the servant scratched Beethoven's face.] + + +186. + +TO HERR KAUKA. + +Baden, Sept. 6, 1816. + +MY WORTHY K.,-- + +I send you herewith the receipt, according to your request, and beg that +you will kindly arrange that I should have the money by the 1st October, +and without any deduction, which has hitherto been the case; I also +particularly beg _you will not assign the money to Baron P._ (I will tell +you why when we meet; for the present let this remain between ourselves.) +Send it either direct to myself, or, if it must come through another +person, do not let it be Baron P. It would be best for the future, as the +house-rent is paid here for the great house belonging to Kinsky, that my +money should be paid at the same time. This is only my own idea. The Terzet +you heard of will soon be engraved, which is infinitely preferable to all +written music; you shall therefore receive an engraved copy, and likewise +some more of my unruly offspring. In the mean time I beg that you will see +only what is truly good in them, and look with an indulgent eye on the +human frailties of these poor innocents. Besides, I am full of cares, being +in reality father to my late brother's child; indeed I might have ushered +into the world a second part of the "Flauto Magico," having also been +brought into contact with a "Queen of the Night." I embrace you from my +heart, and hope soon in so far to succeed that you may owe some thanks to +my Muse. My dear, worthy Kauka, I ever am your truly attached friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +187. + +QUERY? + +What would be the result were I to leave this, and indeed the kingdom of +Austria altogether? Would the life-certificate, if signed by the +authorities of a non-Austrian place, still be valid? + +_A tergo._ + +I beg you will let me know the postage all my letters have cost you. + + +188. + +TO G. DEL RIO. + +Sunday, September 22, 1816. + +Certain things can never be fully expressed. Of this nature are my +feelings, and especially my gratitude, on hearing the details of the +operation on Carl from you. You will excuse my attempting even remotely to +shape these into words. I feel certain, however, that you will not decline +the tribute I gladly pay you; but I say no more. You can easily imagine my +anxiety to hear how my dear son is going on; do not omit to give me your +exact address, that I may write to you direct. After you left this I wrote +to Bernhard [Bernard], to make inquiries at your house, but have not yet +got an answer; so possibly you may have thought me a kind of half-reckless +barbarian, as no doubt Herr B. has neglected to call on you, as well as to +write to me. I can have no uneasiness about Carl when your admirable wife +is with him: that is quite out of the question. You can well understand how +much it grieves me not to be able to take part in the sufferings of my +Carl, and that I at least wish to hear frequently of his progress. As I +have renounced such an unfeeling, unsympathizing friend as Herr B. +[Bernard], I must have recourse to your friendship and complaisance on this +point also, and shall hope soon to receive a few lines from you. I beg to +send my best regards and a thousand thanks to your admirable wife. + +In haste, your + +BEETHOVEN. + +I wish you to express to Smetana [the surgeon] my esteem and high +consideration. + + +189. + +TO G. DEL RIO. + +If you do not object, I beg you will allow Carl to come to me with the +bearer of this. I forgot, in my haste, to say that all the love and +goodness which Mdme. A.G. [Giannatasio] showed my Carl during his illness +are inscribed in the list of my obligations, and I hope one day to show +that they are ever present in my mind. Perhaps I may see you to-day with +Carl. + +In haste, your sincere friend, + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + + +190. + +TO WEGELER. + +I take the opportunity through J. Simrock to remind you of myself. I hope +you received the engraving of me [by Letronne], and likewise the Bohemian +glass. When I next make a pilgrimage through Bohemia you shall have +something more of the same kind. Farewell! You are a husband and a father; +so am I, but without a wife. My love to your dear ones--to _our_ dear ones. + +Your friend, + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + + +191. + +WRITTEN IN ENGLISH TO MR. BIRCHALL, MUSIC SELLER, LONDON. + +Vienna, 1. Oct. 1816. + +MY DEAR SIR,-- + +I have duly received the £5 and thought previously you would non increase +the number of Englishmen neglecting their word and honor, as I had the +misfortune of meeting with two of this sort. In replic to the other topics +of your favor, I have no objection to write variations according to your +plan, and I hope you will not find £30 too much, the Accompaniment will be +a Flute or Violin or a Violoncello; you'll either decide it when you send +me the approbation of the price, or you'll leave it to me. I expect to +receive the songs or poetry--the sooner the better, and you'll favor me +also with the probable number of Works of Variations you are inclined to +receive of me. The Sonata in G with the accompan't of a Violin to his +Imperial Highnesse Archduke Rodolph of Austria--it is Op'a 96. The Trio in +Bb is dedicated to the same and is Op. 97. The Piano arrangement of the +Symphony in A is dedicated to the Empress of the Russians--meaning the Wife +of the Emp'r Alexander--Op. 98. + +Concerning the expences of copying and packing it is not possible to fix +him before hand, they are at any rate not considerable, and you'll please +to consider that you have to deal with a man of honor, who will not charge +one 6p. more than he is charged for himself. Messrs. Fries & Co. will +account with Messrs. Coutts & Co.--The postage may be lessened as I have +been told. I offer you of my Works the following new ones. A Grand Sonata +for the Pianoforte alone £40. A Trio for the Piano with accomp't of Violin +and Violoncello for £50. It is possible that somebody will offer you other +works of mine to purchase, for ex. the score of the Grand Symphony in +A.--With regard to the arrangement of this Symphony for the Piano I beg you +not to forget that you are not to publish it until I have appointed the day +of its publication here in Vienna. This cannot be otherwise without making +myself guilty of a dishonorable act--but the Sonata with the Violin and the +Trio in B fl. may be published without any delay. + +With all the _new works_, which you will have of me or which I offer you, +it rests with you to name the day of their publication at your own choice: +I entreat you to honor me as soon as possible with an answer having many +ordres for compositions and that you may not be delayed. My address or +direction is + +Monsieur Louis van Beethoven + +No. 1055 & 1056 Sailerstette 3d. Stock. Vienna. + +You may send your letter, if you please, direct to your most humble servant + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +192. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +Oct. 24, 1816. + +WELL BORN, AND YET EVIL BORN! (AS WE ALL ARE!) + +We are in Baden to-day, and intend to bring the celebrated naturalist +Ribini a collection of dead leaves. To-morrow we purpose paying you not +only a _visit_ but a _visitation_. + +Your devoted + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +193. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +November, 1816.[1] + +I have been again much worse, so that I can only venture to go out a little +in the daytime; I am, however, getting better, and hope now to have the +honor of waiting on Y.R.H. three times a week. Meanwhile, I have many and +great cares in these terrible times (which surpass anything we have ever +experienced), and which are further augmented by having become the father +since last November of a poor orphan. All this tends to retard my entire +restoration to health. I wish Y.R.H. all imaginable good and happiness, and +beg you will graciously receive and not misinterpret + +Your, &c., &c. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: A year after Carl von Beethoven's death (Nov. 15, 1815).] + + +194. + +TO FREIHERR VON SCHWEIGER. + +BEST! + +MOST AMIABLE! + +FIRST AND FOREMOST TURNER MEISTER OF EUROPE! + +The bearer of this is a poor devil! (like many another!!!) You could assist +him by asking your gracious master whether he is disposed to purchase one +of his small but neat pianos. I also beg you will recommend him to any of +the Chamberlains or Adjutants of the Archduke Carl, to see whether it is +possible that H.R.H. would buy one of these instruments for his Duchess. We +therefore request an introduction from the illustrious _Turner Meister_ for +this poor devil[1] to the Chamberlains and Adjutants of the household. + +Likewise + +1 + +poor devil, + +[K.] L. V. BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: A name cannot now be found for the "poor devil."] + + +195. + +TO G. DEL RIO. + +Nov. 16, 1816. + +MY DEAR FRIEND,-- + +My household seems about to make shipwreck, or something very like it. You +know that I was duped into taking this house on false pretexts; besides, my +health does not seem likely to improve in a hurry. To engage a tutor under +such circumstances, whose character and whose very exterior even are +unknown to me, and thus to intrust my Carl's education to hap-hazard, is +quite out of the question, no matter how great the sacrifices which I shall +be again called on to make. I beg you, therefore, to keep Carl for the +ensuing quarter, commencing on the 9th. I will in so far comply with your +proposal as to the cultivation of the science of music, that Carl may come +to me two or three times a week, leaving you at six o'clock in the evening +and staying with me till the following morning, when he can return to you +by eight o'clock. It would be too fatiguing for Carl to come every day, and +indeed too great an effort and tie for me likewise, as the lessons must be +given at the same fixed hour. + +During this quarter we can discuss more minutely the most suitable plan for +Carl, taking into consideration both his interests and my own. I must, +alas! mention my own also in these times, which are daily getting worse. If +your garden residence had agreed with my health, everything might have been +easily adjusted. With regard to my debt to you for the present quarter, I +beg you will be so obliging as to call on me, that I may discharge it; the +bearer of this has the good fortune to be endowed by Providence with a vast +amount of stupidity, which I by no means grudge him the benefit of, +provided others do not suffer by it. As to the remaining expenses incurred +for Carl, either during his illness or connected with it, I must, for a few +days only, request your indulgence, having great calls on me at present +from all quarters. I wish also to know what fee I ought to give Smetana for +the successful operation he performed; were I rich, or not in the same sad +position in which all are who have linked their fate to this country +(always excepting _Austrian usurers_), I would make no inquiries on the +subject; and I only wish you to give me a rough estimate of the proper fee. +Farewell! I cordially embrace you, and shall always look on you as a friend +of mine and of Carl's. + +I am, with esteem, your + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + + +196. + +TO G. DEL RIO. + +Though I would gladly spare you all needless disagreeable trouble, I +cannot, unluckily, do so on this occasion. Yesterday, in searching for some +papers, I found this pile, which has been sent to me respecting Carl. I do +not quite understand them, and you would oblige me much by employing some +one to make out a regular statement of all your outlay for Carl, so that I +may send for it to-morrow. I hope you did not misunderstand me when I +yesterday alluded to _magnanimity_, which certainly was not meant for you, +but solely for the "Queen of the Night," who is never weary of hoisting the +sails of her vindictiveness against me; so on this account I require +vouchers, more for the satisfaction of others than for her sake (as I never +will submit to render her any account of my actions). No stamp is required, +and the sum alone for each quarter need be specified, for I believe most of +the accounts are forthcoming; so all you have to do is to append them to +your _prospectus_ [the conclusion illegible]. + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + + +197. + +TO G. DEL RIO. + +Nov. 14, 1816. + +MY GOOD FRIEND,-- + +I beg you will allow Carl to come to me to-morrow, as it is the anniversary +of his father's death [Nov. 15th], and we wish to visit his grave together. +I shall probably come to fetch him between twelve and one o'clock. I wish +to know the effect of my treatment of Carl, after your recent complaints. +In the mean time, it touched me exceedingly to find him so susceptible as +to his honor. Before we left your house I gave him some hints on his want +of industry, and while walking together in a graver mood than usual, he +pressed my hand vehemently, but met with no response from me. At dinner he +scarcely eat anything, and said that he felt very melancholy, the cause of +which I could not extract from him. At last, in the course of our walk, he +owned that _he was vexed because he had not been so industrious as usual_. +I said what I ought on the subject, but in a kinder manner than before. +This, however, proves a certain delicacy of feeling, and such _traits_ lead +me to augur all that is good. If I cannot come to you to-morrow, I hope you +will let me know by a few lines the result of my conference with Carl. + +I once more beg you to let me have the account due for the last quarter. I +thought that you had misunderstood my letter, or even worse than that. I +warmly commend my poor orphan to your good heart, and, with kind regards to +all, I remain + +Your friend, + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + + +198. + +TO G. DEL RIO. + +MY GOOD FRIEND,-- + +Pray forgive me for having allowed the enclosed sum to be ready for you +during the last twelve days or more, and not having sent it. I have been +very much occupied, and am only beginning to recover, though indeed the +word _recovery_ has not yet been pronounced. + +In haste, with much esteem, ever yours, + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + + +199. + +TO HERR TSCHISCHKA. + +SIR,-- + +It is certainly of some moment to me _not to appear in a false light_, +which must account for the accompanying statement being so prolix. As to +the future system of education, I can at all events congratulate myself on +having done all that I could possibly effect at present _for the best_, and +trust _that the future may be in accordance with it_. But if the welfare of +my nephew demands a _change_, I shall be the first not only to propose such +a step, but _to carry it out_. I am no self-interested guardian, but I wish +to establish a new monument to my name through my nephew. I _have no need +of my nephew_, but he has need of me. Idle talk and calumnies are beneath +the dignity of a man with proper self-respect, and what can be said when +these extend even to the subject of linen!!! This might cause me great +annoyance, _but a just man ought to be able to bear injustice_ without in +the _most remote degree_ deviating from the path of _right_. In this +conviction I will stand fast, and nothing shall make me flinch. To deprive +me of my nephew would indeed entail a heavy responsibility. As a matter of +_policy_ as well as of morality, such a step would be productive of evil +results to my nephew. _I urgently recommend his interests to you._ As for +me, _my actions_ for _his_ benefit (not for my _own_) must speak for me. + +I remain, with esteem, + +Your obedient + +BEETHOVEN. + +Being very busy, and rather indisposed, I must claim your indulgence for +the writing of the memorial. + + +200. + +WRITTEN IN ENGLISH TO MR. BIRCHALL,--LONDON. + +Vienna 14. December 1816--1055 Sailerstette. + +DEAR SIR,-- + +I give you my word of honor that I have signed and delivered the receipt to +the home Fries and Co. some day last August, who as they say have +transmitted it to Messrs. Coutts and Co. where you'll have the goodness to +apply. Some error might have taken place that instead of Messrs. C. sending +it to you they have been directed to keep it till fetched. Excuse this +irregularity, but it is not my fault, nor had I ever the idea of +withholding it from the circumstance of the £5 not being included. Should +the receipt not come forth as Messrs. C., I am ready to sign any other, and +you shall have it directly with return of post. + +If you find Variations--in my style--too dear at £30, I will abate for the +sake of your friendship one third--and you have the offer of such +Variations as fixed in our former lettres for £20 each Air. + +Please to publish the Symphony in A immediately--as well as the Sonata--and +the Trio--they being ready here. The Grand Opera Fidelio is my work. The +arrangement for the Pianoforte has been published here under my care, but +the score of the Opera itself is not yet published. I have given a copy of +the score to Mr. Neate under the seal of friendship and whom I shall direct +to treat for my account in case an offer should present. + +I anxiously hope your health is improving, give me leave to subscrive +myself + +Dear Sir + +Your very obedient Serv. + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +201. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +Dec. 16, 1816. + +With this, dear Zmeskall, you will receive my friendly dedication [a +stringed quartet, Op. 95], which may, I hope, serve as a pleasant memorial +of our long-enduring friendship here; pray accept it as a proof of my +esteem, and not merely as the extreme end of a thread long since spun out +(for you are one of my earliest friends in Vienna). + +Farewell! Beware of mouldering fortresses! for an attack on them will be +more trying than on those in a better state of preservation! As ever, + +Your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +N.B. When you have a moment's leisure, let me know the probable cost of a +livery, without linen, but including hat and boots. Strange changes have +come to pass in my house. The man is off to the devil, I am thankful to +say, whereas his wife seems the more resolved to take root here. + + +202. + +TO FRAU VON STREICHER--NÉE STEIN. + +Dec. 28, 1816. + +N---- ought to have given you the New Year's tickets yesterday, but it +seems she did not do so. The day before I was occupied with Maelzel, whose +business was pressing, as he leaves this so soon; otherwise you may be sure +that I would have hurried up again to see you. Your dear kind daughter was +with me yesterday, but I scarcely ever remember being so ill; my _precious +servants_ were occupied from seven o'clock till ten at night in trying to +heat the stove. The bitter cold, particularly in my room, caused me a +chill, and the whole of yesterday I could scarcely move a limb. All day I +was coughing, and had the most severe headache I ever had in my life; so by +six o'clock in the evening I was obliged to go to bed, where I still am, +though feeling somewhat better. Your brother dined with me yesterday, and +has shown me great kindness. You are aware that on the same day, the 27th +of December, I discharged B. [Baberl]. I cannot endure either of these vile +creatures; I wonder if Nany will behave rather better from the departure of +her colleague? I doubt it--but in that case I shall send her _packing_ +without any ceremony. She is too uneducated for a housekeeper, indeed quite +a _beast_; but the other, in spite of her pretty face, is even _lower than +the beasts_. As the New Year draws near, I think five florins will be +enough for Nany; I have not paid her the charge for _making her spencer_, +on account of her _bad behavior to you_. The other certainly _deserves no +New Year's gift_; besides, she has nine florins of mine on hand, and when +she leaves I don't expect to receive more than four or five florins of that +sum. I wish to have _your opinion about all this_. Pray accept my best +wishes for your welfare, which are offered in all sincerity. I am your +debtor in so many ways, that I really often feel quite ashamed. Farewell; I +trust I may always retain your friendship. + +Now, as ever, your friend, + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + + +203. + +TO FRAU VON STREICHER. + +I thank you for the interest you take in me. I am rather better, though +to-day again I have been obliged to endure a great deal from Nany; but I +shied half a dozen books at her head by way of a New Year's gift. We have +stripped off the leaves (by sending off Baberl) and lopped off the +branches, but we must extirpate the _roots_, till nothing is left but the +actual soil. + + +204. + +TO FRAU VON STREICHER. + +Nany is not strictly _honest_, and an odiously stupid _animal_ into the +bargain. Such people must be managed not by _love_ but by _fear_. I now see +this clearly. Her account-book alone cannot show you everything clearly; +you must often drop in unexpectedly at dinner-time, like an avenging angel, +to see with your own eyes _what_ we actually have. I never dine at home +now, _unless_ I have some friend as my guest, for I have no wish to pay as +much for one person as would serve for four. I shall _now soon_ have my +dear son Carl with me, so economy is more necessary than ever. I cannot +prevail on myself to go to you; I know you will forgive this. I am very +sensitive, and not used to such things, so the less ought I to expose +myself to them. In addition to twelve kreutzers for bread, Nany has a roll +of white bread every morning. Is this usual?--and it is the same with the +cook. A daily roll for breakfast comes to eighteen florins a year. +_Farewell_, and _work well_ for me. Mdlle. Nany is wonderfully changed for +the better since I sent the half-dozen books at her head. Probably they +chanced to come in collision with her _dull brain_ or her _bad heart_; at +all events, she now plays the part of a penitent swindler!!! + +In haste, yours, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +205. + +TO FRAU VON STREICHER. + +Nany yesterday took me to task in the vulgar manner usual with people of +her _low class_, about my complaining to you; so she evidently knew that I +had written to you on the subject. All the devilry began again yesterday +morning, but I made short work of it by throwing the heavy arm-chair beside +my bed at B.'s head, which procured me peace for the rest of the day. They +always take their revenge on me when I write to you, or when they discover +any communication between us. + +I do thank Heaven that I everywhere find men who interest themselves in me; +one of the _most distinguished Professors_ in this University has in the +kindest manner undertaken _all that concerns Carl's education_. If you +happen to meet any of the Giannatasios at Czerny's, you had better _know +nothing of what is going on about Carl_, and say that it is _contrary_ to +my _usual habit to disclose my plans, as when a project is told to others +it is no longer exclusively your own_. They would like to interfere in the +matter, and I do not choose that these _commonplace people should do so, +both for_ my _own sake and Carl's_. Over their portico is inscribed, in +golden letters, "Educational Institution," whereas "_Non_-Educational +Institution" would be more appropriate. + +As for the servants, there is only _one voice_ about their immorality, to +which _all_ the other annoyances here may be ascribed. + +Pray receive my benediction in place of that of the Klosterneuburgers.[1] + +In haste, your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Frau von Streicher was at that time in Klosterneuburg.] + + +206. + +TO FRAU VON STREICHER. + +Judgment was executed to-day on the notorious criminal! She bore it nearly +in the same spirit as Caesar did Brutus's dagger, except that in the former +case truth formed the basis, while in hers only wicked malice. The +kitchen-maid seems more handy than the former _ill-conducted beauty_; she +no longer shows herself,--a sign that she does not expect a _good +character_ from me, though I really had some thoughts of giving her one. +The kitchen-maid at first made rather a wry face about carrying wood, &c. + + +207. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +Last day of December, 1816. + +I have been again obliged to keep my room ever since the Burgher +concert,[1] and some time must no doubt elapse before I shall be able to +dismiss all precautions as to my health. The year is about to close; and +with this new year my warmest wishes are renewed for the welfare of Y.R.H.; +but indeed these have neither beginning nor end with me, for every day I +cherish the same aspirations for Y.R.H. If I may venture to add a wish for +myself to the foregoing, it is, that I may daily thrive and prosper more in +Y.R.H.'s good graces. The master will always strive not to be unworthy of +the favor of his illustrious master and pupil. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: Beethoven directed his A major Symphony in the Burgher concert +in the Royal Redoutensaal on the 25th December, 1816.] + + +208. + +TO G. DEL RIO. + +... As to his mother, she urgently requested to see Carl in my house. You +have sometimes seen me tempted to place more confidence in her, and my +feelings would lead me to guard against harshness towards her, especially +as it is not in her power to injure Carl. But you may well imagine that to +one usually so independent of others, the annoyances to which I am exposed +through Carl are often utterly insupportable, and above all with regard to +his mother; I am only too glad to hear nothing of her, which is the cause +of my avoiding her name. With respect to Carl, I beg you will enforce the +strictest discipline on him, and if he refuses to obey your orders or to do +his duty, I trust you will at once _punish_ him. Treat him as if he were +your own child rather than a _mere pupil_, for I already told you that +during his father's lifetime he only submitted to the discipline of blows, +which was a bad system; still, such was the fact, and we must not forget +it. + +If you do not see much of me, pray ascribe it solely to the little +inclination I have for society, which is sometimes more developed and +sometimes less; and this you might attribute to a change in my feelings, +but it is not so. What is good alone lives in my memory, and not what is +painful. Pray impute therefore solely to these hard times my not more +practically showing my gratitude to you on account of Carl. God, however, +directs all things; so my position may undergo a favorable change, when I +shall hasten to show you how truly I am, with sincere esteem, your grateful +friend, + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + +I beg you will read this letter to Carl. + + +209. + +TO G. DEL RIO. + +Carl must be at H.B.'s to-day before four o'clock; I must request you +therefore to ask his professor to dismiss him at half-past three o'clock; +if this cannot be managed he must not go into school at all. In the latter +case, I will come myself and fetch him; in the former, I will meet him in +the passage of the University. To avoid all confusion, I beg for an +explicit answer as to what you settle. As you have been loudly accused of +showing great party feeling, I will take Carl myself. If you do not see me, +attribute it to my distress of mind, for I am now only beginning to feel +the full force of this terrible incident.[1] + +In haste, your + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Probably the reversal of the first decree in the lawsuit with +Carl's mother, who in order to procure a verdict more favorable to her +claims, pointed out to the Austrian "Landrecht," where the lawsuit had been +hitherto carried on, an error in their proceedings, the "Van," prefixed to +Beethoven's name, having been considered by them a sign of nobility. +Beethoven was cited to appear, and on the appointed day, pointing to his +head and his heart, he said, "My nobility is here, and here." The +proceedings were then transferred to the "magistrate," who was in universal +bad odor from his mode of conducting his business.] + + +210. + +TO G. DEL RIO. + +The assertions of this wicked woman have made such a painful impression on +me, that I cannot possibly answer every point to-day; to-morrow you shall +have a detailed account of it all; but on no pretext whatever allow her to +have access to Carl, and adhere to your rule that she is only to see him +once a month. As she has been once this month already, she cannot come +again till the next. + +In haste, your + +BEETHOVEN. + + +211. + +TO HOFRATH VON MOSEL. + +1817. + +SIR,-- + +I sincerely rejoice that we take the same view as to the terms in use to +denote the proper time in music which have descended to us from barbarous +times. For example, what can be more irrational than the general term +_allegro_, which only means _lively_; and how far we often are from +comprehending the real time, so that the piece itself _contradicts the +designation_. As for the four chief movements,--which are, indeed, far from +possessing the truth or accuracy of the four cardinal points,--we readily +agree _to dispense with them_, but it is quite another matter as to the +words that indicate the character of the music; these we cannot consent to +do away with, for while the time is, as it were, part and parcel of the +piece, the _words denote the spirit in which it is conceived_. + +So far as I am myself concerned, I have long purposed giving up those +inconsistent terms _allegro_, _andante_, _adagio_, and _presto_; and +Maelzel's metronome furnishes us with the best opportunity of doing so. I +here _pledge_ myself _no longer_ to make use of them in any of my new +compositions. It is another question whether we can by this means attain +the necessary universal use of the metronome. I scarcely think we shall! I +make no doubt that we shall be loudly proclaimed as _despots_; but if the +cause itself were to derive benefit from this, it would at least be better +than to incur the reproach of Feudalism! In our country, where music has +become a national requirement, and where the use of the metronome must be +enjoined on every village schoolmaster, the best plan would be for Maelzel +to endeavor to sell a certain number of metronomes by subscription, at the +present higher prices, and as soon as the number covers his expenses, he +can sell the metronomes demanded by the national requirements at so cheap a +rate, that we may certainly anticipate their _universal use_ and +_circulation_. Of course some persons must take the lead in giving an +impetus to the undertaking. You may safely rely on my doing what is in my +power, and I shall be glad to hear what post you mean to assign to me in +the affair. + +I am, sir, with esteem, your obedient + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +212. + +TO S.A. STEINER, MUSIC PUBLISHER,--VIENNA. + +HIGHEST BORN! MOST ADMIRABLE! AND MARVELLOUS LIEUTENANT-GENERAL![1] + +We beg you to give us bank-notes for twenty-four gold ducats at yesterday's +rate of exchange, and to send them to us this evening or to-morrow, in +order that we may forthwith _remit_ and _transmit_ them. I should be glad +and happy if your trustworthy Adjutant were to bring me these, as I have +something particular to say to him. He must forget all his resentment, like +a good Christian; we acknowledge his merits and do not contest his +demerits. In short, and once for all, we wish to see him. This evening +would suit us best. + +We have the honor to remain, most astounding Lieutenant-General! your +devoted + +GENERALISSIMUS. + +[Footnote 1: Beethoven styled himself "Generalissimus," Herr A. Steiner +"Lieutenant-General," and his partner, Tobias Haslinger, "Adjutant" and +"Adjutant-General."] + + +213. + +TO LIEUTENANT-GENERAL VON STEINER.--PRIVATE. + +PUBLICANDUM,-- + +After due consideration, and by the advice of our Council, we have +determined and decreed that henceforth on all our works published with +German titles, the word _Pianoforte_ is to be replaced by that of _Hammer +Clavier_, and our worthy Lieutenant-General, his Adjutant, and all whom it +may concern, are charged with the execution of this order. + +Instead of Pianoforte--_Hammer Clavier_. + +Such is our will and pleasure. + +Given on the 23d of January, 1817, by the _Generalissimus_. + +_Manu propria._ + + +214. + +TO STEINER. + +The following dedication occurred to me of my new Sonata:-- + + "Sonata for the Pianoforte, + or + _Hammer Clavier_. +Composed and dedicated to Frau Baronin Dorothea + Ertmann--née Graumann, + by + Ludwig van Beethoven." + +If the title is already engraved, I have the two following proposals to +make; viz., that I pay for one title--I mean that it should be at my +expense, or reserved for another new sonata of mine, for which purpose the +mines of the Lieutenant-General (or _pleno titulo_, Lieutenant-General and +First Councillor of State) must be opened to usher it into the light of +day; the title to be previously shown to a good linguist. _Hammer Clavier_ +is certainly German, and so is the device. Honor to whom honor is due! How +is it, then, that I have as yet received no reports of the carrying out of +my orders, which, however, have no doubt been attended to? + +Ever and always your attached + +_Amicus +ad Amicum +de Amico._ + +[Music: Treble clef. +O Ad-ju-tant!] + +N.B. I beg you will observe the most profound silence about the dedication, +as I wish it to be a surprise! + + +215. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +Jan. 30, 1817. + +DEAR Z.,-- + +You seem to place me on a level with Schuppanzigh, &c., and have distorted +the plain and simple meaning of my words. You are not my debtor, but I am +yours, and now you make me so more than ever. I cannot express to you the +pain your gift has caused me, and I must candidly say that I cannot give +you one friendly glance _in return_. Although you confine yourself to the +practice of music, still you have often recourse to the power of +imagination, and it seems to me that this not unfrequently leads to +uncalled-for caprice on your part; at least, so it appeared to me from your +letter after my dedication. Loving as my sentiments are towards you, and +much as I prize all your goodness, still I feel provoked!--much +provoked!--terribly provoked! + +Your debtor afresh, + +Who will, however, contrive to have his revenge, + +L. VAN BEETHOVEN. + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + +End of Project Gutenberg's Beethoven's Letters 1790-1826, Vol. 1 of 2 +by Lady Wallace + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK BEETHOVEN'S LETTERS 1790-1826 *** + +***** This file should be named 13065-8.txt or 13065-8.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + https://www.gutenberg.org/1/3/0/6/13065/ + +Produced by Juliet Sutherland, John Williams and the Online +Distributed Proofreading Team. + + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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(1790--1826.) VOL. I.</title> +<style type="text/css"> +<!-- +p.date { text-align:right } +p.signature { text-align:right } +img { vertical-align:middle } +--> +</style> +</head> +<body> + + +<pre> + +The Project Gutenberg EBook of Beethoven's Letters 1790-1826, Vol. 1 of 2 +by Lady Wallace + +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with +almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: Beethoven's Letters 1790-1826, Volume 1 of 2 + +Author: Lady Wallace + +Release Date: July 31, 2004 [EBook #13065] + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1 + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK BEETHOVEN'S LETTERS 1790-1826 *** + + + + +Produced by Juliet Sutherland, John Williams and the Online +Distributed Proofreading Team. + + + + + + +</pre> + + + +<h1>BEETHOVEN'S LETTERS.</h1> + +<p>(1790--1826.)</p> + +<p>FROM THE COLLECTION OF DR. LUDWIG NOHL.</p> + + +<p>ALSO HIS</p> + +<p>LETTERS TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH, CARDINAL-ARCHBISHOP<br> +OF OLMÜTZ, K.W., FROM THE COLLECTION OF DR.<br> +LUDWIG RITTER VON KÖCHEL.</p> + + +<p>TRANSLATED BY<br> +LADY WALLACE.</p> + + +<p><i>WITH A PORTRAIT AND FAC-SIMILE.</i></p> + + +<p>IN TWO VOLUMES.</p> + +<p>VOL. I.</p> + +<p>BOSTON:</p> + +<p>OLIVER DITSON & CO., 277 WASHINGTON STREET.</p> + +<p>NEW YORK: C.H. DITSON & CO.</p> + + + + +<h2>TRANSLATOR'S PREFACE.</h2> + + +<p>Since undertaking the translation of Dr. Ludwig +Nohl's valuable edition of "Beethoven's Letters," +an additional collection has been published by Dr. +Ludwig Ritter von Köchel, consisting of many +interesting letters addressed by Beethoven to his +illustrious pupil, H.R.H. the Archduke Rudolph, +Cardinal-Archbishop of Olmütz. These I have +inserted in chronological order, and marked with +the letter K., in order to distinguish them from the +correspondence edited by Dr. Nohl. I have only +omitted a few brief notes, consisting merely of +apologies for non-attendance on the Archduke.</p> + +<p>The artistic value of these newly discovered +treasures will no doubt be as highly appreciated in +this country as in the great <i>maestro's</i> Father-land.</p> + +<p>I must also express my gratitude to Dr. Th.G. v. Karajan, +for permitting an engraving to be made +expressly for this work, from an original Beethoven +portrait in his possession, now for the first time +given to the public. The grand and thoughtful +countenance forms a fitting introduction to letters +so truly depicting the brilliant, fitful genius of the +sublime master, as well as the touching sadness and +gloom pervading his life, which his devotion to Art +alone brightened, through many bitter trials and +harassing cares.</p> + +<p>The love of Beethoven's music is now become +so universal in England, that I make no doubt his +Letters will receive a hearty welcome from all those +whose spirits have been elevated and soothed by +the genius of this illustrious man.</p> + +<p class="signature">GRACE WALLACE.</p> + +<p>AINDERBY HALL, March 28, 1866.</p> + + + + +<h2>PREFACE<br> + +BY DR. LUDWIG NOHL<br> + +TO THE<br> + +LETTERS OF LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</h2> + + +<p>In accompanying the present edition of the Letters +of Ludwig van Beethoven with a few introductory +remarks, I at once acknowledge that the +compilation of these letters has cost me no slight +sacrifices. I must also, however, mention that an +unexpected Christmas donation, generously bestowed +on me with a view to further my efforts to +promote the science of music, enabled me to undertake +one of the journeys necessary for my purpose, +and also to complete the revision of the Letters +and of the press, in the milder air and repose of a +country residence, long since recommended to me +for the restoration of my health, undermined by +overwork.</p> + +<p>That, in spite of every effort, I have not succeeded +in seeing the original of each letter, or even +discovering the place where it exists, may well be +excused, taking into consideration the slender capabilities +of an individual, and the astonishing manner +in which Beethoven's Letters are dispersed all +over the world. At the same time, I must state +that not only have the hitherto inaccessible treasures +of Anton Schindler's "Beethoven's Nachlass" +been placed at my disposal, but also other letters +from private sources, owing to various happy +chances, and the kindness and complaisance of +collectors of autographs. I know better, however, +than most people--being in a position to do so--that +in the present work there can be no pretension +to any thing approaching to a complete collection of +Beethoven's Letters. The master, so fond of writing, +though he often rather amusingly accuses himself +of being a lazy correspondent, may very probably +have sent forth at least double the amount of +the letters here given, and there is no doubt whatever +that a much larger number are still extant in +the originals. The only thing that can be done at +this moment, however, is to make the attempt to +bring to light, at all events, the letters that could +be discovered in Germany. The mass of those +which I gradually accumulated, and now offer to +the public (with the exception of some insignificant +notes), appeared to me sufficiently numerous and +important to interest the world, and also to form a +substantial nucleus for any letters that may hereafter +be discovered. On the other hand, as many +of Beethoven's Letters slumber in foreign lands, +especially in the unapproachable cabinets of curiosities +belonging to various close-fisted English collectors, +an entire edition of the correspondence +could only be effected by a most disproportionate +outlay of time and expense.</p> + +<p>When revising the text of the Letters, it seemed +to me needless perpetually to impair the pleasure +of the reader by retaining the mistakes in orthography; +but enough of the style of writing of that +day is adhered to, to prevent its peculiar charm being +entirely destroyed. Distorted and incorrect as +Beethoven's mode of expression sometimes is, I +have not presumed to alter his grammar, or rather +syntax, in the smallest degree: who would presume +to do so with an individuality which, even amid +startling clumsiness of style, displays those inherent +intellectual powers that often did violence to language +as well as to his fellow-men? Cyclopean +masses of rock are here hurled with Cyclopean +force; but hard and massive as they are, the man +is not to be envied whose heart is not touched by +these glowing fragments, flung apparently at random +right and left, like meteors, by a mighty intellectual +being, however perverse the treatment language +may have received from him.</p> + +<p>The great peculiarity, however, in this strange +mode of expression is, that even such incongruous +language faithfully reflects the mind of the man +whose nature was of prophetic depth and heroic +force; and who that knows anything of the creative +genius of a Beethoven can deny him these +attributes?</p> + +<p>The antique dignity pervading the whole man, +the ethical contemplation of life forming the basis +of his nature, prevented even a momentary wish +on my part to efface a single word of the oft-recurring +expressions so painfully harsh, bordering +on the unaesthetic, and even on the repulsive, provoked +by his wrath against the meanness of men. +In the last part of these genuine documents, we +learn with a feeling of sadness, and with almost a +tragic sensation, how low was the standard of moral +worth, or rather how great was the positive unworthiness, +of the intimate society surrounding the +master, and with what difficulty he could maintain +the purity of the nobler part of his being in such +an atmosphere. The manner, indeed, in which he +strives to do so, fluctuating between explosions of +harshness and almost weak yieldingness, while striving +to master the base thoughts and conduct of +these men, though never entirely succeeding in doing +so, is often more a diverting than an offensive +spectacle. In my opinion, nevertheless, even this +less pleasing aspect of the Letters ought not to be in +the slightest degree softened (which it has hitherto +been, owing to false views of propriety and morality), +for it is no moral deformity here displayed. +Indeed, even when the irritable master has recourse +to expressions repugnant to our sense of conventionality, +and which may well be called harsh and +rough, still the wrath that seizes on our hero is a +just and righteous wrath, and we disregard it, just +as in Nature, whose grandeur constantly elevates +us above the inevitable stains of an earthly soil. +The coarseness and ill-breeding, which would claim +toleration because this great man now and then +showed such feelings, must beware of doing so, being +certain to make shipwreck when coming in contact +with the massive rock of true morality on +which, with all his faults and deficiencies, Beethoven's +being was surely grounded. Often, indeed, +when absorbed in the unsophisticated and genuine +utterances of this great man, it seems as if these +peculiarities and strange asperities were the results +of some mysterious law of Nature, so that we are +inclined to adopt the paradox by which a wit once +described the singular groundwork of our nature,--"The +faults of man are the night in which he rests +from his virtues."</p> + +<p>Indeed, I think that the lofty morality of such +natures is not fully evident until we are obliged to +confess with regret, that even the great ones of the +earth must pay their tribute to humanity, and +really do pay it (which is the distinction between +them and base and petty characters), without being +ever entirely hurled from their pedestal of dignity +and virtue. The soul of that man cannot fail to +be elevated, who can seize the real spirit of the +scattered pages that a happy chance has preserved +for us. If not fettered by petty feelings, he will +quickly surmount the casual obstacles and stumbling-blocks +which the first perusal of these Letters +may seem to present, and quickly feel himself transported +at a single stride into a stream, where a +strange roaring and rushing is heard, but above +which loftier tones resound with magic and exciting +power. For a peculiar life breathes in these lines; +an under-current runs through their apparently unconnected +import, uniting them as with an electric +chain, and with firmer links than any mere coherence +of subjects could have effected. I experienced +this myself, to the most remarkable degree, when I +first made the attempt to arrange, in accordance +with their period and substance, the hundreds of +individual pages bearing neither date nor address, +and I was soon convinced that a connecting text +(such as Mozart's Letters have, and ought to have) +would be here entirely superfluous, as even the best +biographical commentary would be very dry work, +interrupting the electric current of the whole, and +thus destroying its peculiar effect.</p> + +<p>And now, what is this spirit which, for an intelligent +mind, binds together these scattered fragments +into a whole, and what is its actual power? +I cannot tell; but I feel to this day just as I felt +to the innermost depths of my heart in the days +of my youth when I first heard a symphony of +Beethoven's,--that a spirit breathes from it bearing +us aloft with giant power out of the oppressive +atmosphere of sense, stirring to its inmost recesses +the heart of man, bringing him to the full consciousness +of his loftier being, and of the undying within +him. And even more distinctly than when a new +world was thus disclosed to his youthful feelings is +the <i>man</i> fully conscious that not only was this a +new world to him, but a new world of feeling in +itself, revealing to the spirit phases of its own, +which, till Beethoven appeared, had never before +been fathomed. Call it by what name you will, +when one of the great works of the sublime master +is heard, whether indicative of proud self-consciousness, +freedom, spring, love, storm, or battle, it +grasps the soul with singular force, and enlarges +the laboring breast. Whether a man understands +music or not, every one who has a heart beating +within his breast will feel with enchantment that +here is concentrated the utmost promised to us by +the most imaginative of our poets, in bright visions +of happiness and freedom. Even the only great +hero of action, who in those memorable days is +worthy to stand beside the great master of harmony, +having diffused among mankind new and +priceless earthly treasures, sinks in the scale when +we compare these with the celestial treasures of a +purified and deeper feeling, and a more free, enlarged, +and sublime view of the world, struggling +gradually and distinctly upwards out of the mere +frivolity of an art devoid of words to express itself, +and impressing its stamp on the spirit of the age. +They convey, too, the knowledge of this brightest +victory of genuine German intellect to those for +whom the sweet Muse of Music is as a book with +seven seals, and reveal, likewise, a more profound +sense of Beethoven's being to many who already, +through the sweet tones they have imbibed, enjoy +some dawning conviction of the master's grandeur, +and who now more and more eagerly lend a listening +ear to the intellectual clearly worded strains so +skilfully interwoven, thus soon to arrive at the full +and blissful comprehension of those grand outpourings +of the spirit, and finally to add another bright +delight to the enjoyment of those who already +know and love Beethoven. All these may be regarded +as the objects I had in view when I undertook +to edit his Letters, which have also bestowed +on myself the best recompense of my labors, in the +humble conviction that by this means I may have +vividly reawakened in the remembrance of many +the mighty mission which our age is called on to +perform for the development of our race, even in +the realm of harmony,--more especially in our +Father-land.</p> + +<p class="signature">LUDWIG NOHL.</p> + +<p>LA TOUR DE PERLZ--LAKE OF GENEVA, +March, 1865.</p> + + + + +<h2>CONTENTS OF VOLUME I.</h2> + + +<h3>FIRST PART.<br> +<br> +LIFE'S JOYS AND SORROWS<br> +1783-1816.</h3> + +<ol> +<li value="1"> <a href="#let1">To the Elector of Cologne, Frederick Maximilian.</a> +<li value="2"> <a href="#let2">To Dr. Schade, Augsburg</a> +<li value="3"> <a href="#let3">To the Elector Maximilian Francis</a> +<li value="4"> <a href="#let4">To Eleonore von Breuning, Bonn</a> +<li value="5"> <a href="#let5">To the Same</a> +<li value="6"> <a href="#let6">To Herr Schenk</a> +<li value="7"> <a href="#let7">To Dr. Wegeler, Vienna</a> +<li value="8"> <a href="#let8">To the Same</a> +<li value="9"> <a href="#let9">Lines written in the Album of L. von Breuning</a> +<li value="10"> <a href="#let10">To Baron Zmeskall von Domanowecz</a> +<li value="11"> <a href="#let11">Ukase to Zmeskall, Schuppanzigh, and Lichnowsky</a> +<li value="12"> <a href="#let12">To Pastor Amenda, Courland</a> +<li value="13"> <a href="#let13">To the Same</a> +<li value="14"> <a href="#let14">To Wegeler</a> +<li value="15"> <a href="#let15">To Countess Giulietta Guicciardi</a> +<li value="16"> <a href="#let16">To Matthisson</a> +<li value="17"> <a href="#let17">To Frau Frank, Vienna</a> +<li value="18"> <a href="#let18">To Wegeler</a> +<li value="19"> <a href="#let19">To Kapellmeister Hofmeister, Leipzig</a> +<li value="20"> <a href="#let20">To the Same</a> +<li value="21"> <a href="#let21">To the Same</a> +<li value="22"> <a href="#let22">To the Same</a> +<li value="23"> <a href="#let23">Dedication to Dr. Schmidt</a> +<li value="24"> <a href="#let24">To Ferdinand Ries</a> +<li value="25"> <a href="#let25">To Herr Hofmeister, Leipzig</a> +<li value="26"> <a href="#let26">To Carl and Johann Beethoven</a> +<li value="27"> <a href="#let27">Notice</a> +<li value="28"> <a href="#let28">To Ferdinand Ries</a> +<li value="29"> <a href="#let29">To Herr Hofmeister, Leipzig</a> +<li value="30"> <a href="#let30">Caution</a> +<li value="31"> <a href="#let31">To Ries</a> +<li value="32"> <a href="#let32">To the Same</a> +<li value="33"> <a href="#let33">To the Same</a> +<li value="34"> <a href="#let34">To the Same</a> +<li value="35"> <a href="#let35">To the Composer Leidesdorf, Vienna</a> +<li value="36"> <a href="#let36">To Ries</a> +<li value="37"> <a href="#let37">To the Same</a> +<li value="38"> <a href="#let38">To the Same</a> +<li value="39"> <a href="#let39">To Messrs. Artaria & Co.</a> +<li value="40"> <a href="#let40">To Princess Liechtenstein</a> +<li value="41"> <a href="#let41">To Herr Meyer</a> +<li value="42"> <a href="#let42">Testimonial for C. Czerny</a> +<li value="43"> <a href="#let43">To Herr Röckel</a> +<li value="44"> <a href="#let44">To Herr Collin, Court Secretary and Poet</a> +<li value="45"> <a href="#let45">To Herr Gleichenstein</a> +<li value="46"> <a href="#let46">To the Directors of the Court Theatre</a> +<li value="47"> <a href="#let47">To Count Franz von Oppersdorf</a> +<li value="48"> <a href="#let48">Notice of a Memorial to the Archduke Rudolph, Prince Kinsky, + and Prince Lobkowitz</a> +<li value="49"> <a href="#let49">Memorial to the Same</a> +<li value="50"> <a href="#let50">To Zmeskall</a> +<li value="51"> <a href="#let51">To Ferdinand Ries</a> +<li value="52"> <a href="#let52">To Zmeskall</a> +<li value="53"> <a href="#let53">To the Same</a> +<li value="54"> <a href="#let54">To the Same</a> +<li value="55"> <a href="#let55">To the Same</a> +<li value="56"> <a href="#let56">To the Same</a> +<li value="57"> <a href="#let57">To the Same</a> +<li value="58"> <a href="#let58">To the Same</a> +<li value="59"> <a href="#let59">To Freiherr von Hammer-Purgstall</a> +<li value="60"> <a href="#let60">To the Same</a> +<li value="61"> <a href="#let61">To Baroness von Drossdick</a> +<li value="62"> <a href="#let62">To Mdlle. de Gerardi</a> +<li value="63"> <a href="#let63">To Zmeskall</a> +<li value="64"> <a href="#let64">To Wegeler</a> +<li value="65"> <a href="#let65">To Zmeskall</a> +<li value="66"> <a href="#let66">To Bettina Brentano</a> +<li value="67"> <a href="#let67">To the Same</a> +<li value="68"> <a href="#let68">To Zmeskall</a> +<li value="69"> <a href="#let69">To the Same</a> +<li value="70"> <a href="#let70">To the Archduke Rudolph</a> +<li value="71"> <a href="#let71">To a Dear Friend</a> +<li value="72"> <a href="#let72">To the Dramatic Poet Treitschke</a> +<li value="73"> <a href="#let73">To Zmeskall</a> +<li value="74"> <a href="#let74">To the Same</a> +<li value="75"> <a href="#let75">To the Same</a> +<li value="76"> <a href="#let76">To the Same</a> +<li value="77"> <a href="#let77">To the Same</a> +<li value="78"> <a href="#let78">To the Same</a> +<li value="79"> <a href="#let79">To the Same</a> +<li value="80"> <a href="#let80">To Kammerprocurator Varenna, Gratz</a> +<li value="81"> <a href="#let81">To Zmeskall</a> +<li value="82"> <a href="#let82">To the Same</a> +<li value="83"> <a href="#let83">To Varenna, Gratz</a> +<li value="84"> <a href="#let84">To Zmeskall</a> +<li value="85"> <a href="#let85">To Varenna</a> +<li value="86"> <a href="#let86">To Archduke Rudolph</a> +<li value="87"> <a href="#let87">To the Same</a> +<li value="88"> <a href="#let88">To Varenna, Gratz</a> +<li value="89"> <a href="#let89">To Joseph Freiherr von Schweiger</a> +<li value="90"> <a href="#let90">To Varenna, Gratz</a> +<li value="91"> <a href="#let91">Lines written in the Album of Mdme. Auguste Sebald</a> +<li value="92"> <a href="#let92">To Archduke Rudolph</a> +<li value="93"> <a href="#let93">To Bettina von Arnim</a> +<li value="94"> <a href="#let94">To Princess Kinsky</a> +<li value="95"> <a href="#let95">To Archduke Rudolph</a> +<li value="96"> <a href="#let96">To the Same</a> +<li value="97"> <a href="#let97">To the Same</a> +<li value="98"> <a href="#let98">To Princess Kinsky</a> +<li value="99"> <a href="#let99">To the Same</a> +<li value="100"> <a href="#let100">To Zmeskall</a> +<li value="101"> <a href="#let101">To Herr Joseph Varenna, Gratz</a> +<li value="102"> <a href="#let102">To the Same</a> +<li value="103"> <a href="#let103">To Zmeskall</a> +<li value="104"> <a href="#let104">To the Same</a> +<li value="105"> <a href="#let105">To the Same</a> +<li value="106"> <a href="#let106">To the Same</a> +<li value="107"> <a href="#let107">To the Same</a> +<li value="108"> <a href="#let108">To the Same</a> +<li value="109"> <a href="#let109">To the Same</a> +<li value="110"> <a href="#let110">To Archduke Rudolph</a> +<li value="111"> <a href="#let111">To the Same</a> +<li value="112"> <a href="#let112">To the Same</a> +<li value="113"> <a href="#let113">To Freiherr Josef von Schweiger</a> +<li value="114"> <a href="#let114">To Herr von Baumeister</a> +<li value="115"> <a href="#let115">To Zmeskall</a> +<li value="116"> <a href="#let116">Letter of Thanks</a> +<li value="117"> <a href="#let117">To the Archduke Rudolph</a> +<li value="118"> <a href="#let118">To the Same</a> +<li value="119"> <a href="#let119">To the Same</a> +<li value="120"> <a href="#let120">To Treitschke</a> +<li value="121"> <a href="#let121">To the Same</a> +<li value="122"> <a href="#let122">To the Same</a> +<li value="123"> <a href="#let123">To Count Lichnowsky.</a> +<li value="124"> <a href="#let124">To the Same</a> +<li value="125"> <a href="#let125">To the Archduke Rudolph</a> +<li value="126"> <a href="#let126">To the Same</a> +<li value="127"> <a href="#let127">Deposition</a> +<li value="128"> <a href="#let128">To Dr. Kauka, Prague.</a> +<li value="129"> <a href="#let129">Address and Appeal to London Artists</a> +<li value="130"> <a href="#let130">To Dr. Kauka</a> +<li value="131"> <a href="#let131">To Count Moritz Lichnowsky</a> +<li value="132"> <a href="#let132">To the Archduke Rudolph</a> +<li value="133"> <a href="#let133">To the Same</a> +<li value="134"> <a href="#let134">To the Same</a> +<li value="135"> <a href="#let135">To the Same</a> +<li value="136"> <a href="#let136">To the Same</a> +<li value="137"> <a href="#let137">To the Same</a> +<li value="138"> <a href="#let138">To the Same</a> +<li value="139"> <a href="#let139">To the Same</a> +<li value="140"> <a href="#let140">To Dr. Kauka</a> +<li value="141"> <a href="#let141">To the Same</a> +<li value="142"> <a href="#let142">To the Same</a> +<li value="143"> <a href="#let143">To the Members of the Landrecht</a> +<li value="144"> <a href="#let144">To Baron von Pasqualati</a> +<li value="145"> <a href="#let145">To Dr. Kauka</a> +<li value="146"> <a href="#let146">To the Archduke Rudolph</a> +</ol> + + + +<h3>SECOND PART.<br> +<br> +LIFE'S MISSION.<br> +1815-1822.</h3> + +<ol> +<li value="147"> <a href="#let147">Music written in Spohr's Album</a> +<li value="148"> <a href="#let148">To Dr. Kauka</a> +<li value="149"> <a href="#let149">To the Same</a> +<li value="150"> <a href="#let150">To the Same</a> +<li value="151"> <a href="#let151">To Mr. Salomon, London</a> +<li value="152"> <a href="#let152">To the Archduke Rudolph</a> +<li value="153"> <a href="#let153">To the Same</a> +<li value="154"> <a href="#let154">To the Same</a> +<li value="155"> <a href="#let155">To the Same</a> +<li value="156"> <a href="#let156">To the Same</a> +<li value="157"> <a href="#let157">To the Same</a> +<li value="158"> <a href="#let158">To Mr. Birchall, Music Publisher, London</a> +<li value="159"> <a href="#let159">To Zmeskall</a> +<li value="160"> <a href="#let160">To the Archduke Rudolph</a> +<li value="161"> <a href="#let161">To Messrs. Birchall, London</a> +<li value="162"> <a href="#let162">To Herr Ries</a> +<li value="163"> <a href="#let163">To Zmeskall</a> +<li value="164"> <a href="#let164">To Mdlle. Milder-Hauptmann</a> +<li value="165"> <a href="#let165">To Ries</a> +<li value="166"> <a href="#let166">To Mr. Birchall, London</a> +<li value="167"> <a href="#let167">To Czerny</a> +<li value="168"> <a href="#let168">To the Same</a> +<li value="169"> <a href="#let169">To Ries, London</a> +<li value="170"> <a href="#let170">To Giannatasio del Rio, Vienna</a> +<li value="171"> <a href="#let171">To the Same</a> +<li value="172"> <a href="#let172">To the Same</a> +<li value="173"> <a href="#let173">To the Same</a> +<li value="174"> <a href="#let174">To Ferdinand Ries, London</a> +<li value="175"> <a href="#let175">To the Same</a> +<li value="176"> <a href="#let176">Power of Attorney</a> +<li value="177"> <a href="#let177">To Ferdinand Ries</a> +<li value="178"> <a href="#let178">To Giannatasio del Rio</a> +<li value="179"> <a href="#let179">To the Same</a> +<li value="180"> <a href="#let180">To the Archduke Rudolph</a> +<li value="181"> <a href="#let181">To Mr. Birchall London</a> +<li value="182"> <a href="#let182">To the Same</a> +<li value="183"> <a href="#let183">To Giannatasio del Rio</a> +<li value="184"> <a href="#let184">To the Same</a> +<li value="185"> <a href="#let185">To Zmeskall</a> +<li value="186"> <a href="#let186">To Dr. Kauka</a> +<li value="187"> <a href="#let187">Query</a> +<li value="188"> <a href="#let188">To Giannatasio del Rio</a> +<li value="189"> <a href="#let189">To the Same</a> +<li value="190"> <a href="#let190">To Wegeler</a> +<li value="191"> <a href="#let191">To Mr. Birchall, London</a> +<li value="192"> <a href="#let192">To Zmeskall</a> +<li value="193"> <a href="#let193">To the Archduke Rudolph</a> +<li value="194"> <a href="#let194">To Freiherr von Schweiger</a> +<li value="195"> <a href="#let195">To Giannatasio del Rio</a> +<li value="196"> <a href="#let196">To the Same</a> +<li value="197"> <a href="#let197">To the Same</a> +<li value="198"> <a href="#let198">To the Same</a> +<li value="199"> <a href="#let199">To Herr Tschischka</a> +<li value="200"> <a href="#let200">To Mr. Birchall</a> +<li value="201"> <a href="#let201">To Zmeskall</a> +<li value="202"> <a href="#let202">To Frau von Streicher</a> +<li value="203"> <a href="#let203">To the Same</a> +<li value="204"> <a href="#let204">To the Same</a> +<li value="205"> <a href="#let205">To the Same</a> +<li value="206"> <a href="#let206">To the Same</a> +<li value="207"> <a href="#let207">To the Archduke Rudolph</a> +<li value="208"> <a href="#let208">To Giannatasio del Rio</a> +<li value="209"> <a href="#let209">To the Same</a> +<li value="210"> <a href="#let210">To the Same</a> +<li value="211"> <a href="#let211">To Hofrath von Mosel</a> +<li value="212"> <a href="#let212">To S.A. Steiner, Music Publisher, Vienna</a> +<li value="213"> <a href="#let213">To the Same</a> +<li value="214"> <a href="#let214">To the Same</a> +<li value="215"> <a href="#let215">To Zmeskall</a> +</ol> + + + + +<h2><a name="part1">FIRST PART.</a><br> +<br> + +LIFE'S JOYS AND SORROWS.<br> +1783 TO 1815.</h2> + + + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let1">1.<br> +TO THE ELECTOR OF COLOGNE, FREDERICK MAXIMILIAN.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote1">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="salutation">ILLUSTRIOUS PRINCE,--</p> + +<p>Music from my fourth year has ever been my +favorite pursuit. Thus early introduced to +the sweet Muse, who attuned my soul to pure harmony, +I loved her, and sometimes ventured to +think that I was beloved by her in return. I have +now attained my eleventh year, and my Muse often +whispered to me in hours of inspiration,--Try to +write down the harmonies in your soul. Only +eleven years old! thought I; does the character of +an author befit me? and what would more mature +artists say? I felt some trepidation; but my Muse +willed it--so I obeyed, and wrote.</p> + +<p>May I now, therefore, Illustrious Prince, presume +to lay the first-fruits of my juvenile labors at the +foot of your throne? and may I hope that you will +condescend to cast an encouraging and kindly +glance on them? You will; for Art and Science +have ever found in you a judicious protector and a +generous patron, and rising talent has always prospered +under your fostering and fatherly care. Encouraged +by this cheering conviction, I venture to +approach you with these my youthful efforts. Accept +them as the pure offering of childlike reverence, +and graciously vouchsafe to regard with indulgence +them and their youthful composer,</p> + +<p class="signature">LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote1"><p>[Footnote 1: The dedication affixed to this work, "Three Sonatas for the Piano, +dedicated to my illustrious master, Maximilian Friedrich, Archbishop +and Elector of Cologne, by Ludwig van Beethoven in his eleventh +year," is probably not written by the boy himself, but is given here as +an amusing contrast to his subsequent ideas with regard to the homage +due to rank.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let2">2.<br> +TO DR. SCHADE,--AUGSBURG.</h3> + +<p class="date">Bonn, 1787. Autumn.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY MOST ESTEEMED FRIEND,--</p> + +<p>I can easily imagine what you must think of me, +and I cannot deny that you have too good grounds +for an unfavorable opinion. I shall not, however, +attempt to justify myself, until I have explained to +you the reasons why my apologies should be accepted. +I must tell you that from the time I left +Augsburg<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote2">[1]</a></sup> my cheerfulness, as well as my health, +began to decline; the nearer I came to my native +city, the more frequent were the letters from my +father, urging me to travel with all possible speed, +as my mother's health was in a most precarious condition. +I therefore hurried forwards as fast as I could, +although myself far from well. My longing once +more to see my dying mother overcame every obstacle, +and assisted me in surmounting the greatest +difficulties. I found my mother indeed still alive, +but in the most deplorable state; her disease was +consumption, and about seven weeks ago, after +much pain and suffering, she died [July 17]. She +was indeed a kind, loving mother to me, and my +best friend. Ah! who was happier than I, when I +could still utter the sweet name of mother, and it +was heard? But to whom can I now say it? +Only to the silent form resembling her, evoked by +the power of imagination. I have passed very few +pleasant hours since my arrival here, having during +the whole time been suffering from asthma, which +may, I fear, eventually turn to consumption; to this +is added melancholy,--almost as great an evil as +my malady itself. Imagine yourself in my place, +and then I shall hope to receive your forgiveness for +my long silence. You showed me extreme kindness +and friendship by lending me three Carolins in +Augsburg, but I must entreat your indulgence for +a time. My journey cost me a great deal, and I +have not the smallest hopes of earning anything +here. Fate is not propitious to me in Bonn. Pardon +my intruding on you so long with my affairs, +but all that I have said was necessary for my own +justification.</p> + +<p>I do entreat you not to deprive me of your valuable +friendship; nothing do I wish so much as in +any degree to become worthy of your regard. I +am, with all esteem, your obedient servant and +friend,</p> + +<p class="signature">L. V. BEETHOVEN,<br> +<i>Cologne Court Organist.</i></p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote2"><p>[Footnote 1: On his return from Vienna, whither Max Franz had sent him for +the further cultivation of his talents.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let3">3.<br> +TO THE ELECTOR MAXIMILIAN FRANCIS.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote3">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">1793.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MOST ILLUSTRIOUS AND GRACIOUS PRINCE,--</p> + +<p>Some years ago your Highness was pleased to +grant a pension to my father, the Court tenor Van +Beethoven, and further graciously to decree that +100 R. Thalers of his salary should be allotted to +me, for the purpose of maintaining, clothing, and +educating my two younger brothers, and also defraying +the debts incurred by our father. It was my +intention to present this decree to your Highness's +treasurer, but my father earnestly implored me to +desist from doing so, that he might not be thus publicly +proclaimed incapable himself of supporting his +family, adding that he would engage to pay me the +25 R.T. quarterly, which he punctually did. After +his death, however (in December last), wishing to +reap the benefit of your Highness's gracious boon, +by presenting the decree, I was startled to find that +my father had destroyed it.</p> + +<p>I therefore, with all dutiful respect, entreat your +Highness to renew this decree, and to order the +paymaster of your Highness's treasury to grant me +the last quarter of this benevolent addition to my +salary (due the beginning of February). I have +the honor to remain,</p> + +<p>Your Highness's most obedient and faithful servant,</p> + +<p class="signature">LUD. V. BEETHOVEN,<br> +<i>Court Organist.</i></p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote3"><p>[Footnote 1: +An electoral decree was issued in compliance with this request on +May 3, 1793.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let4">4.<br> +TO ELEONORE VON BREUNING,--BONN.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, Nov. 2, 1793.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY HIGHLY ESTEEMED ELEONORE, MY DEAREST FRIEND,--</p> + +<p>A year of my stay in this capital has nearly +elapsed before you receive a letter from me, and +yet the most vivid remembrance of you is ever +present with me. I have often conversed in thought +with you and your dear family, though not always +in the happy mood I could have wished, for that +fatal misunderstanding still hovered before me, and +my conduct at that time is now hateful in my sight. +But so it was, and how much would I give to have +the power wholly to obliterate from my life a mode +of acting so degrading to myself, and so contrary to +the usual tenor of my character!</p> + +<p>Many circumstances, indeed, contributed to estrange +us, and I suspect that those tale-bearers who +repeated alternately to you and to me our mutual +expressions were the chief obstacles to any good +understanding between us. Each believed that +what was said proceeded from deliberate conviction, +whereas it arose only from anger, fanned by others; +so we were both mistaken. Your good and noble +disposition, my dear friend, is sufficient security +that you have long since forgiven me. We are +told that the best proof of sincere contrition is to +acknowledge our faults; and this is what I wish to +do. Let us now draw a veil over the whole affair, +learning one lesson from it,--that when friends +are at variance, it is always better to employ no +mediator, but to communicate directly with each +other.</p> + +<p>With this you will receive a dedication from me +[the variations on "Se vuol ballare"]. My sole +wish is that the work were greater and more +worthy of you. I was applied to here to publish +this little work, and I take advantage of the opportunity, +my beloved Eleonore, to give you a proof +of my regard and friendship for yourself, and also +a token of my enduring remembrance of your family. +Pray then accept this trifle, and do not forget +that it is offered by a devoted friend. Oh! if it +only gives you pleasure, my wishes will be fulfilled. +May it in some degree recall the time when I passed +so many happy hours in your house! Perhaps it +may serve to remind you of me till I return, though +this is indeed a distant prospect. Oh! how we +shall then rejoice together, my dear Eleonore! +You will, I trust, find your friend a happier man, +all former forbidding, careworn furrows smoothed +away by time and better fortune.</p> + +<p>When you see B. Koch [subsequently Countess +Belderbusch], pray say that it is unkind in her +never once to have written to me. I wrote to her +twice, and three times to Malchus (afterwards +Westphalian Minister of Finance), but no answer. +Tell her that if she does not choose to write herself, +I beg that she will at least urge Malchus to do +so. At the close of my letter I venture to make +one more request--I am anxious to be so fortunate +as again to possess an Angola waistcoat knitted by +your own hand, my dear friend. Forgive my indiscreet +request; it proceeds from my great love for +all that comes from you; and I may privately admit +that a little vanity is connected with it, namely, +that I may say I possess something from the best +and most admired young lady in Bonn. I still +have the one you were so good as to give me in +Bonn; but change of fashion has made it look so +antiquated, that I can only treasure it in my wardrobe +as your gift, and thus still very dear to me. +You would make me very happy by soon writing +me a kind letter. If mine cause you any pleasure, +I promise you to do as you wish, and write as often +as it lies in my power; indeed everything is acceptable +to me that can serve to show you how truly I +am your admiring and sincere friend,</p> + +<p class="signature">L. V. BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<p>P.S. The variations are rather difficult to play, +especially the shake in the <i>Coda</i>; but do not be +alarmed at this, being so contrived that you only +require to play the shake, and leave out the other +notes, which also occur in the violin part. I never +would have written it in this way, had I not occasionally +observed that there was a certain individual +in Vienna who, when I extemporized the previous +evening, not unfrequently wrote down next +day many of the peculiarities of my music, adopting +them as his own [for instance, the Abbé Gelinek]. +Concluding, therefore, that some of these +things would soon appear, I resolved to anticipate +this. Another reason also was to puzzle some of +the pianoforte teachers here, many of whom are my +mortal foes; so I wished to revenge myself on them +in this way, knowing that they would occasionally +be asked to play the variations, when these gentlemen +would not appear to much advantage.</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let5">5.<br> +TO ELEONORE VON BREUNING,--BONN.</h3> + +<p>The beautiful neckcloth, embroidered by your +own hand, was the greatest possible surprise to me; +yet, welcome as the gift was, it awakened within +me feelings of sadness. Its effect was to recall +former days, and to put me to shame by your noble +conduct to me. I, indeed, little thought that you +still considered me worthy of your remembrance.</p> + +<p>Oh! if you could have witnessed my emotions +yesterday when this incident occurred, you would +not think that I exaggerate in saying that such a +token of your recollection brought tears to my +eyes, and made me feel very sad. Little as I may +deserve favor in your eyes, believe me, my dear +<i>friend</i>, (let me still call you so,) I have suffered, +and still suffer severely from the privation of your +friendship. Never can I forget you and your dear +mother. You were so kind to me that your loss +neither can nor will be easily replaced. I know +what I have forfeited, and what you were to me, +but in order to fill up this blank I must recur to +scenes equally painful for you to hear and for me to +detail.</p> + +<p>As a slight requital of your kind <i>souvenir</i>, I take +the liberty to send you some variations, and a Rondo +with violin accompaniment. I have a great deal +to do, or I would long since have transcribed the +Sonata I promised you. It is as yet a mere sketch +in manuscript, and to copy it would be a difficult +task even for the clever and practised Paraquin +[counter-bass in the Electoral orchestra]. You +can have the Rondo copied, and return the score. +What I now send is the only one of my works at +all suitable for you; besides, as you are going to +Kerpen [where an uncle of the family lived], I +thought these trifles might cause you pleasure.</p> + +<p>Farewell, my friend; for it is impossible for me +to give you any other name. However indifferent +I may be to you, believe me, I shall ever continue +to revere you and your mother as I have always +done. If I can in any way contribute to the fulfilment +of a wish of yours, do not fail to let me +know, for I have no other means of testifying my +gratitude for past friendship.</p> + +<p>I wish you an agreeable journey, and that your +dear mother may return entirely restored to health! +Think sometimes of your affectionate friend,</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let6">6.<br> +TO HERR SCHENK.</h3> + +<p class="date">June, 1794.</p> + +<p class="salutation">DEAR SCHENK,<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote4">[1]</a></sup>--</p> + +<p>I did not know that I was to set off to-day to +Eisenstadt. I should like to have talked to you +again. In the mean time rest assured of my gratitude +for your obliging services. I shall endeavor, +so far as it lies in my power, to requite them. I +hope soon to see you, and once more to enjoy the +pleasure of your society. Farewell, and do not +entirely forget your</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote4"><p>[Footnote 1: Schenk, afterwards celebrated as the composer of +the "Dorf Barbier," +was for some time Beethoven's teacher in composition. This +note appears to have been written in June, 1794, and first printed in +the "Freischütz," No. 183, about 1836, at the time of Schenk's death, +when his connection with Beethoven was mentioned.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let7">7.<br> +TO DR. WEGELER,--VIENNA.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote5">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p>... In what an odious light have you exhibited +me to myself! Oh! I acknowledge it, I do not +deserve your friendship. It was no intentional or +deliberate malice that induced me to act towards +you as I did, but inexcusable thoughtlessness +alone.</p> + +<p>I say no more. I am coming to throw myself +into your arms, and to entreat you to restore me +my lost friend; and you will give him back to me, +to your penitent, loving, and ever-grateful</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote5"><p>[Footnote 1: Dr. Wegeler, in answer to my request that he would send me the +entire letter, replied that "the passages omitted in the letter consisted +chiefly in eulogiums of his father, and enthusiastic expressions of +friendship, which did not seem to him to be of any value; but besides +this, the same reasons that induced his father to give only a portion of +the letter were imperative with him also." I do not wish to contest +the point with the possessor of the letter; still I may remark that all +the utterances and letters of a great man belong to the world at large, +and that in a case like the present, the conscientious biographer, who +strives faithfully to portray such a man, is alone entitled to decide what +portion of these communications is fitted for publication, and what is +not. Any considerations of a personal character seem to me very +trivial.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let8">8.<br> +TO DR. WEGELER,--VIENNA.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, May 1797.</p> + +<p>God speed you, my dear friend! I owe you a +letter which you shall shortly have, and my newest +music besides, <i>I am going on well; indeed, I may +say every day better.</i> Greet those to whom it will +give pleasure from me. Farewell, and do not forget +your</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let9">9.<br> +WRITTEN IN THE ALBUM OF LENZ VON BREUNING.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, Oct. 1, 1797.</p> + +<p> +Truth for the wise,<br> +Beauty for a feeling heart,<br> +And both for each other. +</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY DEAR, GOOD BREUNING,--</p> + +<p>Never can I forget the time I passed with you, +not only in Bonn, but here. Continue your friendship +towards me, for you shall always find me the +same true friend,</p> + +<p class="signature">L. V. BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let10">10.<br> +TO BARON ZMESKALL VON DOMANOWECZ.</h3> + +<p class="date">1800.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote6">[1]</a></sup></p> + +<p> +<img src="images/baron1.png" alt="[picture of music]"> + +<img src="images/baron2.png" alt="[picture of music]"> +</p> +<p> +<img src="images/baron3.png" alt="[picture of music]"> +</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY CHEAPEST (NOT DEAREST) BARON,--</p> + +<p>Desire the guitar-player to come to me to-day. +Amenda (instead of an <i>amende</i> [fine], which he +sometimes deserves for not observing his rests properly) +must persuade this popular guitarist to visit +me, and if possible to come at five o'clock this +evening; if not then, at five or six o'clock to-morrow +morning; but he must not waken me if I chance to +be still asleep. <i>Adieu, mon ami à bon marché.</i> +Perhaps we may meet at the "Swan"?</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote6"><p>[Footnote 1: As it appears from the following letters that Amenda was again at +home in 1800, the date of this note is thus ascertained. It is undoubtedly +addressed to Baron Zmeskall von Domanowecz, Royal Court +Secretary, a good violoncello-player, and one of Beethoven's earliest +friends in Vienna. The "guitarist" was probably the celebrated +Giuliani, who lived in Vienna.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let11">11.</h3> + +<p>The musical Count is from this day forth +<i>cashiered</i> with infamy. The first violin [Schuppanzigh] +ruthlessly transported to <i>Siberia</i>. The Baron [see +No. 10] for a whole month <i>strictly interdicted from +asking questions</i>; no longer to be so hasty, and to +devote himself exclusively to his <i>ipse miserum</i>.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote7">[1]</a></sup></p> + +<p class="signature">B.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote7"><p>[Footnote 1: Written in gigantic characters in pencil on a large sheet of paper. +The "musical Count" is probably Count Moritz Lichnowsky, brother +of Prince Carl Lichnowsky, in whose house were held those musical +performances in which Beethoven's works were first produced. Even at +that time he behaved in a very dictatorial manner to those gentlemen +when his compositions were badly executed. Thence the name given +him by Haydn of "The Great Mogul."]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let12">12.<br> +TO PASTOR AMENDA,--COURLAND.</h3> + +<p>Does Amenda think that I can ever forget him, +because I do not write? in fact, never have written +to him?--as if the memory of our friends could +only thus be preserved! The <i>best man I ever knew</i> +has a thousand times recurred to my thoughts! +Two persons alone once possessed my whole love, +one of whom still lives, and you are now the third. +How can my remembrance of you ever fade? You +will shortly receive a long letter about my present +circumstances and all that can interest you. Farewell, +beloved, good, and noble friend! Ever continue +your love and friendship towards me, just as +I shall ever be your faithful</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let13">13.<br> +TO PASTOR AMENDA.</h3> + +<p class="date">1800.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY DEAR, MY GOOD AMENDA, MY WARM-HEARTED FRIEND,--</p> + +<p>I received and read your last letter with deep +emotion, and with mingled pain and pleasure. To +what can I compare your fidelity and devotion to +me? Ah! it is indeed delightful that you still continue +to love me so well. I know how to prize you, +and to distinguish you from all others; you are not +like my Vienna friends. No! you are one of those +whom the soil of my fatherland is wont to bring +forth; how often I wish that you were with me, +for your Beethoven is very unhappy. You must +know that one of my most precious faculties, that +of hearing, is become very defective; even while +you were still with me I felt indications of this, +though I said nothing; but it is now much worse. +Whether I shall ever be cured remains yet to be +seen; it is supposed to proceed from the state of +my digestive organs, but I am almost entirely recovered +in that respect. I hope indeed that my +hearing may improve, but I scarcely think so, for +attacks of this kind are the most incurable of all. +How sad my life must now be!--forced to shun +all that is most dear and precious to me, and to live +with such miserable egotists as ----, &c. I can +with truth say that of all my friends Lichnowsky +[Prince Carl] is the most genuine. He last year +settled 600 florins on me, which, together with +the good sale of my works, enables me to live +free from care as to my maintenance. All that I +now write I can dispose of five times over, and be +well paid into the bargain. I have been writing a +good deal latterly, and as I hear that you have ordered +some pianos from ----, I will send you some +of my compositions in the packing-case of one of +these instruments, by which means they will not +cost you so much.</p> + +<p>To my great comfort, a person has returned +here with whom I can enjoy the pleasures of society +and disinterested friendship,--one of the friends +of my youth [Stephan von Breuning]. I have +often spoken to him of you, and told him that since +I left my fatherland, you are one of those to whom +my heart specially clings. Z. [Zmeskall?] does +not seem quite to please him; he is, and always +will be, too weak for true friendship, and I look on +him and ---- as mere instruments on which I play +as I please, but never can they bear noble testimony +to my inner and outward energies, or feel true +sympathy with me; I value them only in so far as +their services deserve. Oh! how happy should I +now be, had I my full sense of hearing; I would +then hasten to you; whereas, as it is, I must withdraw +from everything. My best years will thus +pass away, without effecting what my talents and +powers might have enabled me to perform. How +melancholy is the resignation in which I must take +refuge! I had determined to rise superior to all +this, but how is it possible? If in the course of +six months my malady be pronounced incurable +then, Amenda! I shall appeal to you to leave all +else and come to me, when I intend to travel (my +affliction is less distressing when playing and composing, +and most so in intercourse with others), +and you must be my companion. I have a conviction +that good fortune will not forsake me, for to +what may I not at present aspire? Since you were +here I have written everything except operas and +church music. You will not, I know, refuse my +petition; you will help your friend to bear his burden +and his calamity. I have also very much perfected +my pianoforte playing, and I hope that a +journey of this kind may possibly contribute to your +own success in life, and you would thenceforth always +remain with me. I duly received all your +letters, and though I did not reply to them, you +were constantly present with me, and my heart +beats as tenderly as ever for you. I beg you will +keep the fact of my deafness a profound secret, and +not confide it to any human being. Write to me +frequently; your letters, however short, console and +cheer me; so I shall soon hope to hear from you.</p> + +<p>Do not give your quartet to any one [in F, Op. +18, No. 1], as I have altered it very much, having +only now succeeded in writing quartets properly; +this you will at once perceive when you receive it. +Now, farewell, my dear kind friend! If by any +chance I can serve you here, I need not say that +you have only to command me.</p> + +<p class="signature">Your faithful and truly attached<br> +L. V. BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let14">14.<br> +TO WEGELER.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, June 29, 1800.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY DEAR AND VALUED WEGELER,--</p> + +<p>How much I thank you for your remembrance of +me, little as I deserve it, or have sought to deserve +it; and yet you are so kind that you allow nothing, +not even my unpardonable neglect, to discourage +you, always remaining the same true, good, and faithful +friend. That I can ever forget you or yours, +once so dear and precious to me, do not for a moment +believe. There are times when I find myself +longing to see you again, and wishing that I could +go to stay with you. My father-land, that lovely +region where I first saw the light, is still as distinct +and beauteous in my eyes as when I quitted you; +in short, I shall esteem the time when I once more +see you, and again greet Father Rhine, as one of +the happiest periods of my life. When this may be +I cannot yet tell; but at all events I may say that +you shall not see me again till I have become eminent, +not only as an artist, but better and more +perfect as a man; and if the condition of our father-land +be then more prosperous, my art shall be +entirely devoted to the benefit of the poor. Oh, +blissful moment!--how happy do I esteem myself +that I can expedite it and bring it to pass!</p> + +<p>You desire to know something of my position; +well! it is by no means bad. However incredible +it may appear, I must tell you that Lichnowsky has +been, and still is, my warmest friend (slight dissensions +occurred occasionally between us, and yet they +only served to strengthen our friendship). He +settled on me last year the sum of 600 florins, for +which I am to draw on him till I can procure some +suitable situation. My compositions are very profitable, +and I may really say that I have almost more +commissions than it is possible for me to execute. +I can have six or seven publishers or more for every +piece, if I choose; they no longer bargain with me--I +demand, and they pay--so you see this is a +very good thing. For instance, I have a friend in +distress, and my purse does not admit of my assisting +him at once; but I have only to sit down and +write, and in a short time he is relieved. I am also +become more economical than formerly. If I finally +settle here, I don't doubt I shall be able to secure a +particular day every year for a concert, of which I +have already given several. That malicious demon, +however, bad health, has been a stumbling-block in +my path; my hearing during the last three years has +become gradually worse. The chief cause of this +infirmity proceeds from the state of my digestive +organs, which, as you know, were formerly bad +enough, but have latterly become much worse, and +being constantly afflicted with diarrhoea, has brought +on extreme weakness. Frank [Director of the +General Hospital] strove to restore the tone of my +digestion by tonics, and my hearing by oil of almonds; +but alas! these did me no good whatever; +my hearing became worse, and my digestion continued +in its former plight. This went on till the +autumn of last year, when I was often reduced to +utter despair. Then some medical <i>asinus</i> recommended +me cold baths, but a more judicious doctor +the tepid ones of the Danube, which did wonders +for me; my digestion improved, but my hearing +remained the same, or in fact rather got worse. I +did indeed pass a miserable winter; I suffered from +most dreadful spasms, and sank back into my former +condition. Thus it went on till about a month +ago, when I consulted Vering [an army surgeon], +under the belief that my maladies required surgical +advice; besides, I had every confidence in him. +He succeeded in almost entirely checking the violent +diarrhoea, and ordered me the tepid baths of +the Danube, into which I pour some strengthening +mixture. He gave me no medicine, except some +digestive pills four days ago, and a lotion for my +ears. I certainly do feel better and stronger, but +my ears are buzzing and ringing perpetually, day +and night. I can with truth say that my life is very +wretched; for nearly two years past I have avoided +all society, because I find it impossible to say to people, +<i>I am deaf!</i> In any other profession this might +be more tolerable, but in mine such a condition is +truly frightful. Besides, what would my enemies +say to this?--and they are not few in number.</p> + +<p>To give you some idea of my extraordinary deafness, +I must tell you that in the theatre I am +obliged to lean close up against the orchestra in order +to understand the actors, and when a little way +off I hear none of the high notes of instruments or +singers. It is most astonishing that in conversation +some people never seem to observe this; being subject +to fits of absence, they attribute it to that +cause. I often can scarcely hear a person if +speaking low; I can distinguish the tones, but not +the words, and yet I feel it intolerable if any one +shouts to me. Heaven alone knows how it is to +end! Vering declares that I shall certainly improve, +even if I be not entirely restored. How +often have I cursed my existence! Plutarch led +me to resignation. I shall strive if possible to set +Fate at defiance, although there must be moments +in my life when I cannot fail to be the most unhappy +of God's creatures. I entreat you to say +nothing of my affliction to any one, not even to +Lorchen [see Nos. 4 and 5]. I confide the secret +to you alone, and entreat you some day to correspond +with Vering on the subject. If I continue +in the same state, I shall come to you in the ensuing +spring, when you must engage a house for me +somewhere in the country, amid beautiful scenery, +and I shall then become a rustic for a year, which +may perhaps effect a change. Resignation!--what +a miserable refuge! and yet it is my sole remaining +one. You will forgive my thus appealing +to your kindly sympathies at a time when your own +position is sad enough. Stephan Breuning is here, +and we are together almost every day; it does me +so much good to revive old feelings! He has +really become a capital good fellow, not devoid of +talent, and his heart, like that of us all, pretty +much in the right place. [See No. 13.]</p> + +<p>I have very charming rooms at present, adjoining +the Bastei [the ramparts], and peculiarly valuable +to me on account of my health [at Baron Pasqualati's]. +I do really think I shall be able to arrange +that Breuning shall come to me. You shall have +your Antiochus [a picture], and plenty of my +music besides--if, indeed, it will not cost you too +much. Your love of art does honestly rejoice me. +Only say how it is to be done, and I will send you +all my works, which now amount to a considerable +number, and are daily increasing. I beg you will +let me have my grandfather's portrait as soon as +possible by the post, in return for which I send you +that of his grandson, your loving and attached +Beethoven. It has been brought out here by +Artaria, who, as well as many other publishers, has +often urged this on me. I intend soon to write to +Stoffeln [Christoph von Breuning], and plainly admonish +him about his surly humor. I mean to +sound in his ears our old friendship, and to insist on +his promising me not to annoy you further in your +sad circumstances. I will also write to the amiable +Lorchen. Never have I forgotten one of you, my +kind friends, though you did not hear from me; +but you know well that writing never was my <i>forte</i>, +even my best friends having received no letters +from me for years. I live wholly in my music, and +scarcely is one work finished when another is begun; +indeed, I am now often at work on three or four +things at the same time. Do write to me frequently, +and I will strive to find time to write to +you also. Give my remembrances to all, especially +to the kind Frau Hofräthin [von Breuning], and +say to her that I am still subject to an occasional +<i>raptus</i>. As for K----, I am not at all surprised +at the change in her: Fortune rolls like a ball, and +does not always stop before the best and noblest. +As to Ries [Court musician in Bonn], to whom +pray cordially remember me, I must say one word. +I will write to you more particularly about his son +[Ferdinand], although I believe that he would be +more likely to succeed in Paris than in Vienna, +which is already overstocked, and where even those +of the highest merit find it a hard matter to maintain +themselves. By next autumn or winter, I +shall be able to see what can be done for him, +because then all the world returns to town. Farewell, +my kind, faithful Wegeler! Rest assured of +the love and friendship of your</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let15">15.<br> +TO COUNTESS GIULIETTA GUICCIARDI.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote8">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">Morning, July 6, 1800.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY ANGEL! MY ALL! MY SECOND SELF!</p> + +<p>Only a few words to-day, written with a pencil +(your own). My residence cannot be settled till +to-morrow. What a tiresome loss of time! Why +this deep grief when necessity compels?--can our +love exist without sacrifices, and by refraining from +desiring all things? Can you alter the fact that +you are not wholly mine, nor I wholly yours? Ah! +contemplate the beauties of Nature, and reconcile +your spirit to the inevitable. Love demands all, +and has a right to do so, and thus it is <i>I feel towards +you</i> and <i>you towards me</i>; but you do not sufficiently +remember that I must live both <i>for you</i> and <i>for myself</i>. +Were we wholly united, you would feel this +sorrow as little as I should. My journey was terrible. +I did not arrive here till four o'clock yesterday +morning, as no horses were to be had. The +drivers chose another route; but what a dreadful +one it was! At the last stage I was warned not to +travel through the night, and to beware of a certain +wood, but this only incited me to go forward, and I +was wrong. The carriage broke down, owing to +the execrable roads, mere deep rough country lanes, +and had it not been for the postilions I must have +been left by the wayside. Esterhazy, travelling +the usual road, had the same fate with eight horses, +whereas I had only four. Still I felt a certain +degree of pleasure, which I invariably do when I +have happily surmounted any difficulty. But I +must now pass from the outer to the inner man. +We shall, I trust, soon meet again; to-day I cannot +impart to you all the reflections I have made, +during the last few days, on my life; were our +hearts closely united forever, none of these would +occur to me. My heart is overflowing with all I +have to say to you. Ah! there are moments when +I find that speech is actually nothing. Take courage! +Continue to be ever my true and only love, +my all! as I am yours. The gods must ordain +what is further to be and shall be!</p> + +<p class="signature">Your faithful<br> +LUDWIG.</p> + +<p class="date">Monday Evening, July 6.</p> + +<p>You grieve! dearest of all beings! I have just +heard that the letters must be sent off very early. +Mondays and Thursdays are the only days when the +post goes to K. from here. You grieve! Ah! +where I am, there you are ever with me; how +earnestly shall I strive to pass my life with you, +and what a life will it be!!! Whereas now!! +without you!! and persecuted by the kindness of +others, which I neither deserve nor try to deserve! +The servility of man towards his fellow-man pains +me, and when I regard myself as a component part +of the universe, what am I, what is he who is +called the greatest?--and yet herein are displayed +the godlike feelings of humanity!--I weep in +thinking that you will receive no intelligence from +me till probably Saturday. However dearly you +may love me, I love you more fondly still. Never +conceal your feelings from me. Good-night! As +a patient at these baths, I must now go to rest [a +few words are here effaced by Beethoven himself]. +Oh, heavens! so near, and yet so far! Is not our +love a truly celestial mansion, but firm as the vault +of heaven itself?</p> + +<p class="date">July 7.</p> + +<p>GOOD-MORNING!</p> + +<p>Even before I rise, my thoughts throng to you, +my immortal beloved!--sometimes full of joy, and +yet again sad, waiting to see whether Fate will hear +us. I must live either wholly with you, or not +at all. Indeed I have resolved to wander far from +you [see No. 13] till the moment arrives when I +can fly into your arms, and feel that they are my +home, and send forth my soul in unison with yours +into the realm of spirits. Alas! it must be so! +You will take courage, for you know my fidelity. +Never can another possess my heart--never, +never! Oh, heavens! Why must I fly from her +I so fondly love? and yet my existence in W. was +as miserable as here. Your love made me the most +happy and yet the most unhappy of men. At my +age, life requires a uniform equality; can this be +found in our mutual relations? My angel! I have +this moment heard that the post goes every day, so +I must conclude, that you may get this letter the +sooner. Be calm! for we can only attain our object +of living together by the calm contemplation +of our existence. Continue to love me. Yesterday, +to-day, what longings for you, what tears for +you! for you! for you! my life! my all! Farewell! +Oh! love me forever, and never doubt the faithful +heart of your lover, L.</p> + +<p> +Ever thine.<br> +Ever mine.<br> +Ever each other's. +</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote8"><p>[Footnote 1: These letters to his "immortal beloved," to whom the C sharp +minor Sonata is dedicated, appear here for the first time in their integrity, +in accordance with the originals written in pencil on fine notepaper, +and given in Schindler's <i>Beethoven's Nachlass</i>. There has +been much discussion about the date. It is certified, in the first place, +in the church register which Alex. Thayer saw in Vienna, that Giulietta +was married to Count Gallenberg in 1801; and in the next place, +the 6th of July falls on a Monday in 1800. The other reasons which +induce me decidedly to fix this latter year as the date of the letter, I +mean to give at full length in the second volume of <i>Beethoven's Biography</i>. +I may also state that Beethoven was at baths in Hungary +at that time. Whether the K---- in the second letter means Komorn, +I cannot tell.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let16">16.<br> +TO MATTHISSON.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, August 4, 1800.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MOST ESTEEMED FRIEND,--</p> + +<p>You will receive with this one of my compositions +published some years since, and yet, to my +shame, you probably have never heard of it. I +cannot attempt to excuse myself, or to explain why +I dedicated a work to you which came direct from +my heart, but never acquainted you with its existence, +unless indeed in this way, that at first I did +not know where you lived, and partly also from +diffidence, which led me to think I might have +been premature in dedicating a work to you before +ascertaining that you approved of it. Indeed, even +now I send you "Adelaide" with a feeling of timidity. +You know yourself what changes the lapse +of some years brings forth in an artist who continues +to make progress; the greater the advances +we make in art, the less are we satisfied with our +works of an earlier date. My most ardent wish +will be fulfilled if you are not dissatisfied with the +manner in which I have set your heavenly "Adelaide" +to music, and are incited by it soon to compose +a similar poem; and if you do not consider +my request too indiscreet, I would ask you to send +it to me forthwith, that I may exert all my energies +to approach your lovely poetry in merit. Pray +regard the dedication as a token of the pleasure +which your "Adelaide" conferred on me, as well as +of the appreciation and intense delight your poetry +always has inspired, and <i>always will inspire in me</i>.</p> + +<p>When playing "Adelaide," sometimes recall</p> + +<p class="signature">Your sincere admirer,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let17">17.<br> +TO FRAU FRANK,--VIENNA</h3> + +<p class="date">October, 1800.</p> + +<p class="salutation">DEAR LADY,--</p> + +<p>At the second announcement of our concert, +you must remind your husband that the public +should be made acquainted with the names of those +whose talents are to contribute to this concert. +Such is the custom here; and indeed, were it not +so, what is there to attract a larger audience? which +is after all our chief object. Punto [the celebrated +horn-player, for whom Beethoven wrote Sonata +17] is not a little indignant about the omission, +and I must say he has reason to be so; but even +before seeing him it was my intention to have reminded +you of this, for I can only explain the mistake +by great haste or great forgetfulness. Be so +good, then, dear lady, as to attend to my hint +otherwise you will certainly expose yourself to +<i>many annoyances</i>. Being at last convinced in my +own mind, and by others, that I shall not be quite +superfluous in this concert, I know that not only +I, but also Punto, Simoni [a tenorist], and Galvani +will demand that the public should be apprised of +our zeal for this charitable object; otherwise we +must all conclude that we are not wanted.</p> + +<p class="signature">Yours,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let18">18.<br> +TO HERR VON WEGELER.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, Nov. 16, 1800.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY DEAR WEGELER,--</p> + +<p>I thank you for this fresh proof of your interest in +me, especially as I so little deserve it. You wish +to know how I am, and what remedies I use. Unwilling +as I always feel to discuss this subject, still +I feel less reluctant to do so with you than with any +other person. For some months past Vering has +ordered me to apply blisters on both arms, of a particular +kind of bark, with which you are probably +acquainted,--a disagreeable remedy, independent +of the pain, as it deprives me of the free use of my +arms for a couple of days at a time, till the blisters +have drawn sufficiently. The ringing and buzzing +in my ears have certainly rather decreased, particularly +in the left ear, in which the malady first commenced, +but my hearing is not at all improved; in +fact I fear that it is become rather worse. My +health is better, and after using the tepid baths for +a time, I feel pretty well for eight or ten days. I +seldom take tonics, but I have begun applications of +herbs, according to your advice. Vering will not +hear of plunge baths, but I am much dissatisfied with +him; he is neither so attentive nor so indulgent +as he ought to be to such a malady; if I did not +go to him, which is no easy matter, I should never +see him at all. What is your opinion of Schmidt +[an army surgeon]? I am unwilling to make any +change, but it seems to me that Vering is too much +of a practitioner to acquire new ideas by reading. +On this point Schmidt appears to be a very different +man, and would probably be less negligent with +regard to my case. I hear wonders of galvanism; +what do you say to it? A physician told me that +he knew a deaf and dumb child whose hearing was +restored by it (in Berlin), and likewise a man who +had been deaf for seven years, and recovered his +hearing. I am told that your friend Schmidt is at +this moment making experiments on the subject.</p> + +<p>I am now leading a somewhat more agreeable +life, as of late I have been associating more with +other people. You could scarcely believe what a +sad and dreary life mine has been for the last two +years; my defective hearing everywhere pursuing +me like a spectre, making me fly from every one, +and appear a misanthrope; and yet no one is in +reality less so! This change has been wrought by +a lovely fascinating girl [undoubtedly Giulietta], +who loves me and whom I love. I have once more +had some blissful moments during the last two +years, and it is the first time I ever felt that marriage +could make me happy. Unluckily, she is not +in my rank of life, and indeed at this moment I +can marry no one; I must first bestir myself actively +in the world. Had it not been for my deafness, +I would have travelled half round the globe +ere now, and this I must still do. For me there is +no pleasure so great as to promote and to pursue +my art.</p> + +<p>Do not suppose that I could be happy with you. +What indeed could make me happier? Your very +solicitude would distress me; I should read your +compassion every moment in your countenance, +which would make me only still more unhappy. +What were my thoughts amid the glorious scenery +of my father-land? The hope alone of a happier +future, which would have been mine but for this +affliction! Oh! I could span the world were I only +free from this! I feel that my youth is only now +commencing. Have I not always been an infirm +creature? For some time past my bodily strength +has been increasing, and it is the same with my +mental powers. I feel, though I cannot describe +it, that I daily approach the object I have in view, +in which alone can your Beethoven live. No rest +for him!--I know of none but in sleep, and I do +grudge being obliged to sacrifice more time to it +than formerly.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote9">[1]</a></sup> Were I only half cured of my +malady, then I would come to you, and, as a more +perfect and mature man, renew our old friendship.</p> + +<p>You should then see me as happy as I am ever +destined to be here below--not unhappy. No! +that I could not endure; I will boldly meet my +fate, never shall it succeed in crushing me. Oh! +it is so glorious to live one's life a thousand times +over! I feel that I am no longer made for a quiet +existence. You will write to me as soon as possible? +Pray try to prevail on Steffen [von Breuning] +to seek an appointment from the Teutonic +Order somewhere. Life here is too harassing for +his health; besides, he is so isolated that I do not +see how he is ever to get on. You know the kind +of existence here. I do not take it upon myself to +say that society would dispel his lassitude, but he +cannot be persuaded to go anywhere. A short +time since, I had some music in my house, but our +friend Steffen stayed away. Do recommend him +to be more calm and self-possessed, which I have in +vain tried to effect; otherwise he can neither enjoy +health nor happiness. Tell me in your next +letter whether you care about my sending you a +large selection of music; you can indeed dispose +of what you do not want, and thus repay the expense +of the carriage, and have my portrait into the +bargain. Say all that is kind and amiable from +me to Lorchen, and also to mamma and Christoph. +You still have some regard for me? Always rely +on the love as well as the friendship of your</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote9"><p>[Footnote 1: "Too much sleep is hurtful" is marked by a thick score in the +Odyssey (45, 393) by Beethoven's hand. See Schindler's <i>Beethoven's +Nachlass</i>.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let19">19.<br> +TO KAPELLMEISTER HOFMEISTER,--LEIPZIG.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote10">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, Dec. 15, 1800.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY DEAR BROTHER IN ART,--</p> + +<p>I have often intended to answer your proposals, +but am frightfully lazy about all correspondence; so +it is usually a good while before I can make up my +mind to write dry letters instead of music. I have, +however, at last forced myself to answer your application. +<i>Pro primo</i>, I must tell you how much I +regret that you, my much-loved brother in the science +of music, did not give me some hint, so that I +might have offered you my quartets, as well as +many other things that I have now disposed of. +But if you are as conscientious, my dear brother, as +many other publishers, who grind to death us poor +composers, you will know pretty well how to derive +ample profit when the works appear. I now +briefly state what you can have from me. 1st. A +Septet, <i>per il violino, viola, violoncello, contra-basso, +clarinetto, corno, fagotto;--tutti obbligati</i> (I can +write nothing that is not <i>obbligato</i>, having come +into the world with an <i>obbligato</i> accompaniment!) +This Septet pleases very much. For more general +use it might be arranged for one more <i>violino, +viola</i>, and <i>violoncello</i>, instead of the three wind-instruments, +<i>fagotto, clarinetto</i>, and <i>corno</i>.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote11">[2]</a></sup> 2d. A +Grand Symphony with full orchestra [the 1st]. +3rd. A pianoforte Concerto [Op. 19], which I by +no means assert to be one of my best, any more +than the one Mollo is to publish here [Op. 15], +(this is for the benefit of the Leipzig critics!) because +<i>I reserve the best for myself</i> till I set off on +my travels; still the work will not disgrace you to +publish. 4th. A Grand Solo Sonata [Op. 22]. +These are all I can part with at this moment; a +little later you can have a quintet for stringed instruments, +and probably some quartets also, and +other pieces that I have not at present beside me. +In your answer you can yourself fix the prices; and +as you are neither an <i>Italian</i> nor a <i>Jew</i>, nor am I +either, we shall no doubt quickly agree. Farewell, +and rest assured,</p> + +<p>My dear brother in art, of the esteem of your</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote10"><p>[Footnote 1: The letters to Hofmeister, formerly of Vienna, who conducted the +correspondence with Beethoven in the name of the firm of "Hofmeister +& Kühnel, Bureau de Musique," are given here as they first appeared +in 1837 in the <i>Neue Zeitschrift für Musik</i>. On applying to the +present representative of that firm, I was told that those who now +possess these letters decline giving them out of their own hands, and +that no copyist can be found able to decipher or transcribe them correctly.]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote11"><p>[Footnote 2: This last phrase is not in the copy before me, but in Marx's +<i>Biography</i>, who appears to have seen the original.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let20">20.<br> +TO KAPELLMEISTER HOFMEISTER.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, Jan. 15 (or thereabouts), 1801.</p> + +<p>I read your letter, dear brother and friend, with +much pleasure, and I thank you for your good opinion +of me and of my works, and hope I may continue +to deserve it. I also beg you to present all +due thanks to Herr K. [Kühnel] for his politeness +and friendship towards me. I, on my part, rejoice +in your undertakings, and am glad that when works +of art do turn out profitable, they fall to the share +of true artists, rather than to that of mere tradesmen.</p> + +<p>Your intention to publish Sebastian Bach's works +really gladdens my heart, which beats with devotion +for the lofty and grand productions of this our +father of the science of harmony, and I trust I shall +soon see them appear. I hope when golden peace +is proclaimed, and your subscription list opened, to +procure you many subscribers here.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote12">[1]</a></sup></p> + +<p>With regard to our own transactions, as you wish +to know my proposals, they are as follows. I offer +you at present the following works:--The Septet +(which I already wrote to you about), 20 ducats; +Symphony, 20 ducats; Concerto, 10 ducats; Grand +Solo Sonata, <i>allegro, adagio, minuetto, rondo</i>, 20 +ducats. This Sonata [Op. 22] is well up to the +mark, my dear brother!</p> + +<p>Now for explanations. You may perhaps be surprised +that I make no difference of price between the +sonata, septet, and symphony. I do so because +I find that a septet or a symphony has not so great +a sale as a sonata, though a symphony ought +unquestionably to be of the most value. (N.B. +The septet consists of a short introductory <i>adagio</i>, +an <i>allegro, adagio, minuetto, andante</i>, with variations, +<i>minuetto</i>, and another short <i>adagio</i> preceding a +<i>presto</i>.) I only ask ten ducats for the concerto, +for, as I already wrote to you, I do not consider it +one of my best. I cannot think that, taken as a +whole, you will consider these prices exorbitant; at +least, I have endeavored to make them as moderate +as possible for you.</p> + +<p>With regard to the banker's draft, as you give +me my choice, I beg you will make it payable by +Germüller or Schüller. The entire sum for the +four works will amount to 70 ducats; I understand +no currency but Vienna ducats, so how many dollars +in gold they make in your money is no affair +of mine, for really I am a very bad man of business +and accountant. Now this <i>troublesome</i> business is +concluded;--I call it so, heartily wishing that it +could be otherwise here below! There ought to +be only one grand <i>dépôt</i> of art in the world, to +which the artist might repair with his works, and +on presenting them receive what he required; but +as it now is, one must be half a tradesman besides--and +how is this to be endured? Good heavens! +I may well call it <i>troublesome</i>!</p> + +<p>As for the Leipzig oxen,<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote13">[2]</a></sup> let them talk!--they +certainly will make no man immortal by their prating, +and as little can they deprive of immortality +those whom Apollo destines to attain it.</p> + +<p>Now may Heaven preserve you and your colleagues! +I have been unwell for some time; so it +is rather difficult for me at present to write even +music, much more letters. I trust we shall have +frequent opportunities to assure each other how +truly you are my friend, and I yours.</p> + +<p>I hope for a speedy answer. Adieu!</p> + +<p class="signature">L. V. BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote12"><p>[Footnote 1: I have at this moment in my hands this edition of Bach, bound in +one thick volume, together with the first part of Nägeli's edition of the +<i>Wohltemperirtes Clavier</i>, also three books of exercises (D, G, and +C minor), the <i>Toccata in D Minor</i>, and <i>Twice Fifteen Inventions</i>.]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote13"><p>[Footnote 2: It is thus that Schindler supplies the gap. It is probably an +allusion to the <i>Allgemeine Musikalische Zeitung</i>, founded about three +years previously.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let21">21.<br> +TO HERR HOFMEISTER.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, April 22, 1801.</p> + +<p>You have indeed too good cause to complain not +a little of me. My excuse is that I have been ill, +and in addition had so much to do, that I could +scarcely even think of what I was to send you. +Moreover, the only thing in me that resembles a +genius is, that my papers are never in very good +order, and yet no one but myself can succeed in arranging +them. For instance, in the score of the +concerto, the piano part, according to my usual +custom, was not yet written down; so, owing to my +hurry, you will receive it in my own very illegible +writing. In order that the works may follow as +nearly as possible in their proper order, I have +marked the numbers to be placed on each, as follows:--</p> + +<pre> +Solo Sonata, Op. 22. +Symphony, Op. 21. +Septet, Op. 20. +Concerto, Op. 19. +</pre> + +<p>I will send you their various titles shortly.</p> + +<p>Put me down as a subscriber to Sebastian Bach's +works [see Letter 20], and also Prince Lichnowsky. +The arrangement of Mozart's Sonatas as +quartets will do you much credit, and no doubt +be profitable also. I wish I could contribute more +to the promotion of such an undertaking, but I am +an irregular man, and too apt, even with the best +intentions, to forget everything; I have, however, +mentioned the matter to various people, and I +everywhere find them well disposed towards it. It +would be a good thing if you would arrange the +septet you are about to publish as a quintet, +with a flute part, for instance; this would be an +advantage to amateurs of the flute, who have already +importuned me on the subject, and who would +swarm round it like insects and banquet on it.</p> + +<p>Now to tell you something of myself. I have +written a ballet ["Prometheus"], in which the +ballet-master has not done his part so well as might +be. The F---- von L---- has also bestowed on +us a production which by no means corresponds +with the ideas of his genius conveyed by the newspaper +reports. F---- seems to have taken Herr +M---- (Wenzel Müller?) as his ideal at the Kusperle, +yet without even rising to his level. Such +are the fine prospects before us poor people who +strive to struggle upwards! My dear friend, pray +lose no time in bringing the work before the notice +of the public, and write to me soon, that I may +know whether by my delay I have entirely forfeited +your confidence for the future. Say all that +is civil and kind to your partner, Kühnel. Everything +shall henceforth be sent finished, and in quick +succession. So now farewell, and continue your +regards for</p> + +<p class="signature">Your friend and brother,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let22">22.<br> +TO HERR HOFMEISTER.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, June, 1801.</p> + +<p>I am rather surprised at the communication you +have desired your business agent here to make to +me; I may well feel offended at your believing me +capable of so mean a trick. It would have been a +very different thing had I sold my works to rapacious +shopkeepers, and then secretly made another +good speculation; but, from <i>one artist to another</i>, +it is rather a strong measure to suspect me of such +a proceeding! The whole thing seems to be either +a device to put me to the test, or a mere suspicion. +In any event I may tell you that before you received +the septet from me I had sent it to Mr. +Salomon in London (to be played at his own concert, +which I did solely from friendship), with the +express injunction to beware of its getting into +other hands, as it was my intention to have it engraved +in Germany, and, if you choose, you can +apply to him for the confirmation of this. But to +give you a further proof of my integrity, "I herewith +give you the faithful assurance that I have +neither sold the septet, the symphony, the concerto, +nor the sonata to any one but to Messrs. +Hofmeister and Kühnel, and that they may consider +them to be their own exclusive property. +And to this I pledge my honor." You may make +what use you please of this guarantee.</p> + +<p>Moreover, I believe Salomon to be as incapable +of the baseness of engraving the septet as I am +of selling it to him. I was so scrupulous in the +matter, that when applied to by various publishers +to sanction a pianoforte arrangement of the septet, +I at once declined, though I do not even know +whether you proposed making use of it in this way. +Here follow the long-promised titles of the works. +There will no doubt be a good deal to alter and to +amend in them; but this I leave to you. I shall +soon expect a letter from you, and, I hope, the works +likewise, which I wish to see engraved, as others +have appeared, and are about to appear, in connection +with these numbers. I look on your statement +as founded on mere rumors, which you have believed +with too much facility, or based entirely on +supposition, induced by having perchance heard +that I had sent the work to Salomon; I cannot, +therefore, but feel some coolness towards such a +credulous friend, though I still subscribe myself</p> + +<p class="signature">Your friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let23">23.<br> +DEDICATION TO DR. SCHMIDT.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote14">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">1801.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MONSIEUR,--</p> + +<p>Je sens parfaitement bien, que la Celebrité de +Votre nom ainsi que l'amitié dont Vous m'honorez, +exigeroient de moi la dédicace d'un bien plus important +ouvrage. La seule chose qui a pu me +déterminer à Vous offrir celui-ci de préférence, +c'est qu'il me paroît d'une exécution plus facile et +par la même plus propre à contribuer à la Satisfaction +dont Vous jouissez dans l'aimable Cercle de +Votre Famille.--C'est surtout, lorsque les heureux +talents d'une fille chérie se seront developpés davantage, +que je me flatte de voir ce but atteint. +Heureux si j'y ai réussi et si dans cette faible +marque de ma haute estime et de ma gratitude +Vous reconnoissez toute la vivacité et la cordialité +de mes sentiments.</p> + +<p class="signature">LOUIS VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote14"><p>[Footnote 1: Grand Trio, Op. 38.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let24">24.<br> +TO HIS SCHOLAR, FERDINAND RIES.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote15">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">1801.</p> + +<p class="salutation">DEAR RIES,--</p> + +<p>I send you herewith the four parts corrected by +me; please compare the others already written out +with these. I also enclose a letter to Count +Browne. I have told him that he must make an +advance to you of fifty ducats, to enable you to +get your outfit. This is absolutely necessary, so it +cannot offend him; for after being equipped, you +are to go with him to Baden on the Monday of the +ensuing week. I must, however, reproach you for +not having had recourse to me long ago. Am I +not your true friend? Why did you conceal your +necessities from me? No friend of mine shall ever +be in need, so long as I have anything myself. I +would already have sent you a small sum, did I not +rely on Browne; if he fails us, then apply at once +to your</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote15"><p>[Footnote 1: Ries names 1801 as the date of this letter, and it was no doubt +during that summer that Count Browne was in Baden. Ries's father had assisted +the Beethoven family in every way in his power at the time of the mother's +death.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let25">25.<br> +TO HERR HOFMEISTER,--LEIPZIG.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, April 8, 1802.</p> + +<p>Do you mean to go post-haste to the devil, gentlemen, +by proposing that I should write <i>such</i> a +<i>sonata</i>? During the revolutionary fever, a thing +of the kind might have been appropriate, but now, +when everything is falling again into the beaten +track, and Bonaparte has concluded a <i>Concordat</i> +with the Pope--such a sonata as this? If it were +a <i>missa pro Sancta Maria à tre voci</i>, or a <i>vesper</i>, +&c., then I would at once take up my pen and +write a <i>Credo in unum</i>, in gigantic semibreves. But, +good heavens! such a sonata, in this fresh dawning +Christian epoch. No, no!--it won't do, and I +will have none of it.</p> + +<p>Now for my answer in quickest <i>tempo</i>. The +lady can have a sonata from me, and I am willing to +adopt the general outlines of her plan in an <i>aesthetical</i> +point of view, without adhering to the keys +named. The price to be five ducats; for this sum +she can keep the work a year for her own amusement, +without either of us being entitled to publish +it. After the lapse of a year, the sonata to revert +to me--that is, I can and will then publish it, +when, if she considers it any distinction, she may +request me to dedicate it to her.</p> + +<p>I now, gentlemen, commend you to the grace of +God. My Sonata [Op. 22] is well engraved, but +you have been a fine time about it! I hope you +will usher my Septet into the world a little quicker, +as the P---- is waiting for it, and you know the +Empress has it; and when there are in this imperial +city people like ----, I cannot be answerable +for the result; so lose no time!</p> + +<p>Herr ---- [Mollo?] has lately published my +Quartets [Op. 18] full of faults and <i>errata</i>, both +large and small, which swarm in them like fish in +the sea; that is, they are innumerable. <i>Questo è un +piacere per un autore</i>--this is what I call engraving +[<i>stechen</i>, stinging] with a vengeance.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote16">[1]</a></sup> In +truth, my skin is a mass of punctures and scratches +from this fine edition of my Quartets! Now farewell, +and think of me as I do of you. Till death, +your faithful</p> + +<p class="signature">L. V. BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote16"><p>[Footnote 1: In reference to the musical piracy at that time very prevalent in Austria.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let26">26.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote17">[1]</a></sup><br> +TO MY BROTHERS CARL AND JOHANN BEETHOVEN.</h3> + +<p class="date">Heiligenstadt, Oct. 6, 1802.</p> + +<p>Oh! ye who think or declare me to be hostile, +morose, and misanthropical, how unjust you are, +and how little you know the secret cause of what +appears thus to you! My heart and mind were +ever from childhood prone to the most tender feelings +of affection, and I was always disposed to accomplish +something great. But you must remember +that six years ago I was attacked by an incurable +malady, aggravated by unskilful physicians, +deluded from year to year, too, by the hope of relief, +and at length forced to the conviction of a <i>lasting +affliction</i> (the cure of which may go on for +years, and perhaps after all prove impracticable).</p> + +<p>Born with a passionate and excitable temperament, +keenly susceptible to the pleasures of society, +I was yet obliged early in life to isolate myself, and +to pass my existence in solitude. If I at any time +resolved to surmount all this, oh! how cruelly was +I again repelled by the experience, sadder than +ever, of my defective hearing!--and yet I found +it impossible to say to others: Speak louder; shout! +for I am deaf! Alas! how could I proclaim the +deficiency of a sense which ought to have been +more perfect with me than with other men,--a +sense which I once possessed in the highest perfection, +to an extent, indeed, that few of my profession +ever enjoyed! Alas, I cannot do this! Forgive me +therefore when you see me withdraw from you with +whom I would so gladly mingle. My misfortune is +doubly severe from causing me to be misunderstood. +No longer can I enjoy recreation in social intercourse, +refined conversation, or mutual outpourings +of thought. Completely isolated, I only enter society +when compelled to do so. I must live like an exile. +In company I am assailed by the most painful apprehensions, +from the dread of being exposed to +the risk of my condition being observed. It was +the same during the last six months I spent in the +country. My intelligent physician recommended +me to spare my hearing as much as possible, which +was quite in accordance with my present disposition, +though sometimes, tempted by my natural inclination +for society, I allowed myself to be beguiled into +it. But what humiliation when any one beside me +heard a flute in the far distance, while I heard +<i>nothing</i>, or when others heard <i>a shepherd singing</i>, +and I still heard <i>nothing</i>! Such things brought me +to the verge of desperation, and wellnigh caused +me to put an end to my life. <i>Art! art</i> alone, +deterred me. Ah! how could I possibly quit the +world before bringing forth all that I felt it was +my vocation to produce?<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote18">[2]</a></sup> And thus I spared this +miserable life--so utterly miserable that any sudden +change may reduce me at any moment from +my best condition into the worst. It is decreed +that I must now choose <i>Patience</i> for my guide! +This I have done. I hope the resolve will not fail +me, steadfastly to persevere till it may please the +inexorable Fates to cut the thread of my life. Perhaps +I may get better, perhaps not. I am prepared +for either. Constrained to become a philosopher in +my twenty-eighth year!<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote19">[3]</a></sup> This is no slight trial, +and more severe on an artist than on any one else. +God looks into my heart, He searches it, and knows +that love for man and feelings of benevolence have +their abode there! Oh! ye who may one day read +this, think that you have done me injustice, and let +any one similarly afflicted be consoled, by finding +one like himself, who, in defiance of all the obstacles +of Nature, has done all in his power to be included +in the ranks of estimable artists and men. My +brothers Carl and Johann, as soon as I am no more, +if Professor Schmidt [see Nos. 18 and 23] be still +alive, beg him in my name to describe my malady, +and to add these pages to the analysis of my disease, +that at least, so far as possible, the world may be +reconciled to me after my death. I also hereby +declare you both heirs of my small fortune (if so +it may be called). Share it fairly, agree together +and assist each other. You know that anything +you did to give me pain has been long forgiven. I +thank you, my brother Carl in particular, for the +attachment you have shown me of late. My wish +is that you may enjoy a happier life, and one more +free from care, than mine has been. Recommend +<i>Virtue</i> to your children; that alone, and not wealth, +can ensure happiness. I speak from experience. +It was <i>Virtue</i> alone which sustained me in my misery; +I have to thank her and Art for not having +ended my life by suicide. Farewell! Love each +other. I gratefully thank all my friends, especially +Prince Lichnowsky and Professor Schmidt. I wish +one of you to keep Prince L----'s instruments; +but I trust this will give rise to no dissension between +you. If you think it more beneficial, however, +you have only to dispose of them. How +much I shall rejoice if I can serve you even in the +grave! So be it then! I joyfully hasten to meet +Death. If he comes before I have had the opportunity +of developing all my artistic powers, then, +notwithstanding my cruel fate, he will come too +early for me, and I should wish for him at a more +distant period; but even then I shall be content, +for his advent will release me from a state of endless +suffering. Come when he may, I shall meet +him with courage. Farewell! Do not quite forget +me, even in death; I deserve this from you, +because during my life I so often thought of you, +and wished to make you happy. Amen!</p> + +<p class="signature">LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<p>(<i>Written on the Outside.</i>)</p> + +<p>Thus, then, I take leave of you, and with sadness +too. The fond hope I brought with me here, of +being to a certain degree cured, now utterly forsakes +me. As autumn leaves fall and wither, so +are my hopes blighted. Almost as I came, I depart. +Even the lofty courage that so often animated +me in the lovely days of summer is gone forever. +O Providence! vouchsafe me one day of +pure felicity! How long have I been estranged +from the glad echo of true joy! When! O my +God! when shall I again feel it in the temple of +Nature and of man?--never? Ah! that would be +too hard!</p> + +<p>(<i>Outside.</i>)</p> + +<p>To be read and fulfilled after my death by my +brothers Carl and Johann.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote17"><p>[Footnote 1: This beautiful letter I regret not to have seen in the original, it being in the possession of the violin <i>virtuoso</i> Ernst, in London. I have adhered to the version given in the Leipzig <i>Allgemeine Musikalische Zeitung</i>, Oct. 1827.]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote18"><p>[Footnote 2: A large portion of the <i>Eroica</i> was written in the course of this summer, but not completed till August, 1804.]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote19"><p>[Footnote 3: Beethoven did not at that time know in what year he was born. +See the subsequent letter of May 2, 1810. He was then far advanced +in his thirty-third year.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let27">27.<br> +NOTICE.</h3> + +<p class="date">November, 1802.</p> + +<p>I owe it to the public and to myself to state that +the two quintets in C and E flat major--one of +these (arranged from a symphony of mine) published +by Herr Mollo in Vienna, and the other +(taken from my Septet, Op. 20) by Herr Hofmeister +in Leipzig--are not original quintets, but only +versions of the aforesaid works given by the publishers. +Arrangements in these days (so fruitful in--arrangements) +an author will find it vain to contend +against; but we may at least justly demand +that the fact should be mentioned in the title-page, +neither to injure the reputation of the author nor to +deceive the public. This notice is given to prevent +anything of the kind in future. I also beg +to announce that shortly a new original quintet of +my composition, in C major, Op. 29, will appear at +Breitkopf & Härtel's in Leipzig.</p> + +<p class="signature">LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let28">28.<br> +TO FERDINAND RIES.</h3> + +<p class="date">Summer of 1803.</p> + +<p>You no doubt are aware that I am here. Go to +Stein, and ask if he can send me an instrument, on +hire. I am afraid of bringing mine here. Come +to me this evening about seven o'clock. I lodge in +Oberdöbling, on the left side of the street, No. 4, +going down the hill towards Heiligenstadt.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let29">29.<br> +TO HERR HOFMEISTER,--LEIPZIG.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, Sept. 22, 1803.</p> + +<p>I hereby declare all the works you have ordered +to be your property. The list of these shall be made +out and sent to you with my signature, as the +proof of their being your own. I also agree to accept +the sum of fifty ducats for them. Are you +satisfied?</p> + +<p>Perhaps, instead of the variations with violoncello +and violin,<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote20">[1]</a></sup> I may send you variations for the piano, +arranged as a duet on a song of mine; but Goethe's +poetry must also be engraved, as I wrote these variations +in an album, and consider them better than +the others. Are you satisfied?</p> + +<p>The arrangements are not by me, though I have +revised and much improved various passages; but +I do not wish you to say that I have arranged them, +for it would be false, and I have neither time nor +patience to do so. Are you satisfied?</p> + +<p>Now farewell! I sincerely wish that all may go +well with you. I would gladly make you a present +of all my works, if I could do so and still get on in +the world; but--remember most people are provided +for, and know what they have to live on, +while, good heavens! where can an appointment +be found at the Imperial Court for such a <i>parvum +talentum com ego</i>?</p> + +<p class="signature">Your friend,<br> +L. V. BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote20"><p>[Footnote 1: These are the six variations in D, on the air <i>Ich denke Dein</i> +written in 1800 in the album of the Countesses Josephine Deym and +Thérèse of Brunswick.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let30">30.<br> +CAUTION.</h3> + +<p class="date">November, 1803.</p> + +<p>Herr Carl Zulehner, a piratical engraver in +Mayence, has announced an edition of my collected +works for the pianoforte and also stringed instruments. +I consider it my duty publicly to inform +all friends of music that I have no share whatever +in this edition.</p> + +<p>I would never have in any way authorized any +collection of my works (which, moreover, I consider +premature) without previously consulting the +publishers of single pieces, and ensuring that correctness +in which editions of my individual works +are so deficient. I must also observe that this illegal +edition cannot be complete, as several new +works of mine are shortly to appear in Paris, and +these Herr Zulehner, being a French subject, dare +not pirate. I intend to take another opportunity +of enumerating the details of the collection of my +works to be brought out under my own auspices +and careful revision.</p> + +<p class="signature">LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let31">31.<br> +TO HERR RIES.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote21">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">1804.</p> + +<p>Be so good as to make out a list of the mistakes +and send it at once to Simrock, and say that the +work must appear as soon as possible. I will send +him the Sonata [Op. 47] and the Concerto the day +after to-morrow.</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote21"><p>[Footnote 1: Ries relates that the three following notes refer to the pianoforte +Sonata, Op. 31, No. 1, carefully engraved by Nägeli in Zurich, which +Beethoven consequently sent forthwith to Simrock in Bonn, desiring +him to bring out "<i>une édition très-correcte</i>" of the work. He also +states that Beethoven was residing in Heiligenstadt at the time the +work was first sent [see No. 26]. In Nottebohm's <i>Skizzenbuch von +Beethoven</i>, he says (p. 43) that the first notice of the appearance of +this sonata was on May 21st, 1803; but Simrock writes to me that the +date of the document making over the sonata to him is 1804.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let32">32.<br> +TO HERR RIES.</h3> + +<p>I must again ask you to undertake the disagreeable +task of making a fair copy of the errors in the +Zurich Sonata. I have got your list of <i>errata</i> "<i>auf +der Wieden</i>."</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let33">33.<br> +TO HERR RIES.</h3> + +<p class="salutation">DEAR RIES,--</p> + +<p>The signs are wrongly marked, and many of the +notes misplaced; so be careful! or your labor will +be vain. <i>Ch' a detto l' amato bene?</i></p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let34">34.<br> +TO HERR RIES.</h3> + +<p class="salutation">DEAR RIES,--</p> + +<p>May I beg you to be so obliging as to copy this +<i>andante</i> [in the Kreuzer Sonata] for me, however +indifferently? I must send it off to-morrow, and +as Heaven alone knows what its fate may then be, +I wish to get it transcribed. But I must have it +back to-morrow about one o'clock. The cause of +my troubling you is that one of my copyists is already +very much occupied with various things of +importance, and the other is ill.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let35">35.<br> +TO THE COMPOSER LEIDESDORF,--VIENNA.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote22">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="salutation">DORF DES LEIDES [VILLAGE OF SORROW--LEIDESDORF],--</p> + +<p>Let the bearer of this, Herr Ries, have some +easy duets, and, better still, let him have them +for nothing. Conduct yourself in accordance with +the reformed doctrines. Farewell!</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN<br> +<i>Minimus.</i></p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote22"><p>[Footnote 1: Date unknown. Leidesdorf was also a music-seller.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let36">36.<br> +TO HERR RIES.</h3> + +<p class="date">Baden, July 14, 1804.</p> + +<p class="salutation">DEAR RIES,--</p> + +<p>If you can find me better lodgings, I shall be +very glad. Tell my brothers not to engage these +at once; I have a great desire to get one in a spacious, +quiet square or on the Bastei. It it really +inexcusable in my brother not to have provided +wine, as it is so beneficial and necessary to me. I +shall take care to be present at the rehearsal on +Wednesday. I am not pleased to hear that it is to +be at Schuppanzigh's. He may well be grateful to +me if my impertinences make him thinner! Farewell, +dear Ries! We have bad weather here, and +I am not safe from visitors; so I must take flight +in order to be alone.</p> + +<p class="signature">Your true friend,<br> +L. V. BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let37">37.<br> +TO HERR RIES.</h3> + +<p class="date">Baden, July, 1804.</p> + +<p class="salutation">DEAR RIES,--</p> + +<p>As Breuning [see Nos. 13, 14, and 18] by his +conduct has not scrupled to display my character to +you and the house-steward as that of a mean, petty, +base man, I beg you will convey my reply at once +in person to Breuning. I answer only one point, +the first in his letter, and I do so solely because it +is the only mode of justifying myself in your eyes. +Say also to him that I had no intention of reproaching +him on account of the delay of the notice to +quit, and even if Breuning were really to blame +for this, our harmonious relations are so dear and +precious in my sight, that, for the sake of a few +hundreds more or less, I would never subject any +friend of mine to vexation. You are aware, indeed, +that I jestingly accused you as the cause of the notice +arriving too late. I am quite sure that you +must remember this. I had entirely forgotten the +whole matter, but at dinner my brother began to +say that he thought Breuning was to blame in the +affair, which I at once denied, saying that you were +in fault. I think this shows plainly enough that I +attributed no blame to Breuning; but on this he +sprang up like a madman, and insisted on sending +for the house-steward. Such behavior, in the +presence of all those with whom I usually associate, +and to which I am wholly unaccustomed, caused +me to lose all self-control; so I also started up, upset +my chair, left the room, and did not return. +This conduct induced Breuning to place me in a +pretty light to you and the house-steward, and also +to send me a letter which I only answered by silence. +I have not another word to say to Breuning. +His mode of thinking and of acting, with regard +to me, proves that there never ought to have +been such friendly intimacy between us, and assuredly +it can never more be restored. I wished +to make you acquainted with this, as your version +of the occurrence degraded both my words and actions. +I know that, had you been aware of the +real state of the affair, you would not have said +what you did, and with this I am satisfied.</p> + +<p>I now beg of you, dear Ries, to go to my brother, +the apothecary, as soon as you receive this letter, +and say to him that I mean to leave Baden in the +course of a few days, and that he is to engage the +lodging in Döbling as soon as you have given him +this message. I had nearly left this to-day; I detest +being here--I am sick of it. For Heaven's sake +urge him to close the bargain at once, for I want +to take possession immediately. Neither show nor +speak to any one of what is written in the previous +page of this letter. I wish to prove to him in every +respect that I am not so meanly disposed as he is. +Indeed I have written to him, although my resolve +as to the dissolution of our friendship remains firm +and unchangeable.</p> + +<p class="signature">Your friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let38">38.<br> +TO HERR RIES.</h3> + +<p class="date">Berlin, July 24, 1804.</p> + +<p>... You were no doubt not a little surprised +about the affair with Breuning; believe me, my +dear friend, that the ebullition on my part was +only an outbreak caused by many previous scenes +of a disagreeable nature. I have the gift of being +able to conceal and to repress my susceptibility on +many occasions; but if attacked at a time when I +chance to be peculiarly irritable, I burst forth more +violently than any one. Breuning certainly possesses +many admirable qualities, but he thinks himself +quite faultless; whereas the very defects that +he discovers in others are those which he possesses +himself to the highest degree. From my childhood +I have always despised his petty mind. My +powers of discrimination enabled me to foresee the +result with Breuning, for our modes of thinking, +acting, and feeling are entirely opposite; and yet I +believed that these difficulties might be overcome, +but experience has disproved this. So now I want +no more of his friendship! I have only found two +friends in the world with whom I never had a misunderstanding; +but what men these were! One is +dead, the other still lives. Although for nearly six +years past we have seen nothing of each other, yet +I know that I still hold the first place in his heart, +as he does in mine [see No. 12]. The true basis +of friendship is to be found in sympathy of heart +and soul. I only wish you could have read the letter +I wrote to Breuning, and his to me. No! +never can he be restored to his former place in my +heart. The man who could attribute to his friend +so base a mode of thinking, and could himself have +recourse to so base a mode of acting towards him, +is no longer worthy of my friendship.</p> + +<p>Do not forget the affair of my apartments. +Farewell! Do not be too much addicted to tailoring,<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote23">[1]</a></sup> +remember me to the fairest of the fair, and +send me half a dozen needles.</p> + +<p>I never could have believed that I could be so +idle as I am here. If this be followed by a fit of +industry, something worth while may be produced.</p> + +<p class="signature"><i>Vale!</i> Your<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote23"><p>[Footnote 1: Ries says, in Wegeler's <i>Biographical Notices</i>:--"Beethoven +never visited me more frequently than when I lived in the house of +a tailor, with three very handsome but thoroughly respectable daughters."]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let39">39.<br> +TO MESSRS. ARTARIA & CO.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote24">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, June 1, 1805.</p> + +<p>I must inform you that the affair about the new +quintet is settled between Count Fries and myself.</p> + +<p>The Count has just assured me that he intends +to make you a present of it; it is too late to-day +for a written agreement on the subject, but one +shall be sent early in the ensuing week. This intelligence +must suffice for the present, and I think +I at all events deserve your thanks for it.</p> + +<p class="signature">Your obedient servant,<br> +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote24"><p>[Footnote 1: The quintet is probably not that in C, Op. 29, dedicated to +Count v. Fries, previously published in 1803 by Breitkopf & Härtel +[see No. 27]. It is more likely that he alludes to a new quintet +which the Count had no doubt ordered.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let40">40.<br> +TO MADAME LA PRINCESSE LIECHTENSTEIN, &C.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote25">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">November, 1805.</p> + +<p>Pray pardon me, illustrious Princess, if the +bearer of this should cause you an unpleasant surprise. +Poor Ries, my scholar, is forced by this +unhappy war to shoulder a musket, and must moreover +leave this in a few days, being a foreigner. +He has nothing, literally nothing, and is obliged to +take a long journey. All chance of a concert on +his behalf is thus entirely at an end, and he must +have recourse to the benevolence of others. I recommend +him to you. I know you will forgive the +step I have taken. A noble-minded man would +only have recourse to such measures in the most +utter extremity. Confident of this, I send the poor +youth to you, in the hope of somewhat improving +his circumstances. He is forced to apply to all who +know him.</p> + +<p class="signature">I am, with the deepest respect, yours,<br> +L. VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote25"><p>[Footnote 1: Communicated by Ries himself, who, to Beethoven's extreme indignation, +did not deliver the note. See Wegeler's work, p. 134. +The following remark is added:--"Date unknown; written a few +days before the entrance of the French in 1805" (which took place +Nov. 13). Ries, a native of Bonn, was now a French subject, and +recalled under the laws of conscription. The Sonata, Op. 27, No. 1, +is dedicated to Princess Liechtenstein.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let41">41.<br> +TO HERR MEYER.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote26">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">1805.</p> + +<p class="salutation">DEAR MEYER,--</p> + +<p>Pray try to persuade Herr v. Seyfried to direct +my Opera, as I wish on this occasion to see and +hear it myself <i>from a distance</i>; in this way my patience +will at all events not be so severely tried as +when I am close enough to hear my music so bungled. +I really do believe that it is done on purpose +to annoy me! I will say nothing of the wind-instruments; +but all <i>pp.</i>'s, <i>cresc.</i>, <i>discresc.</i>, and all +<i>f.</i>'s and <i>ff.</i>'s may as well be struck out of my Opera, +for no attention whatever is paid to them. I shall +lose all pleasure in composing anything in future, +if I am to hear it given thus. To-morrow or the +day after I will come to fetch you to dinner. To-day +I am again unwell.</p> + +<p class="signature">Your friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<p>If the Opera is to be performed the day after +to-morrow, there must be another private rehearsal +to-morrow, or <i>each time it will be given worse +and worse</i>.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote26"><p>[Footnote 1: Meyer, the husband of Mozart's eldest sister-in-law, Josepha +(Hofer's widow), sang the part of Pizarro at the first performance of +<i>Fidelio</i>, Nov. 20, 1805, and also at a later period. Seyfried was at +that time Kapellmeister at the Theatre "an der Wien."]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let42">42.<br> +TESTIMONIAL FOR C. CZERNY.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, Dec. 7, 1805.</p> + +<p>I, the undersigned, am glad to bear testimony +to young Carl Czerny having made the most extraordinary +progress on the pianoforte, far beyond +what might be expected at the age of fourteen. I +consider him deserving of all possible assistance, +not only from what I have already referred to, but +from his astonishing memory, and more especially +from his parents having spent all their means in +cultivating the talent of their promising son.</p> + +<p class="signature">LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let43">43.<br> +TO HERR RÖCKEL.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote27">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="salutation">DEAR RÖCKEL,--</p> + +<p>Be sure that you arrange matters properly with +Mdlle. Milder, and say to her previously from me, +that I hope she will not sing anywhere else. I intend +to call on her to-morrow, to kiss the hem of +her garment. Do not also forget Marconi, and forgive +me for giving you so much trouble.</p> + +<p class="signature">Yours wholly,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote27"><p>[Footnote 1: Röckel, in 1806 tenor at the Theatre "an der Wien," sang the +part of Florestan in the spring of that year, when <i>Fidelio</i> was revived. +Mdlle. Milder, afterwards Mdme. Hauptmann, played Leonore; +Mdme. Marconi was also prima donna.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let44">44.<br> +TO HERR COLLIN,<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote28">[1]</a></sup> COURT SECRETARY AND POET.</h3> + +<p class="salutation">MY ESTEEMED COLLIN,--</p> + +<p>I hear that you are about to fulfil my greatest +wish and your own purpose. Much as I desire to +express my delight to you in person, I cannot find +time to do so, having so much to occupy me. Pray +do not then ascribe this to any want of proper attention +towards you. I send you the "Armida"; +as soon as you have entirely done with it, pray return +it, as it does not belong to me. I am, with +sincere esteem,</p> + +<p class="signature">Yours,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote28"><p>[Footnote 1: Collin, Court Secretary, was the author of <i>Coriolanus</i>, a tragedy +for which Beethoven in 1807 wrote the celebrated Overture dedicated +to that poet. According to Reichardt, Collin offered the libretto +of <i>Bradamante</i> to Beethoven in 1808, which Reichardt subsequently +composed. This note evidently refers to a <i>libretto</i>.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let45">45.<br> +TO HERR GLEICHENSTEIN.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote29">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p>I should like very much, my good Gleichenstein, +to speak to you this forenoon between one and two +o'clock, or in the afternoon, and where you please. +To-day I am too busy to call early enough to find +you at home. Give me an answer, and don't forget +to appoint the place for us to meet. Farewell, +and continue your regard for your</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote29"><p>[Footnote 1: Probably in reference to a conference with regard to a contract for +the publication of his works, Op. 58, 59, 60, 61, and 62, that Beethoven +had made on the 20th April, 1807, with Muzio Clementi, who had +established a large music firm in London; it was also signed by Baron +Gleichen.</p> + +<p>Beethoven's first intention was to dedicate Op. 58 to him, which is +evident from a large page in Schindler's work, on which is written in +bold characters, by the master's own hand, "<i>Quatrième Concerto pour +le Piano, avec accompagnement, etc., dédié à son ami Gleichenstein</i>," &c. +The name of the Archduke Rudolph had been previously written, and +was eventually adopted, and Gleichenstein afterwards received the +dedication of the Grand Sonata with violoncello, Op. 69.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let46">46.<br> +TO THE DIRECTORS OF THE COURT THEATRE.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote30">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, December, 1807.</p> + +<p>The undersigned has cause to flatter himself +that during the period of his stay in Vienna he has +gained some favor and approbation from the highest +nobility, as well as from the public at large, his +works having met with an honorable reception both +in this and other countries. Nevertheless he has +had difficulties of every kind to contend against, +and has not hitherto been so fortunate as to acquire +a position that would enable him <i>to live solely for art</i>, +and to develop his talents to a still higher degree +of perfection, which ought to be the aim of every +artist, thus ensuring future independence instead of +mere casual profits.</p> + +<p>The mere wish <i>to gain a livelihood</i> has never +been the leading clew that has hitherto guided the +undersigned on his path. His great aim has been +the <i>interest of art</i> and the ennobling of taste, while +his genius, soaring to a higher ideal and greater +perfection, frequently compelled him to sacrifice his +talents and profits to the Muse. Still works of this +kind won for him a reputation in distant lands, securing +him the most favorable reception in various +places of distinction, and a position befitting his +talents and acquirements.</p> + +<p>The undersigned does not, however, hesitate to +say that this city is above all others the most precious +and desirable in his eyes, owing to the number +of years he has lived here, the favor and approval +he has enjoyed from both high and low, and +his wish fully to realize the expectations he has had +the good fortune to excite, but most of all, he may +truly say, from his <i>patriotism as a German</i>. Before, +therefore, making up his mind to leave a place +so dear to him, he begs to refer to a hint which the +reigning Prince Lichnowsky was so kind as to give +him, to the effect that the directors of the theatre +were disposed to engage the undersigned on reasonable +conditions in the service of their theatre, +and to ensure his remaining in Vienna by securing +to him a permanent position, more propitious to the +further exercise of his talents. As this assurance +is entirely in accordance with the wishes of the undersigned, +he takes the liberty, with all due respect, +to place before the directors his readiness to enter +into such an engagement, and begs to state the following +conditions for their gracious consideration.</p> + +<p>1. The undersigned undertakes and pledges himself +to compose each year at least <i>one grand opera</i>, +to be selected by the directors and himself; in return +for this he demands a <i>fixed salary</i> of 2400 +florins a year, and also a free benefit at the third +performance of each such opera.</p> + +<p>2. He also agrees to supply the directors annually +with a little <i>operetta</i> or a <i>divertissement</i>, with +choruses or occasional music of the kind, as may be +required, <i>gratis</i>; he feels confident that on the other +hand the directors will not refuse, in return for +these various labors, to grant him <i>a benefit concert</i> at +all events once a year in one of the theatres. Surely +the above conditions cannot be thought exorbitant +or unreasonable, when the expenditure of time and +energy entailed by the production of an <i>opera</i> is +taken into account, as it entirely excludes the possibility +of all other mental exertion; in other places, +too, the author and his family have a share in the +profits of every individual performance, so that even +<i>one</i> successful work at once ensures the future fortunes +of the composer. It must also be considered +how prejudicial the present rate of exchange is to artists +here, and likewise the high price of the necessaries +of life, while a residence in foreign countries is +open to them.</p> + +<p>But in any event, whether the directors accede +to or decline this present proposal, the undersigned +ventures to request that he may be permitted to +give a concert for his own benefit in one of the +theatres. For if his conditions be accepted, the +undersigned must devote all his time and talents to +the composition of such an opera, and thus be prevented +working in any other way for profit. In +case of the non-acceptance of these proposals, as +the concert he was authorized to give last year did +not take place owing to various obstacles, he would +entreat, as a parting token of the favor hitherto +vouchsafed to him, that the promise of last year may +now be fulfilled. In the former case, he would beg +to suggest <i>Annunciation Day</i> [March 25.] for his +concert, and in the latter a day during the ensuing +Christmas vacation.</p> + +<p class="signature">LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN, M.P.<br> +[<i>Manu propria.</i>]</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote30"><p>[Footnote 1: This application was fruitless. See Reichardt's <i>Vertraute Briefe</i>. +"These two (Lobkowitz and Esterhazy) are the heads of the great +theatrical direction, which consists entirely of princes and counts, who +conduct all the large theatres on their own account and at their own +risk." The close of this letter shows that it was written in December.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let47">47.<br> +TO COUNT FRANZ VON OPPERSDORF.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote31">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, Nov. 1, 1808 [<i>sic!</i>].</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY DEAR COUNT,--</p> + +<p>I fear you will look on me with displeasure when +I tell you that necessity compelled me not only to +dispose of the symphony I wrote for you, but to +transfer another also to some one else. Be assured, +however, that you shall soon receive the one I intend +for you. I hope that both you and the Countess, +to whom I beg my kind regards, have been +well since we met. I am at this moment staying +with Countess Erdödy in the apartments below +those of Prince Lichnowsky. I mention this in case +you do me the honor to call on me when you are in +Vienna. My circumstances are improving, without +having recourse to the intervention of people +<i>who treat their friends insultingly</i>. I have also the +offer of being made <i>Kapellmeister</i> to the King of +Westphalia, and it is possible that I may accept the +proposal. Farewell, and sometimes think of your +attached friend,</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote31"><p>[Footnote 1: The fourth Symphony is dedicated to Count Oppersdorf.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let48">48.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote32">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p>I fear I am too late for to-day, but I have only +now been able to get back your memorial from +C----, because H---- wished to add various items +here and there. I do beg of you to dwell chiefly +on the great importance to me of adequate opportunities +to exercise my art; by so doing you will +write what is most in accordance with my head and +my heart. The preamble must set forth what I am +to have in Westphalia--600 ducats in gold, 150 +ducats for travelling expenses; all I have to do in +return for this sum being to direct the King's [Jerome's] +concerts, which are short and few in number. +I am not even bound to direct any opera I +may write. So, thus freed from all care, I shall be +able to devote myself entirely to the most important +object of my art--to write great works. An +orchestra is also to be placed at my disposition.</p> + +<p>N.B. As member of a theatrical association, the +title need not be insisted on, as it can produce nothing +but annoyance. With regard to the <i>Imperial +service</i>, I think that point requires delicate handling, +and not less so the solicitation for the title of <i>Imperial +Kapellmeister</i>. It must, however, be made +quite clear that I am to receive a sufficient salary +from the Court to enable me to renounce the annuity +which I at present receive from the gentlemen +in question [the Archduke Rudolph, Prince +Kinsky, and Prince Lobkowitz], which I think will +be most suitably expressed by my stating that it is +my hope, and has ever been my most ardent wish, +to enter the Imperial service, when I shall be ready +to give up as much of the above salary as the sum +I am to receive from His Imperial Majesty amounts +to. (N.B. We must have it to-morrow at twelve +o'clock, as we go to Kinsky then. I hope to see +you to-day.)</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote32"><p>[Footnote 1: This note, now first published, refers to the call Beethoven had +received, mentioned in the previous No. The sketch of the memorial +that follows is not, however, in Beethoven's writing, and perhaps not +even composed by him [see also No. 46]. It is well known that the +Archduke Rudolph, Prince Kinsky, and Prince Lobkowitz had secured +to the <i>maestro</i> a salary of 4000 gulden.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let49">49.</h3> + +<p>The aim and endeavor of every true artist must +be to acquire a position in which he can occupy +himself exclusively with the accomplishment of +great works, undisturbed by other avocations or by +considerations of economy. A composer, therefore, +can have no more ardent wish than to devote himself +wholly to the creation of works of importance, +to be produced before the public. He must also +keep in view the prospect of old age, in order to +make a sufficient provision for that period.</p> + +<p>The King of Westphalia has offered Beethoven +a salary of 600 gold ducats for life, and 150 ducats +for travelling expenses, in return for which his sole +obligations are, occasionally to play before His +Majesty, and to conduct his chamber concerts, +which are both few and short. This proposal is of +a most beneficial nature both to art and the artist.</p> + +<p>Beethoven, however, much prefers a residence in +this capital, feeling so much gratitude for the many +proofs of kindness he has received in it, and so +much patriotism for his adopted father-land, that he +will never cease to consider himself an Austrian artist, +nor take up his abode elsewhere, if anything +approaching to the same advantages are conferred +on him here.</p> + +<p>As many persons of high, indeed of the very +highest rank, have requested him to name the conditions +on which he would be disposed to remain +here, in compliance with their wish he states as +follows:--</p> + +<p>1. Beethoven must receive from some influential +nobleman security for a permanent salary for life: +various persons of consideration might contribute +to make up the amount of this salary, which, at the +present increased price of all commodities, must +not consist of less than 4000 florins <i>per annum</i>. +Beethoven's wish is that the donors of this sum +should be considered as cooperating in the production +of his future great works, by thus enabling +him to devote himself entirely to these labors, and +by relieving him from all other occupations.</p> + +<p>2. Beethoven must always retain the privilege of +travelling in the interests of art, for in this way +alone can he make himself known, and acquire +some fortune.</p> + +<p>3. His most ardent desire and eager wish is to +be received into the Imperial service, when such an +appointment would enable him partly or wholly to +renounce the proposed salary. In the mean time +the title of <i>Imperial Kapellmeister</i> would be very +gratifying to him; and if this wish could be realized, +the value of his abode here would be much enhanced +in his eyes.</p> + +<p>If his desire be fulfilled, and a salary granted by +His Majesty to Beethoven, he will renounce so +much of the said 4000 florins as the Imperial salary +shall amount to; or if this appointment be 4000 +florins, he will give up the whole of the former +sum.</p> + +<p>4. As Beethoven wishes from time to time to +produce before the public at large his new great +works, he desires an assurance from the present +directors of the theatre on their part, and that of +their successors, that they will authorize him to +give a concert for his own benefit every year on +Palm Sunday, in the Theatre "an der Wien." In +return for which Beethoven agrees to arrange and +direct an annual concert for the benefit of the poor, +or, if this cannot be managed, at all events to furnish +a new work of his own for such a concert.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let50">50.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="date">December, 1808.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY EXCELLENT FRIEND,--</p> + +<p>All would go well now if we had only a curtain, +without it the <i>Aria</i> ["Ah! Perfido"] <i>will be a +failure</i>.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote33">[1]</a></sup> I only heard this to-day from S. [Seyfried], +and it vexes me much: a curtain of any +kind will do, even a bed-curtain, or merely a <i>kind +of gauze screen</i>, which could be instantly removed. +There must be something; for the Aria is in the +<i>dramatic style</i>, and better adapted for the stage than +for effect in a concert-room. <i>Without a curtain, or +something of the sort, the Aria will be devoid of all +meaning, and ruined! ruined! ruined!! Devil take +it all!</i> The Court will probably be present. +Baron Schweitzer [Chamberlain of the Archduke +Anton] requested me earnestly to make the application +myself. Archduke Carl granted me an +audience and promised to come. The Empress +<i>neither promised nor refused</i>.</p> + +<p>A hanging curtain!!!! or the Aria and I will +both be hanged to-morrow. Farewell! I embrace +you as cordially on this new year as in the old one. +<i>With or without a curtain!</i> Your</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote33"><p>[Footnote 1: Reichardt, in his <i>Vertraute Briefe</i> relates among other things +about the concert given by Beethoven in the Royal Theatre "an der +Wien," Oct. 22, 1808, as follows:--"Poor Beethoven, who derived +from this concert the first and only net profits which accrued to him +during the whole year, met with great opposition and very slender +support in arranging and carrying it out. First came the <i>Pastoral +Symphony; or, Reminiscences of Rural Life</i>; then followed, as the +sixth piece, a long Italian <i>scena</i>, sung by Demoiselle Killitzky, a +lovely Bohemian with a lovely voice." The above note [to Zmeskall?] +certainly refers to this concert.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let51">51.<br> +TO FERDINAND RIES.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote34">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">1809.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY DEAR FELLOW,--</p> + +<p>Your friends have at any rate given you very +bad advice; but I know all about them: they are the +very same to whom you sent that fine news about +me from Paris; the very same who inquired about +my age--information that you contrived to supply +so correctly!--the very same who have often before +injured you in my opinion, but now permanently. +Farewell!</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote34"><p>[Footnote 1: Ries himself gives the date of this note as 1809, though he cannot +recall what gave rise to it. It is probably connected with a fact mentioned +by Wegeler, p. 95, that Reichardt, who was at that time in +Vienna, had advised Beethoven's young pupil, Ries, to apply to the +King of Westphalia for the appointment of Kapellmeister, which he +had recently given up. This was reported to Beethoven, and roused +his ire. Ries, too, had written from Paris that the taste in music there +was very indifferent; that Beethoven's works were little known or +played in that city. Beethoven was also very susceptible with regard +to his age. At the request of some of Beethoven's friends, Ries, in +1806, obtained Beethoven's baptismal certificate, and sent it to Vienna. +But the <i>maestro's</i> wrath on this occasion passed away as quickly as +usual.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let52">52.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote35">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">March 7, 1809.</p> + +<p>It is just what I expected! As to the blows, +that is rather far-fetched. The story is at least +three months' old, and very different from what he +now makes it out to be. The whole stupid affair +was caused by a female huckster and a couple of +low fellows. I lose very little. He no doubt was +corrupted in the very house where I am now living.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote35"><p>[Footnote 1: [See No. 10.] The notes to Zmeskall generally have the dates +written by himself. This one bears the date March 7, 1809. In all +points connected with domestic life, and especially in household matters +and discords, Zmeskall was always a kind and consolatory friend. +Beethoven at that time lived in the same house with Countess Erdödy. +[See No. 74.]]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let53">53.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p>My most excellent, high, and well-born Herr v. +Zmeskall, Court Secretary and Member of the +Society of the Single Blessed,--If I come to see +you to-day, ascribe it to the fact that a person +wishes to speak to me at your house whom I could +not refuse to see. I come without any <i>card</i> from +you, but I hope you will not on that account <i>discard</i> +me.</p> + +<p class="signature">Yours truly--most truly,<br> +L. V. BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let54">54.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p>It seems to me, dear Zmeskall, if war really +does break out, when it comes to an end you will +be the very man for an appointment in the Peace +Legation. What a glorious office!!! I leave it +entirely to you to do the best you can about my +servant, only henceforth Countess Erdödy must not +attempt to exercise the smallest influence over him. +She says she made him a present of twenty-five +florins, and gave him five florins a month, solely to +induce him to stay with me. I cannot refuse to +believe this trait of generosity, but I do not choose +that it should be repeated. Farewell! I thank +you for your friendship, and hope soon to see you.</p> + +<p class="signature">Yours ever,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let55">55.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote36">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">April 16, 1809.</p> + +<p>If I cannot come to-day, dear Zmeskall which +is very possible, ask Baroness von ---- [name illegible] +to give you the pianoforte part of the Trios, +and be so good as to send them and the other parts +to me to-day.</p> + +<p class="signature">In haste, your<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote36"><p>[Footnote 1: April 16, 1809. By the Terzetts he no doubt means the Trios, +Op. 70, dedicated to Countess Erdödy.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let56">56.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="date">April 17, 1809.</p> + +<p class="salutation">DEAR Z.,--</p> + +<p>A suitable lodging has just been found out for +me, but I need some one to help me in the affair. I +cannot employ my brother, because he only recommends +what costs least money. Let me know, +therefore, if we can go together to look at the +house. It is in the Klepperstall.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote37">[1]</a></sup></p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote37"><p>[Footnote 1: An der Mölker Bastei.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let57">57.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="date">April 25, 1809.</p> + +<p>I shall be glad, right glad, to play. I send you +the violoncello part; if you find that you can +manage it, play it yourself, or let old Kraft<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote38">[1]</a></sup> do so. +I will tell you about the lodging when we meet.</p> + +<p class="signature">Your friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote38"><p>[Footnote 1: Anton Kraft (and likewise his son, Nicolaus Kraft) was a most +admirable violoncello-player, with whom Beethoven from the earliest +days of his residence in Vienna had played a great deal at Prince +Lichnowsky's. Kraft was at that time in Prince Lobkowitz's band.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let58">58.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote39">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">May 14, 1809.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY DEAR LITTLE MUSICAL OLD COUNT!--</p> + +<p>I think after all it would be advisable to let old +Kraft play, as the trios are to be heard for the first +time (in society), and you can play them afterwards; +but I leave it all to your own option. If +you meet with any difficulties, one of which may +possibly be that Kraft and S. [Schuppanzigh] do +not harmonize well together, then Herr v. Zmeskall +must distinguish himself, not as a mere musical +Count, but as an energetic musician.</p> + +<p class="signature">Your friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote39"><p>[Footnote 1: Kraft and Schuppanzigh were then each giving quartet <i>soirées</i>.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let59">59.<br> +TO FREIHERR V. HAMMER-PURGSTALL.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote40">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">1809.</p> + +<p>I feel almost ashamed of your complaisance and +kindness in permitting me to see the MS. of your +as yet unknown literary treasures. Pray receive +my sincere thanks. I also beg to return both your +operettas. Wholly engrossed by my professional +avocations, it is impossible for me to give an opinion, +especially with regard to the Indian Operetta; as +soon as time permits, I will call on you for the +purpose of discussing this subject, and also the +Oratorio of "The Deluge." Pray always include +me among the warm admirers of your great +talents.</p> + +<p class="signature">I am, sir, with sincere esteem, your obedient<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote40"><p>[Footnote 1: I see in Schindler's <i>Beethoven</i>, that he wished to have "an Indian +Chorus of a religious character" from this renowned Orientalist, +who, in sending his <i>Persian Operetta</i>, written "rather with an ideal +than a musical object," and likewise an oratorio, <i>The Deluge</i>, remarks:--"Should you not find these works in all respects executed +quite to your taste, still I feel convinced that through the genius of a +Beethoven alone can music portray the rising of the great flood and +the pacifying of the surging waters."]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let60">60.<br> +TO FREIHERR V. HAMMER-PURGSTALL.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote41">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">1809.</p> + +<p>Forgive me, my dear H----, for not having +brought you the letter for Paris. I have been, and +still am, so much occupied, that day after day I am +obliged to delay writing it, but you shall have it to-morrow, +even if I am unable to come myself to see +you, which I am most anxious to do.</p> + +<p>There is another matter that I would most +earnestly press on you; perhaps you might succeed +in doing something for a <i>poor unfortunate man</i>. I +allude to Herr Stoll, son of the celebrated physician. +With many persons the question is whether +a man has been ruined by his own fault or by that +of others, but this is not so with either you or me; +it is sufficient that Stoll is unfortunate, and looks on +a journey to Paris as his sole resource, having last +year made many influential acquaintances, who, +when he goes there, are to endeavor to procure +him a professorship in Westphalia. Stoll has therefore +applied to Herr v. Neumann, in the State +Chancery Office, to send him with a government +courier to Paris, but the latter refuses to take him +for less than twenty-five louis d'or. Now I request +you, my dear friend, to speak to Herr v. Neumann +to arrange, if possible, that the courier should +either take Stoll <i>gratis</i>, or for a small sum. I am +persuaded that if there is nothing particular against +it, you will be glad to interest yourself in poor Stoll. +I return to the country to-day, but hope soon to be +so fortunate as to enjoy an hour of your society. +In the mean time I send you my best wishes, and +beg you will believe in the sincere esteem of</p> + +<p class="signature">Your obedient<br> +LUDWIG v. BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote41"><p>[Footnote 1: Reichardt states that Stoll was in Vienna in the spring of 1809, +which fixes the date of this letter. Napoleon bestowed a pension on +the young poet (who appears to have gone to Paris), mistaking him +for his father, the celebrated physician.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let61">61.<br> +TO BARONESS VON DROSSDICK.</h3> + +<p class="salutation">MY ESTEEMED THÉRÈSE,--</p> + +<p>You will receive with this what I promised. +Had not many serious obstacles intervened, I would +have sent you more, in order to show you that +where my friends are concerned <i>I always perform +more than I promise</i>. I hope, and do not doubt, +that you are agreeably occupied and enjoying +society, but not too much, I trust, to prevent your +thinking of us. It would show too much confidence +in you, or too high an estimation of my own +merits, were I to attribute the sentiment to you, +"That people are not together only when present, +but that the absent and the dead also live with us." +Who could ascribe such a thought to the volatile +Thérèse, who takes the world so lightly? Among +your various occupations, do not forget the piano, +or rather, music in general, for which you have so +fine a talent: why not then seriously cultivate it? +You, who have so much feeling for the good and +the beautiful, should strive to recognize the perfections +of so charming an art, which in return always +casts so bright a reflection on us.</p> + +<p>I live in entire quiet and solitude, and even +though occasional flashes of light arouse me, still +since you all left this I feel a hopeless void which +even my art, usually so faithful to me, has not yet +triumphed over. Your pianoforte is ordered, and +you shall soon have it. What a difference you +must have discovered between the treatment of the +theme I extemporized on the other evening and +the mode in which I have recently written it out +for you? You must explain this yourself, only do +not find the solution in the punch! How happy +you are to get away so soon to the country! I +cannot enjoy this luxury till the 8th. I look forward +to it with the delight of a child. What happiness +I shall feel in wandering among groves and +woods, and among trees, and plants, and rocks! +No man on earth can love the country as I do! +Thickets, trees, and rocks supply the echo man +longs for!</p> + +<p>You shall soon receive some more of my compositions, +which will not cause you to complain so +much of difficulties. Have you read Goethe's +"Wilhelm Meister," and Schlegel's "Translations +of Shakspeare"? People have so much leisure in +the country, that perhaps you would like me to send +you these works? It happens that I have an acquaintance +in your neighborhood; so perhaps you +may see me some morning early for half an hour, +after which I must be off again. You will also observe +that I intend to bore you for as short a time +as possible.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote42">[1]</a></sup></p> + +<p>Commend me to the regard of your father and +mother, though I have as yet no right to claim it. +Remember me also to your cousin M. [Mathilde]. +Farewell, my esteemed Thérèse; I wish you all +the good and charm that life can offer. Think of +me kindly, and forget my follies. Rest assured that +no one would more rejoice to hear of your happiness, +even were you to feel no interest in your devoted +servant and friend,</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<p>N.B. It would be very amiable in you to write +me a few lines, to say if I can be of any use to you +here.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote42"><p>[Footnote: Herr v. Malfatti Rohrenbach, nephew of the renowned physician +who was so prominent in Beethoven's last illness, lately related to me +in Vienna as follows:--Beethoven went to pay a visit to young Frau +Thérèse, Baroness Drossdick, at Mödling, but not finding her at home, +he tore a sheet of music-paper out of a book, and wrote some music to +a verse of Matthisson's, and on the other side, inscribed, in large letters, +"To my dear Thérèse." The "Mathilde" mentioned farther on was, +according to Bärmann, a Baroness Gleichenstein. [See No. 45.]]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let62">62.<br> +À MDLLE. MDLLE. DE GERARDI.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote43">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="salutation">DEAR MDLLE. G.,--</p> + +<p>I cannot with truth deny that the verses you +sent have considerably embarrassed me. It causes +a strange sensation to see and hear yourself praised, +and yet to be conscious of your own defects, as I +am. I consider such occurrences as mere incitements +to strive to draw nearer the unattainable +goal set before us by Art and Nature, difficult as it +may be. These verses are truly beautiful, with the +exception of one fault that we often find in poets, +which is, their being misled by Fancy to believe +that they really do see and hear <i>what they wish to +see and hear</i>, and yet even this is far below their +ideal. You may well believe that I wish to become +acquainted with the poet or poetess; pray receive +also yourself my thanks for the kindly feeling you +show towards your sincere friend,</p> + +<p class="signature">L. V. BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote43"><p>[Footnote 1: Nothing has hitherto been ascertained respecting either the date +of this note, or the lady to whom it is addressed.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let63">63.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote44">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">January 23, 1810.</p> + +<p>What are you about? My gayety yesterday, +though only assumed, has not only vexed but offended +you. The <i>uninvited guests</i> seemed so little +to deserve your ill-humor, that I endeavored to use +all my friendly influence to prevent your giving +way to it, by my pretended flow of spirits. I am +still suffering from indigestion. Say whether you +can meet me at the "Swan" to-day.</p> + +<p class="signature">Your true friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote44"><p>[Footnote 1: The cause that gave rise to this note is not known.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let64">64.<br> +TO WEGELER.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, May 2, 1810.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY DEAR OLD FRIEND,--</p> + +<p>These lines may very possibly cause you some +surprise, and yet, though you have no written +proof of it, I always retain the most lively remembrance +of you. Among my MSS. is one that has +long been destined for you, and which you shall +certainly receive this summer. For the last two +years my secluded and quiet life has been at an end, +and I have been forcibly drawn into the vortex of +the world; though as yet I have attained no good +result from this,--nay, perhaps rather the reverse, +--but who has not been affected by the storms +around us? Still I should not only be happy, but +the happiest of men, if a demon had not taken up +his settled abode in my ears. Had I not somewhere +read that man must not voluntarily put an end to +his life while he can still perform even one good +deed, I should long since have been no more, and +by my own hand too! Ah! how fair is life; but for +me it is forever poisoned!</p> + +<p>You will not refuse me one friendly service, which +is to procure me my baptismal certificate. As +Steffen Breuning has an account with you, he can +pay any expenses you may incur, and I will repay +him here. If you think it worth while to make +the inquiry in person, and choose to make a journey +from Coblenz to Bonn, you have only to charge +it all to me. I must, however, warn you that I +had an <i>elder brother</i> whose name was also Ludwig, +with the second name of <i>Maria</i>, who died. In order +to know my precise age, the date of my birth +must be first ascertained, this circumstance having +already led others into error, and caused me to be +thought older than I really am. Unluckily, I lived +for some time without myself knowing my age [see +Nos. 26 and 51]. I had a book containing all family +incidents, but it has been lost, Heaven knows +how! So pardon my urgently requesting you to +try to discover <i>Ludwig Maria's</i> birth, as well as +that of the present Ludwig. The sooner you can +send me the certificate of baptism the more obliged +shall I be.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote45">[1]</a></sup> +I am told that you sing one of my songs +in your Freemason Lodge, probably the one in E +major, which I have not myself got; send it to me, +and I promise to compensate you threefold and +fourfold.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote46">[2]</a></sup> +Think of me with kindness, little as I +apparently deserve it. Embrace your dear wife +and children, and all whom you love, in the name +of your friend,</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote45"><p>[Footnote 1: Wegeler says:--"I discovered the solution of the enigma (why +the baptismal certificate was so eagerly sought) from a letter written +to me three months afterwards by my brother-in-law, Stephan von +Breuning, in which he said: 'Beethoven tells me at least once a week +that he means to write to you; but I believe his <i>intended marriage is broken off</i>; he therefore feels no ardent inclination to thank you for +having procured his baptismal certificate.'"]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote46"><p>[Footnote 2: Beethoven was mistaken; Wegeler had only supplied other +music to the words of Matthisson's <i>Opfer Lied</i>.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let65">65.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="date">July 9, 1810.</p> + +<p class="salutation">DEAR Z.,--</p> + +<p>You are about to travel, and so am I on account +of my health. In the mean time all goes topsy-turvy +with me. The <i>Herr</i><sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote47">[1]</a></sup> +wants to have me +with him, and Art is not less urgent in her claims. +I am partly in Schönbrunn and partly here; every +day assailed by messages from strangers and new +acquaintances, and even as regards art I am often +driven nearly distracted by my undeserved fame. +Fortune seeks me, and for that very reason I almost +dread some new calamity. As for your +"Iphigénie," the facts are these. I have not seen +it for the last two years and a half, and have no +doubt lent it to some one; but to whom?--that is +the question. I have sent in all directions, and +have not yet discovered it, but hope still to find it. +If lost, you shall be indemnified. Farewell, my +dear Z. I trust that when we meet again you +will find that my art has made some progress in +the interim.</p> + +<p>Ever remain my friend, as much as I am yours,</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote47"><p>[Footnote 1: The "Herr" is his pupil, the Archduke Rudolph.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let66">66.<br> +TO BETTINA BRENTANO.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote48">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, August 11, 1810.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY DEAREST FRIEND,--</p> + +<p>Never was there a lovelier spring than this year; +I say so, and feel it too, because it was then I first +knew you. You have yourself seen that in society +I am like a fish on the sand, which writhes and +writhes, but cannot get away till some benevolent +Galatea casts it back into the mighty ocean. I was +indeed fairly stranded, dearest friend, when surprised +by you at a moment in which moroseness had +entirely mastered me; but how quickly it vanished +at your aspect! I was at once conscious that you +came from another sphere than this absurd world, +where, with the best inclinations, I cannot open my +ears. I am a wretched creature, and yet I complain +of others!! You will forgive this from the +goodness of heart that beams in your eyes, and the +good sense manifested by your ears; at least they +understand how to flatter, by the mode in which +they listen. My ears are, alas! a partition-wall, +through which I can with difficulty hold any intercourse +with my fellow-creatures. Otherwise, perhaps, +I might have felt more assured with you; but +I was only conscious of the full, intelligent glance +from your eyes, which affected me so deeply that +never can I forget it. My dear friend! dearest +girl!--Art! who comprehends it? with whom can +I discuss this mighty goddess? How precious to +me were the few days when we talked together, or, +I should rather say, corresponded! I have carefully +preserved the little notes with your clever, +charming, most charming answers; so I have to +thank my defective hearing for the greater part of +our fugitive intercourse being written down. Since +you left this I have had some unhappy hours,--hours +of the deepest gloom, when I could do nothing. +I wandered for three hours in the Schönbrunn +Allée after you left us, but no <i>angel</i> met me there +to take possession of me as you did. Pray forgive, +my dear friend, this deviation from the original key, +but I must have such intervals as a relief to my +heart. You have no doubt written to Goethe +about me? I would gladly bury my head in a +sack, so that I might neither see nor hear what goes +on in the world, because I shall meet you there no +more; but I shall get a letter from you? Hope +sustains me, as it does half the world; through life +she has been my close companion, or what would +have become of me? I send you "Kennst Du das +Land," written with my own hand, as a remembrance +of the hour when I first knew you; I send +you also another that I composed since I bade you +farewell, my dearest, fairest sweetheart!</p> + +<p> +Herz, mein Herz, was soll das geben,<br> +Was bedränget dich so sehr;<br> +Welch ein neues fremdes Leben,<br> +Ich erkenne dich nicht mehr. +</p> + +<p>Now answer me, my dearest friend, and say what +is to become of me since my heart has turned such +a rebel. Write to your most faithful friend,</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote48"><p>[Footnote 1: The celebrated letters to Bettina are given here exactly as published +in her book, <i>Ilius Pamphilius und die Ambrosia</i> (Berlin, Arnim, +1857) in two volumes. I never myself had any doubts of their +being genuine (with the exception of perhaps some words in the middle +of the third letter), nor can any one now distrust them, especially +after the publication of <i>Beethoven's Letters</i>. But for the sake of +those for whom the weight of innate conviction is not sufficient proof, +I may here mention that in December, 1864, Professor Moritz Carrière, +in Munich, when conversing with me about <i>Beethoven's Letters</i>, +expressly assured me that these three letters were genuine, and +that he had seen them in Berlin at Bettina v. Arnim's in 1839, and +read them most attentively and with the deepest interest. From their +important contents, he urged their immediate publication; and when +this shortly after ensued, no change whatever struck him as having +been made in the original text; on the contrary, he still perfectly remembered +that the much-disputed phraseology (and especially the +incident with Goethe) was precisely the same as in the originals. This +testimony seems to me the more weighty, as M. Carrière must not in +such matters be looked on as a novice, but as a competent judge, who +has carefully studied all that concerns our literary heroes, and who +would not permit anything to be falsely imputed to Beethoven any +more than to Goethe. Beethoven's biography is, however, the proper +place to discuss more closely such things, especially his character and +his conduct in this particular case. At present we only refer in general +terms to the first chapter of <i>Beethoven's Jugend</i>, which gives +all the facts connected with these letters to Bettina and the following +ones--a characteristic likeness of Beethoven thus impressed itself on +the mind of the biographer, and was reproduced in a few bold outlines +in his <i>Biography</i>. These letters could not, however, possibly be +given <i>in extenso</i> in a general introduction to a comprehensive biography.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let67">67.<br> +TO BETTINA BRENTANO.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, Feb. 10, 1811.</p> + +<p class="salutation">DEAR AND BELOVED FRIEND,--</p> + +<p>I have now received two letters from you, while +those to Tonie show that you still remember me, +and even too kindly. I carried your letter about +with me the whole summer, and it often made me +feel very happy; though I do not frequently write +to you, and you never see me, still I write you letters +by thousands in my thoughts. I can easily +imagine what you feel at Berlin in witnessing all +the noxious frivolity of the world's rabble,<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote49">[1]</a></sup> even +had you not written it to me yourself. Such prating +about art, and yet no results!!! The best description +of this is to be found in Schiller's poem +"Die Flüsse," where the river Spree is supposed to +speak. You are going to be married, my dear +friend, or are already so, and I have had no chance +of seeing you even once previously. May all the +felicity that marriage ever bestowed on husband +and wife attend you both! What can I say to you +of myself? I can only exclaim with Johanna, +"Compassionate my fate!" If I am spared for +some years to come, I will thank the Omniscient, +the Omnipotent, for the boon, as I do for all other +weal and woe. If you mention me when you write +to Goethe, strive to find words expressive of my +deep reverence and admiration. I am about to +write to him myself with regard to "Egmont," for +which I have written some music solely from my +love for his poetry, which always delights me. Who +can be sufficiently grateful to a great poet,--the +most precious jewel of a nation! Now no more, my +dear sweet friend! I only came home this morning +at four o'clock from an orgy, where I laughed +heartily, but to-day I feel as if I could weep as +sadly; turbulent pleasures always violently recoil +on my spirits. As for Clemens [Brentano, her +brother], pray thank him for his complaisance; +with regard to the Cantata, the subject is not important +enough for us here--it is very different in +Berlin; and as for my affection, the sister engrosses +so large a share, that little remains for the brother. +Will he be content with this?</p> + +<p>Now farewell, my dear, dear friend; I imprint a +sorrowful kiss on your forehead, thus impressing my +thoughts on it as with a seal. Write soon, very +soon, to your brother,</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote49"><p>[Footnote 1: An expression which, as well as many others, he no doubt borrowed +from Bettina, and introduced to please her.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let68">68.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="date">1811.</p> + +<p>I am disposed to engage a man who has just offered +me his services,--a music-copyist. His parents +live in Vienna, which might be convenient in many +respects, but I first wish to speak to you about the +terms; and as you are disengaged to-morrow, which +I, </p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let69">69.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="date">1811.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MOST HIGH-BORN OF MEN!--</p> + +<p>We beg you to confer some goose-quills on us; +we will in return send you a whole bunch of the +same sort, that you may not be obliged to pluck out +your own. It is just possible that you may yet receive +the Grand Cross of the Order of the Violoncello. +We remain your gracious and most friendly +of all friends,</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let70">70.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote50">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">The Spring of 1811.</p> + +<p class="salutation">YOUR ROYAL HIGHNESS,--</p> + +<p>As in spite of every effort I can find no copyist +to write in my house, I send you my own manuscript; +all you have to do is to desire Schlemmer +to get you an efficient copyist, who must, however, +write out the Trio in your palace, otherwise there +would be no security against piracy. I am better, +and hope to have the honor of waiting on you in the +course of a few days, when we must strive to make +up for lost time. I always feel anxious and uneasy +when I do not attend your Royal Highness as often +or as assiduously as I wish. It is certainly the truth +when I say that the loss is mine, but I trust I shall +not soon again be so unwell. Be graciously pleased +to remember me; the time may yet come when I +shall be able to show you doubly and trebly that +I deserve this more than ever.</p> + +<p class="signature">I am your Royal Highness's devoted servant,<br> +LUDWIG V. BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote50"><p>[Footnote 1: Schlemmer was for many years Beethoven's copyist.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let71">71.</h3> + +<p class="salutation">MY DEAR FRIEND,--<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote51">[1]</a></sup></p> + +<p>I have taken this trouble only that I might figure +correctly, and thus be able sometimes to lead +others. As for mistakes, I scarcely ever required +to have them pointed out to me, having had from +my childhood such a quick perception, that I exercised +it unconscious that it ought to be so, or in fact +could be otherwise.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote51"><p>[Footnote 1: Written on a sheet of music-paper (oblong folio) numbered 22, and +evidently torn out of a large book. On the other side (21) is written, +in Beethoven's hand, instructions on the use of the fourth in retardations, +with five musical examples. The leaf is no doubt torn from one +of the books that Beethoven had compiled from various text-books, for +the instruction of the Archduke Rudolph. I have therefore placed +Beethoven's remark here.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let72">72.<br> +TO THE DRAMATIC POET TREITSCHKE.</h3> + +<p class="date">June 6, 1811.</p> + +<p class="salutation">DEAR TREITSCHKE,--</p> + +<p>Have you read the book, and may I venture to +hope that you will be persuaded to undertake it? +Be so good as to give me an answer, as I am prevented +going to you myself. If you have already +read it, then send it back to me, that I may also +look over it again before you begin to work at it. +Above all, if it be your good pleasure that I should +soar to the skies on the wings of your poetry, I entreat +you to effect this as soon as possible.</p> + +<p class="signature">Your obedient servant,<br> +L. V. BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let73">73.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="date">Sept. 10, 1811.</p> + +<p class="salutation">DEAR ZMESKALL,--</p> + +<p>Let the rehearsal stand over for the present. I +must see my doctor again to-day, of whose bungling +I begin to tire. Thanks for your metronome; let +us try whether we can measure Time into Eternity +with it, for it is so <i>simple</i> and <i>easily managed</i> that +there seems to be no impediment to this! In the +mean time we will have a conference on the subject. +The mathematical precision of clockwork is of +course greater; yet formerly, in watching the little +experiments you made in my presence, I thought +there was something worthy of notice in your metronome, +and I hope we shall soon succeed in <i>setting +it thoroughly right</i>. Ere long I hope to see you.</p> + +<p class="signature">Your friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let74">74.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="date">Oct. 26, 1811.</p> + +<p>I shall be at the "Swan" to-day, and hope to +meet you there <i>to a certainty</i>, but don't come too +late. My foot is better; the author of so many +poetical <i>feet</i> promises the <i>head</i> author a sound foot +within a week's time.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let75">75.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="date">Nov. 20, 1811.</p> + +<p>We are deucedly obliged to you. We beg you +to be careful not to lose your well-earned fame. +You are exhorted to pursue the same course, and +we remain once more your deucedly attached</p> + +<p class="signature">LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let76">76.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="date">Jan. 19, 1812.</p> + +<p>I shall be at the "Swan" to-day, dear Z. I +have, alas! <i>too much</i> leisure, and you <i>none</i>! Your</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let77">77.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote52">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">1812.</p> + +<p class="salutation">CONFOUNDED LITTLE QUONDAM MUSICAL COUNT!</p> + +<p>What the deuce has become of you? Are you +to be at the "Swan" to-day? No? ... Yes! See +from this enclosure what I have done for Hungary. +When a German undertakes a thing, even without +pledging his word, he acts very differently from +one of those Hungarian Counts, such as B. [Brunswick], +who allowed me to travel by myself--from +what paltry, miserable motive who can tell?--and +kept me waiting, though he did not wait for me!</p> + +<p>My excellent little quondam musical Count,</p> + +<p class="signature">I am now, as ever, your attached<br> +BEETHÖVERL.</p> + +<p>Return the enclosure, for we wish to bring it, +and something else, pretty forcibly under the notice +of the Count.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote52"><p>[Footnote 1: The date of this and the following note is decided by the allusion +to his compositions written for Hungary (Pesth). See the subsequent +letter to Varenna.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let78">78.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p>You are summoned to appear to-day at the +"Swan;" Brunswick also comes. If you do not appear, +you are henceforth excluded from all that concerns +us. Excuses <i>per excellentiam</i> cannot be accepted. +Obedience is enjoined, knowing that we are +acting for your benefit, and that our motive is to +guard you against temptations and faithlessness <i>per +excellentiam--dixi</i>.</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let79">79.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="salutation">DEAR ZMESKALL,--</p> + +<p>The well-known watchmaker who lives close to +the Freiung is to call on you. I want a first-rate +repeater, for which he asks forty ducats. As you +like that kind of thing, I beg you will exert yourself +on my behalf, and select a really good watch +for me.</p> + +<p>With the most enthusiastic admiration for a man +like yourself, who is soon to give me an opportunity +of displaying in his favor my particular knowledge +of horn-playing, I am your</p> + +<p class="signature">LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let80">80.<br> +TO KAMMERPROCURATOR VARENNA,--GRATZ.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote53">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">1812.</p> + +<p>If the wish to benefit the poor were not so evident +in your letter, I should have felt not a little +offended by your accompanying your request to +me by the offer of payment. From my childhood, +whenever my art could be serviceable to poor suffering +humanity, I have never allowed any other motive +to influence me, and never required anything +beyond the heartfelt gratification that it always +caused me. With this you will receive an Oratorio--(A), +the performance of which occupies half an +evening, also an Overture and a Fantasia with Chorus--(B). +If in your benevolent institution you +possess a <i>dépôt</i> for such things, I beg you will deposit +these three works there, as a mark of my sympathy +for the destitute; to be considered as their property, +and to be given at any concerts intended for +their sole benefit. In addition to these, you will +receive an Introduction to the "Ruins of Athens," +the score of which shall be written out for you as +soon as possible. Likewise a Grand Overture to +"Ungarn's erste Wohlthäter" [Hungary's First +Benefactors].</p> + +<p>Both form part of two works that I wrote for the +Hungarians at the opening of their new theatre [in +Pesth]. Pray give me, however, your written assurance +that these works shall not be performed +elsewhere, as they are not published, nor likely to +be so for some time to come. You shall receive +the latter Grand Overture as soon as it is returned +to me from Hungary, which it will be in the course +of a few days.</p> + +<p>The engraved Fantasia with Chorus could no +doubt be executed by a lady, an amateur, mentioned +to me here by Professor Schneller.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote54">[2]</a></sup> The +words after the Chorus No. 4, in C major, were +altered by the publishers, and are now quite contrary +to the musical expression; those written in +<i>pencil</i>, therefore, on the music must be sung. If +you can make use of the Oratorio, I can send you +<i>all the parts written out</i>, so that the outlay may be +less for the poor. Write to me about this.</p> + +<p class="signature">Your obedient<br> +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote53"><p>[Footnote 1: The correspondence with Varenna, consisting of fourteen letters +and four notes, was purchased some years ago by a collector of autographs +in Leipzig, and sold again by public auction, probably to different +persons. It would be like pursuing leaves scattered by the wind +to try to recover these letters. Those here given have for the most +part appeared in newspapers; I cannot, therefore, be responsible for the +text, farther than their publication goes, which, however, has evidently +been conducted by a clever hand. The date of the first letter is to be +gleaned from the second, and we also learn from them that <i>The +Ruins of Athens</i> and <i>King Stephen</i> (or at all events the Overture) +were already finished in January, 1812.]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote54"><p>[Footnote 2: This <i>dilettante</i> was Mdlle. Marie Koschak, subsequently the wife +of Dr. Pachler, an advocate in Gratz, from whom two letters are given +by Schindler of the dates of August 15th, 1825, and November 5th, +1826, in which she invites Beethoven to visit her in Gratz. Schindler +considers as applicable to this lady the words of a note in Beethoven's +writing of which he has given a fac-simile in his <i>Biography</i>, I. 95; +the date 1817 or 1818. They are as follows:--"Love alone, yes! love +alone can make your life happier. O God! grant that I may at last +find her who can strengthen me in virtue, whom I can legitimately call +my own. On July 27th, when she drove past me in Baden, she seemed +to gaze at me." This lady also plays a friendly part in Franz Schubert's +<i>Life</i>. See her <i>Biography</i> by Dr. Kreissle.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let81">81.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="date">Feb. 2, 1812.</p> + +<p>By no means <i>extraordinary</i>, but <i>very ordinary</i> +mender of pens! whose talent has failed on this occasion +(for those I send require to be fresh mended), +when do you intend at last to cast off your fetters?--when? +You never for a moment think of me; +accursed to me is life amid this Austrian barbarism. +I shall go now chiefly to the "Swan," as in other +taverns I cannot defend myself against intrusion. +Farewell! that is, <i>fare as well</i> as I wish you to do +without</p> + +<p class="signature">Your friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<p>Most wonderful of men! We beg that your +servant will engage a person to fit up my apartment; +as he is acquainted with the lodgings, he +can fix the proper price at once. Do this soon, +you Carnival scamp!!!!!!!</p> + +<p>The enclosed note is at least a week old.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let82">82.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="date">Feb. 8, 1812.</p> + +<p>Most extraordinary and first and foremost man +of the pendulum in the world, and without a lever +too!!!</p> + +<p>I am much indebted to you for having imparted +to me some share of your motive power. I wish to +express my gratitude in person, and therefore invite +you this morning to come to the "Swan,"--a tavern, +the name of which itself shows that it is a fitting +place when such a subject is in question,</p> + +<p class="signature">Yours ever,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let83">83.<br> +TO VARENNA,--GRATZ.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, Feb. 8, 1812.</p> + +<p>Herr Rettich has already got the parts of the +Oratorio, and when you no longer require them I +beg you will send them back to me. It is not +probable that anything is wanting, but even in that +case, as you have the score, you can easily remedy +this. I only yesterday received the Overtures from +Hungary, and shall have them copied and forwarded +to you as soon as possible. I likewise send a March +with a vocal Chorus, also from the "Ruins of +Athens." Altogether you will now have sufficient +to fill up the time.</p> + +<p>As these pieces are only in manuscript, I shall let +you know at the time I send them what precautions +I wish you to take with regard to the Overtures +and the March with Chorus.</p> + +<p>As I do not publish any new work until a year +after its composition, and, when I do so, am obliged +invariably to give a written assurance to the publisher +that no one is in possession of it, you can +yourself perceive that I must carefully guard against +any possible contingency or casualty as to these +pieces. I must, however, assure you that I shall +always be disposed to show the warmest zeal in aid +of your charity, and I here pledge myself to send +you every year works that exist solely in manuscript, +or compositions written expressly for this +charitable purpose. I beg you will also let me know +what your future plans are with regard to your +institution, that I may act accordingly.</p> + +<p>Farewell! I remain, with the highest consideration,</p> + +<p class="signature">Your obedient<br> +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let84">84.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote55">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">Feb. 19, 1812.</p> + +<p class="salutation">DEAR Z.,--</p> + +<p>I only yesterday received the written information +that the Archduke pays his share in the new +paper-money of the full value [<i>Einlösungsschein</i>]. +I beg you will write out for me, as nearly as you +can, the substance of what you said on Sunday, and +which we thought it advisable to send to the other +two. I am offered a certificate that the Archduke +is to pay in <i>Einlösungsschein</i>, but I think this unnecessary, +more especially as the people about +Court, in spite of all their apparent friendship for +me, declare that my demands are <i>not just</i>!!!! O +Heaven! aid me in enduring this! I am no Hercules, +to help Atlas in carrying the world, or to +strive to do so in his place. It was only yesterday +that I heard the particulars of the handsome manner +in which Baron von Kraft had judged and +spoken of me to Zisius! But never mind, dear +Z.! My endurance of these shameful attacks cannot +continue much longer; persecuted art will +everywhere find an asylum--Daedalus, though +imprisoned in a labyrinth, found wings to carry him +aloft. Oh! I too shall find wings!</p> + +<p class="signature">Yours ever,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<p>If you have time, send me this morning the +draft of the memorial;--probably for nothing, and +to receive nothing! so much time is already lost, +and only to be kept in suspense by civil words!</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote55"><p>[Footnote 1: The Finance Patent appeared in Austria in 1811, by which the +value of money was depreciated by a fifth. This also affected the +salary that Beethoven drew from the Archduke Rudolph, Prince Kinsky, +and Prince Lobkowitz. The first of these gentlemen paid his full +share in <i>Einlösungsschein</i>. Lobkowitz, at the request of Beethoven, +soon after did the same; with Kinsky's share alone difficulties arose +subsequently, owing to his death.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let85">85.<br> +TO VARENNA.</h3> + +<p class="date">Lent, 1812.</p> + +<p>In spite of my anxiety to serve the cause of your +charity, I have been quite unable to do so. I have +no copyist of my own to write for me as formerly, +and the limited time renders it impossible for me to +do so myself; thus I am obliged to have recourse to +strangers as copyists. One of these promised to +write out the Overtures, &c., &c., for you; but +Passion Week intervening, when there are so many +concerts, prevented his being able to keep his word, +in spite of every effort on my part. Even if the +Overtures and the March with Chorus were transcribed, +it would not be possible to send them by this +post, and if we wait for the next, the music will arrive +too late for Easter Sunday. Let me know if +there are any means you could adopt to gain a little +more time, or any chance opportunity of sending +these works to you, and I will do all that lies in my +power to aid the cause of your charity.</p> + +<p class="signature">I am, with esteem, yours obediently,<br> +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let86">86.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote56">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">1812.</p> + +<p class="salutation">YOUR IMPERIAL HIGHNESS,--</p> + +<p>I was much vexed not to receive Y.I.H.'s message +to come to you till very late yesterday evening--indeed +nearly at eleven o'clock. Contrary +to my usual custom, I did not go home at all during +the afternoon, the fine weather having tempted +me to spend the whole afternoon in walking, and +the evening at the Banda, "auf der Wieden," and +thus I was not aware of your wish till I returned +home. In the mean time, whenever Y.I.H. desires +it, I am ready at any hour or moment to place +myself at your disposal. I therefore await your +gracious commands.</p> + +<p class="signature">I am your Imperial Highness's most obedient<br> +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote56"><p>[Footnote 1: +The date 1812 is marked on the sheet by another hand, and the +close of the second note proves that it was at the commencement of +this year.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let87">87.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">1812.</p> + +<p class="salutation">YOUR IMPERIAL HIGHNESS,--</p> + +<p>I was unable till to-day, when I leave my bed +for the first time, to answer your gracious letter. +It will be impossible for me to wait on you to-morrow, +but perhaps the day after. I have suffered +much during the last few days, and I may say two-fold +from not being in a condition to devote a great +part of my time to you, according to my heartfelt +wish. I hope now, however, to have cleared off +all scores for spring and summer (I mean as to +health).</p> + +<p>I am your Imperial Highness's most obedient +servant,</p> + +<p class="signature">LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let88">88.<br> +TO VARENNA,--GRATZ.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, May 8, 1812.</p> + +<p class="salutation">SIR,--</p> + +<p>Being still far from well, and much occupied, I +have been unable to reply to your letters. How in +the world did such an unfounded idea ever occur to +you as that I was displeased? It would certainly +have been better had you returned the music as +soon as it had been performed; for at that period I +could have produced it here, whereas now, unluckily, +it comes too late; but I only say <i>unluckily</i> because +it prevents my being able to spare the worthy +ladies the expenses of copying. At any other time +I would on no account have allowed them to pay +for writing out the works, but it so happens that at +this moment I am visited with every kind of <i>contretemps</i>, +so I cannot avoid doing so. Possibly Herr +O., although with the best intentions, has delayed +informing you of this, which obliged me to apply to +him for repayment of the expenses of copying; perhaps, +too, in my haste, I did not express myself distinctly. +You can now, esteemed sir, have the Overture +and the Chorus again if you require them.</p> + +<p>I feel convinced that in any event you will prevent +my confidence being abused; in the mean time +you may keep the Overture on the conditions I +have stated. If I find that I am able to pay for +the copying, I will redeem it for my own use.</p> + +<p>The score of the Oratorio is a gift, and also the +Overture to "Egmont." Keep the parts of the +Oratorio beside you till you can have it performed.</p> + +<p>Select whatever you choose for the concert which +I hear you now intend to give, and if you decide on +the Chorus and the Overture, they shall be forwarded +to you at once. For the future concert, for +the benefit of the venerable Ursulines, I promise +you an entirely new symphony at all events, and +perhaps also a work of some importance for voices, +and as I have now a favorable opportunity, the +copying shall not cost you a farthing. My joy +would be beyond all bounds if the concert were to +be successful, and I could spare you all expense;--at +all events, take my good-will for granted.</p> + +<p>Remember me to the admirable teachers of the +children, and say to them that I shed tears of joy +at the happy result of my poor good-will, and that +so far as my humble capabilities can serve them, +they shall always find in me the warmest sympathy.</p> + +<p>My cordial thanks for your invitation; I would +fain become acquainted with the interesting scenery +of Styria, and possibly I may one day enjoy that +pleasure. Farewell! I heartily rejoice in having +found in you a friend to the poor and needy, and +am always yours to command.</p> + +<p class="signature">LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN, M.P.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let89">89.<br> +TO JOSEPH FREIHERR VON SCHWEIGER, CHAMBERLAIN OF THE +ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote57">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">1812.</p> + +<p>The most insignificant of mortals has just been +to wait on his gracious master, when he found +everything closed; so he came here, where indeed +all was <i>open</i>, but no one to be found except the +trusty servant. I had a heavy packet of music with +me, in order to ensure a good musical evening before +we parted; but in vain. Malfatti<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote58">[2]</a></sup> is resolved +that I shall go to Töplitz, which is anything but +agreeable to me. As, however, I must obey, I +hope at least that my gracious master will not enjoy +himself quite so much without me. <i>O vanitas!</i> +for it is nothing else. Before I set off for Töplitz +I will either go to Baden to see you or write. +Farewell! Pray present my homage to my gracious +master, and continue your regard for</p> + +<p class="signature">Your friend,<br> +[K.] BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote57"><p>[Footnote 1: The journey to Töplitz took place in the year 1812.]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote58"><p>[Footnote 2: A very celebrated physician in Vienna at that time, consulted by +Beethoven.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let90">90.<br> +TO VARENNA,--GRATZ.</h3> + +<p class="date">Töplitz, July 19, 1812.</p> + +<p>My thanks have been too long delayed for all the +dainties which the worthy ladies sent for my enjoyment; +being constantly ill in Vienna, I was at last +forced to take refuge here.</p> + +<p>However, better late than never; so I beg you +will say all sorts of kind things in my name to the +admirable Ursuline ladies, though I did not deserve +so much gratitude; indeed it is rather for me to +thank Him who enables me to render my art occasionally +useful to others. When you next wish to +make use of my poor abilities for the benefit of the +venerable ladies, you have only to write to me.</p> + +<p>A new symphony is now ready for you, and as +the Archduke Rudolph has had it copied out, it will +cost you nothing. Perhaps I may one of these +days be able to send you something vocal. I only +wish and hope that you will not ascribe my anxiety +to serve these venerable ladies to a certain degree +of vanity or desire for fame, as this would grieve +me exceedingly. If these good ladies wish to do +me any service in return, I beg they will include +me with their pupils in their pious orisons. I remain, +with esteem,</p> + +<p class="signature">Your friend,<br> +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<p>I shall remain here for some weeks; so if there is +any occasion to write, address to me here.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let91">91.<br> +WRITTEN IN THE ALBUM OF THE SINGER, MDME. AUGUSTE +SEBALD.</h3> + +<p class="date">Töplitz, August 8, 1812.</p> + +<p class="signature">LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN,</p> + +<p> +Who even if you would,<br> +Forget you never should. +</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let92">92.<br> +TO H.R. HIGHNESS THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">Franzensbrunn, Aug. 12, 1812.</p> + +<p>It was my bounden duty long ago to have recalled +myself to Y.R.H.'s recollection, but partly +my occupations and the state of my health, as well +as my own insignificance, made me reluctant to +do so. I missed Y.R.H. by one night only in +Prague; for when proceeding to pay my respects +to you in the morning, I found you had set off the +very night before. In Töplitz I heard a military +band four times a day,--the only musical report +which I can give you. I was a great deal with +Goethe.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote59">[1]</a></sup> My physician Staudenheim, however, +ordered me off to Carlsbad,<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote60">[2]</a></sup> and from thence here, +and probably I shall have to go back to Töplitz +from this. What flights! And yet it seems very +doubtful whether any improvement in my condition +has hitherto taken place. I receive the best accounts +of Y.R.H.'s health, and also of the persistent +devotion you exhibit towards the musical +Muse. Y.R.H. has no doubt heard of a concert +that I gave for the benefit of the sufferers by fire +in the Stadt Baden,<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote61">[3]</a></sup> assisted by Herr Polledro.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote62">[4]</a></sup> +The receipts were nearly 1000 florins W.W., and +if I had not been restricted in my arrangements we +might easily have taken 2000 florins. It was literally +a <i>poor concert for the poor</i>. I could only +find at the publisher's here some of my earlier +sonatas with violin accompaniments, and as Polledro +had set his heart on these, I was obliged to +content myself with playing an old Sonata.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote63">[5]</a></sup> The +entire concert consisted of a trio, in which Polledro +played, my Sonata with violin, then again +something was played by Polledro, and, lastly, I +extemporized. Meanwhile I do sincerely rejoice +that by this means something has fallen to the share +of the poor <i>Badeners</i>. Pray deign to accept my +best wishes for your welfare, and my entreaty that +you will sometimes think of me.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote59"><p>[Footnote 1: Beethoven speaks very briefly of his meeting with Goethe. Goethe +in his <i>Tag- und Jahrschriften</i> of 1812 makes no allusion to +Beethoven during his stay at Töplitz. It does not, therefore, appear that +either of these master-minds found any particular pleasure in each +other when they met personally. Beethoven, indeed, dedicated to "the +immortal Goethe" (1812) his composition the <i>Meeresstille und glückliche +Fahrt</i>, but only wrote once to him in 1823 to obtain a subscription +from the Grand Duke of Weimar for his Grand Mass, and received +no answer from Goethe. In the complete edition of Goethe's works +Beethoven's name is only once mentioned by Goethe, when he refers +to his funeral obsequies.]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote60"><p>[Footnote 2: +Dr. Staudenheim was, like Malfatti, one of the most celebrated +physicians in Vienna. Beethoven, too, was well acquainted with +Staudenheim, but in his regimen he neither followed the prescriptions +of Staudenheim nor of Malfatti.]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote61"><p>[Footnote 3: +The Stadt Baden, near Vienna, had been visited on July 16th by +a most destructive conflagration.]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote62"><p>[Footnote 4: +Giov. Batt. Polledro, Kapellmeister in Turin, born 1776, travelled +through Germany as a violinist from 1809 to 1812. He gave a concert +in Vienna in March, 1812.]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote63"><p>[Footnote 5: +The violin Sonata with pianoforte was probably Op. 47 (composed +in 1803 and published in 1805, according to Thayer, No. 111), or one +of his earlier compositions, Op. 30, or 24, or 23.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let93">93.<br> +TO BETTINA VON ARNIM.</h3> + +<p class="date">Töplitz, August 15, 1812.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY MOST DEAR KIND FRIEND,--</p> + +<p>Kings and princes can indeed create professors +and privy-councillors, and confer titles and decorations, +but they cannot make great men,--spirits +that soar above the base turmoil of this world. +There their powers fail, and this it is that forces +them to respect us.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote64">[1]</a></sup> When two persons like +Goethe and myself meet, these grandees cannot +fail to perceive what such as we consider great. +Yesterday, on our way home, we met the whole +Imperial family; we saw them coming some way +off, when Goethe withdrew his arm from mine, in +order to stand aside; and, say what I would, I could +not prevail on him to make another step in advance. +I pressed down my hat more firmly on my head, +buttoned up my great-coat, and, crossing my arms +behind me, I made my way through the thickest +portion of the crowd. Princes and courtiers formed +a lane for me; Archduke Rudolph took off his hat, +and the Empress bowed to me first. These great +ones of the earth <i>know me</i>. To my infinite amusement, +I saw the procession defile past Goethe, who +stood aside with his hat off, bowing profoundly. +I afterwards took him sharply to task for this; I +gave him no quarter, and upbraided him with all +his sins, especially towards you, my dear friend, as +we had just been speaking of you. Heavens! if I +could have lived with you as <i>he</i> did, believe me I +should have produced far greater things. A musician +is also a poet, he too can feel himself transported +into a brighter world by a pair of fine eyes, +where loftier spirits sport with him and impose +heavy tasks on him. What thoughts rushed into +my mind when I first saw you in the Observatory +during a refreshing May shower, so fertilizing to +me also!<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote65">[2]</a></sup> The most beautiful themes stole from +your eyes into my heart, which shall yet enchant +the world when Beethoven no longer <i>directs</i>. If +God vouchsafes to grant me a few more years of +life, I must then see you once more, my dear, most +dear friend, for the voice within, to which I always +listen, demands this. Spirits may love one another, +and I shall ever woo yours. Your approval is +dearer to me than all else in the world. I told +Goethe my sentiments as to the influence praise +has over men like us, and that we desire our equals +to listen to us with their understanding. Emotion +suits women only; (forgive me!) music ought to +strike fire from the soul of a man. Ah! my dear +girl, how long have our feelings been identical on +all points!!! The sole real good is some bright +kindly spirit to sympathize with us, whom we +thoroughly comprehend, and from whom we need +not hide our thoughts. <i>He who wishes to appear +something, must in reality be something.</i> The world +must acknowledge us, it is not always unjust; but +for this I care not, having a higher purpose in view. +I hope to get a letter from you in Vienna; write +to me soon and fully, for a week hence I shall be +there. The Court leaves this to-morrow, and to-day +they have another performance. The Empress +has studied her part thoroughly. The Emperor +and the Duke wished me to play some of my own +music, but I refused, for they are both infatuated +with <i>Chinese porcelain</i>. A little indulgence is required, +for reason seems to have lost its empire; +but I do not choose to minister to such perverse +folly--I will not be a party to such absurd doings +to please those princes who are constantly guilty +of eccentricities of this sort. Adieu! adieu! dear +one; your letter lay all night next my heart, and +cheered me. Musicians permit themselves great +license. <i>Heavens! how I love you!</i> Your most +faithful friend and deaf brother,</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote64"><p>[Footnote 1: +Fräulein Giannatasio del Rio, in the journal she sent to the <i>Grenz +Boten</i> in 1857, states that Beethoven once declared, "It is very pleasant +to associate with the great of the earth, but one must possess some +quality which inspires them with respect."]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote65"><p>[Footnote 2: According to Bettina (see <i>Goethe's Correspondence with a Child</i>, +II. 193), their first acquaintance was made in Beethoven's apartments.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let94">94.<br> +TO PRINCESS KINSKY,--PRAGUE</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, Dec. 30, 1812.</p> + +<p class="salutation">YOUR HIGHNESS,--</p> + +<p>The dreadful event which deprived you of your +husband, Prince von Kinsky, snatching him from +his father-land and from all those who love him,<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote66">[1]</a></sup> as +well as from many whom he generously supported, +filling every heart capable of appreciating goodness +and greatness with the deepest sorrow, affected me +also in the most profound and painful degree. The +stern duty of self-interest compels me to lay before +your Highness a humble petition, the reasonable +purport of which may, I hope, plead my excuse for +intruding on your Highness at a time when so +many affairs of importance claim your attention. +Permit me to state the matter to your Highness.</p> + +<p>Y.H. is no doubt aware that when I received a +summons to Westphalia in the year 1809, his Highness +Prince von Kinsky, your late husband, together +with his I.H. Archduke Rudolph and H.H. the +Prince von Lobkowitz, offered to settle on me for +life an annual income of 4000 gulden, provided I +declined the proposal in question, and determined to +remain in Austria. Although this sum was by no +means in proportion to that secured to me in Westphalia, +still my predilection for Austria, as well as +my sense of this most generous proposal, induced me +to accept it without hesitation. The share contributed +by H.H. Prince Kinsky consisted of 1800 +florins, which I have received by quarterly instalments +since 1809 from the Prince's privy purse. +Though subsequent occurrences partially diminished +this sum, I rested satisfied, till the appearance +of the Finance Patent, reducing bank-notes into +<i>Einlösung Schein</i>. I applied to H.I.H. the +Archduke Rudolph to request that the portion of +the annuity contributed by H.I.H. should in +future be paid in <i>Einlösung Schein</i>. This was at +once granted, and I received a written assurance +to that effect from H.I.H. Prince von Lobkowitz +agreed to the same with regard to his share,--700 +florins [see No. 84]. H.H. Prince von Kinsky +being at that time in Prague, I addressed my respectful +petition to him last May, through Herr +Varnhagen von Ense, an officer in the Vogelsang +Regiment, that his Highness's contribution to my +salary--1800 florins--should be paid like the +rest in <i>Einlösung Schein</i>. Herr von Varnhagen +wrote as follows, and the original of the letter is +still extant:--</p> + +<p>"I had yesterday the desired interview with +Prince Kinsky. With the highest praise of Beethoven, +he at once acceded to his demand, and is +prepared to pay up the arrears, and also all future +sums from the date of the <i>Einlösung Schein</i>, in +that currency. The cashier here has received the +necessary instructions, and Beethoven can draw for +the whole sum on his way through Prague, or, if +he prefers it, in Vienna, as soon as the Prince returns +there.</p> + +<p class="date">"Prague, June 9, 1812."</p> + +<p>When passing through Prague some weeks +afterwards, I took the opportunity of waiting on +the Prince, and received from him the fullest confirmation +of this promise. H.H. likewise assured +me that he entirely admitted the propriety of my +demand, and considered it quite reasonable. As I +could not remain in Prague till this affair was +finally settled, H.H. was so kind as to make me a +payment of sixty ducats on account, which, according +to H.H.'s calculation, were good for 600 florins +Vienna currency. The arrears were to be paid up +on my return to Vienna, and an order given to the +cashier to pay my salary in future in <i>Einlösung +Schein</i>. Such was H.H.'s pleasure. My illness +increasing in Töplitz, I was obliged to remain there +longer than I originally intended. In the month +of September I therefore addressed to H.H., who +was then in Vienna, through one of my friends +here, Herr Oliva, a written memorial, claiming his +promise, when H.H. graciously repeated to this +friend the assurance he had already given me, +adding that in the course of a few days he would +give the necessary instructions on the subject to his +cashier.</p> + +<p>A short time afterwards he left Vienna. When +I arrived there, I inquired from the Prince's secretary +whether H.H. had given directions about my +salary before leaving Vienna, when, to my surprise, +I was told that H.H. had done nothing in the +matter.</p> + +<p>My title to the liquidation of my claim is proved +by the testimony of the Herren von Varnhagen +and Oliva, to whom H.H. spoke on the subject, +reiterating his consent. I feel convinced that the +illustrious heirs and family of this prince will in +the same spirit of benevolence and generosity strive +to fulfil his intentions. I therefore confidently +place in Y.H.'s hands my respectful petition, viz., +"to pay up the arrears of my salary in <i>Einlösung +Schein</i>, and to instruct your cashier to transmit me +the amount in future, in the same currency." +Relying on your sense of justice according me a +favorable decision, I remain Y.H.'s</p> + +<p class="signature">Most obedient servant,<br> +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote66"><p>[Footnote 1: Prince Josef Ferdinand Kinsky, born December, 1781, and killed +by a fall from his horse, November 3, 1812.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let95">95.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">1813.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote67">[1]</a></sup></p> + +<p>I have been far from well since last Sunday, +but have suffered more in mind than in body. I +beg your forgiveness a thousand times for not +having sooner sent my apologies; each day I had +the strongest inclination to wait on you, but Heaven +knows that in spite of the best will that I always +entertain for the best of masters I was unable to +do so, distressing as it is to me not to have it in my +power to sacrifice all to him for whom I cherish +the highest esteem, love, and veneration. Y.R.H. +would perhaps act wisely in making a pause at +present with the Lobkowitz concerts; even the +most brilliant talent may lose its effect by too great +familiarity.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote67"><p>[Footnote 1: Prince Franz Josef Lobkowitz died December 25th, 1816. His +musical meetings were certainly continued till 1813, or longer.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let96">96.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">1813.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote68">[1]</a></sup></p> + +<p>At early dawn to-morrow the copyist shall begin +the last movement. As I am in the mean time +writing several other works, I did not hurry myself +much with this last movement merely for the sake +of punctuality, especially as I must write this more +deliberately, with a view to Rode's<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote69">[2]</a></sup> playing; we +like quick, full-toned passages in our <i>Finales</i>, which +do not suit R., and this rather cramps me. At all +events, all is sure to go well next Tuesday. I very +much doubt whether I shall be able to present myself +at Y.R.H.'s on that evening, in spite of my +zeal in your service; but to make up for this, I +mean to come to you to-morrow forenoon and to-morrow +afternoon, that I may entirely fulfil the +wishes of my illustrious pupil.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote68"><p>[Footnote 1: 1813. January--February.]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote69"><p>[Footnote 2: Pierre Rode, the violinist, arrived in Vienna in January, 1813, and +gave a concert in the Redoutensaal on February 6th, but did not give +universal satisfaction (<i>A.M.Z.</i>, 1813, p. 114), and a second concert +that he had projected does not appear to have taken place. He played +in Gratz on February 20th and 27th. It seems that Rode was to play +with Beethoven at the Archduke Rudolph's, for which occasion Beethoven +prepared a composition for them both. Was this the Sonata for +pianoforte and violin, Op. 36, which he afterwards dedicated to the +Archduke? Thayer states that it was written by Beethoven in 1810, +and sold to the music-publisher Steiner in Vienna in April, 1815. No +other composition for the violin and pianoforte is so likely to be the +one as this. It is, however, a mistake in the <i>Bibliothèque Universelle</i>, +tome xxxvi. p. 210, to state that Beethoven during Rode's stay +in Vienna composed the "délicieuse Romance" which was played +with so much expression by De Baillot on the violin. There are only +two Romances known for the violin by Beethoven, the one in G major, +Op. 40, in the year 1803, and the second in F major, Op. 50, published +in 1805. (Thayer, 102 and 104.)]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let97">97.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">1813.</p> + +<p>I had just gone out yesterday when your gracious +letter reached me. As for my health, it is +pretty much the same, particularly as moral causes +affect it, which do not seem likely to be removed; +particularly as I can have recourse to no one but +myself for aid, and can find help in my own head +alone; and more particularly still, because in these +days neither words, nor honor, nor written pledges, +seem binding on any one. As for my occupations, +I have come to an end with some of them, and, +even without your gracious invitation, I intended +to appear at the usual hour to-day. With regard +to Rode [see No. 96], I beg Y.R.H. to be so +good as to let me have the part by the bearer of +this, and I will send it to him at once, with a polite +note from me. <i>He certainly will not take amiss +my sending him the part. Oh! certainly not! +Would to Heaven that I were obliged to ask his forgiveness +on this account! for in that case things +would really be in a better position.</i> Is it your pleasure +that I should come to you this evening at five +o'clock as usual, or does Y.R.H. desire another +hour? I shall endeavor to arrange accordingly, and +punctually to fulfil your wishes.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let98">98.<br> +TO PRINCESS KINSKY.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, Feb. 12, 1813.</p> + +<p class="salutation">YOUR HIGHNESS!--</p> + +<p>You were so gracious as to declare with regard +to the salary settled on me by your deceased husband, +that you saw the propriety of my receiving +it in Vienna currency, but that the authority of the +court of law which has assumed the guardianship +of the estate must first be obtained. Under the +conviction that the authorities who represent their +princely wards could not fail to be influenced by +the same motives that actuated the late Prince in +his conduct towards me, I think I am justified in +expecting the ratification of my claim from the +aforesaid court, as I can prove, by the testimony of +well-known, respectable, and upright men, the promise +and intentions of H.H. in my behalf, which +cannot fail to be binding on his heirs and children. +If, therefore, the proofs submitted should even be +found deficient in legal formality, I cannot doubt +that this want will be supplied by the noble mode +of thinking of this illustrious house, and by their +own inclination to generous actions.</p> + +<p>Possibly another question may at present arise +from the condition of the inheritance, which is no +doubt heavily burdened, both owing to the melancholy +and sudden death of the late Prince, and by +the state of the times, which renders it equally +just and indispensable to husband carefully all possible +resources. On this account it is far from my +wish to claim more than is absolutely necessary for +my own livelihood, and grounded on the contract +itself,--the legality of such a claim on the heirs of +the late Prince not being in any way disputed.</p> + +<p>I beg, then, that Y.H. will be pleased to direct +the arrears of my salary, due since the 1st September, +1811, calculated in Vienna currency, in accordance +with the scale of the contract, making in +W.W. 1088 florins 42 kreuzers, to be paid, and <i>in +the interim</i>, the question whether this salary ought +to be paid in Vienna currency can be deferred until +the affairs are settled, when the subject is again +brought before the trustees, and my claims admitted +to be just by their consent and authority. The +late Prince having given me sixty ducats merely +on account of my salary, which was to be paid by +agreement in Vienna currency, and as this agreement +(as every intelligent man will inform Y.H.) +must be accepted to its full extent, or at all events +not cause me loss, it follows as a matter of course +that Y.H. will not object to my considering the +sixty ducats as only an instalment of the arrears +due to me beyond the usual scale of payment, +agreed to be paid in Vienna currency, so that the +amount must not be deducted from the sum still +due to me.</p> + +<p>I feel sure that Y.H.'s noble feelings will do justice +to the equity of my proposal, and my wish to +enter into every detail of this affair, so far as circumstances +permit, and also my readiness to postpone +my claims to suit your convenience. The +same elevated sentiments which prompted you to +fulfil the engagement entered into by the late +Prince, will also make Y.H. apprehend the absolute +necessity entailed on me by my position again +to solicit immediate payment of the arrears of my +salary, which are indispensable for my maintenance.</p> + +<p>Anxiously hoping for a favorable answer to my +petition, I have the honor to remain, with profound +respect,</p> + +<p class="signature">Y.R.H.'s obedient servant,<br> +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let99">99.<br> +TO PRINCESS KINSKY.</h3> + +<p class="salutation">HIGHLY HONORED PRINCESS!--</p> + +<p>As the Prince's counsel declared that my claim +could not be heard till the choice of a guardian had +been made, and as I now hear that Y.H. has been +graciously pleased yourself to assume that office, but +decline receiving any one, I present my humble +petition in writing, requesting at the same time +your early consideration; for you can easily understand +that, relying on a thing as a certainty, it is +painful to be so long deprived of it, especially as I +am obliged entirely to support an unfortunate sickly +brother and his whole family,<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote70">[1]</a></sup> which (not computing +my own wants) has entirely exhausted my resources, +having expected to provide for myself by +the payment of my salary. You may perceive the +justice of my claims from the fact of my faithfully +naming the receipt of the sixty ducats, advanced to +me by the late Prince in Prague, the Prince's counsel +himself declaring that I might have said nothing +about this sum, the late Prince not having mentioned +it either to him or to his cashier.</p> + +<p>Forgive my being obliged to intrude this affair +on you, but necessity compels me to do so. Some +days hence I shall take the liberty of making inquiries +on the subject from the Prince's counsel, or +from any one Y.H. may appoint.</p> + +<p>I remain, most esteemed and illustrious Princess,</p> + +<p class="signature">Your devoted servant,<br> +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote70"><p>[Footnote 1: See a letter to Ries, Nov. 22d, 1815:--"He was consumptive for +some years, and, in order to make his life easier, I can safely compute +what I gave him at 10,000 florins W.W."]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let100">100.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="salutation">DEAR Z.,--</p> + +<p>Forward the accompanying letter to-day without +fail to Brunswick, that it may arrive as soon and as +safely as possible. Excuse the trouble I give you. +I have been again applied to, to send some of my +works to Gratz, in Styria, for a concert to be given +in aid of the Ursuline convent and its schools: last +year they had very large receipts by this means. +Including this concert, and one I gave in Carlsbad +for the benefit of the sufferers from fire at Baden, +three concerts have been given by me, and through +me, for benevolent purposes in one year; and yet +if I ask a favor, people are as deaf as a post. Your</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<p>I. Letter to Sclowonowitsch (Maître des bureaux +des postes) in Cassel. I can no longer do without +the books of Tiedge and Frau von der Recke, as I +am expected to give some opinion about them.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let101">101.<br> +TO HERR JOSEPH VARENNA,--GRATZ.</h3> + +<p class="salutation">MY GOOD SIR,--</p> + +<p>Rode was not quite correct in all that he said of +me; my health is not particularly good, and from +no fault of my own,--my present condition being +the most unfortunate of my life. But neither this +nor anything in the world shall prevent me from +assisting, so far as it lies in my power, the innocent +and distressed ladies of your convent by my poor +works. I therefore place at your disposal two new +symphonies, a bass aria with chorus, and several +minor choruses; if you desire again to perform +"Hungaria's Benefactors," which you gave last +year, it is also at your service. Among the +choruses you will find a "Dervise Chorus," a capital +bait for a mixed public.</p> + +<p>In my opinion, your best plan would be to select +a day when you could give the "Mount of Olives," +which has been everywhere performed. This +would occupy one half of the concert, and the other +half might consist of a new symphony, the overtures, +and various choruses, and likewise the above-named +bass aria and chorus; thus the evening +would not be devoid of variety. But you can settle +all this more satisfactorily with the aid of your +own musical authorities. I think I can guess what +you mean about a gratuity for me from a <i>third person</i>. +Were I in the same position as formerly, I +would at once say, "Beethoven never accepts anything +<i>where the benefit of humanity is concerned</i>;" +but owing to my own too great benevolence I am +reduced to a low ebb, the cause of which, however, +does not put me to shame, being combined with +other circumstances for which men devoid of honor +and principle are alone to blame; so I do not hesitate +to say that I would not refuse the contribution +of the rich man to whom you allude.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote71">[1]</a></sup> But there +is no question here of any <i>claim</i>. If, however, the +affair with the <i>third person</i> comes to nothing, pray +rest assured that I shall be equally disposed to confer +the same benefit as last year on my friends the +respected Ursuline ladies, and shall at all times be +ready to succor the poor and needy so long as I +live. And now farewell! Write soon, and I will +zealously strive to make all necessary arrangements. +My best wishes for the convent.</p> + +<p class="signature">I am, with esteem, your friend,<br> +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote71"><p>[Footnote 1: Reichardt, on the 1st March, 1809, writes in his <i>Vertraute Briefe</i>,--"Beethoven, +by 'a rich third person,' as the following letter proves, +meant Louis Bonaparte, who, after abdicating the Dutch throne, lived +in Gratz."]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let102">102.<br> +TO VARENNA.</h3> + +<p class="salutation">MY EXCELLENT V. [VARENNA],--</p> + +<p>I received your letter with much pleasure, but +with much displeasure the 100 florins allotted to me +by our poor convent ladies; in the mean time I will +apply part of this sum to pay the copyists--the surplus +and the accounts for copying shall be sent to +these good ladies.</p> + +<p>I never accept anything for such a purpose. I +thought that perhaps the <i>third person</i> to whom you +alluded might be the Ex-King of Holland, in which +case I should have had no scruples, under my present +circumstances, in accepting a gratuity from him, +who has no doubt taken enough from the Dutch in +a less legitimate way; but as it is, I must decline +(though in all friendship) any renewal of this subject.</p> + +<p>Let me know whether, were I to come myself to +Gratz, I could give a concert, and what the receipts +would probably be; for Vienna, alas! can no longer +continue my place of abode. Perhaps it is now too +late? but any information from you on the point +will be very welcome.</p> + +<p>The works are being copied, and you shall have +them as soon as possible. You may do just what +you please with the Oratorio; where it will be of +most use it will best fulfil my intentions.</p> + +<p class="signature">I am, with esteem, your obedient<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<p>P.S. Say all that is kind from me to the worthy +Ursuline ladies. I rejoice in being able to serve +them.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let103">103.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p>Confounded, invited guest! <i>Domanowetz!</i>--not +musical Count, but gobbling Count! dinner Count! +supper Count! &c., &c. The Quartet is to be tried +over to-day at ten o'clock or half-past, at Lobkowitz's.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote72">[1]</a></sup> +His Highness, whose wits are generally +astray, is not yet arrived; so pray join us, if you can +escape from your Chancery jailer. Herzog is to see +you to-day. He intends to take the post of my +man-servant; you may agree to give him thirty +florins, with his wife <i>obbligata</i>. Firing, light, and +morning livery found. I must have some one who +knows how to cook, for if my food continues as bad +as it now is, I shall always be ill. I dine at home +to-day, because I get better wine. If you will only +order what you like, I very much wish you to come +to me. You shall have the wine <i>gratis</i>, and of far +better quality than what you get at the scoundrelly +"Swan."</p> + +<p class="signature">Your very insignificant<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote72"><p>[Footnote 1: Reichardt, in his <i>Vertraute Briefe</i>, writes: "The beautiful quartets +and evening concerts for the Archduke Rudolph still continue at +Prince von Lobkowitz's, although the Prince himself is about to join +his battalion in Bohemia." Reichardt, Vol. I. p. 182, calls Lobkowitz +"an indefatigable, insatiable, genuine enthusiast for art."]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let104">104.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="date">Feb. 25, 1813.</p> + +<p>I have been constantly indisposed, dear Zmeskall, +since I last saw you; in the mean time the servant +who lived with you before your present one has applied +for my situation. I do not recollect him, but +he told me he had been with you, and that you had +nothing to say against him, except that he did not +dress your hair as you wished. I gave him earnest-money, +though only a florin. Supposing you have +no other fault to find with the man (and if so I beg +you will candidly mention it), I intend to engage +him, for you know that it is no object with me to +have my hair dressed; it would be more to the purpose +if my finances could be dressed, or <i>re-dressed</i>. +I hope to get an answer from you to day. If there +is no one to open the door to your servant, let him +leave the note in the entrance to the left, and should +he find no one there either, he must give it to the +porter's wife below stairs. May Heaven prosper +you in your musical undertakings! Your</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN,<br> +<i>Miserabilis.</i></p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let105">105.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="date">Feb. 28, 1813.</p> + +<p>Let us leave things as they are for to-day, dear +Z., till we meet [and so on about the servant].</p> + +<p>Farewell! Carefully guard the fortresses of the +realm, which, as you know, are no longer virgins, +and have already received many a shot.</p> + +<p class="signature">Your friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let106">106.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="salutation">MOST WORTHY COUNSELLOR, OWNER OF MINES AND LORD OF FASTNESSES +IN BURGUNDY AND BUDA!--</p> + +<p>Be so good as to let me know how matters stand, +as this afternoon at latest I shall take advantage of +your reply to my question, by giving my servant +warning for this day fortnight. His wages, &c., &c. +[The rest relates to his servant.]</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let107">107.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="date">April 19, 1813.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY DEAR ZMESKALL,--</p> + +<p>I have been refused the University Hall. I +heard this two days since; but being indisposed +yesterday I could not go to see you, nor can I +to-day either. We have no resource now but the +Kärnthnerthor Theatre, or the one "an der Wien." +I believe there will only be one concert. If both +these fail, we must then have recourse to the Augarten, +in which case we ought certainly to give two +concerts. Reflect on this, my dear friend, and let +me have your opinion. To-morrow the symphonies +may perhaps be tried over at the Archduke's if I +am able to go out, of which I will apprise you.</p> + +<p class="signature">Your friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let108">108.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="date">April 23, 1813.</p> + +<p class="salutation">DEAR Z.,--</p> + +<p>All will go right, the Archduke being resolved +to take this Prince <i>Fizlypuzly</i> roundly to task. +Let me know if you are to dine at the tavern to-day, +or where? Pray tell me if "Sentivany" is +properly spelt, as I wish to write to him at the same +time about the Chorus. We must also consult together +what day to choose. By the by, be cautious +not to mention the intercession of the Archduke, +for Prince <i>Fizlypuzly</i> is not to be with him till Sunday, +and if that evil-minded creditor had any previous +hint of the affair, he would still try to evade us.</p> + +<p class="signature">Yours ever,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let109">109.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="date">April 26, 1813.</p> + +<p>Lobkowitz will give me a day on the 15th of +May, or after that period, which seems to me scarcely +better than none at all; so I am almost disposed to +give up all idea of a concert. But the Almighty +will no doubt prevent my being utterly ruined.</p> + +<p class="signature">Yours,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let110">110.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">Baden, May 27, 1813.</p> + +<p>I have the honor to inform you of my arrival in +Baden, which is indeed still very empty of human +beings, but with all the greater luxuriance and full +lustre does Nature shine in her enchanting loveliness. +Where I fail, or ever have failed, be graciously +indulgent towards me, for so many trying +occurrences, succeeding each other so closely, have +really almost bewildered me; still I am convinced +that the resplendent beauties of Nature here, and +the charming environs, will gradually restore my +spirits, and a double share of tranquillity be my portion, +as by my stay here I likewise fulfil the wishes +of Y.R.H. Would that my desire soon to hear that +Y.R.H. is fully restored were equally fulfilled! +This is indeed my warmest wish, and how much I +grieve that I cannot at this moment contribute to +your recovery by means of <i>my</i> art! This is reserved +for the goddess Hygeia alone, and I, alas! +am only a poor mortal, who commends himself to +Y.R.H., and sincerely hopes soon to be permitted +to wait on you.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let111">111.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, July 24, 1813.</p> + +<p>From day to day I have been expecting to return +to Baden; in the mean time, the discords that detain +me here may possibly be resolved by the end of the +ensuing week. To me a residence in a town during +the summer is misery, and when I also remember +that I am thus prevented waiting on Y.R.H., it is +still more vexatious and annoying. It is, in fact, +the Lobkowitz and Kinsky affairs that keep me here. +Instead of pondering over a number of bars, I am +obliged constantly to reflect on the number of peregrinations +I am forced to make; but for this, I could +scarcely endure to the end. Y.R.H. has no doubt +heard of Lobkowitz's misfortunes,<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote73">[1]</a></sup> which are much +to be regretted; but after all, to be rich is no such +great happiness! It is said that Count Fries alone +paid 1900 gold ducats to Duport, for which he had +the security of the ancient Lobkowitz house. The +details are beyond all belief. I hear that Count Rasumowsky<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote74">[2]</a></sup> +intends to go to Baden, and to take his +Quartet with him, which is really very pretty, and +I have no doubt that Y.R.H. will be much pleased +with it. I know no more charming enjoyment in +the country than quartet music. I beg Y.R.H. +will accept my heartfelt wishes for your health, and +also compassionate me for being obliged to pass my +time here under such disagreeable circumstances. +But I will strive to compensate twofold in Baden +for what you have lost.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote73"><p>[Footnote 1: Prince Lobkowitz's "misfortunes" probably refer to the great +pecuniary difficulties which befell this music and pomp loving Prince +several years before his death. Beethoven seems to have made various +attempts to induce the Prince to continue the payment of his share of +the salary agreed on, though these efforts were long fruitless. The +subject, however, appears to have been again renewed in 1816, for on +the 8th of March in this year Beethoven writes to Ries to say that his +salary consists of 3400 florins E.S., and this sum he received till his +death.]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote74"><p>[Footnote 2: Those who played in Count Rasumowsky's Quartets, to whom +Beethoven dedicated various compositions, were the <i>virtuosi</i> Schuppanzigh +(1st), Sina (2d violin), Linke (violoncello), Weiss (violin).]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let112">112.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">1813.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote75">[1]</a></sup></p> + +<p>I beg to inquire whether, being in some degree +restored, I am to wait on you this evening? I at +the same time take the liberty to make a humble +request. I was in hopes that by this time, at all +events, my melancholy circumstances would have +brightened, but all continues in its old state, so I +must determine on giving two concerts.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote76">[2]</a></sup> I find +that I am compelled to give up my former resolution +never to give any except for benevolent purposes; +as self-maintenance demands that I should +do so. The hall of the University would be the +most advantageous and distinguished for my present +object, and my humble request consists in entreating +Y.R.H. to be so gracious as to send a line to the +present <i>Rector Magnificus</i> of the University, through +Baron Schweiger, which would certainly ensure my +getting the hall. In the hope of a favorable answer, +I remain, &c., &c.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote75"><p>[Footnote 1: Late in the autumn of 1813.]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote76"><p>[Footnote 2: The concerts here referred to were given in the University Hall on +the 8th and 12th December, 1813, when the <i>Battle of Vittoria</i> and the +A major Symphony were performed for the first time. Beethoven +himself conducted.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let113">113.<br> +TO FREIHERR JOSEF VON SCHWEIGER.</h3> + +<p class="date">Late in the Autumn of 1813.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY DEAR FRIEND,--</p> + +<p>I have to-day applied (by letter) to my gracious +master to interest himself in procuring the University +Hall for two concerts which I think of giving, +and in fact must give, for all remains as it was. +Always considering you, both in good and evil fortune, +my best friend, I suggested to the Duke that +you should apply in his name for this favor to the +present Rector of the University. Whatever may +be the result, let me know H.R.H.'s decision as +soon as possible, that I may make further efforts to +extricate myself from a position so detrimental to +me and to my art. I am coming this evening to the +Archduke.</p> + +<p class="signature">Your friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.<br> +[K.]</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let114">114.<br> +TO HERR VON BAUMEISTER.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote77">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="salutation">DEAR SIR,--</p> + +<p>I request you will send me the parts of the Symphony +in A, and likewise my score. His I.H. can +have the MS. again, but I require it at present for +the music in the Augarten to-morrow. I have just +received two tickets, which I send to you, and beg +you will make use of them.</p> + +<p class="signature">I am, with esteem, yours,<br> +L. V. BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote77"><p>[Footnote 1: Private Secretary to the Archduke Rudolph.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let115">115.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="date">Oct. 9, 1813.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY DEAR GOOD Z.,--</p> + +<p>Don't be indignant with me for asking you to +address the enclosed letter properly; the person for +whom it is intended is constantly complaining that +he gets no letters from me. Yesterday I took one +myself to the post-office, when I was asked where +the letter was meant to go. I see, therefore, that +my writing seems to be as little understood as myself. +Thence my request to you. Your</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let116">116.<br> +LETTER OF THANKS.</h3> + +<p>I esteem it my duty to express my gratitude for +the great zeal shown by all those artists who so +kindly coöperated on the 8th and 12th December +[1813] in the concerts given for the benefit of the +Austrian and Bavarian soldiers wounded at the +battle of Hanau. It was a rare combination of +eminent artists, where all were inspired by the +wish to be of use to their father-land, and to contribute +by the exercise of their talents to the fulfilment +of the undertaking, while, regardless of +all precedence, they gladly accepted subordinate +places.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote78">[1]</a></sup> While an artist like Herr Schuppanzigh +was at the head of the first violins, and by his fiery +and expressive mode of conducting kindled the zeal +of the whole orchestra, Herr Kapellmeister Salieri +did not scruple to give the time to the drums and +cannonades; Herr Spohr and Herr Mayseder, each +worthy from his talents to fill the highest post, +played in the second and third rank. Herr Siboni +and Herr Giuliani also filled subordinate places. +The conducting of the whole was only assigned to +me from the music being my own composition; had +it been that of any one else, I would willingly, like +Herr Hummel, have taken my place at the big +drum, as the only feeling that pervaded all our +hearts was true love for our father-land, and the +wish cheerfully to devote our powers to those who +had sacrificed so much for us. Particular thanks +are due to Herr Maelzel, inasmuch as he first suggested +the idea of this concert, and the most +troublesome part of the enterprise, the requisite +arrangements, management, and regulations, devolved +on him. I more especially thank him for +giving me an opportunity by this concert of fulfilling +a wish I have long cherished, to compose for +such a benevolent object (exclusive of the works +already made over to him) a comprehensive work +more adapted to the present times, to be laid on +the altar of my father-land.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote79">[2]</a></sup> As a notice is to be +published of all those who assisted on this occasion, +the public will be enabled to judge of the noble +self-denial exercised by a mass of the greatest artists, +working together with the same benevolent object +in view.</p> + +<p class="signature">LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote78"><p>[Footnote 1: The A major Symphony and <i>Wellington's Victory at Vittoria</i> were +performed.]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote79"><p>[Footnote 2: "Obsolete" is written in pencil by Beethoven.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let117">117.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote80">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">1814.</p> + +<p>I beg you will send me the score of the "Final +Chorus"<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote81">[2]</a></sup> for half a day, as the theatrical score is +so badly written.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote80"><p>[Footnote 1: The spring of 1814.]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote81"><p>[Footnote 2: The <i>Schlusschor</i>, the score of which Beethoven requests the Archduke +to send him, is in all probability the Finale <i>Germania! Germania!</i> +intended for Treitschke's Operetta <i>Die gute Nachricht</i>, which +refers to the taking of Paris by the Allies, and was performed for the +first time at Vienna in the Kärnthnerthor Theatre on the 11th April, +1814. The same <i>Final Chorus</i> was substituted for another of Beethoven's +(<i>Es ist vollbracht</i>) in Treitschke's Operetta <i>Die Ehrenpforten</i>, +first given on the 15th July, 1815, in the Kärnthnerthor Theatre. Both +these choruses are printed in score in Breitkopf & Härtel's edition of +Beethoven's works.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let118">118.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">1814.</p> + +<p>Having only so recently received the score of +the "Final Chorus," I must ask you to excuse +your getting it back so late. The best thing H.R.H. +can do is to have it transcribed, for in its present +form the score is of no use. I would have brought +it myself, but I have been laid up with a cold since +last Sunday, which is most severe, and obliges me +to be very careful, being so much indisposed. I +never feel greater satisfaction than when Y.R.H. +derives any pleasure through me. I hope very soon +to be able to wait on you myself, and in the mean +time I pray that you will keep me in remembrance.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let119">119.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">1814.</p> + +<p>The song "Germania" belongs to the whole +world who sympathize with the subject, and to you +beyond all others, just as I myself am wholly yours. +I wish you a good journey to Palermo.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let120">120.<br> +TO TREITSCHKE.</h3> + +<p class="date">March, 1814.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY DEAR, WORTHY T.,--</p> + +<p>I have read with the greatest satisfaction your +amendments of the Opera ["Fidelio" which was +about to be again performed]. It has decided me +once more to rebuild the desolate ruins of an ancient +fortress.</p> + +<p class="signature">Your friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let121">121.<br> +TO TREITSCHKE.</h3> + +<p>The affair of the Opera is the most troublesome +in the world, and there is scarcely one part of it +which quite satisfies me now, and that I have not +been obliged to <i>amend by something more satisfactory</i>. +But what a difference between this, and +giving one's self up to freely flowing thought and +inspiration!</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let122">122.<br> +TO TREITSCHKE.</h3> + +<p class="date">1814.</p> + +<p>I request, my dear T., that you will send me +the score of the song [in "Fidelio," <i>Geld ist eine +schöne Sache</i>], that the interpolated notes may be +transcribed in all the instrumental parts; though I +shall not take it at all amiss if you prefer that +Girowetz or any other person, perhaps Weinmüller +[who sang the part of Rocco], should do so. This +I have nothing to say against, but I will not suffer +my composition to be altered by any one whatever, +be he who he may.</p> + +<p class="signature">I am, with high consideration,<br> +Your obedient<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let123">123.<br> +TO COUNT MORITZ LICHNOWSKY.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote82">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="salutation">MY DEAR COUNT,--</p> + +<p>If you wish to attend our council [about the alterations +in "Fidelio"], I beg to inform you that +it assembles this afternoon at half-past three o'clock, +in the Spielmann Haus, auf dem Graben, No. 188, +4th Etage, at Herr Weinmüller's. I shall be very +glad if you have leisure to be present.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote82"><p>[Footnote 1: The mention of Weinmüller decides the date of this note, as it was +in the spring of 1814 that he, together with the singers Saal and Vogl, +brought about the revival of <i>Fidelio</i>.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let124">124.<br> +TO COUNT MORITZ LICHNOWSKY.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote83">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p>My dear, victorious, and yet sometimes nonplussed +(?) Count! I hope that you rested well, +most precious and charming of all Counts! Oh! +most beloved and unparalleled Count! most fascinating +and prodigious Count!</p> + +<p> +<img src="images/graf.png" alt="[picture of music]"> +</p> + +<p>(<i>To be repeated at pleasure</i>.)</p> + +<p>At what hour shall we call on Walter to-day? +My going or not depends entirely on you. Your</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote83"><p>[Footnote 1: In Schindler's <i>Beethoven's Nachlass</i> there is also an autograph +Canon of Beethoven's in F major, 6/8, on Count Lichnowsky, on the +words, <i>Bester Herr Graf, Sie sind ein Schaf</i>, written (according to +Schindler) Feb. 20th, 1823, in the coffee-house "Die Goldne Birne," +in the Landstrasse, where Beethoven usually went every evening, +though he generally slipped in by the backdoor.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let125">125.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">1814.</p> + +<p>I hope you forgive me for not having come to +you. Your displeasure would be totally undeserved, +and I will amply compensate for lost time in a few +days. My Opera of "Fidelio"<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote84">[1]</a></sup> is again to be performed, +which gives me a great deal to do; moreover, +though I look well, I am not so in reality. +The arrangements for my second concert<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote85">[2]</a></sup> are +partly completed. I must write something new for +Mdlle. Milder.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote86">[3]</a></sup> Meanwhile it is a consolation to +me to hear that Y.R.H. is so much better. I +hope I am not too sanguine in thinking that I shall +soon be able to contribute towards this. I have +taken the liberty to apprise my Lord Falstaff<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote87">[4]</a></sup> that +he is ere long to have the honor of appearing before +Y.R.H.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote84"><p>[Footnote 1: Letters 125 and 126 refer to the revival of the Opera of <i>Fidelio</i>, +which had not been given since 1806, and was not again produced on +the stage till the 23d May, 1814, in the Kärnthnerthor Theatre. Beethoven's +benefit took place on the 8th July, two newly composed pieces +being inserted.]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote85"><p>[Footnote 2: Beethoven gave a concert on the 2d January, 1814, when <i>Wellington's +Victory</i> was performed, and on the 26th March another for the +benefit of the Theatrical Fund, at which the <i>Overture to Egmont</i> and +<i>Wellingtons's Victory</i> were given, directed by Beethoven himself.]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote86"><p>[Footnote 3: Anna Milder, Royal Court opera singer, a pupil of Vogl's, who +first sang the part of Leonore in <i>Fidelio</i>.]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote87"><p>[Footnote 4: By "my Lord Falstaff" he means the corpulent violinist Schuppanzigh.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let126">126.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, July 14, 1814.</p> + +<p>Whenever I inquire about you I hear nothing +but good news. As for my own insignificant self, +I have been hitherto hopelessly detained in Vienna, +and unable to approach Y.R.H.; I am also thus +deprived of the enjoyment of beautiful Nature, so +dear to me. The directors of the theatre are so +<i>conscientious</i>, that, contrary to their faithful promise, +they have again given my Opera of "Fidelio," +without thinking of giving me any share in the +receipts. They would have exhibited the same +commendable good faith a second time, had I not +been on the watch like a French custom-house officer +of other days. At last, after a great many +troublesome discussions, it was settled that the +Opera of "Fidelio" should be given on Monday +the 18th of July, for my benefit. These <i>receipts</i> +at this season of the year may more properly be +called <i>deceits</i>; but if a work is in any degree successful +it often becomes a little feast for the author. +To this feast the master invites his illustrious pupil, +and hopes--yes! I hope that Y.R.H. will graciously +consent to come, and thus add lustre to +everything by your presence. It would be a great +boon if Y.R.H. would endeavor to persuade the +other members of the Imperial family to be present +at the representation of my Opera, and I on my +part will not fail to take the proper steps on the +subject which duty commands. Vogl's illness<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote88">[1]</a></sup> enabled +me to satisfy my desire to give the part of +Pizarro to Forti,<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote89">[2]</a></sup> his voice being better suited to +it; but owing to this there are daily rehearsals, +which cannot fail to have a favorable effect on the +performance, but which render it impossible for me +to wait upon Y.R.H. before my benefit. Pray +give this letter your favorable consideration, and +think graciously of me.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote88"><p>[Footnote 1: Joh. Mich. Vogl, born August 10th, 1768, was Court opera singer +(tenor) in Vienna from 1794 to 1822; he died November 19th, 1840.]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote89"><p>[Footnote 2: Forti, born June 8th, 1790, a member of the Royal Court Theatre +(a barytone), pensioned off in 1834.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let127">127.<br> +DEPOSITION.</h3> + +<p class="date">1814.</p> + +<p>I voluntarily presented Maelzel <i>gratis</i> with a +"Battle Symphony" for his panharmonica. After +having kept it for some time, he brought me back +the score, which he had already begun to engrave, +saying that he wished it to be harmonized for a full +orchestra. The idea of a battle had already occurred +to me, which, however, could not be performed on +his panharmonica. We agreed to select this and +some more of my works [see No. 116] to be given +at the concert for the benefit of disabled soldiers. +At that very time I became involved in the most +frightful pecuniary difficulties. Forsaken by every +one in Vienna, and in daily expectation of remittances, +&c., Maelzel offered me fifty gold ducats, +which I accepted, saying that I would either repay +them, or allow him to take the work to London, +(provided I did not go there myself with him,) +referring him to an English publisher for payment.</p> + +<p>I got back from him the score written for the +panharmonica. The concerts then took place, and +during that time Herr Maelzel's designs and character +were first fully revealed. Without my consent, +he stated on the bills of the concert that the work +was <i>his property</i>. Indignant at this, I insisted on +his destroying these bills. He then stated that I +had given it to him as a friendly act, because he +was going to London. To this I did not object, +believing that I had reserved the right to state the +conditions on which the work should be his own. I +remember that when the bills were being printed, +I violently opposed them, but the time was too +short, as I was still writing the work. In all the +fire of inspiration, and absorbed in my composition, +I scarcely thought at all on the subject. Immediately +after the first concert in the University Hall, +I was told on all sides, and by people on whom I +could rely, that Maelzel had everywhere given out +he had paid me 400 gold ducats for the Symphony. +I sent what follows to a newspaper, but the +editor would not insert it, as Maelzel stands well +with them all. As soon as the first concert was +over, I repaid Maelzel his fifty ducats, declaring that +having discovered his real character, nothing should +ever induce me to travel with him; justly indignant +that, without consulting me, he had stated in the bills +that all the arrangements for the concert were most +defective. His own despicable want of patriotism +too is proved by the following expressions: "I care +nothing at all about L.; if it is only said in London +that people have paid ten gulden for admission here, +that is all I care about; the wounded are nothing +to me." Moreover, I told him that he might take +the work to London on certain conditions, which I +would inform him of. He then asserted that it was +a <i>friendly gift</i>, and made use of this phrase in the +newspapers after the second concert, without giving +me the most remote hint on the subject. As Maelzel +is a rude, churlish man, entirely devoid of education +or cultivation, it is easy to conceive the tenor +of his conduct to me during this time, which still +further irritated me. Who could bear to be forced +to bestow a <i>friendly gift</i> on such a man? I was +offered an opportunity to send the work to the +Prince Regent, [afterwards George IV.] It was +therefore quite impossible for me to <i>give away the +work unconditionally</i>.</p> + +<p>He then called on a mutual friend to make proposals. +He was told on what day to return for an +answer, but he never appeared, set off on his travels, +and performed the work in Munich. How did he +obtain it? He could not possibly <i>steal</i> it; but Herr +Maelzel had several of the parts for some days in +his house, and he caused the entire work to be harmonized +by some obscure musical journeyman, and +is now hawking it about the world. Herr Maelzel +promised me ear-trumpets. I harmonized the +"Battle Symphony" for his panharmonica from a +wish to keep him to his word. The ear-trumpets +came at last, but were not of the service to me that +I expected. For this slight trouble Herr Maelzel, +after my having arranged the "Battle Symphony" +for a full orchestra, and composed a battle-piece in +addition, declared that I ought to have made over +these works to him as <i>his own exclusive property</i>. +Even allowing that I am in some degree obliged to +him for the ear-trumpets, this is entirely balanced +by his having made at least 500 gulden in Munich +by my mutilated or stolen battle-piece. He has +therefore paid himself in full. He had actually the +audacity to say here that he was in possession of the +battle-piece; in fact he showed it, written out, to +various persons. I did not believe this; and, in +fact, with good reason, as the whole is not by me, +but compiled by some one else. Indeed the credit +he assumes for the work should alone be sufficient +compensation.</p> + +<p>The secretary at the War Office made no allusion +whatever to me, and yet every work performed at +both concerts was of my composition.</p> + +<p>Herr Maelzel thinks fit to say that he has delayed +his visit to London on account of the battle-piece, +which is a mere subterfuge. He stayed to finish +his patchwork, as the first attempt did not succeed.</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let128">128.<br> +TO HERR J. KAUKA, DOCTOR OF LAWS IN PRAGUE, IN THE +KINGDOM OF BOHEMIA.</h3> + +<p class="date">The Summer of 1814.</p> + +<p>A thousand thanks, my esteemed Kauka. At +last I meet with a <i>legal representative</i> and a <i>man</i>, +who can both write and think without using unmeaning +formulas. You can scarcely imagine how +I long for the end of this affair, as it not only interferes +with my domestic expenditure, but is injurious +to me in various ways. You know yourself that a +sensitive spirit ought not to be fettered by miserable +anxieties, and much that might render my life happy +is thus abstracted from it. Even my inclination and +the duty I assigned myself, to serve suffering humanity +by means of my art, I have been obliged to +limit, and must continue to do so.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote90">[1]</a></sup></p> + +<p>I write nothing about our monarchs and monarchies, +for the newspapers give you every information +on these subjects.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote91">[2]</a></sup> The intellectual realm is +the most precious in my eyes, and far above all +temporal and spiritual monarchies. Write to me, +however, what you wish <i>for yourself</i> from my poor +musical capabilities, that I may, in so far as it lies +in my power, supply something for your own musical +sense and feeling. Do you not require all the +papers connected with the Kinsky case? If so I +will send them to you, as they contain most important +testimony, which, indeed, I believe you read +when with me. Think of me and do not forget +that you represent a disinterested artist in opposition +to a niggardly family. How gladly do men withhold +from the poor artist in one respect <i>what they +pay him in another</i>, and there is no longer a Zeus +with whom an artist can invite himself to feast on +ambrosia. Strive, my dear friend, to accelerate the +tardy steps of justice. Whenever I feel myself +elevated high, and in happy moments revel in my +artistic sphere, circumstances drag me down again, +and none more than these two lawsuits. You too +have your disagreeable moments, though with the +views and capabilities I know you to possess, +especially in your profession, I could scarcely have +believed this; still I must recall your attention to +myself. I have drunk to the dregs a cup of bitter +sorrow, and already earned martyrdom in art +through my beloved artistic disciples and colleagues. +I beg you will think of me every day, and imagine +it to be an <i>entire world</i>, for it is really asking rather +too much of you to think of so humble an <i>individual</i> +as myself.</p> + +<p>I am, with the highest esteem and friendship,</p> + +<p class="signature">Your obedient<br> +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote90"><p>[Footnote 1: He supported a consumptive brother and his wife and child.]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote91"><p>[Footnote 2: At the Vienna Congress Beethoven was received with much distinction +by the potentates present.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let129">129.<br> +ADDRESS AND APPEAL TO LONDON ARTISTS BY L. VAN BEETHOVEN.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, July 25, 1814.</p> + +<p>Herr Maelzel, now in London, on his way +thither performed my "Battle Symphony" and +"Wellington's Battle of Vittoria" in Munich, and +no doubt he intends to produce them at London +concerts, as he wished to do in Frankfort. This +induces me to declare that I never in any way made +over or transferred the said works to Herr Maelzel; +that no one possesses a copy of them, and that the +only one verified by me I sent to his Royal Highness +the Prince Regent of England. The performance +of these works, therefore, by Herr Maelzel is +either an imposition on the public, as the above +declaration proves that he does not possess them, or +if he does, he has been guilty of a breach of faith +towards me, inasmuch as he must have got them in +a surreptitious manner.</p> + +<p>But even in the latter case the public will still be +deluded, for the works that Herr Maelzel performs +under the titles of "Wellington's Battle of Vittoria" +and "Battle Symphony" are beyond all doubt spurious +and mutilated, as he never had any portion +of either of these works of mine, except some of the +parts for a few days.</p> + +<p>This suspicion becomes a certainty from the testimony +of various artists here, whose names I am +authorized to give if necessary. These gentlemen +state that Herr Maelzel, before he left Vienna, +declared that he was in possession of these works, +and showed various portions, which, however, as I +have already proved, must be counterfeit. The +question whether Herr Maelzel be capable of doing +me such an injury is best solved by the following +fact,--In the public papers he named himself as sole +giver of the concert on behalf of our wounded +soldiers, whereas my works alone were performed +there, and yet he made no allusion whatsoever to +me.</p> + +<p>I therefore appeal to the London musicians not +to permit such a grievous wrong to be done to their +fellow-artist by Herr Maelzel's performance of the +"Battle of Vittoria" and the "Battle Symphony," +and also to prevent the London public being so +shamefully imposed upon.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let130">130.<br> +TO DR. KAUKA.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, August 22, 1814</p> + +<p>You have shown a feeling for harmony, and you +can resolve a great discord in my life, which causes +me much discomfort, into more pleasing melody, if +you will. I shortly expect to hear something of +what you understand is likely to happen, as I eagerly +anticipate the result of this most <i>unjust</i> affair +with the Kinskys. When the Princess was here, +she seemed to be well disposed towards me; still I +do not know how it will end. In the mean time I +must restrict myself in everything, and await with +entire confidence what is <i>rightfully my own</i> and <i>legally +devolves on me</i>; and though unforeseen occurrences +caused changes in this matter, still two witnesses +recently bore testimony to the wish of the +deceased Prince that my appointed salary in <i>Banco +Zettel</i> should be paid in <i>Einlösung Schein</i>, making +up the original sum, and the Prince himself gave +me sixty gold ducats <i>on account</i> of my claim.</p> + +<p>Should the affair turn out badly for me by the +conduct of the Kinsky family, I will publish it in +every newspaper, to their disgrace. If there had +been an heir, and the facts had been told to him <i>in +all their truth</i>, just as I narrated them, I am convinced +that he would at once have adopted the +words and deeds of his predecessor. Has Dr. Wolf +[the previous advocate] shown you the papers, or +shall I make you acquainted with them? As I am +by no means sure that this letter will reach you +safely, I defer sending you the pianoforte arrangement +of my opera "Fidelio," which is ready to be +dispatched.</p> + +<p>I hope, in accordance with your usual friendliness, +soon to hear from you. I am also writing to +Dr. Wolf (who certainly does not treat any one +<i>wolfishly</i>), in order not to arouse his <i>passion</i>, so that +he may have <i>compassion</i> on me, and neither take +my purse nor my life.</p> + +<p class="signature">I am, with esteem, your true friend,<br> +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let131">131.<br> +TO COUNT MORITZ LICHNOWSKY.</h3> + +<p class="date">Baden, Sept. 21, 1841.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote92">[1]</a></sup></p> + +<p class="salutation">MOST ESTEEMED COUNT AND FRIEND,--</p> + +<p>I unluckily only got your letter yesterday. A +thousand thanks for your remembrance of me. +Pray express my gratitude also to your charming +Princess Christiane [wife of Prince Carl Lichnowsky]. +I had a delightful walk yesterday with +a friend in the Brühl, and in the course of our +friendly chat you were particularly mentioned, and +lo! and behold! on my return I found your kind +letter. I see you are resolved to continue to load +me with benefits.</p> + +<p>As I am unwilling you should suppose that a +step I have already taken is prompted by your recent +favors, or by any motive of the sort, I must +tell you that a sonata of mine [Op. 90] is about to +appear, <i>dedicated to you</i>. I wished to give you a +surprise, as this dedication has been long designed +for you, but your letter of yesterday induces me to +name the fact. I required no new motive thus +publicly to testify my sense of your friendship and +kindness. But as for anything approaching to a +gift in return, you would only distress me, by thus +totally misinterpreting my intentions, and I should +at once decidedly refuse such a thing.</p> + +<p>I beg to kiss the hand of the Princess for her +kind message and all her goodness to me. <i>Never +have I forgotten what I owe to you all</i>, though an +unfortunate combination of circumstances prevented +my testifying this as I could have wished.</p> + +<p>From what you tell me about Lord Castlereagh, I +think the matter in the best possible train. If I +were to give an opinion on the subject, I should +say that Lord Castlereagh ought to hear the work +given here before writing to Wellington. I shall +soon be in Vienna, when we can consult together +about a grand concert. Nothing is to be effected +at Court; I made the application, but--but--</p> + +<p> +<img src="images/allein.png" alt="[picture of music]"> +</p> + +<p><i>Silentium!!!</i></p> + +<p>Farewell, my esteemed friend; pray continue to +esteem me worthy of your friendship. Yours,</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<p>A thousand compliments to the illustrious Princess.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote92"><p>[Footnote 1: The date reversed, as written by Beethoven, is here given.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let132">132.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">1814.</p> + +<p>I perceive that Y.R.H. wishes to try the effect +of my music even upon horses.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote93">[1]</a></sup> We shall see +whether its influence will cause the riders to throw +some clever summersets. Ha! ha! I can't help +laughing at Y.R.H. thinking of me on such an +occasion; for which I shall remain so long as I live, +&c., &c., &c. The horse-music that Y.R.H. desires +shall set off to you full gallop.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote93"><p>[Footnote 1: A tournament was held on the 23d November, 1814, in the Royal +Riding School. Beethoven was probably requested by the Archduke +to compose some music for it, which, however, has not been traced.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let133">133.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">1814.</p> + +<p>It is impossible for me to-day to wait on you, +much as I wish it. I am dispatching the work on +Wellington's victory<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote94">[1]</a></sup> to London. Such matters +have their appointed and fixed time, which cannot +be delayed without final loss. To-morrow I hope +to be able to call on Y.R.H.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote94"><p>[Footnote 1: The Cantata <i>Der glorreiche Augenblick</i>, the poetry by Dr. Alois +Weissenbach, set to music by Beethoven for chorus and orchestra (Op. +136), was first given in Vienna on the 29th November, 1814, and repeated +on the 2d December.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let134">134.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">(In a different hand) Dec. 1814.</p> + +<p>I really feel that I can never deserve your +goodness towards me. I beg to offer my most respectful +thanks for Y.R.H.'s gracious intervention +in my affairs at Prague. I will punctually attend +to the score of the Cantata.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote95">[1]</a></sup> I trust Y.R.H. will +forgive my not having yet been to see you. After +the concert for the poor, comes one in the theatre, +equally for the benefit of the <i>impresario in angustia</i>, +for they have felt some just shame, and have let +me off with one third and one half of the usual +charges. I have now some fresh work on hand, +and then there is a new opera to be begun,<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote96">[2]</a></sup> the +subject of which I am about to decide on. Moreover, +I am again far from well, but a few days +hence I will wait on Y.R.H. If I could be of +any service to Y.R.H., the most eager and anxious +wish of my life would be fulfilled.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote95"><p>[Footnote 1: What concert Beethoven alludes to I cannot discover, but no mention +of it being made in the very exact <i>Allgemeine Leipziger Musikalische +Zeitung</i>, it appears not to have taken place.]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote96"><p>[Footnote 2: The new opera, with the subject of which Beethoven was occupied, +was no doubt Treitschke's <i>Romulus</i>.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let135">135.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">1814.</p> + +<p>My warmest thanks for your present.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote97">[1]</a></sup> I only +regret that you could not participate in the music. +I have now the honor to send you the score of the +Cantata [see No. 134]. Y.R.H. can keep it for +some days, and afterwards I shall take care that it +is copied for you as soon as possible.</p> + +<p>I feel still quite exhausted from fatigue and +worry, pleasure and delight!--all combined! I +shall have the honor of waiting on you in the course +of a few days. I hope to hear favorable accounts +of Y.R.H.'s health. How gladly would I sacrifice +many nights, were it in my power to restore +you entirely!</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote97"><p>[Footnote 1: The present he refers to was probably for the concert of November +29th, or December 2d, 1814.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let136">136.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">1814.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote98">[1]</a></sup></p> + +<p>I see with real pleasure that I may dismiss all +fears for your well-being. As for myself, I hope +(always feeling happy when able to give you any +pleasure) that my health is also rapidly recruiting, +when I intend forthwith to compensate both you +and myself for the <i>pauses</i> that have occurred. As +for Prince Lobkowitz, his <i>pauses</i> with me still continue, +and I fear he will never again come in at +the right place; and in Prague (good heavens! +with regard to Prince Kinsky's affair) they scarcely +as yet know what a figured bass is, for they sing in +slow, long-drawn choral notes; some of these sustained +through sixteen bars |======|. As all these +discords seem likely to be very slowly resolved, it +is best to bring forward only those which we can +ourselves resolve, and to give up the rest to inevitable +fate. Allow me once more to express my delight +at the recovery of Y.R.H.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote98"><p>[Footnote 1: 1814 or 1815. Prince Lobkowitz was still alive at that time (died +December 21st, 1816).]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let137">137.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">1814.</p> + +<p>As you were so kind as to let me know through +Count Troyer<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote99">[1]</a></sup> that you would write a few lines on +my affairs in Prague to the <i>Oberstburggraf</i> Count +Kolowrat, I take the liberty to enclose my letter to +Count K.; I do not believe that it contains anything +to which Y.R.H. will take exception. There +is no chance of my being allowed payment in <i>Einlösung +Schein</i>, for, in spite of all the proofs, the +guardians cannot be persuaded to consent to this; +still it is to be hoped that by the friendly steps we +have meanwhile had recourse to, <i>extra-judicially</i>, a +more favorable result may be obtained,--as, for +instance, the rate of the scale to be higher. If, +however, Y.R.H. will either write a few words +yourself, or cause it to be done in your name, the +affair will certainly be <i>much accelerated</i>, which induces +me earnestly to entreat Y.R.H. to perform +your gracious promise to me. This affair has now +gone on for three years, and is still--undecided.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote99"><p>[Footnote 1: Count Ferdinand Troyer was one of the Archduke's chamberlains.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let138">138.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">1814.</p> + +<p>I have again for a fortnight past been afflicted +with severe headaches, though constantly hoping to +get better, but in vain. Now, however, that the +weather is improved, my physician promises me a +speedy cure. Though as each day I expected to be +the last of my suffering, I did not write to you on +the subject; besides, I thought that Y.R.H. probably +did not require me, as it is so long since Y.R.H. +sent for me. During the festivities in honor of +the Princess of Baden,<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote100">[1]</a></sup> and the injury to Y.R.H.'s +finger, I began to work very assiduously, and as +the fruit of this, among others, is a new pianoforte +trio.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote101">[2]</a></sup> Myself very much occupied, I had no idea +that I had incurred the displeasure of Y.R.H., +though I now begin almost to think this to be the +case. In the mean time I hope soon to be able to +present myself before your tribunal.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote100"><p>[Footnote 1: The festivities in honor of the Princess of Baden were probably +during the Congress, 1814.]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote101"><p>[Footnote 2: The new trio, if the one in B flat for the pianoforte, violin, and +violoncello, Op. 97, was first performed on the 11th April, 1814, in the +hall of the "Komischer Kaiser." Letter 139 also mentions this trio, +composed in 1811 and published in July, 1816.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let139">139.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">1814.</p> + +<p>I beg you will be so good as to let me have the +Trio in B flat with all the parts, and also both parts +of the violin Sonata in G,<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote102">[1]</a></sup> as I must have them +written out for myself with all speed, not being able +to hunt out my own scores among so many others. +I hope that this detestable weather has had no bad +effect on Y.R.H.'s health; I must own that it +rather deranges me. In three or four days at least +I shall have the honor to restore both works to +their proper place.</p> + +<p>Do the musical pauses still continue?</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote102"><p>[Footnote 1: The Sonata for pianoforte and violin in G major, Op. 96, was purchased +by Haslinger, April 1st, 1815, and published the end of July, +1816. It was composed in 1814--perhaps in 1813. Thayer thinks in +1810.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let140">140.<br> +TO HERR KAUKA.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, Jan. 11, 1815.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY GOOD, WORTHY K.,--</p> + +<p>I received Baron Pasqualati's letter to-day, by +which I perceive that you wish me to defer any +fresh measures. In the mean time all the necessary +papers are lodged with Pasqualati; so be so good as +to inform him that he must delay taking any further +steps. To-morrow a council is to be held here, and +you and P. shall learn the result probably to-morrow +evening. Meanwhile I wish you to look through +the paper I sent to the Court through Pasqualati, +and read the appendix carefully. You will then +see that Wolf and others have not given you correct +information.</p> + +<p>One thing is certain, that there are sufficient +proofs <i>for any one who wishes to be convinced</i>. How +could it ever occur to me <i>to think of written legal +testimony</i> with such a man as Kinsky, whose integrity +and generosity were everywhere acknowledged? +I remain, with the warmest affection and esteem,</p> + +<p class="signature">In haste, your friend,<br> +B.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let141">141.<br> +TO HERR KAUKA.</h3> + +<p class="date">1815.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY DEAR AND ESTEEMED K.,--</p> + +<p>What can I think, or say, or feel? As for W. +[Wolf], it seems to me that he not only showed <i>his +weak points</i>, but gave himself no trouble to conceal +them. It is impossible that he can have drawn up +his statement in accordance with all the actual evidence +he had. The order on the treasury about +the rate of exchange was given by Kinsky previous +to his consent to pay me my salary in <i>Einlösung +Schein</i>, as the documents prove; indeed it is only +necessary to examine the date to show this, so the +first instruction is of importance. The <i>species facti</i> +prove that I was more than six months absent from +Vienna. As I was not anxious to get the money, +I allowed the affair to stand over; so the Prince +thus forgot to recall his former order to the treasury, +but that he neither forgot his promise to me, +nor to Varnhagen [an officer] in my behalf, is +evident by the testimony of Herr von Oliva, to +whom shortly before his departure from hence--and +indeed into another world--he repeated his +promise, making an appointment to see him when +he should return to Vienna, in order to arrange the +matter with the treasury, which of course was +prevented by his untimely death.</p> + +<p>The testimony of the officer Varnhagen is accompanied +by a document (he being at present with +the Russian army), in which he states that he is +prepared to <i>take his oath</i> on the affair. The evidence +of Herr Oliva is also to the effect that he is +willing to confirm his evidence by oath before the +Court. As I have sent away the testimony of Col. +Count Bentheim, I am not sure of its tenor, but I +believe the Count also says that he is prepared at +any time to make an affidavit on the matter in +Court, and I am myself <i>ready to swear before the +Court</i> that Prince Kinsky said to me in Prague, +"he thought it only fair to me that my salary +should be paid in <i>Einlösung Schein</i>." These were +his own words.</p> + +<p>He gave me himself sixty gold ducats in Prague, +on account (good for about 600 florins), as, owing +to my state of health, I could remain no longer, and +set off for Töplitz. The Prince's word was <i>sacred</i> +in my eyes, never having heard anything of him +to induce me either to bring two witnesses with me +or to ask him for any written pledge. I see from +all this that Dr. Wolf has miserably mismanaged +the business, and has not made you sufficiently acquainted +with the papers.</p> + +<p>Now as to the step I have just taken. The Archduke +Rudolph asked me some time since whether +the Kinsky affair was yet terminated, having probably +heard something of it. I told him that it +looked very bad, as I knew nothing, absolutely +nothing, of the matter. He offered to write himself, +but desired me to add a memorandum, and +also to make him acquainted with all the papers +connected with the Kinsky case. After having +informed himself on the affair, he wrote to the +<i>Oberstburggraf</i>, and enclosed my letter to him.</p> + +<p>The <i>Oberstburggraf</i> answered both the Duke and +myself immediately. In the letter to me he said +"that I was to present a petition to the Provincial +Court of Justice in Prague, along with all the proofs, +whence it would be forwarded to him, and that he +would do his utmost to further my cause." He also +wrote in the most polite terms to the Archduke; +indeed, he expressly said "that he was thoroughly +cognizant of the late Prince Kinsky's intentions +with regard to me and this affair, and that I might +present a petition," &c. The Archduke instantly +sent for me, and desired me to prepare the document +and to show it to him; he also thought that +I ought to solicit payment in <i>Einlösung Schein</i>, as +there was ample proof, if not in strictly legal form, +of the intentions of the Prince, and no one could +doubt that if he had survived he would have adhered +to his promise. If he [the Archduke] were +this day the heir, <i>he would demand no other proofs +than those already furnished</i>. I sent this paper to +Baron Pasqualati, who is kindly to present it himself +to the Court. Not till after the affair had gone +so far did Dr. Adlersburg receive a letter from Dr. +Wolf, in which he mentioned that he had made a +claim for 1500 florins. As we have come so far +as 1500 florins with the <i>Oberstburggraf</i>, we may +possibly get on to 1800 florins. I do not esteem +this any <i>favor</i>, for the late Prince was one of those +who urged me most to refuse a salary of 600 gold +ducats per annum, offered to me from Westphalia; +and he said at the time "that he was resolved I +should have no chance of eating hams in Westphalia." +Another summons to Naples somewhat +later I equally declined, and I am entitled to demand +a fair compensation for the loss I incurred. +If the salary were to be paid in bank-notes, what +should I get? Not 400 florins in <i>Conventionsgeld</i>!!! +in lieu of such a salary as 600 ducats! There +are ample proofs for those who wish to act justly; +and what does the <i>Einlösung Schein</i> now amount +to??!!! It is even at this moment no equivalent +for what I refused. This affair was pompously +announced in all the newspapers while I was nearly +reduced to beggary. The intentions of the Prince +are evident, and in my opinion the family are bound +to act in accordance with them unless they wish to +be disgraced. Besides, the revenues have rather +increased than diminished by the death of the +Prince; so there is no sufficient ground for curtailing +my salary.</p> + +<p>I received your friendly letter yesterday, but +am too weary at this moment to write all that I +feel towards you. I can only commend my case to +your sagacity. It appears that the <i>Oberstburggraf</i> +is the chief person; so what he wrote to the Archduke +must be kept a profound secret, for it might +not be advisable that any one should know of it but +you and Pasqualati. You have sufficient cause on +looking through the papers to show how improperly +Dr. Wolf has conducted the affair, and that another +course of action is necessary. I rely on your +friendship to act as you think best for my interests.</p> + +<p>Rest assured of my warmest thanks, and pray +excuse my writing more to-day, for a thing of this +kind is very fatiguing,--more so than the greatest +musical undertaking. My heart has found something +for you to which yours will respond, and this +you shall soon receive.</p> + +<p>Do not forget me, poor tormented creature that +I am! and <i>act for me</i> and <i>effect for me</i> all that is +possible.</p> + +<p class="signature">With high esteem, your true friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let142">142.<br> +TO HERR KAUKA.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, Jan. 14, 1815.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY GOOD AND WORTHY K.,--</p> + +<p>The long letter I enclose was written when we +were disposed to claim the 1800 florins. Baron +Pasqualati's last letter, however, again made me +waver, and Dr. Adlersburg advised me to adhere +to the steps already taken; but as Dr. Wolf writes +that he has offered in your name to accept 1500 +florins a year, I beg you will at least make every +effort to get that sum. For this purpose I send you +the long letter written before we received Baron +P.'s dissuasive one, as you may discover in it many +reasons for demanding <i>at least</i> the 1500 florins. +The Archduke, too, has written a second time to +the <i>Oberstburggraf</i>, and we may conclude from his +previous reply that he will certainly exert himself, +and that we shall at all events succeed in getting +the 1500 florins.</p> + +<p>Farewell! I cannot write another syllable; such +things exhaust me. May your friendship accelerate +this affair!--if it ends badly, then I must leave +Vienna, because I could not possibly live on my +income, for here things have come to such a pass +that everything has risen to the highest price, and +that price must be paid. The last two concerts I +gave cost me 1508 florins, and had it not been for +the Empress's munificent present I should scarcely +have derived any profit whatever.</p> + +<p class="signature">Your faithful friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let143">143.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote103">[1]</a></sup><br> +TO THE HONORABLE MEMBERS OF THE LANDRECHT.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, 1815.</p> + +<p class="salutation">GENTLEMEN,--</p> + +<p>Quite ignorant of law proceedings, and believing +that all claims on an inheritance could not fail to be +liquidated, I sent to my lawyer in Prague [Dr. +Kauka] the contract signed by the Archduke Rudolph, +Prince Lobkowitz, and Prince von Kinsky, +in which these illustrious personages agreed to settle +on me an annual allowance of 4000 florins. My +constant efforts to obtain a settlement of my claim, +and also, as I am bound to admit, my reproaches to +Dr. Kauka for not conducting the affair properly +(his application to the guardians having proved +fruitless), no doubt prompted him to have recourse +to law.</p> + +<p>None but those who are fully aware of my esteem +for the deceased Prince can tell how repugnant +it is to my feelings to appear as a complainant +against my benefactor.</p> + +<p>Under these circumstances I have recourse to a +shorter path, in the conviction that the guardians +of the Prince's estate will be disposed to mark their +appreciation of art, and also their desire to fulfil +the engagements of the late Prince. According to +the terms of the contract in question, the Archduke +Rudolph, Prince Lobkowitz, and Prince v. Kinsky +granted me these 4000 florins until I should obtain +a situation of equal value; and further, if by misfortune +or old age I was prevented exercising my +art, these distinguished contracting parties secured +this pension to me for life, while I, in return, +pledged myself not to leave Vienna.</p> + +<p>This promise was generous, and equally generous +was its fulfilment, for no difficulty ever occurred, +and I was in the peaceful enjoyment of my pension +till the Imperial Finance Patent appeared. The +consequent alteration in the currency made no difference +in the payments of the Archduke Rudolph, for +I received his share in <i>Einlösung Schein</i>, as I had +previously done in bank-notes, without any reference +to the new scale. The late illustrious Prince v. +Kinsky also at once assured me that his share (1800 +florins) should also be paid in <i>Einlösung Schein</i>. As +however, he omitted giving the order to his cashier, +difficulties arose on the subject. Although my circumstances +are not brilliant, I would not have ventured +to bring this claim before the notice of the +guardians of the estate, if respectable, upright men +had not received the same pledge from the late +Prince's own lips, namely, that he would pay my +past as well as my future claims in Vienna currency, +which is proved by the papers B, C, D, appended +to the pleas. Under these circumstances I leave +the guardians to judge whether, after so implicitly +relying on the promise of the deceased Prince, I +have not cause to complain of my delicacy being +wounded by the objection advanced by the curators +to the witnesses, from their not having been present +together at the time the promise was made, which +is most distressing to my feelings.</p> + +<p>In order to extricate myself from this most disagreeable +lawsuit, I take the liberty to give an +assurance to the guardians that I am prepared, both +as to the past and the future, to be satisfied with +the 1800 florins, Vienna currency; and I flatter +myself that these gentlemen will admit that I on +my part make thus no small sacrifice, as it was +solely from my esteem for those illustrious Princes +that I selected Vienna for my settled abode, at a +time when the most advantageous offers were +made to me elsewhere.</p> + +<p>I therefore request the Court to submit this proposal +to the guardians of the Kinsky estates for their +opinion, and to be so good as to inform me of the +result.</p> + +<p class="signature">L. V. BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote103"><p>[Footnote 1: See No. 94. On the 18th January, 1815, the Court of Justice at +Prague decreed that the trustees of Prince Kinsky's estate should pay +to L. v. Beethoven the sum of 1200 florins W.W. from November 3d, +1812, instead of the original written agreement of 1800 florins. Dr. +Constant, of Wurzbach, in his <i>Biographical Austrian Lexicon</i>, states +that Beethoven dedicated his splendid song <i>An die Hoffnung</i>, Op. 94, +to Princess Kinsky, wife of Prince Ferdinand Kinsky, who died in +1812.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let144">144.<br> +TO BARON VON PASQUALATI.</h3> + +<p class="date">January, 1815.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY ESTEEMED FRIEND,--</p> + +<p>I beg you will kindly send me by the bearer the +proper form for the Kinsky receipt (<i>but sealed</i>) for +600 florins half-yearly from the month of April. I +intend to send the receipt forthwith to Dr. Kauka +in Prague,<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote104">[1]</a></sup> who on a former occasion procured the +money for me so quickly. I will deduct your debt +from this, but if it be possible to get the money here +before the remittance arrives from Prague, I will +bring it at once to you myself.</p> + +<p>I remain, with the most profound esteem,</p> + +<p class="signature">Your sincere friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote104"><p>[Footnote 1: This man, now ninety-four years of age and quite blind, was at +that time Beethoven's counsel in Prague. Pasqualati was that benefactor +of Beethoven's who always kept rooms for him in his house on +the Mölker Bastei, and whose kind aid never deserted him to the close +of his life.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let145">145.<br> +TO HERR KAUKA.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, Feb. 24, 1815.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY MUCH ESTEEMED K.,--</p> + +<p>I have repeatedly thanked you through Baron +Pasqualati for your friendly exertions on my behalf, +and I now beg to express one thousand thanks myself. +The intervention of the Archduke could not +be very palatable to you, and perhaps has prejudiced +you against me. You had already done all that +was possible when the Archduke interfered. If this +had been the case sooner, and we had not employed +that one-sided, or many-sided, or weak-sided Dr. +Wolf, then, according to the assurances of the +<i>Oberstburggraf</i> himself, the affair might have had a +still more favorable result. I shall therefore ever +and always be grateful to you for your services. +The Court now deduct the sixty ducats I mentioned +of my own accord, and to which the late Prince +never alluded either to his treasurer or any one else. +Where truth could injure me it has been accepted, +so why reject it when it could have benefited me? +How unfair! Baron Pasqualati requires information +from you on various points.</p> + +<p>I am again very tired to-day, having been obliged +to discuss many things with poor P.; such matters +exhaust me more than the greatest efforts in composition. +It is a new field, the soil of which I ought +not to be required to till. This painful business has +cost me many tears and much sorrow. The time +draws near when Princess Kinsky must be written +to. Now I must conclude. How rejoiced shall I +be when I can write you the pure effusions of my +heart once more; and this I mean to do as soon as +I am extricated from all these troubles. Pray +accept again my heartfelt thanks for all that you +have done for me, and continue your regard for</p> + +<p class="signature">Your attached friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let146">146.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">1815.</p> + +<p>I heard yesterday, and it was indeed confirmed +by meeting Count Troyer, that Y.R.H. is now +here. I therefore send the dedication of the Trio +[in B flat] to Y.R.H., whose name is inscribed on +it; but all my works on which I place any value, +though the name does not appear, are equally designed +for Y.R.H. I trust, however, that you will +not think I have a motive in saying this,--men of +high rank being apt to suspect self-interest in such +expressions,--and I mean on this occasion to risk the +imputation so far as <i>appearances</i> go, by at once asking +a favor of Y.R.H. My well-grounded reasons +for so doing you will no doubt at once perceive, and +graciously vouchsafe to grant my request. I have +been very much indisposed in Baden since the beginning +of last October; indeed, from the 5th of +October I have been entirely confined to my bed, +or to my room, till about a week ago. I had a very +serious inflammatory cold, and am still able to go +out very little, which has also been the cause of my +not writing to Y.R.H. in Kremsir. May all the +blessings that Heaven can shower upon earth attend +you.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + + + + +<h2><a name="part2">SECOND PART.</a><br> +<br> +LIFE'S MISSION.<br> +1815 TO 1822.</h2> + + + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let147">147.<br> +WRITTEN IN SPOHR'S ALBUM.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote105">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, March 3, 1815.</p> + +<p> +<img src="images/kurz1.png" alt="[picture of music]"> +</p> +<p> +<img src="images/kurz2.png" alt="[picture of music]"> +</p> + +<p>Whenever, dear Spohr, you chance to find true +art and true artists, may you kindly remember</p> + +<p class="signature">Your friend,<br> +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote105"><p>[Footnote 1: From the fac-simile in Spohr's <i>Autobiography</i>, Vol. I.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let148">148.<br> +TO HERR KAUKA.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, April 8, 1815.</p> + +<p>It seems scarcely admissible to be on the friendly +terms on which I consider myself with you, and yet +to be on such unfriendly ones that we should live +close to each other and never meet!!!!!<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote106">[1]</a></sup> You +write "<i>tout à vous</i>." Oh! you humbug! said I. +No! no! it is really too bad. I should like to thank +you 9000 times for all your efforts on my behalf, +and to reproach you 20,000 that you came and +went as you did. So all is a delusion! friendship, +kingdom, empire; all is only a vapor which +every breeze wafts into a different form!! Perhaps +I may go to Töplitz, but it is not certain. I might +take advantage of that opportunity to let the people +of Prague hear something--what think you? if +<i>indeed you still think of me at all</i>! As the affair +with Lobkowitz is now also come to a close, we may +write <i>Finis</i>, though it far from <i>fine is</i> for me.</p> + +<p>Baron Pasqualati will no doubt soon call on you +again; he also has taken much trouble on my +account. Yes, indeed! it is easy to talk of <i>justice</i>, +but to obtain it from others is <i>no easy matter</i>. In +what way can I be of service to you in my own +art? Say whether you prefer my celebrating the +monologue of a fugitive king, or the perjury of a +usurper--or the true friends, who, though near +neighbors, never saw each other? In the hope of +soon hearing from you--for being now so far +asunder it is easier to hold intercourse than when +nearer!--I remain, with highest esteem,</p> + +<p class="signature">Your ever-devoted friend,<br> +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote106"><p>[Footnote 1: Kauka evidently had been recently in Vienna without visiting +Beethoven.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let149">149.<br> +TO HERR KAUKA.</h3> + +<p class="date">1815.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY DEAR AND WORTHY K.,--</p> + +<p>I have just received from the Syndic Baier in R. +the good news that you told him yourself about +Prince F.K. As for the rest, you shall be perfectly +satisfied.</p> + +<p>I take the liberty to ask you again to look after +my interests with the Kinsky family, and I subjoin +the necessary receipt for this purpose [see No. 144]. +Perhaps some other way may be found, though it +does not as yet occur to me, by means of which I +need not importune you in future. On the 15th October +[1815] I was attacked by an inflammatory +cold, from the consequences of which I still suffer, +and my art likewise; but it is to be hoped that I shall +now gradually recover, and at all events be able +once more to display the riches of my little realm +of sweet sounds. Yet I am very poor in all else--owing +to the times? to poverty of spirit? or +what???? Farewell! Everything around disposes +us to <i>profound silence</i>; but this shall not be +the case as to the bond of friendship and soul that +unites us. I loudly proclaim myself, now as ever,</p> + +<p class="signature">Your loving friend and admirer,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let150">150.<br> +TO HERR KAUKA.</h3> + +<p class="date">1815.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY MOST WORTHY FRIEND,--</p> + +<p>My second letter follows that of yesterday, May +2d. Pasqualati tells me to-day, after the lapse of +a month and six days, that the house of Ballabene +is too <i>high and mighty</i> to assist me in this matter. +I must therefore appeal to your <i>insignificance</i> (as I +myself do not hesitate to be so mean as to serve +other people). My house-rent amounts to 550 +florins, and must be paid out of the sum in question.</p> + +<p>As soon as the newly engraved pianoforte pieces +appear, you shall receive copies, and also of the +"Battle," &c., &c. Forgive me, forgive me, my +generous friend; some other means must be found +to forward this affair with due promptitude.</p> + +<p class="signature">In haste, your friend and admirer,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let151">151.<br> +TO MR. SALOMON,--LONDON.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote107">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, June 1, 1815.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY GOOD FELLOW-COUNTRYMAN,--</p> + +<p>I always hoped to meet you one day in London, +but many obstacles have intervened to prevent the +fulfilment of this wish, and as there seems now no +chance of such a thing, I hope you will not refuse +a request of mine, which is that you will be so obliging +as to apply to some London publisher, and offer +him the following works of mine. Grand Trio for +piano, violin, and violoncello [Op. 97], 80 ducats. +Pianoforte Sonata, with violin accompaniment [Op. +96], 60 ducats. Grand Symphony in A (one of +my very best); a short Symphony in F [the 8th]; +Quartet for two violins, viola, and violoncello in F +minor [Op. 95]; Grand Opera in score, 30 ducats. +Cantata with Choruses and Solos ["The Glorious +Moment"], 30 ducats. Score of the "Battle of +Vittoria" and "Wellington's Victory," 80 ducats; +also the pianoforte arrangement of the same, if not +already published, which, I am told here, is the case. +I have named the prices of some of these works, on +a scale which I hold to be suitable for England, but +I leave it to you to say what sum should be asked +both for these and the others. I hear, indeed, that +Cramer [John, whose pianoforte-playing was highly +estimated by Beethoven] is also a publisher, but my +scholar Ries lately wrote to me that Cramer not +long since <i>publicly expressed his disapproval of my +works</i>: I trust from no motive but that of <i>being of +service to art</i>, and if so I have no right to object to +his doing this. If, however, Cramer should wish to +possess any of my <i>pernicious</i> works, I shall be as +well satisfied with him as with any other publisher; +but I reserve the right to give these works to be +published here, so that they may appear at the same +moment in London and Vienna.</p> + +<p>Perhaps you may also be able to point out to me +in what way I can recover from the Prince Regent +[afterwards George IV.] the expenses of transcribing +the "Battle Symphony" on Wellington's victory +at Vittoria, to be dedicated to him, for I have +long ago given up all hope of receiving anything +from that quarter. I have not even been deemed +worthy of an answer, whether I am to be authorized +to dedicate the work to the Prince Regent; and +when at last I propose to publish it here, I am informed +that it has already appeared in London. +What a fatality for an author!!! While the +English and German papers are filled with accounts +of the success of the work, as performed at Drury +Lane, and that theatre drawing great receipts from +it, the author has not one friendly line to show, not +even payment for the cost of copying the work, and +is thus deprived of all profit.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote108">[2]</a></sup> For if it be true that +the pianoforte arrangement is soon to be published +by a German publisher, copied from the London +one, then I lose both my fame and my <i>honorarium</i>. +The well-known generosity of your character leads +me to hope that you will take some interest in the +matter, and actively exert yourself on my behalf.</p> + +<p>The inferior paper-money of this country is now +reduced to one fifth of its value, and I am paid according +to this scale. After many struggles and +considerable loss, I at length succeeded in obtaining +the full value; but at this moment the old paper-money +has again risen far beyond the fifth part, so +that it is evident my salary becomes for the second +time almost <i>nil</i>, and there is no hope of any compensation. +My whole income is derived from my +works. If I could rely on a good sale in England, +it would doubtless be very beneficial to me. Pray +be assured of my boundless gratitude. I hope soon, +very soon, to hear from you.</p> + +<p class="signature">I am, with esteem, your sincere friend,<br> +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote107"><p>[Footnote 1: J.P. Salomon was likewise a native of Bonn, and one of the most +distinguished violin-players of his time. He had been Kapellmeister +to Prince Heinrich of Prussia, and then went to London, where he was +very active in the introduction of German music. It was through his +agency that Beethoven's connection with Birchall, the music publisher, +first commenced, to whom a number of his letters are addressed.]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote108"><p>[Footnote 2: Undoubtedly the true reading of these last words, which in the +copy before me are marked as "difficult to decipher."]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let152">152.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">1815.</p> + +<p>Pray forgive my asking Y.R.H. to send me the +two Sonatas with violin <i>obbligato</i><sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote109">[1]</a></sup> which I caused +to be transcribed for Y.R.H. I require them only +for a few days, when I will immediately return +them.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote109"><p>[Footnote 1: If by the two Sonatas for the pianoforte with violoncello <i>obbligato</i>, +Op. 102 is meant, they were composed in July-August, 1815, and +appeared on Jan. 13th, 1819. The date of the letter appears also to be +1815.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let153">153.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">1815.</p> + +<p>I beg you will kindly send me the Sonata in E +minor,<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote110">[1]</a></sup> as I wish to correct it. On Monday I shall +inquire for Y.R.H. in person. <i>Recent occurrences</i><sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote111">[2]</a></sup> +render it indispensable to complete many works of +mine about to be engraved as quickly as possible; +besides, my health is only partially restored. I earnestly +entreat Y.R.H. to desire <i>some one</i> to write +me a few lines as to the state of your own health. +I trust I shall hear a better--nay, the best report +of it.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote110"><p>[Footnote 1: The letters 152 and 153 speak sometimes expressly of the pianoforte +Sonata in E minor, Op. 90, these being engraved or under revision, +and sometimes only indicate them. This Sonata, dedicated to +Count Lichnowsky, was composed on August 14th, 1814, and published +in June, 1815.]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote111"><p>[Footnote 2: What "recent occurrences" Beethoven alludes to, unless indeed +his well-known misfortunes as to his salary and guardianship we cannot +discover.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let154">154.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">1815.</p> + +<p>You must almost think my illness a mere fiction, +but that is assuredly not the case. I am obliged +always to come home early in the evening. The +first time that Y.R.H. was graciously pleased to +send for me, I came home immediately afterwards, +but feeling much better since then, I made an attempt +the evening before last to stay out a little +later. If Y.R.H. does not countermand me, I intend +to have the honor of waiting on you this evening +at five o'clock. I will bring the new Sonata +with me, merely for to-day, for it is so soon to be +engraved that it is not worth while to have it written +out.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let155">155.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">1815.</p> + +<p>I intended to have given you this letter myself, +but my personal attendance might possibly be an +intrusion; so I take the liberty once more to urge +on Y.R.H. the request it contains. I should also +be glad if Y.R.H. would send me back my last +MS. Sonata, for as I <i>must</i> publish it, it would be +labor lost to have it transcribed, and I shall soon +have the pleasure of presenting it to you engraved. +I will call again in a few days. I trust these joyous +times may have a happy influence on your precious +health.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let156">156.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, July 23, 1815.</p> + +<p>When you were recently in town, the enclosed +Chorus<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote112">[1]</a></sup> occurred to me. I hurried home to write +it down, but was detained longer in doing so than +I at first expected, and thus, to my great sorrow, I +missed Y.R.H. The bad custom I have followed +from childhood, instantly to write down my first +thoughts, otherwise they not unfrequently go astray, +has been an injury to me on this occasion. I therefore +send Y.R.H. my impeachment and my justification, +and trust I may find grace in your eyes. +I hope soon to present myself before Y.R.H., +and to inquire after a health so precious to us all.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote112"><p>[Footnote 1: In 1815 the Chorus of <i>Die Meeresstille</i> was composed by Beethoven. +Was this the chorus which occurred to him? The style of the +letter leaves his meaning quite obscure.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let157">157.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">1815.</p> + +<p>It is neither presumption, nor the pretension of +advocating any one's cause, still less from the wish +of arrogating to myself the enjoyment of any especial +favor with Y.R.H., that induces me to make +a suggestion which is in itself very simple. Old +Kraft<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote113">[1]</a></sup> was with me yesterday; he wished to know +if it were possible for him to be lodged in your palace, +in return for which he would be at Y.R.H.'s +service as often as you please it. He has lived for +twenty years in the house of Prince Lobkowitz, and +during a great part of that time he received no salary; +he is now obliged to vacate his rooms without +receiving any compensation whatever. The position +of the poor deserving old man is hard, and I +should have considered myself equally hard, had I +not ventured to lay his case before you. Count +Troyer will request an answer from Y.R.H. As +the object in view is to brighten the lot of a fellow-creature, +pray forgive your, &c., &c.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote113"><p>[Footnote 1: Old Kraft was a clever violoncello-player who had an appointment +in Prince Lobkowitz's band, but when the financial crisis occurred in +the Prince's affairs he lost his situation, and was obliged to give up his +lodging.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let158">158.<br> +WRITTEN IN ENGLISH TO MR. BIRCHALL, MUSIC PUBLISHER, +LONDON.</h3> + +<p>Mr. Beethoven send word to Mr. Birchall that +it is severall days past that he has sent for London +Wellington's Battel Sinphonie and that Mr. +B[irchall] may send for it at Thomas Coutts. Mr. +Beethoven wish Mr. B. would make ingrave the +sayd Sinphonie so soon as possible and send him +word in time the day it will be published that he +may prevend in time the Publisher in Vienna.</p> + +<p>In regard the 3. Sonata which Mr. Birchall receive +afterwerths there is not wanted such a g't +hurry and Mr. B. will take the liberty to fixe the +day when the are to be published.</p> + +<p>Mr. B[irchall] sayd that Mr. Salomon has a +good many tings to say concerning the Synphonie +in G [? A].</p> + +<p>Mr. B[eethoven] wish for a answer so soon as +possible concerning the days of the publication.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let159">159.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="date">October 16, 1815.</p> + +<p>I only wish to let you know that I am <i>here</i>, and +not <i>elsewhere</i>, and wish in return to hear if you are +<i>elsewhere</i> or <i>here</i>. I should be glad to speak to you +for a few minutes when I know that you are at +home and alone. <i>Farewell</i>--but not <i>too well</i>--sublime +Commandant Pacha of various mouldering +fortresses!!!</p> + +<p class="signature">In haste, your friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let160">160.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">Nov. 16, 1815.</p> + +<p>Since yesterday afternoon I have been lying in +a state of exhaustion, owing to my great distress of +mind caused by the sudden death of my unhappy +brother. It was impossible for me to send an answer +to Y.R.H. yesterday, and I trust you will +graciously receive my present explanation. I expect, +however, certainly to wait on Y.R.H. to-morrow.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let161">161.<br> +TO THE MESSRS. BIRCHALL,--LONDON.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, Nov. 22, 1815.</p> + +<p>You will herewith receive the pianoforte arrangement +of the Symphony in A. "Wellington's +Battle Symphony," and "Victory at Vittoria" +were sent a month since, through Herr Neumann, +to the care of Messrs. Coutts; so you have no doubt +received them long ere this.</p> + +<p>In the course of a fortnight you shall have the +Trio and Sonata, when you are requested to pay +into the hands of Messrs. Coutts the sum of 130 +gold ducats. I beg you will make no delay in +bringing out these works, and likewise let me know +on what day the "Wellington Symphony" is to +appear, so that I may take my measures here accordingly. +I am, with esteem,</p> + +<p class="signature">Your obedient<br> +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let162">162.<br> +TO RIES.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, Wednesday, Nov. 22, 1815.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY DEAR RIES,--</p> + +<p>I hasten to apprise you that I have to-day forwarded +by post the pianoforte arrangement of the +Symphony in A, to the care of Messrs Coutts. As +the Court is absent, few, indeed almost no couriers +go from here; moreover, the post is the safest way. +The Symphony ought to be brought out about +March; the precise day I will fix myself. So +much time has already been lost on this occasion +that I could not give an earlier notice of the period +of publication. The Trio in [??] and the violin +Sonata may be allowed more time, and both will be +in London a few weeks hence. I earnestly entreat +you, dear Ries, to take charge of these matters, and +also to see that I get the money; I require it, and +it costs me a good deal before all is sent off.</p> + +<p>I have lost 600 florins of my yearly salary; at +the time of the <i>bank-notes</i> there was no loss, but +then came the <i>Einlösungsscheine</i> [reduced paper-money], +which deprives me of these 600 florins, +after entailing on me several years of annoyance, +and now the total loss of my salary. We are at +present arrived at a point when the <i>Einlösungsscheine</i> +are even lower than the <i>bank-notes</i> ever were. +I pay 1000 florins for house-rent: you may thus +conceive all the misery caused by paper-money.</p> + +<p>My poor unhappy brother [Carl v. Beethoven, a +cashier in Vienna] is just dead [Nov. 15th, 1815]; +he had a bad wife. For some years past he has +been suffering from consumption, and from my wish +to make his life less irksome I may compute what +I gave him at 10,000 florins (<i>Wiener Währung</i>). +This indeed does not seem much to an Englishman, +but it is a great deal for a poor German, or rather +Austrian. The unhappy man was latterly much +changed, and I must say I lament him from my +heart, though I rejoice to think I left nothing undone +that could contribute to his comfort.</p> + +<p>Tell Mr. Birchall that he is to repay the postage +of my letters to you and Mr. Salomon, and also +yours to me; he may deduct this from the sum he +owes me; I am anxious that those who work for +me should lose as little as possible by it. "Wellington's +Victory at Vittoria"<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote114">[1]</a></sup> must have arrived +long ago through the Messrs. Coutts. Mr. Birchall +need not send payment till he is in possession +of all the works; only do not delay letting me know +when the day is fixed for the publication of the +pianoforte arrangement. For to-day, I only further +earnestly recommend my affairs to your care; I +shall be equally at your service at any time. Farewell, +dear Ries.</p> + +<p class="signature">Your friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote114"><p>[Footnote 1: "This is also to be the title of the pianoforte arrangement." (Note +by Beethoven.)]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let163">163.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="date">Jan. 1816.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY GOOD ZMESKALL,--</p> + +<p>I was shocked to discover to-day that I had +omitted replying to a proposal from the "Society +of Friends to Music in the Austrian States" to +write an Oratorio for them.</p> + +<p>The death of my brother two months ago, which, +owing to the guardianship of my nephew having +devolved on me, has involved me in all sorts of annoyances +and perplexities, has caused this delay in +my answer. In the mean time, the poem of Herr +van Seyfried is already begun, and I purpose +shortly to set it to music. I need not tell you how +very flattering I consider such a commission, for +how could I think otherwise? and I shall endeavor +to acquit myself as honorably as my poor talents +will admit of.</p> + +<p><i>With regard to our artistic resources</i>, when the +time for the performance arrives I shall certainly +take into consideration those usually at our disposal, +without, however, strictly limiting myself to them. +I hope I have made myself clearly understood on +this point. As I am urged to say what gratuity I +require in return, I beg to know whether the Society +will consider 400 gold ducats a proper remuneration +for such a work? I once more entreat +the forgiveness of the Society for the delay in my +answer, but I am in some degree relieved by knowing +that, at all events, you, my dear friend, have +already verbally apprised the Society of my readiness +to write a work of the kind.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote115">[1]</a></sup></p> + +<p class="signature">Ever, my worthy Z., your<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote115"><p>[Footnote 1: In the <i>Fischof'sche Handschrift</i> we are told:--"The allusion to +'our artistic resources' requires some explanation. Herr v. Zmeskall +had at that time received instructions to give a hint to the great composer +(who paid little regard to the difficulty of executing his works) +that he must absolutely take into consideration the size of the orchestra, +which at grand concerts amounted to 700 performers. The Society +only stipulated for the exclusive right to the work for one year, and +did not purchase the copyright; they undertook the gratuity for the +poem also, so they were obliged to consult their pecuniary resources, +and informed the composer that they were prepared to give him 200 +gold ducats for the use of the work for a year, as they had proposed. +Beethoven was quite satisfied, and made no objection whatever; he +received an advance on this sum according to his own wish, the receipt +of which he acknowledged in 1819. Beethoven rejected the first poem +selected, and desired to have another. The Society left his choice +quite free. Herr Bernhard undertook to supply a new one. Beethoven +and he consulted together in choosing the subject, but Herr +Bernhard, overburdened by other business, could only send the poem +bit by bit. Beethoven, however, would not begin till the whole was +in his hands."]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let164">164.<br> +TO MDLLE. MILDER-HAUPTMANN.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote116">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, Jan. 6, 1816.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY HIGHLY VALUED MDLLE. MILDER, MY DEAR FRIEND,--</p> + +<p>I have too long delayed writing to you. How +gladly would I personally participate in the enthusiasm +you excite at Berlin in "Fidelio!" A thousand +thanks on my part for having so faithfully adhered +to <i>my</i> "Fidelio." If you will ask Baron de +la Motte-Fouqué, in my name, to discover a good +subject for an opera, and one suitable likewise to +yourself, you will do a real service both to me and +to the German stage; it is also my wish to write it +expressly for the <i>Berlin Theatre</i>, as no new opera +can ever succeed in being properly given here under +this very penurious direction. Answer me +soon, very soon--quickly, very quickly--as +quickly as possible--as quick as lightning--and +say whether such a thing is practicable. Herr +Kapellmeister B. praised you up to the skies to me, +and he is right; well may he esteem himself happy +who has the privilege of enjoying your muse, your +genius, and all your splendid endowments and talents;--it +is thus I feel. Be this as it may, those +around can only call themselves your fellow-creatures +[Nebenmann], whereas I alone have a right +to claim the honored name of captain [<i>Hauptmann</i>].</p> + +<p class="signature">In my secret heart, your true friend and admirer,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<p>My poor unfortunate brother is dead, which has +been the cause of my long silence. As soon as you +have replied to this letter, I will write myself to +Baron de la Motte-Fouqué. No doubt your influence +in Berlin will easily obtain for me a commission +to write a grand opera (in which you shall be especially +studied) on favorable terms; but do answer +me soon, that I may arrange my other occupations +accordingly.</p> + +<p> +<img src="images/hauptmann.png" alt="[picture of music]"> +</p> + +<p>Away with all other false <i>Hauptmänner</i>! [captains.]</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote116"><p>[Footnote 1: Mdlle. Milder married Hauptmann, a jeweller in Munich, in 1810, +travelled in 1812, and was engaged at Berlin in 1816.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let165">165.<br> +TO RIES</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, Jan. 20, 1816.</p> + +<p class="salutation">DEAR RIES,--</p> + +<p>The Symphony is to be dedicated to the Empress +of Russia. The pianoforte score of the Symphony +in A must not, however, appear before June, for +the publisher here cannot be ready sooner. Pray, +dear Ries, inform Mr. Birchall of this at once. +The Sonata with violin accompaniment, which will +be sent from here by the next post, can likewise +be published in London in May, but the Trio at a +later date (it follows by the next post); I will myself +name the time for its publication. And now, +dear Ries, pray receive my heartfelt thanks for +your kindness, and especially for the corrections of +the proofs. May Heaven bless you more and more, +and promote your progress, in which I take the +most sincere interest. My kind regards to your +wife. Now as ever,</p> + +<p class="signature">Your sincere friend,<br> +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let166">166.<br> +TO MR. BIRCHALL,--LONDON.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienne, le 3. Febr. den 1816</p> + +<p class="salutation">VOUS RECEUES CI JOINT--</p> + +<p>Le grand Trio p. Pf. V. et Vllo. Sonata pour +Pf. et Violin--qui form le reste de ce qu'il vous a +plus à me comettre. Je vous prie de vouloir payer +la some de 130 Ducats d'Holland come le poste +lettre a Mr. Th. Cutts et Co. de votre ville e de +me croire avec toute l'estime et consideration</p> + +<p class="signature">Votre tres humble Serviteur,<br> +LOUIS VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let167">167.<br> +TO CZERNY.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote117">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="salutation">MY DEAR CZERNY,--</p> + +<p>Pray give the enclosed to your parents for the +dinners the boy had recently at your house; I positively +will not accept these <i>gratis</i>. Moreover, I +am very far from wishing that your lessons should +remain without remuneration,--even those already +given must be reckoned up and paid for; only I +beg you to have a little patience for a time, as nothing +can be <i>demanded</i> from the widow, and I had +and still have heavy expenses to defray;--but I +<i>borrow</i> from you for the moment only. The boy is +to be with you to-day, and I shall come later.</p> + +<p class="signature">Your friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote117"><p>[Footnote 1: Carl Czerny, the celebrated pianist and composer, for whom Beethoven +wrote a testimonial in 1805 (see No. 42). He gave lessons to +Beethoven's nephew in 1815, and naturally protested against any payment, +which gave rise to the expressions on the subject in many of his +notes to Czerny, of which there appear to be a great number.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let168">168.<br> +TO CZERNY.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote118">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, Feb. 12, 1816.</p> + +<p class="salutation">DEAR CZERNY,--</p> + +<p>I cannot see you to-day, but I will call to-morrow +being desirous to talk to you. I spoke out so +bluntly yesterday that I much regretted it afterwards. +But you must forgive this on the part of +an author, who would have preferred hearing his +work as he wrote it, however charmingly you +played it. I will, however, <i>amply</i> atone for this by +the violoncello Sonata.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote119">[2]</a></sup></p> + +<p>Rest assured that I cherish the greatest regard +for you as an artist, and I shall always endeavor to +prove this.</p> + +<p class="signature">Your true friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote118"><p>[Footnote 1: Czerny, in the <i>A.M. Zeitung</i>, 1845, relates:--"On one occasion +(in 1812), at Schuppanzigh's concert, when playing Beethoven's quintet +with wind-instruments, I took the liberty, in my youthful levity, +to make many alterations,--such as introducing difficulties into +the passages, making use of the upper octaves, &c., &c. Beethoven +sternly and deservedly reproached me for this, in the presence of +Schuppanzigh, Linke, and the other performers."]</p></div> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote119"><p>[Footnote 2: Opera 69, which Czerny (see <i>A.M. Zeitung</i>) was to perform with +Linke the following week.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let169">169.<br> +TO RIES,--LONDON.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, Feb. 28, 1816.</p> + +<p>... For some time past I have been far from +well; the loss of my brother affected both my spirits +and my works. Salomon's death grieves me much, +as he was an excellent man whom I have known +from my childhood. You are his executor by will, +while I am the guardian of my late poor brother's +child. You can scarcely have had as much vexation +from Salomon's death as I have had from that +of my brother!--but I have the sweet consolation +of having rescued a poor innocent child from the +hands of an unworthy mother. Farewell, dear +Ries; if I can in any way serve you, look on me as</p> + +<p class="signature">Your true friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let170">170.<br> +TO GIANNATASIO DEL RIO,--VIENNA.</h3> + +<p class="date">Feb. 1816.</p> + +<p class="salutation">SIR,--</p> + +<p>I have great pleasure in saying that at last I intend +to-morrow to place under your care the dear +pledge intrusted to me. But I must impress on +you not to permit any influence on the mother's +part to decide when and where she is to see her +son. We can, however, discuss all this more minutely +to-morrow.... You must keep a watchful +eye on your servant, for mine was <i>bribed by her</i> +on one occasion. More as to this verbally, though +it is a subject on which I would fain be silent; but +the future welfare of the youth you are to train +renders this unpleasant communication necessary. +I remain, with esteem,</p> + +<p class="signature">Your faithful servant and friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let171">171.<br> +TO G. DEL RIO.</h3> + +<p class="date">1816.</p> + +<p>Your estimable lady, Mdme. A.G. [Giannatasio] +is politely requested to let the undersigned know +as soon as possible (that I may not be obliged to +keep it all in my head) how many pairs of stockings, +trousers, shoes, and drawers are required, and +how many yards of kerseymere to make a pair of +black trousers for my tall nephew; and for the +sake of the "Castalian Spring" I beg, without any +further reminders on my part, that I may receive +an answer to this.</p> + +<p>As for the Lady Abbess [a nickname for their +only daughter], there shall be a conference held +on Carl's affair to-night, viz., if things are to continue +as they are.</p> + +<p class="signature">Your well (and ill) born<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let172">172.<br> +TO G. DEL RIO.</h3> + +<p class="date">1816.</p> + +<p>I heard yesterday evening, unluckily at too late +an hour, that you had something to give me; had +it not been for this, I would have called on you. I +beg, however, that you will send it, as I have no +doubt it is a letter for me from the "Queen of the +Night."<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote120">[1]</a></sup> Although you gave me permission to +fetch Carl twice already, I must ask you to let him +come to me when I send for him at eleven o'clock +to-morrow, as I wish to take him with me to hear +some interesting music. It is also my intention to +make him play to me to-morrow, as it is now some +time since I heard him. I hope you will urge him +to study more closely than usual to-day, that he +may in some degree make up for his holiday. I +embrace you cordially, and remain,</p> + +<p class="signature">Yours truly,<br> +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote120"><p>[Footnote 1: The "Queen of the Night" was the name given to Carl's mother +by Beethoven. She was a person of great levity of conduct and bad +reputation, and every effort was made by Beethoven to withdraw her +son from her influence, on which account he at once removed him from +her care, and placed him in this institution. She consequently appealed +to the law against him,--the first step in a long course of legal proceedings +of the most painful nature.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let173">173.<br> +TO G. DEL RIO.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote121">[1]</a></sup></h3> + +<p class="date">1816.</p> + +<p>I send you, dear sir, the cloak, and also a school-book +of my Carl's, and request you will make out +a list of his clothes and effects, that I may have it +copied for myself, being obliged, as his guardian, to +look carefully after his property. I intend to call +for Carl to-morrow about half-past twelve o'clock, +to take him to a little concert, and wish him to dine +with me afterwards, and shall bring him back myself. +With respect to his mother, I desire that +<i>under the pretext</i> of the boy being <i>so busy</i>, you will +not let her see him; no man on earth can know or +judge of this matter better than myself, and by any +other line of conduct all my well-matured plans for +the welfare of the child might be materially injured. +I will myself discuss with you when the mother is +henceforth to have access to Carl, for I am anxious +on every account to prevent the occurrence of yesterday +ever being repeated. I take all the responsibility +on myself; indeed, so far as I am concerned, +the Court conferred on me full powers, and the +authority at once to counteract anything adverse to +the welfare of the boy. If they could have looked +on her in the light of an estimable mother, they +assuredly would not have excluded her from the +guardianship of her child. Whatever she may +think fit to assert, nothing has been done in a clandestine +manner against her. There was but one +voice in the whole council on the subject. I hope +to have no further trouble in this matter, for the +burden is already heavy enough.</p> + +<p>From a conversation I had yesterday with Adlersburg +[his lawyer], it would appear that a long +time must yet elapse before the Court can decide +what really belongs to the child. In addition to +all these anxieties am I also to endure a persecution +such as I have recently experienced, and from +which I thought I <i>was entirely rescued by your Institution</i>? +Farewell!</p> + +<p class="signature">I am, with esteem, your obedient<br> +L. V. BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote121"><p>[Footnote 1: Beethoven's arbitrary authority had been previously sanctioned +by a decree of the Court, and the mother deprived of all power over +her son.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let174">174.<br> +TO FERDINAND RIES,--LONDON.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, March 8, 1816.</p> + +<p>My answer has been too long delayed; but I +was ill, and had a great press of business. Not a +single farthing is yet come of the ten gold ducats, +and I now almost begin to think that the English +are only liberal when in foreign countries. It is +the same with the Prince Regent, who has not +even sent me the cost of copying my "Battle Symphony," +nor one verbal or written expression of +thanks. My whole income consists of 3400 florins +in paper-money. I pay 1100 for house-rent, and +900 to my servant and his wife; so you may reckon +for yourself what remains. Besides this, the entire +maintenance of my young nephew devolves on +me. At present he is at school, which costs 1100 +florins, and is by no means a good one; so that I +must arrange a proper household and have him +with me. How much money must be made to live +at all here! and yet there seems no end to +it--because!--because!--because!--but you know +well what I mean.</p> + +<p>Some commissions from the Philharmonic would +be very acceptable to me, besides, the concert. +Now let me say that my dear scholar Ries must set +to work and dedicate something valuable to me, to +which his master may respond, and repay him in +his own coin. How can I send you my portrait? +My kind regards to your wife. I, alas! have none. +One alone I wished to possess, but never shall I +call her mine!<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote122">[1]</a></sup> This, however, has not made me +a woman-hater.</p> + +<p class="signature">Your true friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote122"><p>[Footnote 1: See the statement of Fräulein del Rio in the <i>Grenzboten</i>. We +read:--"My father's idea was that marriage alone could remedy the +sad condition of Beethoven's household matters; so he asked him +whether he knew any one, &c., &c. Our long-existing presentiment +was then realized." His love was unfortunate. Five years ago he +had become acquainted with a person with whom he would have +esteemed it the highest felicity of his life to have entered into closer ties; +but it was vain to think of it, being almost an impossibility! a chimera! +and yet his feelings remained the same as the very first day he +had seen her! He added, "that never before had he found such +harmony! but no declaration had ever been made, not being able to +prevail on himself to do so." This conversation took place in Sept. +1816, at Helenenthal, in Baden, and the person to whom he alluded +was undoubtedly Marie L. Pachler-Koschak in Gratz. (See No. 80.)]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let175">175.<br> +TO F. RIES.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, April 3, 1816.</p> + +<p>Neate<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote123">[1]</a></sup> is no doubt in London by this time. +He took several of my works with him, and promised +to do the best he could for me.</p> + +<p>The Archduke Rudolph [Beethoven's pupil, +see No. 70] also plays your works with me, my +dear Ries; of these "Il Sogno" especially pleased +us. Farewell! Remember me to your charming +wife, and to any fair English ladies who care to +receive my greetings.</p> + +<p class="signature">Your true friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote123"><p>[Footnote 1: Charles Neate, a London artist, as Schindler styles him in his +<i>Biography</i> (II. 254), was on several different occasions for some time +resident in Vienna, and very intimate with Beethoven, whom he tried +to persuade to come to London. He also was of great service in promoting +the sale of his works. A number of Neate's letters, preserved +in the Berlin State Library, testify his faithful and active devotion and +attachment to the master.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let176">176.<br> +POWER OF ATTORNEY.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, May 2, 1816.</p> + +<p>I authorize Herr v. Kauka, Doctor of Laws in +the kingdom of Bohemia, relying on his friendship, +to obtain for me the receipt of 600 florins W.W., +payable at the treasury of Prince Kinsky, from the +house of Ballabene in Prague, and after having +drawn the money to transmit the same to me as +soon as possible.</p> + +<p class="signature">Witness my hand and seal.<br> +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let177">177.<br> +TO F. RIES.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, June 11, 1816.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY DEAR RIES,--</p> + +<p>I regret much to put you to the expense of postage +on my account; gladly as I assist and serve +every one, I am always unwilling myself to have +recourse to others. I have as yet seen nothing of +the ten ducats, whence I draw the inference that in +England, just as with us, there are idle talkers who +prove false to their word. I do not at all blame +you in this matter. I have not heard a syllable +from Neate; so I do wish you would ask him +whether he has disposed of the F minor Concerto. +I am almost ashamed to allude to the other works I +intrusted to him, and equally so of myself, for having +given them to him so confidingly, devoid of all +conditions save those suggested by his own friendship +and zeal for my interests.</p> + +<p>A translation has been sent to me of an article +in the "Morning Chronicle" on the performance +of the Symphony. Probably it will be the same as +to this and all the other works Neate took with +him as with the "Battle Symphony;" the only +profit I shall derive will be reading a notice of their +performance in the newspapers.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let178">178.<br> +TO G. DEL RIO.</h3> + +<p class="date">1816.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY WORTHY G.,--</p> + +<p>I beg you will send Carl to me with the bearer +of this letter; otherwise I shall not be able to see +him all day, which would be contrary to his own +interest, as my influence seems to be required; in +the same view, I beg you will give him a few lines +with a report of his conduct, so that I may enter +at once on any point where improvement is necessary.</p> + +<p>I am going to the country to-day, and shall not +return till rather late at night; being always unwilling +to infringe your rules, I beg you will send +some night-things with Carl, so that if we return +too late to bring him to you to-day, I can keep him +all night, and take him back to you myself early +next morning.</p> + +<p class="signature">In haste, always yours,<br> +L. V. BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let179">179.<br> +TO G. DEL RIO.</h3> + +<p class="date">1816.</p> + +<p>I must apologize to you, my good friend, for +Carl having come home at so late an hour. We +were obliged to wait for a person who arrived so +late that it detained us, but I will not soon repeat +this breach of your rules. As to Carl's mother, I +have now decided that your wish not to see her +again in your house shall be acceded to. This +course is far more safe and judicious for our dear +Carl, experience having taught me that every visit +from his mother leaves a root of bitterness in the +boy's heart, which may injure, but never can benefit +him. I shall strive to arrange occasional meetings +at my house, which is likely to result in everything +being entirely broken off with her. As we +thoroughly agree on the subject of Carl's mother, +we can mutually decide on the mode of his education.</p> + +<p class="signature">Your true friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let180">180.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, July 11, 1816.</p> + +<p>Your kindness towards me induces me to hope +that you will not attribute to any <i>selfish</i> design on +my part the somewhat audacious (though only as to +the surprise) dedication annexed. The work<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote124">[1]</a></sup> was +written for Y.R.H., or rather, it owes its existence +to you, and this the world (the musical world) +ought to know. I shall soon have the honor of +waiting on Y.R.H. in Baden. Notwithstanding +all the efforts of my physician, who will not allow +me to leave this, the weakness in my chest is no +better, though my general health is improved. I +hope to hear all that is cheering of your own health, +about which I am always so much interested.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote124"><p>[Footnote 1: Does Beethoven here allude to the dedication of the Sonata for +pianoforte and violin in G major, Op. 96, which, though sold to a publisher +in April, 1815, was designated as quite new in the <i>Allgemeine +Zeitung</i> on July, 29, 1816?]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let181">181.<br> +WRITTEN IN ENGLISH TO MR. BIRCHALL.</h3> + +<p class="date">1816.</p> + +<p>Received, March, 1816, of Mr. Robert Birchall, +music-seller, 133 New Bond Street, London, the +sum of one hundred and thirty gold Dutch ducats, +value in English currency sixty-five pounds, for all +my copyright and interest, present and future, +vested or contingent, or otherwise within the United +kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland in the four +following compositions or pieces of music composed +or arranged by me, viz.:--</p> + +<p>1st. A Grand Battle Sinfonia, descriptive of the +battle and victory at Vittoria, adapted for the +pianoforte and dedicated to his Royal Highness the +Prince Regent--40 ducats.</p> + +<p>2d. A Grand Symphony in the key of A, adapted +to the pianoforte and dedicated to--</p> + +<p>3d. A Grand Trio for the pianoforte, violin, and +violoncello in the key of B.</p> + +<p>4th. A Sonata for the pianoforte, with an accompaniment +for the violin in the key of G, dedicated +to--</p> + +<p>And, in consideration of such payment I hereby, +for myself, my executors, and administrators, promise +and engage to execute a proper anignment thereof +to him, his executors and administrators or anignees, +at his or their request and costs, as he or they shall +direct. And I likewise promise and engage as +above, that none of the above shall be published +in any foreign country, before the time and day +fixed and agreed on for such publication between +R. Birchall and myself shall arrive.</p> + +<p class="signature">L. VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let182">182.<br> +WRITTEN IN FRENCH TO MR. BIRCHALL,--LONDON.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienne 22. Juilliet, 1816.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MONSIEUR,--</p> + +<p>J'ai reçu la déclaration de proprieté de mes +Oeuvres entierement cedé a Vous pour y adjoindre +ma Signature. Je suis tout a fait disposer a seconder +vos voeux si tôt, que cette affaire sera entierement +en ordre, en egard de la petite somme de 10 # +d'or la quelle me vient encore pour le fieux de la +Copieture de poste de lettre etc. comme j'avois +l'honneur de vous expliquier dans une note detaillé +sur ses objectes. Je vous invite donc Monsieur de +bien vouloir me remettre ces petits objects, pour +me mettre dans l'état de pouvoir vous envoyer le +Document susdit. Agrées Monsieur l'assurance +de l'estime la plus parfait avec la quelle j'ai l'honneur +de me dire</p> + +<p class="signature">LOUIS VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<pre> +Copying . . . . 1. 10. 0. +Postage to Amsterdam 1. 0. 0. + ---- Trio . . . 2. 10. -- + ----------- + £5. 0. 0. +</pre> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let183">183.<br> +TO G. DEL RIO.</h3> + +<p class="date">July 28, 1816.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY GOOD FRIEND,--</p> + +<p>Various circumstances compel me to take charge +of Carl myself; with this view permit me to enclose +you the amount due at the approaching quarter, +at the expiry of which Carl is to leave you. +Do not, I beg, ascribe this to anything derogatory +either to yourself or to your respected institution, +but to other pressing motives connected with Carl's +welfare. It is only an experiment, and when it is +actually carried out I shall beg you to fortify me +by your advice, and also to permit Carl sometimes +to visit your institution. I shall always feel the +most sincere gratitude to you, and never can forget +your solicitude, and the kind care of your excellent +wife, which has fully equalled that of the best +of mothers. I would send you at least four times +the sum I now do, if my position admitted of it; +but at all events I shall avail myself at a future and, +I hope, a brighter day, of every opportunity to acknowledge +and to do justice to the foundation <i>you</i> +have laid for the moral and physical good of my +Carl. With regard to the "Queen of the Night," +our system must continue the same; and as Carl is +about to undergo an operation in your house which +will cause him to feel indisposed, and consequently +make him irritable and susceptible, you must be +more careful than ever to prevent her having access +to him; otherwise she might easily contrive to +revive all those impressions in his mind which we +are so anxious to avoid. What confidence can be +placed in any promise to reform on her part, the impertinent +scrawl I enclose will best prove [in reference, +no doubt, to an enclosed note]. I send it +merely to show you how fully I am justified in the +precautions I have already adopted with regard to +her. On this occasion, however, I did not answer +like a Sarastro, but like a Sultan. I would gladly +spare you the anxiety of the operation on Carl, +but as it must take place in your house, I beg you +will inform me of the outlay caused by the affair, +and the expenses consequent on it, which I will +thankfully repay. Now farewell! Say all that is +kind from me to your dear children and your excellent +wife, to whose continued care I commend +my Carl. I leave Vienna to-morrow at five o'clock +A.M., but shall frequently come in from Baden.</p> + +<p class="signature">Ever, with sincere esteem, your<br> +L. V. BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let184">184.<br> +TO G. DEL RIO.</h3> + +<p>Mdme. A.G. is requested to order several pairs +of good linen drawers for Carl. I intrust Carl to +her kindness, and entirely rely on her motherly +care.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let185">185.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="date">Baden, September 5, 1816.</p> + +<p class="salutation">DEAR Z.,--</p> + +<p>I don't know whether you received a note that I +recently left on the threshold of your door, for the +time was too short to enable me to see you. I +must therefore repeat my request about another +servant, as the conduct of my present one is such +that I cannot possibly keep him.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote125">[1]</a></sup> He was engaged +on the 25th of April, so on the 25th of September +he will have been five months with me, and he received +50 florins on account. The money for his +boots will be reckoned from the third month (in +my service), and from that time at the rate of 40 +florins per annum; his livery also from the third +month. From the very first I resolved not to keep +him, but delayed discharging him, as I wished to +get back the value of my florins. In the mean time +if I can procure another, I will let this one leave +my service on the 15th of the month, and also give +him 20 florins for boot money, and 5 florins a +month for livery (both reckoned from the third +month), making altogether 35 florins. I ought +therefore still to receive 15 florins, but these I am +willing to give up; in this way I shall at all events +receive some equivalent for my 50 florins. If you +can find a suitable person, I will give him 2 florins +a day while I am in Baden, and if he knows how +to cook he can use my firewood in the kitchen. (I +have a kitchen, though I do not cook in it.) If +not, I will add a few kreutzers to his wages. As +soon as I am settled in Vienna, he shall have 40 +florins a month, and board and livery as usual, +reckoned from the third month in my service, like +other servants. It would be a good thing if he +understood a little tailoring. So now you have my +proposals, and I beg for an answer by the 10th of +this month at the latest, that I may discharge my +present servant on the 2d, with the usual fortnight's +warning; otherwise I shall be obliged to +keep him for another month, and every moment I +wish to get rid of him. As for the new one, you +know pretty well what I require,--<i>good, steady +conduct</i>, a <i>good character</i>, and <i>not to be of a bloodthirsty +nature</i>, that I may feel my life to be safe, as, +for the sake of various scamps in this world, I +should like to live a little longer. By the 10th, +therefore, I shall expect to hear from you on this +affair. If you don't run restive, I will soon send +you my treatise on the four violoncello strings, very +profoundly handled; the first chapter devoted exclusively +to entrails in general, the second to catgut +in particular. I need scarcely give you any further +warnings, as you seem to be quite on your guard +against wounds inflicted before certain fortresses. +The most <i>profound peace</i> everywhere prevails!!! +Farewell, my good <i>Zmeskällchen</i>! I am, as ever, +<i>un povero musico</i> and your friend,</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<p>N.B. I shall probably only require my new +servant for some months, as, for the sake of my +Carl, I must shortly engage a housekeeper.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote125"><p>[Footnote 1: During a quarrel, the servant scratched Beethoven's face.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let186">186.<br> +TO HERR KAUKA.</h3> + +<p class="date">Baden, Sept. 6, 1816.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY WORTHY K.,--</p> + +<p>I send you herewith the receipt, according to +your request, and beg that you will kindly arrange +that I should have the money by the 1st October, +and without any deduction, which has hitherto been +the case; I also particularly beg <i>you will not assign +the money to Baron P</i>. (I will tell you why when +we meet; for the present let this remain between +ourselves.) Send it either direct to myself, or, if +it must come through another person, do not let it +be Baron P. It would be best for the future, as +the house-rent is paid here for the great house belonging +to Kinsky, that my money should be paid +at the same time. This is only my own idea. +The Terzet you heard of will soon be engraved, +which is infinitely preferable to all written music; +you shall therefore receive an engraved copy, and +likewise some more of my unruly offspring. In the +mean time I beg that you will see only what is +truly good in them, and look with an indulgent eye +on the human frailties of these poor innocents. +Besides, I am full of cares, being in reality father +to my late brother's child; indeed I might have +ushered into the world a second part of the "Flauto +Magico," having also been brought into contact with +a "Queen of the Night." I embrace you from my +heart, and hope soon in so far to succeed that you +may owe some thanks to my Muse. My dear, +worthy Kauka, I ever am your truly attached +friend,</p> + +<p class="signature">BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let187">187.<br> +QUERY?</h3> + +<p>What would be the result were I to leave this, +and indeed the kingdom of Austria altogether? +Would the life-certificate, if signed by the authorities +of a non-Austrian place, still be valid?</p> + +<p><i>A tergo.</i></p> + +<p>I beg you will let me know the postage all my +letters have cost you.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let188">188.<br> +TO G. DEL RIO.</h3> + +<p class="date">Sunday, September 22, 1816.</p> + +<p>Certain things can never be fully expressed. Of +this nature are my feelings, and especially my +gratitude, on hearing the details of the operation on +Carl from you. You will excuse my attempting +even remotely to shape these into words. I feel +certain, however, that you will not decline the +tribute I gladly pay you; but I say no more. +You can easily imagine my anxiety to hear how +my dear son is going on; do not omit to give me +your exact address, that I may write to you direct. +After you left this I wrote to Bernhard [Bernard], +to make inquiries at your house, but have not yet +got an answer; so possibly you may have thought +me a kind of half-reckless barbarian, as no doubt +Herr B. has neglected to call on you, as well as to +write to me. I can have no uneasiness about Carl +when your admirable wife is with him: that is quite +out of the question. You can well understand how +much it grieves me not to be able to take part in +the sufferings of my Carl, and that I at least wish +to hear frequently of his progress. As I have renounced +such an unfeeling, unsympathizing friend +as Herr B. [Bernard], I must have recourse to +your friendship and complaisance on this point also, +and shall hope soon to receive a few lines from you. +I beg to send my best regards and a thousand +thanks to your admirable wife.</p> + +<p class="signature">In haste, your<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<p>I wish you to express to Smetana [the surgeon] +my esteem and high consideration.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let189">189.<br> +TO G. DEL RIO.</h3> + +<p>If you do not object, I beg you will allow Carl to +come to me with the bearer of this. I forgot, in +my haste, to say that all the love and goodness +which Mdme. A.G. [Giannatasio] showed my +Carl during his illness are inscribed in the list of +my obligations, and I hope one day to show that +they are ever present in my mind. Perhaps I may +see you to-day with Carl.</p> + +<p class="signature">In haste, your sincere friend,<br> +L. V. BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let190">190.<br> +TO WEGELER.</h3> + +<p>I take the opportunity through J. Simrock to +remind you of myself. I hope you received the +engraving of me [by Letronne], and likewise the +Bohemian glass. When I next make a pilgrimage +through Bohemia you shall have something more +of the same kind. Farewell! You are a husband +and a father; so am I, but without a wife. +My love to your dear ones--to <i>our</i> dear ones.</p> + +<p class="signature">Your friend,<br> +L. V. BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let191">191.<br> +WRITTEN IN ENGLISH TO MR. BIRCHALL, MUSIC SELLER, LONDON.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna, 1. Oct. 1816.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY DEAR SIR,--</p> + +<p>I have duly received the £5 and thought previously +you would non increase the number of +Englishmen neglecting their word and honor, as I +had the misfortune of meeting with two of this sort. +In replic to the other topics of your favor, I have no +objection to write variations according to your plan, +and I hope you will not find £30 too much, the +Accompaniment will be a Flute or Violin or a Violoncello; +you'll either decide it when you send me +the approbation of the price, or you'll leave it to +me. I expect to receive the songs or poetry--the +sooner the better, and you'll favor me also +with the probable number of Works of Variations +you are inclined to receive of me. The Sonata in +G with the accompan't of a Violin to his Imperial +Highnesse Archduke Rodolph of Austria--it is +Op'a 96. The Trio in Bb is dedicated to the same +and is Op. 97. The Piano arrangement of the +Symphony in A is dedicated to the Empress of the +Russians--meaning the Wife of the Emp'r Alexander--Op. +98.</p> + +<p>Concerning the expences of copying and packing +it is not possible to fix him before hand, they are at +any rate not considerable, and you'll please to consider +that you have to deal with a man of honor, +who will not charge one 6p. more than he is charged +for himself. Messrs. Fries & Co. will account with +Messrs. Coutts & Co.--The postage may be lessened +as I have been told. I offer you of my +Works the following new ones. A Grand Sonata +for the Pianoforte alone £40. A Trio for the +Piano with accomp't of Violin and Violoncello for +£50. It is possible that somebody will offer you +other works of mine to purchase, for ex. the score +of the Grand Symphony in A.--With regard to +the arrangement of this Symphony for the Piano I +beg you not to forget that you are not to publish it +until I have appointed the day of its publication +here in Vienna. This cannot be otherwise without +making myself guilty of a dishonorable act--but +the Sonata with the Violin and the Trio in B fl. +may be published without any delay.</p> + +<p>With all the <i>new works</i>, which you will have +of me or which I offer you, it rests with you to +name the day of their publication at your own +choice: I entreat you to honor me as soon as possible +with an answer having many ordres for compositions +and that you may not be delayed. My address +or direction is</p> + +<p>Monsieur Louis van Beethoven<br> +No. 1055 & 1056 Sailerstette 3d. Stock. Vienna.</p> + +<p>You may send your letter, if you please, direct +to your most humble servant</p> + +<p class="signature">LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let192">192.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="date">Oct. 24, 1816.</p> + +<p class="salutation">WELL BORN, AND YET EVIL BORN! (AS WE ALL ARE!)</p> + +<p>We are in Baden to-day, and intend to bring the +celebrated naturalist Ribini a collection of dead +leaves. To-morrow we purpose paying you not +only a <i>visit</i> but a <i>visitation</i>.</p> + +<p class="signature">Your devoted<br> +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let193">193.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">November, 1816.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote126">[1]</a></sup></p> + +<p>I have been again much worse, so that I can only +venture to go out a little in the daytime; I am, +however, getting better, and hope now to have the +honor of waiting on Y.R.H. three times a week. +Meanwhile, I have many and great cares in these +terrible times (which surpass anything we have +ever experienced), and which are further augmented +by having become the father since last November +of a poor orphan. All this tends to retard my entire +restoration to health. I wish Y.R.H. all +imaginable good and happiness, and beg you will +graciously receive and not misinterpret</p> + +<p class="signature">Your, &c., &c.<br> +[K.]</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote126"><p>[Footnote 1: A year after Carl von Beethoven's death (Nov. 15, 1815).]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let194">194.<br> +TO FREIHERR VON SCHWEIGER.</h3> + +<p class="salutation">BEST!<br> +MOST AMIABLE!<br> +FIRST AND FOREMOST TURNER MEISTER OF EUROPE!</p> + +<p>The bearer of this is a poor devil! (like many +another!!!) You could assist him by asking your +gracious master whether he is disposed to purchase +one of his small but neat pianos. I also beg you +will recommend him to any of the Chamberlains +or Adjutants of the Archduke Carl, to see whether +it is possible that H.R.H. would buy one of these +instruments for his Duchess. We therefore request +an introduction from the illustrious <i>Turner Meister</i> +for this poor devil<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote127">[1]</a></sup> to the Chamberlains and Adjutants +of the household.</p> + +<p class="signature">Likewise<br> +1<br> +poor devil,<br> +[K.] L. V. BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote127"><p>[Footnote 1: A name cannot now be found for the "poor devil."]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let195">195.<br> +TO G. DEL RIO.</h3> + +<p class="date">Nov. 16, 1816.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY DEAR FRIEND,--</p> + +<p>My household seems about to make shipwreck, +or something very like it. You know that I was +duped into taking this house on false pretexts; besides, +my health does not seem likely to improve in +a hurry. To engage a tutor under such circumstances, +whose character and whose very exterior +even are unknown to me, and thus to intrust my +Carl's education to hap-hazard, is quite out of the +question, no matter how great the sacrifices which +I shall be again called on to make. I beg you, +therefore, to keep Carl for the ensuing quarter, +commencing on the 9th. I will in so far comply +with your proposal as to the cultivation of the +science of music, that Carl may come to me two or +three times a week, leaving you at six o'clock in +the evening and staying with me till the following +morning, when he can return to you by eight +o'clock. It would be too fatiguing for Carl to come +every day, and indeed too great an effort and tie +for me likewise, as the lessons must be given at the +same fixed hour.</p> + +<p>During this quarter we can discuss more minutely +the most suitable plan for Carl, taking into consideration +both his interests and my own. I must, +alas! mention my own also in these times, which +are daily getting worse. If your garden residence +had agreed with my health, everything might have +been easily adjusted. With regard to my debt to +you for the present quarter, I beg you will be so +obliging as to call on me, that I may discharge it; +the bearer of this has the good fortune to be endowed +by Providence with a vast amount of stupidity, +which I by no means grudge him the benefit +of, provided others do not suffer by it. As to the +remaining expenses incurred for Carl, either during +his illness or connected with it, I must, for a few +days only, request your indulgence, having great +calls on me at present from all quarters. I wish +also to know what fee I ought to give Smetana for +the successful operation he performed; were I rich, +or not in the same sad position in which all are +who have linked their fate to this country (always +excepting <i>Austrian usurers</i>), I would make no +inquiries on the subject; and I only wish you to +give me a rough estimate of the proper fee. Farewell! +I cordially embrace you, and shall always +look on you as a friend of mine and of Carl's.</p> + +<p class="signature">I am, with esteem, your<br> +L. V. BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let196">196.<br> +TO G. DEL RIO.</h3> + +<p>Though I would gladly spare you all needless +disagreeable trouble, I cannot, unluckily, do so on +this occasion. Yesterday, in searching for some +papers, I found this pile, which has been sent to +me respecting Carl. I do not quite understand +them, and you would oblige me much by employing +some one to make out a regular statement of +all your outlay for Carl, so that I may send for it +to-morrow. I hope you did not misunderstand me +when I yesterday alluded to <i>magnanimity</i>, which +certainly was not meant for you, but solely for the +"Queen of the Night," who is never weary of +hoisting the sails of her vindictiveness against me; +so on this account I require vouchers, more for the +satisfaction of others than for her sake (as I never +will submit to render her any account of my actions). +No stamp is required, and the sum alone +for each quarter need be specified, for I believe +most of the accounts are forthcoming; so all you +have to do is to append them to your <i>prospectus</i> +[the conclusion illegible].</p> + +<p class="signature">L. V. BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let197">197.<br> +TO G. DEL RIO.</h3> + +<p class="date">Nov. 14, 1816.</p> + +<p class="salutation">MY GOOD FRIEND,--</p> + +<p>I beg you will allow Carl to come to me to-morrow, +as it is the anniversary of his father's death +[Nov. 15th], and we wish to visit his grave together. +I shall probably come to fetch him between +twelve and one o'clock. I wish to know +the effect of my treatment of Carl, after your recent +complaints. In the mean time, it touched me +exceedingly to find him so susceptible as to his +honor. Before we left your house I gave him +some hints on his want of industry, and while +walking together in a graver mood than usual, he +pressed my hand vehemently, but met with no response +from me. At dinner he scarcely eat anything, +and said that he felt very melancholy, the +cause of which I could not extract from him. At +last, in the course of our walk, he owned that <i>he +was vexed because he had not been so industrious +as usual</i>. I said what I ought on the subject, but +in a kinder manner than before. This, however, +proves a certain delicacy of feeling, and such <i>traits</i> +lead me to augur all that is good. If I cannot +come to you to-morrow, I hope you will let me +know by a few lines the result of my conference +with Carl.</p> + +<p>I once more beg you to let me have the account +due for the last quarter. I thought that you had +misunderstood my letter, or even worse than that. +I warmly commend my poor orphan to your good +heart, and, with kind regards to all, I remain</p> + +<p class="signature">Your friend,<br> +L. V. BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let198">198.<br> +TO G. DEL RIO.</h3> + +<p class="salutation">MY GOOD FRIEND,--</p> + +<p>Pray forgive me for having allowed the enclosed +sum to be ready for you during the last twelve days +or more, and not having sent it. I have been very +much occupied, and am only beginning to recover, +though indeed the word <i>recovery</i> has not yet been +pronounced.</p> + +<p class="signature">In haste, with much esteem, ever yours,<br> +L. V. BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let199">199.<br> +TO HERR TSCHISCHKA.</h3> + +<p class="salutation">SIR,--</p> + +<p>It is certainly of some moment to me <i>not to appear +in a false light</i>, which must account for the accompanying +statement being so prolix. As to the +future system of education, I can at all events congratulate +myself on having done all that I could +possibly effect at present <i>for the best</i>, and trust <i>that +the future may be in accordance with it</i>. But if the +welfare of my nephew demands a <i>change</i>, I shall be +the first not only to propose such a step, but <i>to +carry it out</i>. I am no self-interested guardian, but I +wish to establish a new monument to my name +through my nephew. I <i>have no need of my nephew</i>, +but he has need of me. Idle talk and calumnies are +beneath the dignity of a man with proper self-respect, +and what can be said when these extend even +to the subject of linen!!! This might cause me +great annoyance, <i>but a just man ought to be able to +bear injustice</i> without in the <i>most remote degree</i> deviating +from the path of <i>right</i>. In this conviction I +will stand fast, and nothing shall make me flinch. +To deprive me of my nephew would indeed entail a +heavy responsibility. As a matter of <i>policy</i> as well +as of morality, such a step would be productive of +evil results to my nephew. <i>I urgently recommend +his interests to you.</i> As for me, <i>my actions</i> for <i>his</i> +benefit (not for my <i>own</i>) must speak for me.</p> + +<p class="signature">I remain, with esteem,<br> +Your obedient<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<p>Being very busy, and rather indisposed, I must +claim your indulgence for the writing of the memorial.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let200">200.<br> +WRITTEN IN ENGLISH TO MR. BIRCHALL,--LONDON.</h3> + +<p class="date">Vienna 14. December 1816--1055 Sailerstette.</p> + +<p class="salutation">DEAR SIR,--</p> + +<p>I give you my word of honor that I have signed +and delivered the receipt to the home Fries and Co. +some day last August, who as they say have transmitted +it to Messrs. Coutts and Co. where you'll +have the goodness to apply. Some error might +have taken place that instead of Messrs. C. sending +it to you they have been directed to keep it till +fetched. Excuse this irregularity, but it is not my +fault, nor had I ever the idea of withholding it from +the circumstance of the £5 not being included. +Should the receipt not come forth as Messrs. C., I +am ready to sign any other, and you shall have it +directly with return of post.</p> + +<p>If you find Variations--in my style--too dear +at £30, I will abate for the sake of your friendship +one third--and you have the offer of such Variations +as fixed in our former lettres for £20 each +Air.</p> + +<p>Please to publish the Symphony in A immediately--as +well as the Sonata--and the Trio--they +being ready here. The Grand Opera Fidelio +is my work. The arrangement for the Pianoforte +has been published here under my care, but the +score of the Opera itself is not yet published. I +have given a copy of the score to Mr. Neate under +the seal of friendship and whom I shall direct to +treat for my account in case an offer should present.</p> + +<p>I anxiously hope your health is improving, give +me leave to subscrive myself</p> + +<p class="signature">Dear Sir<br> +Your very obedient Serv.<br> +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let201">201.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="date">Dec. 16, 1816.</p> + +<p>With this, dear Zmeskall, you will receive my +friendly dedication [a stringed quartet, Op. 95], +which may, I hope, serve as a pleasant memorial +of our long-enduring friendship here; pray accept +it as a proof of my esteem, and not merely as the +extreme end of a thread long since spun out (for +you are one of my earliest friends in Vienna).</p> + +<p>Farewell! Beware of mouldering fortresses! for +an attack on them will be more trying than on +those in a better state of preservation! As ever,</p> + +<p class="signature">Your friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<p>N.B. When you have a moment's leisure, let +me know the probable cost of a livery, without +linen, but including hat and boots. Strange +changes have come to pass in my house. The man +is off to the devil, I am thankful to say, whereas his +wife seems the more resolved to take root here.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let202">202.<br> +TO FRAU VON STREICHER--NÉE STEIN.</h3> + +<p class="date">Dec. 28, 1816.</p> + +<p>N---- ought to have given you the New Year's +tickets yesterday, but it seems she did not do so. +The day before I was occupied with Maelzel, whose +business was pressing, as he leaves this so soon; +otherwise you may be sure that I would have hurried +up again to see you. Your dear kind daughter +was with me yesterday, but I scarcely ever remember +being so ill; my <i>precious servants</i> were occupied +from seven o'clock till ten at night in trying to heat +the stove. The bitter cold, particularly in my room, +caused me a chill, and the whole of yesterday I +could scarcely move a limb. All day I was coughing, +and had the most severe headache I ever had +in my life; so by six o'clock in the evening I was +obliged to go to bed, where I still am, though feeling +somewhat better. Your brother dined with me +yesterday, and has shown me great kindness. You +are aware that on the same day, the 27th of December, +I discharged B. [Baberl]. I cannot endure +either of these vile creatures; I wonder if Nany +will behave rather better from the departure of her +colleague? I doubt it--but in that case I shall +send her <i>packing</i> without any ceremony. She is +too uneducated for a housekeeper, indeed quite a +<i>beast</i>; but the other, in spite of her pretty face, is +even <i>lower than the beasts</i>. As the New Year +draws near, I think five florins will be enough for +Nany; I have not paid her the charge for <i>making +her spencer</i>, on account of her <i>bad behavior to you</i>. +The other certainly <i>deserves no New Year's gift</i>; +besides, she has nine florins of mine on hand, and +when she leaves I don't expect to receive more +than four or five florins of that sum. I wish to +have <i>your opinion about all this</i>. Pray accept my +best wishes for your welfare, which are offered in +all sincerity. I am your debtor in so many ways, +that I really often feel quite ashamed. Farewell; +I trust I may always retain your friendship.</p> + +<p class="signature">Now, as ever, your friend,<br> +L. V. BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let203">203.<br> +TO FRAU VON STREICHER.</h3> + +<p>I thank you for the interest you take in me. I +am rather better, though to-day again I have been +obliged to endure a great deal from Nany; but I +shied half a dozen books at her head by way of a +New Year's gift. We have stripped off the leaves +(by sending off Baberl) and lopped off the branches, +but we must extirpate the <i>roots</i>, till nothing is left +but the actual soil.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let204">204.<br> +TO FRAU VON STREICHER.</h3> + +<p>Nany is not strictly <i>honest</i>, and an odiously stupid +<i>animal</i> into the bargain. Such people must be +managed not by <i>love</i> but by <i>fear</i>. I now see this +clearly. Her account-book alone cannot show you +everything clearly; you must often drop in unexpectedly +at dinner-time, like an avenging angel, to +see with your own eyes <i>what</i> we actually have. I +never dine at home now, <i>unless</i> I have some friend +as my guest, for I have no wish to pay as much for +one person as would serve for four. I shall <i>now +soon</i> have my dear son Carl with me, so economy +is more necessary than ever. I cannot prevail on +myself to go to you; I know you will forgive this. +I am very sensitive, and not used to such things, so +the less ought I to expose myself to them. In addition +to twelve kreutzers for bread, Nany has a roll +of white bread every morning. Is this usual?--and +it is the same with the cook. A daily roll for +breakfast comes to eighteen florins a year. <i>Farewell</i>, +and <i>work well</i> for me. Mdlle. Nany is wonderfully +changed for the better since I sent the +half-dozen books at her head. Probably they +chanced to come in collision with her <i>dull brain</i> or +her <i>bad heart</i>; at all events, she now plays the +part of a penitent swindler!!!</p> + +<p class="signature">In haste, yours,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let205">205.<br> +TO FRAU VON STREICHER.</h3> + +<p>Nany yesterday took me to task in the vulgar +manner usual with people of her <i>low class</i>, about +my complaining to you; so she evidently knew that +I had written to you on the subject. All the devilry +began again yesterday morning, but I made +short work of it by throwing the heavy arm-chair +beside my bed at B.'s head, which procured me +peace for the rest of the day. They always take +their revenge on me when I write to you, or when +they discover any communication between us.</p> + +<p>I do thank Heaven that I everywhere find men +who interest themselves in me; one of the <i>most +distinguished Professors</i> in this University has in +the kindest manner undertaken <i>all that concerns +Carl's education</i>. If you happen to meet any of +the Giannatasios at Czerny's, you had better <i>know +nothing of what is going on about Carl</i>, and say that +it is <i>contrary</i> to my <i>usual habit to disclose my plans, +as when a project is told to others it is no longer exclusively +your own</i>. They would like to interfere +in the matter, and I do not choose that these <i>commonplace +people should do so, both for</i> my <i>own sake +and Carl's</i>. Over their portico is inscribed, in +golden letters, "Educational Institution," whereas +"<i>Non</i>-Educational Institution" would be more appropriate.</p> + +<p>As for the servants, there is only <i>one voice</i> about +their immorality, to which <i>all</i> the other annoyances +here may be ascribed.</p> + +<p>Pray receive my benediction in place of that of +the Klosterneuburgers.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote128">[1]</a></sup></p> + +<p class="signature">In haste, your friend,<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote128"><p>[Footnote 1: Frau von Streicher was at that time in Klosterneuburg.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let206">206.<br> +TO FRAU VON STREICHER.</h3> + +<p>Judgment was executed to-day on the notorious +criminal! She bore it nearly in the same spirit as +Caesar did Brutus's dagger, except that in the former +case truth formed the basis, while in hers only +wicked malice. The kitchen-maid seems more +handy than the former <i>ill-conducted beauty</i>; she no +longer shows herself,--a sign that she does not expect +a <i>good character</i> from me, though I really had +some thoughts of giving her one. The kitchen-maid +at first made rather a wry face about carrying +wood, &c.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let207">207.<br> +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.</h3> + +<p class="date">Last day of December, 1816.</p> + +<p>I have been again obliged to keep my room ever +since the Burgher concert,<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote129">[1]</a></sup> and some time must +no doubt elapse before I shall be able to dismiss all +precautions as to my health. The year is about to +close; and with this new year my warmest wishes +are renewed for the welfare of Y.R.H.; but +indeed these have neither beginning nor end with +me, for every day I cherish the same aspirations +for Y.R.H. If I may venture to add a wish for +myself to the foregoing, it is, that I may daily thrive +and prosper more in Y.R.H.'s good graces. The +master will always strive not to be unworthy of the +favor of his illustrious master and pupil.</p> + +<p class="signature">[K.]</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote129"><p>[Footnote 1: Beethoven directed his A major Symphony in the Burgher concert +in the Royal Redoutensaal on the 25th December, 1816.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let208">208.<br> +TO G. DEL RIO.</h3> + +<p>... As to his mother, she urgently requested to +see Carl in my house. You have sometimes seen +me tempted to place more confidence in her, and +my feelings would lead me to guard against harshness +towards her, especially as it is not in her power +to injure Carl. But you may well imagine that to +one usually so independent of others, the annoyances +to which I am exposed through Carl are often +utterly insupportable, and above all with regard to +his mother; I am only too glad to hear nothing of +her, which is the cause of my avoiding her name. +With respect to Carl, I beg you will enforce the +strictest discipline on him, and if he refuses to obey +your orders or to do his duty, I trust you will at +once <i>punish</i> him. Treat him as if he were your +own child rather than a <i>mere pupil</i>, for I already +told you that during his father's lifetime he only +submitted to the discipline of blows, which was a +bad system; still, such was the fact, and we must +not forget it.</p> + +<p>If you do not see much of me, pray ascribe it +solely to the little inclination I have for society, +which is sometimes more developed and sometimes +less; and this you might attribute to a change in +my feelings, but it is not so. What is good alone +lives in my memory, and not what is painful. Pray +impute therefore solely to these hard times my not +more practically showing my gratitude to you on +account of Carl. God, however, directs all things; +so my position may undergo a favorable change, +when I shall hasten to show you how truly I am, +with sincere esteem, your grateful friend,</p> + +<p class="signature">L. V. BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<p>I beg you will read this letter to Carl.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let209">209.<br> +TO G. DEL RIO.</h3> + +<p>Carl must be at H.B.'s to-day before four +o'clock; I must request you therefore to ask his +professor to dismiss him at half-past three o'clock; +if this cannot be managed he must not go into +school at all. In the latter case, I will come myself +and fetch him; in the former, I will meet him in the +passage of the University. To avoid all confusion, +I beg for an explicit answer as to what you settle. +As you have been loudly accused of showing great +party feeling, I will take Carl myself. If you do +not see me, attribute it to my distress of mind, for +I am now only beginning to feel the full force of +this terrible incident.<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote130">[1]</a></sup></p> + +<p class="signature">In haste, your<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote130"><p>[Footnote 1: Probably the reversal of the first decree in the lawsuit with Carl's +mother, who in order to procure a verdict more favorable to her claims, +pointed out to the Austrian "Landrecht," where the lawsuit had been +hitherto carried on, an error in their proceedings, the "Van," prefixed +to Beethoven's name, having been considered by them a sign of nobility. +Beethoven was cited to appear, and on the appointed day, pointing +to his head and his heart, he said, "My nobility is here, and +here." The proceedings were then transferred to the "magistrate," +who was in universal bad odor from his mode of conducting his business.]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let210">210.<br> +TO G. DEL RIO.</h3> + +<p>The assertions of this wicked woman have made +such a painful impression on me, that I cannot possibly +answer every point to-day; to-morrow you +shall have a detailed account of it all; but on no +pretext whatever allow her to have access to Carl, +and adhere to your rule that she is only to see him +once a month. As she has been once this month +already, she cannot come again till the next.</p> + +<p class="signature">In haste, your<br> +BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let211">211.<br> +TO HOFRATH VON MOSEL.</h3> + +<p class="date">1817.</p> + +<p class="salutation">SIR,--</p> + +<p>I sincerely rejoice that we take the same view as +to the terms in use to denote the proper time in +music which have descended to us from barbarous +times. For example, what can be more irrational +than the general term <i>allegro</i>, which only means +<i>lively</i>; and how far we often are from comprehending +the real time, so that the piece itself <i>contradicts +the designation</i>. As for the four chief movements,--which +are, indeed, far from possessing the truth +or accuracy of the four cardinal points,--we readily +agree <i>to dispense with them</i>, but it is quite another +matter as to the words that indicate the character +of the music; these we cannot consent to do away +with, for while the time is, as it were, part and +parcel of the piece, the <i>words denote the spirit in +which it is conceived</i>.</p> + +<p>So far as I am myself concerned, I have long purposed +giving up those inconsistent terms <i>allegro</i>, +<i>andante</i>, <i>adagio</i>, and <i>presto</i>; and Maelzel's metronome +furnishes us with the best opportunity of +doing so. I here <i>pledge</i> myself <i>no longer</i> to make +use of them in any of my new compositions. It is +another question whether we can by this means attain +the necessary universal use of the metronome. +I scarcely think we shall! I make no doubt that +we shall be loudly proclaimed as <i>despots</i>; but if the +cause itself were to derive benefit from this, it +would at least be better than to incur the reproach +of Feudalism! In our country, where music has +become a national requirement, and where the use +of the metronome must be enjoined on every +village schoolmaster, the best plan would be for +Maelzel to endeavor to sell a certain number of +metronomes by subscription, at the present higher +prices, and as soon as the number covers his expenses, +he can sell the metronomes demanded by +the national requirements at so cheap a rate, that +we may certainly anticipate their <i>universal use</i> and +<i>circulation</i>. Of course some persons must take the +lead in giving an impetus to the undertaking. You +may safely rely on my doing what is in my power, +and I shall be glad to hear what post you mean to +assign to me in the affair.</p> + +<p class="signature">I am, sir, with esteem, your obedient<br> +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let212">212.<br> +TO S.A. STEINER, MUSIC PUBLISHER,--VIENNA.</h3> + +<p class="salutation">HIGHEST BORN! MOST ADMIRABLE! AND MARVELLOUS LIEUTENANT-GENERAL!<sup class="footref"><a href="#footnote131">[1]</a></sup></p> + +<p>We beg you to give us bank-notes for twenty-four +gold ducats at yesterday's rate of exchange, +and to send them to us this evening or to-morrow, +in order that we may forthwith <i>remit</i> and <i>transmit</i> +them. I should be glad and happy if your trustworthy +Adjutant were to bring me these, as I have +something particular to say to him. He must forget +all his resentment, like a good Christian; we +acknowledge his merits and do not contest his demerits. +In short, and once for all, we wish to see +him. This evening would suit us best.</p> + +<p>We have the honor to remain, most astounding +Lieutenant-General! your devoted</p> + +<p class="signature">GENERALISSIMUS.</p> + +<div class="footnote" id="footnote131"><p>[Footnote 1: Beethoven styled himself "Generalissimus," Herr A. Steiner +"Lieutenant-General," and his partner, Tobias Haslinger, "Adjutant" +and "Adjutant-General."]</p></div> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let213">213.<br> +TO LIEUTENANT-GENERAL VON STEINER.--PRIVATE.</h3> + +<p class="salutation">PUBLICANDUM,--</p> + +<p>After due consideration, and by the advice of +our Council, we have determined and decreed that +henceforth on all our works published with German +titles, the word <i>Pianoforte</i> is to be replaced by that +of <i>Hammer Clavier</i>, and our worthy Lieutenant-General, +his Adjutant, and all whom it may concern, +are charged with the execution of this order.</p> + +<p>Instead of Pianoforte--<i>Hammer Clavier</i>.</p> + +<p>Such is our will and pleasure.</p> + +<p>Given on the 23d of January, 1817, by the +<i>Generalissimus</i>.</p> + +<p class="signature"><i>Manu propria.</i></p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let214">214.<br> +TO STEINER.</h3> + +<p>The following dedication occurred to me of my +new Sonata:--</p> + +<p style="text-align:center"> + "Sonata for the Pianoforte,<br> + or<br> + <i>Hammer Clavier</i>.<br> +Composed and dedicated to Frau Baronin Dorothea<br> + Ertmann--née Graumann,<br> + by<br> + Ludwig van Beethoven." +</p> + +<p>If the title is already engraved, I have the two +following proposals to make; viz., that I pay for +one title--I mean that it should be at my expense, +or reserved for another new sonata of mine, for +which purpose the mines of the Lieutenant-General +(or <i>pleno titulo</i>, Lieutenant-General and First Councillor +of State) must be opened to usher it into the +light of day; the title to be previously shown to +a good linguist. <i>Hammer Clavier</i> is certainly German, +and so is the device. Honor to whom honor +is due! How is it, then, that I have as yet received +no reports of the carrying out of my orders, +which, however, have no doubt been attended to?</p> + +<p class="signature">Ever and always your attached<br> + +<i>Amicus<br> +ad Amicum<br> +de Amico.</i> +</p> + +<p> +<img src="images/adjutant.png" alt="[picture of music]"> +</p> + +<p>N.B. I beg you will observe the most profound +silence about the dedication, as I wish it to be a +surprise!</p> + + +<h3 class="letter" id="let215">215.<br> +TO ZMESKALL.</h3> + +<p class="date">Jan. 30, 1817.</p> + +<p class="salutation">DEAR Z.,--</p> + +<p>You seem to place me on a level with Schuppanzigh, +&c., and have distorted the plain and simple +meaning of my words. You are not my debtor, +but I am yours, and now you make me so more than +ever. I cannot express to you the pain your gift +has caused me, and I must candidly say that I cannot +give you one friendly glance <i>in return</i>. Although +you confine yourself to the practice of +music, still you have often recourse to the power +of imagination, and it seems to me that this not +unfrequently leads to uncalled-for caprice on your +part; at least, so it appeared to me from your letter +after my dedication. Loving as my sentiments +are towards you, and much as I prize all your +goodness, still I feel provoked!--much provoked!--terribly +provoked!</p> + +<p class="signature">Your debtor afresh,<br> +Who will, however, contrive to have his revenge,<br> +L. VAN BEETHOVEN.</p> + + + + + + + + +<pre> + + + + + +End of Project Gutenberg's Beethoven's Letters 1790-1826, Vol. 1 of 2 +by Lady Wallace + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK BEETHOVEN'S LETTERS 1790-1826 *** + +***** This file should be named 13065-h.htm or 13065-h.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + https://www.gutenberg.org/1/3/0/6/13065/ + +Produced by Juliet Sutherland, John Williams and the Online +Distributed Proofreading Team. + + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: Beethoven's Letters 1790-1826, Volume 1 of 2 + +Author: Lady Wallace + +Release Date: July 31, 2004 [EBook #13065] + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ASCII + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK BEETHOVEN'S LETTERS 1790-1826 *** + + + + +Produced by Juliet Sutherland, John Williams and the Online +Distributed Proofreading Team. + + + + + + + + + +BEETHOVEN'S LETTERS. + +(1790-1826.) + +FROM THE COLLECTION OF DR. LUDWIG NOHL. + + +ALSO HIS + +LETTERS TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH, CARDINAL-ARCHBISHOP +OF OLMUeTZ, K.W., FROM THE COLLECTION OF DR. +LUDWIG RITTER VON KOeCHEL. + + +TRANSLATED BY +LADY WALLACE. + + +_WITH A PORTRAIT AND FAC-SIMILE._ + + +IN TWO VOLUMES. + +VOL. I. + + +BOSTON: + +OLIVER DITSON & CO., 277 WASHINGTON STREET. + +NEW YORK: C.H. DITSON & CO. + + + + +TRANSLATOR'S PREFACE. + + +Since undertaking the translation of Dr. Ludwig Nohl's valuable edition of +"Beethoven's Letters," an additional collection has been published by Dr. +Ludwig Ritter von Koechel, consisting of many interesting letters addressed +by Beethoven to his illustrious pupil, H.R.H. the Archduke Rudolph, +Cardinal-Archbishop of Olmuetz. These I have inserted in chronological +order, and marked with the letter K., in order to distinguish them from the +correspondence edited by Dr. Nohl. I have only omitted a few brief notes, +consisting merely of apologies for non-attendance on the Archduke. + +The artistic value of these newly discovered treasures will no doubt be as +highly appreciated in this country as in the great _maestro's_ Father-land. + +I must also express my gratitude to Dr. Th.G. v. Karajan, for permitting an +engraving to be made expressly for this work, from an original Beethoven +portrait in his possession, now for the first time given to the public. The +grand and thoughtful countenance forms a fitting introduction to letters so +truly depicting the brilliant, fitful genius of the sublime master, as well +as the touching sadness and gloom pervading his life, which his devotion to +Art alone brightened, through many bitter trials and harassing cares. + +The love of Beethoven's music is now become so universal in England, that I +make no doubt his Letters will receive a hearty welcome from all those +whose spirits have been elevated and soothed by the genius of this +illustrious man. + +GRACE WALLACE. + +AINDERBY HALL, March 28, 1866. + + + + +PREFACE + +BY DR. LUDWIG NOHL + +TO THE + +LETTERS OF LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +In accompanying the present edition of the Letters of Ludwig van Beethoven +with a few introductory remarks, I at once acknowledge that the compilation +of these letters has cost me no slight sacrifices. I must also, however, +mention that an unexpected Christmas donation, generously bestowed on me +with a view to further my efforts to promote the science of music, enabled +me to undertake one of the journeys necessary for my purpose, and also to +complete the revision of the Letters and of the press, in the milder air +and repose of a country residence, long since recommended to me for the +restoration of my health, undermined by overwork. + +That, in spite of every effort, I have not succeeded in seeing the original +of each letter, or even discovering the place where it exists, may well be +excused, taking into consideration the slender capabilities of an +individual, and the astonishing manner in which Beethoven's Letters are +dispersed all over the world. At the same time, I must state that not only +have the hitherto inaccessible treasures of Anton Schindler's "Beethoven's +Nachlass" been placed at my disposal, but also other letters from private +sources, owing to various happy chances, and the kindness and complaisance +of collectors of autographs. I know better, however, than most +people--being in a position to do so--that in the present work there can be +no pretension to any thing approaching to a complete collection of +Beethoven's Letters. The master, so fond of writing, though he often rather +amusingly accuses himself of being a lazy correspondent, may very probably +have sent forth at least double the amount of the letters here given, and +there is no doubt whatever that a much larger number are still extant in +the originals. The only thing that can be done at this moment, however, is +to make the attempt to bring to light, at all events, the letters that +could be discovered in Germany. The mass of those which I gradually +accumulated, and now offer to the public (with the exception of some +insignificant notes), appeared to me sufficiently numerous and important to +interest the world, and also to form a substantial nucleus for any letters +that may hereafter be discovered. On the other hand, as many of Beethoven's +Letters slumber in foreign lands, especially in the unapproachable cabinets +of curiosities belonging to various close-fisted English collectors, an +entire edition of the correspondence could only be effected by a most +disproportionate outlay of time and expense. + +When revising the text of the Letters, it seemed to me needless perpetually +to impair the pleasure of the reader by retaining the mistakes in +orthography; but enough of the style of writing of that day is adhered to, +to prevent its peculiar charm being entirely destroyed. Distorted and +incorrect as Beethoven's mode of expression sometimes is, I have not +presumed to alter his grammar, or rather syntax, in the smallest degree: +who would presume to do so with an individuality which, even amid startling +clumsiness of style, displays those inherent intellectual powers that often +did violence to language as well as to his fellow-men? Cyclopean masses of +rock are here hurled with Cyclopean force; but hard and massive as they +are, the man is not to be envied whose heart is not touched by these +glowing fragments, flung apparently at random right and left, like meteors, +by a mighty intellectual being, however perverse the treatment language may +have received from him. + +The great peculiarity, however, in this strange mode of expression is, that +even such incongruous language faithfully reflects the mind of the man +whose nature was of prophetic depth and heroic force; and who that knows +anything of the creative genius of a Beethoven can deny him these +attributes? + +The antique dignity pervading the whole man, the ethical contemplation of +life forming the basis of his nature, prevented even a momentary wish on my +part to efface a single word of the oft-recurring expressions so painfully +harsh, bordering on the unaesthetic, and even on the repulsive, provoked by +his wrath against the meanness of men. In the last part of these genuine +documents, we learn with a feeling of sadness, and with almost a tragic +sensation, how low was the standard of moral worth, or rather how great was +the positive unworthiness, of the intimate society surrounding the master, +and with what difficulty he could maintain the purity of the nobler part of +his being in such an atmosphere. The manner, indeed, in which he strives to +do so, fluctuating between explosions of harshness and almost weak +yieldingness, while striving to master the base thoughts and conduct of +these men, though never entirely succeeding in doing so, is often more a +diverting than an offensive spectacle. In my opinion, nevertheless, even +this less pleasing aspect of the Letters ought not to be in the slightest +degree softened (which it has hitherto been, owing to false views of +propriety and morality), for it is no moral deformity here displayed. +Indeed, even when the irritable master has recourse to expressions +repugnant to our sense of conventionality, and which may well be called +harsh and rough, still the wrath that seizes on our hero is a just and +righteous wrath, and we disregard it, just as in Nature, whose grandeur +constantly elevates us above the inevitable stains of an earthly soil. The +coarseness and ill-breeding, which would claim toleration because this +great man now and then showed such feelings, must beware of doing so, being +certain to make shipwreck when coming in contact with the massive rock of +true morality on which, with all his faults and deficiencies, Beethoven's +being was surely grounded. Often, indeed, when absorbed in the +unsophisticated and genuine utterances of this great man, it seems as if +these peculiarities and strange asperities were the results of some +mysterious law of Nature, so that we are inclined to adopt the paradox by +which a wit once described the singular groundwork of our nature,--"The +faults of man are the night in which he rests from his virtues." + +Indeed, I think that the lofty morality of such natures is not fully +evident until we are obliged to confess with regret, that even the great +ones of the earth must pay their tribute to humanity, and really do pay it +(which is the distinction between them and base and petty characters), +without being ever entirely hurled from their pedestal of dignity and +virtue. The soul of that man cannot fail to be elevated, who can seize the +real spirit of the scattered pages that a happy chance has preserved for +us. If not fettered by petty feelings, he will quickly surmount the casual +obstacles and stumbling-blocks which the first perusal of these Letters may +seem to present, and quickly feel himself transported at a single stride +into a stream, where a strange roaring and rushing is heard, but above +which loftier tones resound with magic and exciting power. For a peculiar +life breathes in these lines; an under-current runs through their +apparently unconnected import, uniting them as with an electric chain, and +with firmer links than any mere coherence of subjects could have effected. +I experienced this myself, to the most remarkable degree, when I first made +the attempt to arrange, in accordance with their period and substance, the +hundreds of individual pages bearing neither date nor address, and I was +soon convinced that a connecting text (such as Mozart's Letters have, and +ought to have) would be here entirely superfluous, as even the best +biographical commentary would be very dry work, interrupting the electric +current of the whole, and thus destroying its peculiar effect. + +And now, what is this spirit which, for an intelligent mind, binds together +these scattered fragments into a whole, and what is its actual power? I +cannot tell; but I feel to this day just as I felt to the innermost depths +of my heart in the days of my youth when I first heard a symphony of +Beethoven's,--that a spirit breathes from it bearing us aloft with giant +power out of the oppressive atmosphere of sense, stirring to its inmost +recesses the heart of man, bringing him to the full consciousness of his +loftier being, and of the undying within him. And even more distinctly than +when a new world was thus disclosed to his youthful feelings is the _man_ +fully conscious that not only was this a new world to him, but a new world +of feeling in itself, revealing to the spirit phases of its own, which, +till Beethoven appeared, had never before been fathomed. Call it by what +name you will, when one of the great works of the sublime master is heard, +whether indicative of proud self-consciousness, freedom, spring, love, +storm, or battle, it grasps the soul with singular force, and enlarges the +laboring breast. Whether a man understands music or not, every one who has +a heart beating within his breast will feel with enchantment that here is +concentrated the utmost promised to us by the most imaginative of our +poets, in bright visions of happiness and freedom. Even the only great hero +of action, who in those memorable days is worthy to stand beside the great +master of harmony, having diffused among mankind new and priceless earthly +treasures, sinks in the scale when we compare these with the celestial +treasures of a purified and deeper feeling, and a more free, enlarged, and +sublime view of the world, struggling gradually and distinctly upwards out +of the mere frivolity of an art devoid of words to express itself, and +impressing its stamp on the spirit of the age. They convey, too, the +knowledge of this brightest victory of genuine German intellect to those +for whom the sweet Muse of Music is as a book with seven seals, and reveal, +likewise, a more profound sense of Beethoven's being to many who already, +through the sweet tones they have imbibed, enjoy some dawning conviction of +the master's grandeur, and who now more and more eagerly lend a listening +ear to the intellectual clearly worded strains so skilfully interwoven, +thus soon to arrive at the full and blissful comprehension of those grand +outpourings of the spirit, and finally to add another bright delight to the +enjoyment of those who already know and love Beethoven. All these may be +regarded as the objects I had in view when I undertook to edit his Letters, +which have also bestowed on myself the best recompense of my labors, in the +humble conviction that by this means I may have vividly reawakened in the +remembrance of many the mighty mission which our age is called on to +perform for the development of our race, even in the realm of +harmony,--more especially in our Father-land. + +LUDWIG NOHL. + +LA TOUR DE PERLZ--LAKE OF GENEVA, +March, 1865. + + + + +CONTENTS OF VOLUME I. + + +FIRST PART. + +LIFE'S JOYS AND SORROWS +1783-1816. + + + 1. To the Elector of Cologne, Frederick Maximilian. + 2. To Dr. Schade, Augsburg + 3. To the Elector Maximilian Francis + 4. To Eleonore von Breuning, Bonn + 5. To the Same + 6. To Herr Schenk + 7. To Dr. Wegeler, Vienna + 8. To the Same + 9. Lines written in the Album of L. von Breuning + 10. To Baron Zmeskall von Domanowecz + 11. Ukase to Zmeskall, Schuppanzigh, and Lichnowsky + 12. To Pastor Amenda, Courland + 13. To the Same + 14. To Wegeler + 15. To Countess Giulietta Guicciardi + 16. To Matthisson + 17. To Frau Frank, Vienna + 18. To Wegeler + 19. To Kapellmeister Hofmeister, Leipzig + 20. To the Same + 21. To the Same + 22. To the Same + 23. Dedication to Dr. Schmidt + 24. To Ferdinand Ries + 25. To Herr Hofmeister, Leipzig + 26. To Carl and Johann Beethoven + 27. Notice + 28. To Ferdinand Ries + 29. To Herr Hofmeister, Leipzig + 30. Caution + 31. To Ries + 32. To the Same + 33. To the Same + 34. To the Same + 35. To the Composer Leidesdorf, Vienna + 36. To Ries + 37. To the Same + 38. To the Same + 39. To Messrs. Artaria & Co. + 40. To Princess Liechtenstein + 41. To Herr Meyer + 42. Testimonial for C. Czerny + 43. To Herr Roeckel + 44. To Herr Collin, Court Secretary and Poet + 45. To Herr Gleichenstein + 46. To the Directors of the Court Theatre + 47. To Count Franz von Oppersdorf + 48. Notice of a Memorial to the Archduke Rudolph, Prince Kinsky, + and Prince Lobkowitz + 49. Memorial to the Same + 50. To Zmeskall + 51. To Ferdinand Ries + 52. To Zmeskall + 53. To the Same + 54. To the Same + 55. To the Same + 56. To the Same + 57. To the Same + 58. To the Same + 59. To Freiherr von Hammer-Purgstall + 60. To the Same + 61. To Baroness von Drossdick + 62. To Mdlle. de Gerardi + 63. To Zmeskall + 64. To Wegeler + 65. To Zmeskall + 66. To Bettina Brentano + 67. To the Same + 68. To Zmeskall + 69. To the Same + 70. To the Archduke Rudolph + 71. To a Dear Friend + 72. To the Dramatic Poet Treitschke + 73. To Zmeskall + 74. To the Same + 75. To the Same + 76. To the Same + 77. To the Same + 78. To the Same + 79. To the Same + 80. To Kammerprocurator Varenna, Gratz + 81. To Zmeskall + 82. To the Same + 83. To Varenna, Gratz + 84. To Zmeskall + 85. To Varenna + 86. To Archduke Rudolph + 87. To the Same + 88. To Varenna, Gratz + 89. To Joseph Freiherr von Schweiger + 90. To Varenna, Gratz + 91. Lines written in the Album of Mdme. Auguste Sebald + 92. To Archduke Rudolph + 93. To Bettina von Arnim + 94. To Princess Kinsky + 95. To Archduke Rudolph + 96. To the Same + 97. To the Same + 98. To Princess Kinsky + 99. To the Same +100. To Zmeskall +101. To Herr Joseph Varenna, Gratz +102. To the Same +103. To Zmeskall +104. To the Same +105. To the Same +106. To the Same +107. To the Same +108. To the Same +109. To the Same +110. To Archduke Rudolph +111. To the Same +112. To the Same +113. To Freiherr Josef von Schweiger +114. To Herr von Baumeister +115. To Zmeskall +116. Letter of Thanks +117. To the Archduke Rudolph +118. To the Same +119. To the Same +120. To Treitschke +121. To the Same +122. To the Same +123. To Count Lichnowsky. +124. To the Same +125. To the Archduke Rudolph +126. To the Same +127. Deposition +128. To Dr. Kauka, Prague. +129. Address and Appeal to London Artists +130. To Dr. Kauka +131. To Count Moritz Lichnowsky +132. To the Archduke Rudolph +133. To the Same +134. To the Same +135. To the Same +136. To the Same +137. To the Same +138. To the Same +139. To the Same +140. To Dr. Kauka +141. To the Same +142. To the Same +143. To the Members of the Landrecht +144. To Baron von Pasqualati +145. To Dr. Kauka +146. To the Archduke Rudolph + + + + +SECOND PART. + +LIFE'S MISSION. +1815-1822. + + +147. Music written in Spohr's Album +148. To Dr. Kauka +149. To the Same +150. To the Same +151. To Mr. Salomon, London +152. To the Archduke Rudolph +153. To the Same +154. To the Same +155. To the Same +156. To the Same +157. To the Same +158. To Mr. Birchall, Music Publisher, London +159. To Zmeskall +160. To the Archduke Rudolph +161. To Messrs. Birchall, London +162. To Herr Ries +163. To Zmeskall +164. To Mdlle. Milder-Hauptmann +165. To Ries +166. To Mr. Birchall, London +167. To Czerny +168. To the Same +169. To Ries, London +170. To Giannatasio del Rio, Vienna +171. To the Same +172. To the Same +173. To the Same +174. To Ferdinand Ries, London +175. To the Same +176. Power of Attorney +177. To Ferdinand Ries +178. To Giannatasio del Rio +179. To the Same +180. To the Archduke Rudolph +181. To Mr. Birchall London +182. To the Same +183. To Giannatasio del Rio +184. To the Same +185. To Zmeskall +186. To Dr. Kauka +187. Query +188. To Giannatasio del Rio +189. To the Same +190. To Wegeler +191. To Mr. Birchall, London +192. To Zmeskall +193. To the Archduke Rudolph +194. To Freiherr von Schweiger +195. To Giannatasio del Rio +196. To the Same +197. To the Same +198. To the Same +199. To Herr Tschischka +200. To Mr. Birchall +201. To Zmeskall +202. To Frau von Streicher +203. To the Same +204. To the Same +205. To the Same +206. To the Same +207. To the Archduke Rudolph +208. To Giannatasio del Rio +209. To the Same +210. To the Same +211. To Hofrath von Mosel +212. To S.A. Steiner, Music Publisher, Vienna +213. To the Same +214. To the Same +215. To Zmeskall + + + + +FIRST PART. + + +LIFE'S JOYS AND SORROWS. +1783 TO 1815. + + + + +BEETHOVEN'S LETTERS. + + +PART I. + + +1. + +TO THE ELECTOR OF COLOGNE, FREDERICK MAXIMILIAN.[1] + +ILLUSTRIOUS PRINCE,-- + +Music from my fourth year has ever been my favorite pursuit. Thus early +introduced to the sweet Muse, who attuned my soul to pure harmony, I loved +her, and sometimes ventured to think that I was beloved by her in return. I +have now attained my eleventh year, and my Muse often whispered to me in +hours of inspiration,--Try to write down the harmonies in your soul. Only +eleven years old! thought I; does the character of an author befit me? and +what would more mature artists say? I felt some trepidation; but my Muse +willed it--so I obeyed, and wrote. + +May I now, therefore, Illustrious Prince, presume to lay the first-fruits +of my juvenile labors at the foot of your throne? and may I hope that you +will condescend to cast an encouraging and kindly glance on them? You will; +for Art and Science have ever found in you a judicious protector and a +generous patron, and rising talent has always prospered under your +fostering and fatherly care. Encouraged by this cheering conviction, I +venture to approach you with these my youthful efforts. Accept them as the +pure offering of childlike reverence, and graciously vouchsafe to regard +with indulgence them and their youthful composer, + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: The dedication affixed to this work, "Three Sonatas for the +Piano, dedicated to my illustrious master, Maximilian Friedrich, Archbishop +and Elector of Cologne, by Ludwig van Beethoven in his eleventh year," is +probably not written by the boy himself, but is given here as an amusing +contrast to his subsequent ideas with regard to the homage due to rank.] + + +2. + +TO DR. SCHADE,--AUGSBURG. + +Bonn, 1787. Autumn. + +MY MOST ESTEEMED FRIEND,-- + +I can easily imagine what you must think of me, and I cannot deny that you +have too good grounds for an unfavorable opinion. I shall not, however, +attempt to justify myself, until I have explained to you the reasons why my +apologies should be accepted. I must tell you that from the time I left +Augsburg[1] my cheerfulness, as well as my health, began to decline; the +nearer I came to my native city, the more frequent were the letters from my +father, urging me to travel with all possible speed, as my mother's health +was in a most precarious condition. I therefore hurried forwards as fast as +I could, although myself far from well. My longing once more to see my +dying mother overcame every obstacle, and assisted me in surmounting the +greatest difficulties. I found my mother indeed still alive, but in the +most deplorable state; her disease was consumption, and about seven weeks +ago, after much pain and suffering, she died [July 17]. She was indeed a +kind, loving mother to me, and my best friend. Ah! who was happier than I, +when I could still utter the sweet name of mother, and it was heard? But to +whom can I now say it? Only to the silent form resembling her, evoked by +the power of imagination. I have passed very few pleasant hours since my +arrival here, having during the whole time been suffering from asthma, +which may, I fear, eventually turn to consumption; to this is added +melancholy,--almost as great an evil as my malady itself. Imagine yourself +in my place, and then I shall hope to receive your forgiveness for my long +silence. You showed me extreme kindness and friendship by lending me three +Carolins in Augsburg, but I must entreat your indulgence for a time. My +journey cost me a great deal, and I have not the smallest hopes of earning +anything here. Fate is not propitious to me in Bonn. Pardon my intruding on +you so long with my affairs, but all that I have said was necessary for my +own justification. + +I do entreat you not to deprive me of your valuable friendship; nothing do +I wish so much as in any degree to become worthy of your regard. I am, with +all esteem, your obedient servant and friend, + +L. V. BEETHOVEN, + +_Cologne Court Organist._ + +[Footnote 1: On his return from Vienna, whither Max Franz had sent him for +the further cultivation of his talents.] + + +3. + +TO THE ELECTOR MAXIMILIAN FRANCIS.[1] + +1793. + +MOST ILLUSTRIOUS AND GRACIOUS PRINCE,-- + +Some years ago your Highness was pleased to grant a pension to my father, +the Court tenor Van Beethoven, and further graciously to decree that 100 R. +Thalers of his salary should be allotted to me, for the purpose of +maintaining, clothing, and educating my two younger brothers, and also +defraying the debts incurred by our father. It was my intention to present +this decree to your Highness's treasurer, but my father earnestly implored +me to desist from doing so, that he might not be thus publicly proclaimed +incapable himself of supporting his family, adding that he would engage to +pay me the 25 R.T. quarterly, which he punctually did. After his death, +however (in December last), wishing to reap the benefit of your Highness's +gracious boon, by presenting the decree, I was startled to find that my +father had destroyed it. + +I therefore, with all dutiful respect, entreat your Highness to renew this +decree, and to order the paymaster of your Highness's treasury to grant me +the last quarter of this benevolent addition to my salary (due the +beginning of February). I have the honor to remain, + +Your Highness's most obedient and faithful servant, + +LUD. V. BEETHOVEN, + +_Court Organist._ + +[Footnote 1: An electoral decree was issued in compliance with this request +on May 3, 1793.] + + +4. + +TO ELEONORE VON BREUNING,--BONN. + +Vienna, Nov. 2, 1793. + +MY HIGHLY ESTEEMED ELEONORE, MY DEAREST FRIEND,-- + +A year of my stay in this capital has nearly elapsed before you receive a +letter from me, and yet the most vivid remembrance of you is ever present +with me. I have often conversed in thought with you and your dear family, +though not always in the happy mood I could have wished, for that fatal +misunderstanding still hovered before me, and my conduct at that time is +now hateful in my sight. But so it was, and how much would I give to have +the power wholly to obliterate from my life a mode of acting so degrading +to myself, and so contrary to the usual tenor of my character! + +Many circumstances, indeed, contributed to estrange us, and I suspect that +those tale-bearers who repeated alternately to you and to me our mutual +expressions were the chief obstacles to any good understanding between us. +Each believed that what was said proceeded from deliberate conviction, +whereas it arose only from anger, fanned by others; so we were both +mistaken. Your good and noble disposition, my dear friend, is sufficient +security that you have long since forgiven me. We are told that the best +proof of sincere contrition is to acknowledge our faults; and this is what +I wish to do. Let us now draw a veil over the whole affair, learning one +lesson from it,--that when friends are at variance, it is always better to +employ no mediator, but to communicate directly with each other. + +With this you will receive a dedication from me [the variations on "Se vuol +ballare"]. My sole wish is that the work were greater and more worthy of +you. I was applied to here to publish this little work, and I take +advantage of the opportunity, my beloved Eleonore, to give you a proof of +my regard and friendship for yourself, and also a token of my enduring +remembrance of your family. Pray then accept this trifle, and do not forget +that it is offered by a devoted friend. Oh! if it only gives you pleasure, +my wishes will be fulfilled. May it in some degree recall the time when I +passed so many happy hours in your house! Perhaps it may serve to remind +you of me till I return, though this is indeed a distant prospect. Oh! how +we shall then rejoice together, my dear Eleonore! You will, I trust, find +your friend a happier man, all former forbidding, careworn furrows smoothed +away by time and better fortune. + +When you see B. Koch [subsequently Countess Belderbusch], pray say that it +is unkind in her never once to have written to me. I wrote to her twice, +and three times to Malchus (afterwards Westphalian Minister of Finance), +but no answer. Tell her that if she does not choose to write herself, I beg +that she will at least urge Malchus to do so. At the close of my letter I +venture to make one more request--I am anxious to be so fortunate as again +to possess an Angola waistcoat knitted by your own hand, my dear friend. +Forgive my indiscreet request; it proceeds from my great love for all that +comes from you; and I may privately admit that a little vanity is connected +with it, namely, that I may say I possess something from the best and most +admired young lady in Bonn. I still have the one you were so good as to +give me in Bonn; but change of fashion has made it look so antiquated, that +I can only treasure it in my wardrobe as your gift, and thus still very +dear to me. You would make me very happy by soon writing me a kind letter. +If mine cause you any pleasure, I promise you to do as you wish, and write +as often as it lies in my power; indeed everything is acceptable to me that +can serve to show you how truly I am your admiring and sincere friend, + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + +P.S. The variations are rather difficult to play, especially the shake in +the _Coda_; but do not be alarmed at this, being so contrived that you only +require to play the shake, and leave out the other notes, which also occur +in the violin part. I never would have written it in this way, had I not +occasionally observed that there was a certain individual in Vienna who, +when I extemporized the previous evening, not unfrequently wrote down next +day many of the peculiarities of my music, adopting them as his own [for +instance, the Abbe Gelinek]. Concluding, therefore, that some of these +things would soon appear, I resolved to anticipate this. Another reason +also was to puzzle some of the pianoforte teachers here, many of whom are +my mortal foes; so I wished to revenge myself on them in this way, knowing +that they would occasionally be asked to play the variations, when these +gentlemen would not appear to much advantage. + +BEETHOVEN. + + +5. + +TO ELEONORE VON BREUNING,--BONN. + +The beautiful neckcloth, embroidered by your own hand, was the greatest +possible surprise to me; yet, welcome as the gift was, it awakened within +me feelings of sadness. Its effect was to recall former days, and to put me +to shame by your noble conduct to me. I, indeed, little thought that you +still considered me worthy of your remembrance. + +Oh! if you could have witnessed my emotions yesterday when this incident +occurred, you would not think that I exaggerate in saying that such a token +of your recollection brought tears to my eyes, and made me feel very sad. +Little as I may deserve favor in your eyes, believe me, my dear _friend_, +(let me still call you so,) I have suffered, and still suffer severely from +the privation of your friendship. Never can I forget you and your dear +mother. You were so kind to me that your loss neither can nor will be +easily replaced. I know what I have forfeited, and what you were to me, but +in order to fill up this blank I must recur to scenes equally painful for +you to hear and for me to detail. + +As a slight requital of your kind _souvenir_, I take the liberty to send +you some variations, and a Rondo with violin accompaniment. I have a great +deal to do, or I would long since have transcribed the Sonata I promised +you. It is as yet a mere sketch in manuscript, and to copy it would be a +difficult task even for the clever and practised Paraquin [counter-bass in +the Electoral orchestra]. You can have the Rondo copied, and return the +score. What I now send is the only one of my works at all suitable for you; +besides, as you are going to Kerpen [where an uncle of the family lived], I +thought these trifles might cause you pleasure. + +Farewell, my friend; for it is impossible for me to give you any other +name. However indifferent I may be to you, believe me, I shall ever +continue to revere you and your mother as I have always done. If I can in +any way contribute to the fulfilment of a wish of yours, do not fail to let +me know, for I have no other means of testifying my gratitude for past +friendship. + +I wish you an agreeable journey, and that your dear mother may return +entirely restored to health! Think sometimes of your affectionate friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +6. + +TO HERR SCHENK. + +June, 1794. + +DEAR SCHENK,[1]-- + +I did not know that I was to set off to-day to Eisenstadt. I should like to +have talked to you again. In the mean time rest assured of my gratitude for +your obliging services. I shall endeavor, so far as it lies in my power, to +requite them. I hope soon to see you, and once more to enjoy the pleasure +of your society. Farewell, and do not entirely forget your + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Schenk, afterwards celebrated as the composer of the "Dorf +Barbier," was for some time Beethoven's teacher in composition. This note +appears to have been written in June, 1794, and first printed in the +"Freischuetz," No. 183, about 1836, at the time of Schenk's death, when his +connection with Beethoven was mentioned.] + + +7. + +TO DR. WEGELER,--VIENNA.[1] + +... In what an odious light have you exhibited me to myself! Oh! I +acknowledge it, I do not deserve your friendship. It was no intentional or +deliberate malice that induced me to act towards you as I did, but +inexcusable thoughtlessness alone. + +I say no more. I am coming to throw myself into your arms, and to entreat +you to restore me my lost friend; and you will give him back to me, to your +penitent, loving, and ever-grateful + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Dr. Wegeler, in answer to my request that he would send me the +entire letter, replied that "the passages omitted in the letter consisted +chiefly in eulogiums of his father, and enthusiastic expressions of +friendship, which did not seem to him to be of any value; but besides this, +the same reasons that induced his father to give only a portion of the +letter were imperative with him also." I do not wish to contest the point +with the possessor of the letter; still I may remark that all the +utterances and letters of a great man belong to the world at large, and +that in a case like the present, the conscientious biographer, who strives +faithfully to portray such a man, is alone entitled to decide what portion +of these communications is fitted for publication, and what is not. Any +considerations of a personal character seem to me very trivial.] + + +8. + +TO DR. WEGELER,--VIENNA. + +Vienna, May 1797. + +God speed you, my dear friend! I owe you a letter which you shall shortly +have, and my newest music besides, _I am going on well; indeed, I may say +every day better._ Greet those to whom it will give pleasure from me. +Farewell, and do not forget your + +BEETHOVEN. + + +9. + +WRITTEN IN THE ALBUM OF LENZ VON BREUNING. + +Vienna, Oct. 1, 1797. + + Truth for the wise, + Beauty for a feeling heart, + And both for each other. + +MY DEAR, GOOD BREUNING,-- + +Never can I forget the time I passed with you, not only in Bonn, but here. +Continue your friendship towards me, for you shall always find me the same +true friend, + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + + +10. + +TO BARON ZMESKALL VON DOMANOWECZ. + +1800.[1] + +[Music: Alto, Tenor, Bass clefs, C Major, 4/4 time, Grave. +ALTO. Ba-ron. +TENORE. Ba-ron. +BASSO. Ba-ron. Ba-ron. Ba-ron.] + +MY CHEAPEST (NOT DEAREST) BARON,-- + +Desire the guitar-player to come to me to-day. Amenda (instead of an +_amende_ [fine], which he sometimes deserves for not observing his rests +properly) must persuade this popular guitarist to visit me, and if possible +to come at five o'clock this evening; if not then, at five or six o'clock +to-morrow morning; but he must not waken me if I chance to be still asleep. +_Adieu, mon ami a bon marche._ Perhaps we may meet at the "Swan"? + +[Footnote 1: As it appears from the following letters that Amenda was again +at home in 1800, the date of this note is thus ascertained. It is +undoubtedly addressed to Baron Zmeskall von Domanowecz, Royal Court +Secretary, a good violoncello-player, and one of Beethoven's earliest +friends in Vienna. The "guitarist" was probably the celebrated Giuliani, +who lived in Vienna.] + + +11. + +The musical Count is from this day forth _cashiered_ with infamy. The first +violin [Schuppanzigh] ruthlessly transported to _Siberia_. The Baron [see +No. 10] for a whole month _strictly interdicted from asking questions_; no +longer to be so hasty, and to devote himself exclusively to his _ipse +miserum_.[1] + +B. + +[Footnote 1: Written in gigantic characters in pencil on a large sheet of +paper. The "musical Count" is probably Count Moritz Lichnowsky, brother of +Prince Carl Lichnowsky, in whose house were held those musical performances +in which Beethoven's works were first produced. Even at that time he +behaved in a very dictatorial manner to those gentlemen when his +compositions were badly executed. Thence the name given him by Haydn of +"The Great Mogul."] + + +12. + +TO PASTOR AMENDA,--COURLAND. + +Does Amenda think that I can ever forget him, because I do not write? in +fact, never have written to him?--as if the memory of our friends could +only thus be preserved! The _best man I ever knew_ has a thousand times +recurred to my thoughts! Two persons alone once possessed my whole love, +one of whom still lives, and you are now the third. How can my remembrance +of you ever fade? You will shortly receive a long letter about my present +circumstances and all that can interest you. Farewell, beloved, good, and +noble friend! Ever continue your love and friendship towards me, just as I +shall ever be your faithful + +BEETHOVEN. + + +13. + +TO PASTOR AMENDA. + +1800. + +MY DEAR, MY GOOD AMENDA, MY WARM-HEARTED FRIEND,-- + +I received and read your last letter with deep emotion, and with mingled +pain and pleasure. To what can I compare your fidelity and devotion to me? +Ah! it is indeed delightful that you still continue to love me so well. I +know how to prize you, and to distinguish you from all others; you are not +like my Vienna friends. No! you are one of those whom the soil of my +fatherland is wont to bring forth; how often I wish that you were with me, +for your Beethoven is very unhappy. You must know that one of my most +precious faculties, that of hearing, is become very defective; even while +you were still with me I felt indications of this, though I said nothing; +but it is now much worse. Whether I shall ever be cured remains yet to be +seen; it is supposed to proceed from the state of my digestive organs, but +I am almost entirely recovered in that respect. I hope indeed that my +hearing may improve, but I scarcely think so, for attacks of this kind are +the most incurable of all. How sad my life must now be!--forced to shun all +that is most dear and precious to me, and to live with such miserable +egotists as ----, &c. I can with truth say that of all my friends +Lichnowsky [Prince Carl] is the most genuine. He last year settled 600 +florins on me, which, together with the good sale of my works, enables me +to live free from care as to my maintenance. All that I now write I can +dispose of five times over, and be well paid into the bargain. I have been +writing a good deal latterly, and as I hear that you have ordered some +pianos from ----, I will send you some of my compositions in the +packing-case of one of these instruments, by which means they will not cost +you so much. + +To my great comfort, a person has returned here with whom I can enjoy the +pleasures of society and disinterested friendship,--one of the friends of +my youth [Stephan von Breuning]. I have often spoken to him of you, and +told him that since I left my fatherland, you are one of those to whom my +heart specially clings. Z. [Zmeskall?] does not seem quite to please him; +he is, and always will be, too weak for true friendship, and I look on him +and ---- as mere instruments on which I play as I please, but never can +they bear noble testimony to my inner and outward energies, or feel true +sympathy with me; I value them only in so far as their services deserve. +Oh! how happy should I now be, had I my full sense of hearing; I would then +hasten to you; whereas, as it is, I must withdraw from everything. My best +years will thus pass away, without effecting what my talents and powers +might have enabled me to perform. How melancholy is the resignation in +which I must take refuge! I had determined to rise superior to all this, +but how is it possible? If in the course of six months my malady be +pronounced incurable then, Amenda! I shall appeal to you to leave all else +and come to me, when I intend to travel (my affliction is less distressing +when playing and composing, and most so in intercourse with others), and +you must be my companion. I have a conviction that good fortune will not +forsake me, for to what may I not at present aspire? Since you were here I +have written everything except operas and church music. You will not, I +know, refuse my petition; you will help your friend to bear his burden and +his calamity. I have also very much perfected my pianoforte playing, and I +hope that a journey of this kind may possibly contribute to your own +success in life, and you would thenceforth always remain with me. I duly +received all your letters, and though I did not reply to them, you were +constantly present with me, and my heart beats as tenderly as ever for you. +I beg you will keep the fact of my deafness a profound secret, and not +confide it to any human being. Write to me frequently; your letters, +however short, console and cheer me; so I shall soon hope to hear from you. + +Do not give your quartet to any one [in F, Op. 18, No. 1], as I have +altered it very much, having only now succeeded in writing quartets +properly; this you will at once perceive when you receive it. Now, +farewell, my dear kind friend! If by any chance I can serve you here, I +need not say that you have only to command me. + +Your faithful and truly attached + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + + +14. + +TO WEGELER. + +Vienna, June 29, 1800. + +MY DEAR AND VALUED WEGELER,-- + +How much I thank you for your remembrance of me, little as I deserve it, or +have sought to deserve it; and yet you are so kind that you allow nothing, +not even my unpardonable neglect, to discourage you, always remaining the +same true, good, and faithful friend. That I can ever forget you or yours, +once so dear and precious to me, do not for a moment believe. There are +times when I find myself longing to see you again, and wishing that I could +go to stay with you. My father-land, that lovely region where I first saw +the light, is still as distinct and beauteous in my eyes as when I quitted +you; in short, I shall esteem the time when I once more see you, and again +greet Father Rhine, as one of the happiest periods of my life. When this +may be I cannot yet tell; but at all events I may say that you shall not +see me again till I have become eminent, not only as an artist, but better +and more perfect as a man; and if the condition of our father-land be then +more prosperous, my art shall be entirely devoted to the benefit of the +poor. Oh, blissful moment!--how happy do I esteem myself that I can +expedite it and bring it to pass! + +You desire to know something of my position; well! it is by no means bad. +However incredible it may appear, I must tell you that Lichnowsky has been, +and still is, my warmest friend (slight dissensions occurred occasionally +between us, and yet they only served to strengthen our friendship). He +settled on me last year the sum of 600 florins, for which I am to draw on +him till I can procure some suitable situation. My compositions are very +profitable, and I may really say that I have almost more commissions than +it is possible for me to execute. I can have six or seven publishers or +more for every piece, if I choose; they no longer bargain with me--I +demand, and they pay--so you see this is a very good thing. For instance, I +have a friend in distress, and my purse does not admit of my assisting him +at once; but I have only to sit down and write, and in a short time he is +relieved. I am also become more economical than formerly. If I finally +settle here, I don't doubt I shall be able to secure a particular day every +year for a concert, of which I have already given several. That malicious +demon, however, bad health, has been a stumbling-block in my path; my +hearing during the last three years has become gradually worse. The chief +cause of this infirmity proceeds from the state of my digestive organs, +which, as you know, were formerly bad enough, but have latterly become much +worse, and being constantly afflicted with diarrhoea, has brought on +extreme weakness. Frank [Director of the General Hospital] strove to +restore the tone of my digestion by tonics, and my hearing by oil of +almonds; but alas! these did me no good whatever; my hearing became worse, +and my digestion continued in its former plight. This went on till the +autumn of last year, when I was often reduced to utter despair. Then some +medical _asinus_ recommended me cold baths, but a more judicious doctor the +tepid ones of the Danube, which did wonders for me; my digestion improved, +but my hearing remained the same, or in fact rather got worse. I did indeed +pass a miserable winter; I suffered from most dreadful spasms, and sank +back into my former condition. Thus it went on till about a month ago, when +I consulted Vering [an army surgeon], under the belief that my maladies +required surgical advice; besides, I had every confidence in him. He +succeeded in almost entirely checking the violent diarrhoea, and ordered me +the tepid baths of the Danube, into which I pour some strengthening +mixture. He gave me no medicine, except some digestive pills four days ago, +and a lotion for my ears. I certainly do feel better and stronger, but my +ears are buzzing and ringing perpetually, day and night. I can with truth +say that my life is very wretched; for nearly two years past I have avoided +all society, because I find it impossible to say to people, _I am deaf!_ In +any other profession this might be more tolerable, but in mine such a +condition is truly frightful. Besides, what would my enemies say to +this?--and they are not few in number. + +To give you some idea of my extraordinary deafness, I must tell you that in +the theatre I am obliged to lean close up against the orchestra in order to +understand the actors, and when a little way off I hear none of the high +notes of instruments or singers. It is most astonishing that in +conversation some people never seem to observe this; being subject to fits +of absence, they attribute it to that cause. I often can scarcely hear a +person if speaking low; I can distinguish the tones, but not the words, and +yet I feel it intolerable if any one shouts to me. Heaven alone knows how +it is to end! Vering declares that I shall certainly improve, even if I be +not entirely restored. How often have I cursed my existence! Plutarch led +me to resignation. I shall strive if possible to set Fate at defiance, +although there must be moments in my life when I cannot fail to be the most +unhappy of God's creatures. I entreat you to say nothing of my affliction +to any one, not even to Lorchen [see Nos. 4 and 5]. I confide the secret to +you alone, and entreat you some day to correspond with Vering on the +subject. If I continue in the same state, I shall come to you in the +ensuing spring, when you must engage a house for me somewhere in the +country, amid beautiful scenery, and I shall then become a rustic for a +year, which may perhaps effect a change. Resignation!--what a miserable +refuge! and yet it is my sole remaining one. You will forgive my thus +appealing to your kindly sympathies at a time when your own position is sad +enough. Stephan Breuning is here, and we are together almost every day; it +does me so much good to revive old feelings! He has really become a capital +good fellow, not devoid of talent, and his heart, like that of us all, +pretty much in the right place. [See No. 13.] + +I have very charming rooms at present, adjoining the Bastei [the ramparts], +and peculiarly valuable to me on account of my health [at Baron +Pasqualati's]. I do really think I shall be able to arrange that Breuning +shall come to me. You shall have your Antiochus [a picture], and plenty of +my music besides--if, indeed, it will not cost you too much. Your love of +art does honestly rejoice me. Only say how it is to be done, and I will +send you all my works, which now amount to a considerable number, and are +daily increasing. I beg you will let me have my grandfather's portrait as +soon as possible by the post, in return for which I send you that of his +grandson, your loving and attached Beethoven. It has been brought out here +by Artaria, who, as well as many other publishers, has often urged this on +me. I intend soon to write to Stoffeln [Christoph von Breuning], and +plainly admonish him about his surly humor. I mean to sound in his ears our +old friendship, and to insist on his promising me not to annoy you further +in your sad circumstances. I will also write to the amiable Lorchen. Never +have I forgotten one of you, my kind friends, though you did not hear from +me; but you know well that writing never was my _forte_, even my best +friends having received no letters from me for years. I live wholly in my +music, and scarcely is one work finished when another is begun; indeed, I +am now often at work on three or four things at the same time. Do write to +me frequently, and I will strive to find time to write to you also. Give my +remembrances to all, especially to the kind Frau Hofraethin [von Breuning], +and say to her that I am still subject to an occasional _raptus_. As for +K----, I am not at all surprised at the change in her: Fortune rolls like a +ball, and does not always stop before the best and noblest. As to Ries +[Court musician in Bonn], to whom pray cordially remember me, I must say +one word. I will write to you more particularly about his son [Ferdinand], +although I believe that he would be more likely to succeed in Paris than in +Vienna, which is already overstocked, and where even those of the highest +merit find it a hard matter to maintain themselves. By next autumn or +winter, I shall be able to see what can be done for him, because then all +the world returns to town. Farewell, my kind, faithful Wegeler! Rest +assured of the love and friendship of your + +BEETHOVEN. + + +15. + +TO COUNTESS GIULIETTA GUICCIARDI.[1] + +Morning, July 6, 1800. + +MY ANGEL! MY ALL! MY SECOND SELF! + +Only a few words to-day, written with a pencil (your own). My residence +cannot be settled till to-morrow. What a tiresome loss of time! Why this +deep grief when necessity compels?--can our love exist without sacrifices, +and by refraining from desiring all things? Can you alter the fact that you +are not wholly mine, nor I wholly yours? Ah! contemplate the beauties of +Nature, and reconcile your spirit to the inevitable. Love demands all, and +has a right to do so, and thus it is _I feel towards you_ and _you towards +me_; but you do not sufficiently remember that I must live both _for you_ +and _for myself_. Were we wholly united, you would feel this sorrow as +little as I should. My journey was terrible. I did not arrive here till +four o'clock yesterday morning, as no horses were to be had. The drivers +chose another route; but what a dreadful one it was! At the last stage I +was warned not to travel through the night, and to beware of a certain +wood, but this only incited me to go forward, and I was wrong. The carriage +broke down, owing to the execrable roads, mere deep rough country lanes, +and had it not been for the postilions I must have been left by the +wayside. Esterhazy, travelling the usual road, had the same fate with eight +horses, whereas I had only four. Still I felt a certain degree of pleasure, +which I invariably do when I have happily surmounted any difficulty. But I +must now pass from the outer to the inner man. We shall, I trust, soon meet +again; to-day I cannot impart to you all the reflections I have made, +during the last few days, on my life; were our hearts closely united +forever, none of these would occur to me. My heart is overflowing with all +I have to say to you. Ah! there are moments when I find that speech is +actually nothing. Take courage! Continue to be ever my true and only love, +my all! as I am yours. The gods must ordain what is further to be and shall +be! + +Your faithful + +LUDWIG. + +Monday Evening, July 6. + +You grieve! dearest of all beings! I have just heard that the letters must +be sent off very early. Mondays and Thursdays are the only days when the +post goes to K. from here. You grieve! Ah! where I am, there you are ever +with me; how earnestly shall I strive to pass my life with you, and what a +life will it be!!! Whereas now!! without you!! and persecuted by the +kindness of others, which I neither deserve nor try to deserve! The +servility of man towards his fellow-man pains me, and when I regard myself +as a component part of the universe, what am I, what is he who is called +the greatest?--and yet herein are displayed the godlike feelings of +humanity!--I weep in thinking that you will receive no intelligence from me +till probably Saturday. However dearly you may love me, I love you more +fondly still. Never conceal your feelings from me. Good-night! As a patient +at these baths, I must now go to rest [a few words are here effaced by +Beethoven himself]. Oh, heavens! so near, and yet so far! Is not our love a +truly celestial mansion, but firm as the vault of heaven itself? + +July 7. + +GOOD-MORNING! + +Even before I rise, my thoughts throng to you, my immortal +beloved!--sometimes full of joy, and yet again sad, waiting to see whether +Fate will hear us. I must live either wholly with you, or not at all. +Indeed I have resolved to wander far from you [see No. 13] till the moment +arrives when I can fly into your arms, and feel that they are my home, and +send forth my soul in unison with yours into the realm of spirits. Alas! it +must be so! You will take courage, for you know my fidelity. Never can +another possess my heart--never, never! Oh, heavens! Why must I fly from +her I so fondly love? and yet my existence in W. was as miserable as here. +Your love made me the most happy and yet the most unhappy of men. At my +age, life requires a uniform equality; can this be found in our mutual +relations? My angel! I have this moment heard that the post goes every day, +so I must conclude, that you may get this letter the sooner. Be calm! for +we can only attain our object of living together by the calm contemplation +of our existence. Continue to love me. Yesterday, to-day, what longings for +you, what tears for you! for you! for you! my life! my all! Farewell! Oh! +love me forever, and never doubt the faithful heart of your lover, L. + +Ever thine. +Ever mine. +Ever each other's. + +[Footnote 1: These letters to his "immortal beloved," to whom the C sharp +minor Sonata is dedicated, appear here for the first time in their +integrity, in accordance with the originals written in pencil on fine +notepaper, and given in Schindler's _Beethoven's Nachlass_. There has been +much discussion about the date. It is certified, in the first place, in the +church register which Alex. Thayer saw in Vienna, that Giulietta was +married to Count Gallenberg in 1801; and in the next place, the 6th of July +falls on a Monday in 1800. The other reasons which induce me decidedly to +fix this latter year as the date of the letter, I mean to give at full +length in the second volume of _Beethoven's Biography_. I may also state +that Beethoven was at baths in Hungary at that time. Whether the K---- in +the second letter means Komorn, I cannot tell.] + + +16. + +TO MATTHISSON. + +Vienna, August 4, 1800. + +MOST ESTEEMED FRIEND,-- + +You will receive with this one of my compositions published some years +since, and yet, to my shame, you probably have never heard of it. I cannot +attempt to excuse myself, or to explain why I dedicated a work to you which +came direct from my heart, but never acquainted you with its existence, +unless indeed in this way, that at first I did not know where you lived, +and partly also from diffidence, which led me to think I might have been +premature in dedicating a work to you before ascertaining that you approved +of it. Indeed, even now I send you "Adelaide" with a feeling of timidity. +You know yourself what changes the lapse of some years brings forth in an +artist who continues to make progress; the greater the advances we make in +art, the less are we satisfied with our works of an earlier date. My most +ardent wish will be fulfilled if you are not dissatisfied with the manner +in which I have set your heavenly "Adelaide" to music, and are incited by +it soon to compose a similar poem; and if you do not consider my request +too indiscreet, I would ask you to send it to me forthwith, that I may +exert all my energies to approach your lovely poetry in merit. Pray regard +the dedication as a token of the pleasure which your "Adelaide" conferred +on me, as well as of the appreciation and intense delight your poetry +always has inspired, and _always will inspire in me_. + +When playing "Adelaide," sometimes recall + +Your sincere admirer, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +17. + +TO FRAU FRANK,--VIENNA + +October, 1800. + +DEAR LADY,-- + +At the second announcement of our concert, you must remind your husband +that the public should be made acquainted with the names of those whose +talents are to contribute to this concert. Such is the custom here; and +indeed, were it not so, what is there to attract a larger audience? which +is after all our chief object. Punto [the celebrated horn-player, for whom +Beethoven wrote Sonata 17] is not a little indignant about the omission, +and I must say he has reason to be so; but even before seeing him it was my +intention to have reminded you of this, for I can only explain the mistake +by great haste or great forgetfulness. Be so good, then, dear lady, as to +attend to my hint; otherwise you will certainly expose yourself to _many +annoyances_. Being at last convinced in my own mind, and by others, that I +shall not be quite superfluous in this concert, I know that not only I, but +also Punto, Simoni [a tenorist], and Galvani will demand that the public +should be apprised of our zeal for this charitable object; otherwise we +must all conclude that we are not wanted. + +Yours, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +18. + +TO HERR VON WEGELER. + +Vienna, Nov. 16, 1800. + +MY DEAR WEGELER,-- + +I thank you for this fresh proof of your interest in me, especially as I so +little deserve it. You wish to know how I am, and what remedies I use. +Unwilling as I always feel to discuss this subject, still I feel less +reluctant to do so with you than with any other person. For some months +past Vering has ordered me to apply blisters on both arms, of a particular +kind of bark, with which you are probably acquainted,--a disagreeable +remedy, independent of the pain, as it deprives me of the free use of my +arms for a couple of days at a time, till the blisters have drawn +sufficiently. The ringing and buzzing in my ears have certainly rather +decreased, particularly in the left ear, in which the malady first +commenced, but my hearing is not at all improved; in fact I fear that it is +become rather worse. My health is better, and after using the tepid baths +for a time, I feel pretty well for eight or ten days. I seldom take tonics, +but I have begun applications of herbs, according to your advice. Vering +will not hear of plunge baths, but I am much dissatisfied with him; he is +neither so attentive nor so indulgent as he ought to be to such a malady; +if I did not go to him, which is no easy matter, I should never see him at +all. What is your opinion of Schmidt [an army surgeon]? I am unwilling to +make any change, but it seems to me that Vering is too much of a +practitioner to acquire new ideas by reading. On this point Schmidt appears +to be a very different man, and would probably be less negligent with +regard to my case. I hear wonders of galvanism; what do you say to it? A +physician told me that he knew a deaf and dumb child whose hearing was +restored by it (in Berlin), and likewise a man who had been deaf for seven +years, and recovered his hearing. I am told that your friend Schmidt is at +this moment making experiments on the subject. + +I am now leading a somewhat more agreeable life, as of late I have been +associating more with other people. You could scarcely believe what a sad +and dreary life mine has been for the last two years; my defective hearing +everywhere pursuing me like a spectre, making me fly from every one, and +appear a misanthrope; and yet no one is in reality less so! This change has +been wrought by a lovely fascinating girl [undoubtedly Giulietta], who +loves me and whom I love. I have once more had some blissful moments during +the last two years, and it is the first time I ever felt that marriage +could make me happy. Unluckily, she is not in my rank of life, and indeed +at this moment I can marry no one; I must first bestir myself actively in +the world. Had it not been for my deafness, I would have travelled half +round the globe ere now, and this I must still do. For me there is no +pleasure so great as to promote and to pursue my art. + +Do not suppose that I could be happy with you. What indeed could make me +happier? Your very solicitude would distress me; I should read your +compassion every moment in your countenance, which would make me only still +more unhappy. What were my thoughts amid the glorious scenery of my +father-land? The hope alone of a happier future, which would have been mine +but for this affliction! Oh! I could span the world were I only free from +this! I feel that my youth is only now commencing. Have I not always been +an infirm creature? For some time past my bodily strength has been +increasing, and it is the same with my mental powers. I feel, though I +cannot describe it, that I daily approach the object I have in view, in +which alone can your Beethoven live. No rest for him!--I know of none but +in sleep, and I do grudge being obliged to sacrifice more time to it than +formerly.[1] Were I only half cured of my malady, then I would come to you, +and, as a more perfect and mature man, renew our old friendship. + +You should then see me as happy as I am ever destined to be here below--not +unhappy. No! that I could not endure; I will boldly meet my fate, never +shall it succeed in crushing me. Oh! it is so glorious to live one's life a +thousand times over! I feel that I am no longer made for a quiet existence. +You will write to me as soon as possible? Pray try to prevail on Steffen +[von Breuning] to seek an appointment from the Teutonic Order somewhere. +Life here is too harassing for his health; besides, he is so isolated that +I do not see how he is ever to get on. You know the kind of existence here. +I do not take it upon myself to say that society would dispel his +lassitude, but he cannot be persuaded to go anywhere. A short time since, I +had some music in my house, but our friend Steffen stayed away. Do +recommend him to be more calm and self-possessed, which I have in vain +tried to effect; otherwise he can neither enjoy health nor happiness. Tell +me in your next letter whether you care about my sending you a large +selection of music; you can indeed dispose of what you do not want, and +thus repay the expense of the carriage, and have my portrait into the +bargain. Say all that is kind and amiable from me to Lorchen, and also to +mamma and Christoph. You still have some regard for me? Always rely on the +love as well as the friendship of your + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: "Too much sleep is hurtful" is marked by a thick score in the +Odyssey (45, 393) by Beethoven's hand. See Schindler's _Beethoven's +Nachlass_.] + + +19. + +TO KAPELLMEISTER HOFMEISTER,--LEIPZIG.[1] + +Vienna, Dec. 15, 1800. + +MY DEAR BROTHER IN ART,-- + +I have often intended to answer your proposals, but am frightfully lazy +about all correspondence; so it is usually a good while before I can make +up my mind to write dry letters instead of music. I have, however, at last +forced myself to answer your application. _Pro primo_, I must tell you how +much I regret that you, my much-loved brother in the science of music, did +not give me some hint, so that I might have offered you my quartets, as +well as many other things that I have now disposed of. But if you are as +conscientious, my dear brother, as many other publishers, who grind to +death us poor composers, you will know pretty well how to derive ample +profit when the works appear. I now briefly state what you can have from +me. 1st. A Septet, _per il violino, viola, violoncello, contra-basso, +clarinetto, corno, fagotto;--tutti obbligati_ (I can write nothing that is +not _obbligato_, having come into the world with an _obbligato_ +accompaniment!) This Septet pleases very much. For more general use it +might be arranged for one more _violino, viola_, and _violoncello_, instead +of the three wind-instruments, _fagotto, clarinetto_, and _corno_.[2] 2d. A +Grand Symphony with full orchestra [the 1st]. 3rd. A pianoforte Concerto +[Op. 19], which I by no means assert to be one of my best, any more than +the one Mollo is to publish here [Op. 15], (this is for the benefit of the +Leipzig critics!) because _I reserve the best for myself_ till I set off on +my travels; still the work will not disgrace you to publish. 4th. A Grand +Solo Sonata [Op. 22]. These are all I can part with at this moment; a +little later you can have a quintet for stringed instruments, and probably +some quartets also, and other pieces that I have not at present beside me. +In your answer you can yourself fix the prices; and as you are neither an +_Italian_ nor a _Jew_, nor am I either, we shall no doubt quickly agree. +Farewell, and rest assured, + +My dear brother in art, of the esteem of your + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: The letters to Hofmeister, formerly of Vienna, who conducted +the correspondence with Beethoven in the name of the firm of "Hofmeister & +Kuehnel, Bureau de Musique," are given here as they first appeared in 1837 +in the _Neue Zeitschrift fuer Musik_. On applying to the present +representative of that firm, I was told that those who now possess these +letters decline giving them out of their own hands, and that no copyist can +be found able to decipher or transcribe them correctly.] + +[Footnote 2: This last phrase is not in the copy before me, but in Marx's +_Biography_, who appears to have seen the original.] + + +20. + +TO KAPELLMEISTER HOFMEISTER. + +Vienna, Jan. 15 (or thereabouts), 1801. + +I read your letter, dear brother and friend, with much pleasure, and I +thank you for your good opinion of me and of my works, and hope I may +continue to deserve it. I also beg you to present all due thanks to Herr K. +[Kuehnel] for his politeness and friendship towards me. I, on my part, +rejoice in your undertakings, and am glad that when works of art do turn +out profitable, they fall to the share of true artists, rather than to that +of mere tradesmen. + +Your intention to publish Sebastian Bach's works really gladdens my heart, +which beats with devotion for the lofty and grand productions of this our +father of the science of harmony, and I trust I shall soon see them appear. +I hope when golden peace is proclaimed, and your subscription list opened, +to procure you many subscribers here.[1] + +With regard to our own transactions, as you wish to know my proposals, they +are as follows. I offer you at present the following works:--The Septet +(which I already wrote to you about), 20 ducats; Symphony, 20 ducats; +Concerto, 10 ducats; Grand Solo Sonata, _allegro, adagio, minuetto, rondo_, +20 ducats. This Sonata [Op. 22] is well up to the mark, my dear brother! + +Now for explanations. You may perhaps be surprised that I make no +difference of price between the sonata, septet, and symphony. I do so +because I find that a septet or a symphony has not so great a sale as a +sonata, though a symphony ought unquestionably to be of the most value. +(N.B. The septet consists of a short introductory _adagio_, an _allegro, +adagio, minuetto, andante_, with variations, _minuetto_, and another short +_adagio_ preceding a _presto_.) I only ask ten ducats for the concerto, +for, as I already wrote to you, I do not consider it one of my best. I +cannot think that, taken as a whole, you will consider these prices +exorbitant; at least, I have endeavored to make them as moderate as +possible for you. + +With regard to the banker's draft, as you give me my choice, I beg you will +make it payable by Germueller or Schueller. The entire sum for the four works +will amount to 70 ducats; I understand no currency but Vienna ducats, so +how many dollars in gold they make in your money is no affair of mine, for +really I am a very bad man of business and accountant. Now this +_troublesome_ business is concluded;--I call it so, heartily wishing that +it could be otherwise here below! There ought to be only one grand _depot_ +of art in the world, to which the artist might repair with his works, and +on presenting them receive what he required; but as it now is, one must be +half a tradesman besides--and how is this to be endured? Good heavens! I +may well call it _troublesome_! + +As for the Leipzig oxen,[2] let them talk!--they certainly will make no man +immortal by their prating, and as little can they deprive of immortality +those whom Apollo destines to attain it. + +Now may Heaven preserve you and your colleagues! I have been unwell for +some time; so it is rather difficult for me at present to write even music, +much more letters. I trust we shall have frequent opportunities to assure +each other how truly you are my friend, and I yours. + +I hope for a speedy answer. Adieu! + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: I have at this moment in my hands this edition of Bach, bound +in one thick volume, together with the first part of Naegeli's edition of +the _Wohltemperirtes Clavier_, also three books of exercises (D, G, and C +minor), the _Toccata in D Minor_, and _Twice Fifteen Inventions_.] + +[Footnote 2: It is thus that Schindler supplies the gap. It is probably an +allusion to the _Allgemeine Musikalische Zeitung_, founded about three +years previously.] + + +21. + +TO HERR HOFMEISTER. + +Vienna, April 22, 1801. + +You have indeed too good cause to complain not a little of me. My excuse is +that I have been ill, and in addition had so much to do, that I could +scarcely even think of what I was to send you. Moreover, the only thing in +me that resembles a genius is, that my papers are never in very good order, +and yet no one but myself can succeed in arranging them. For instance, in +the score of the concerto, the piano part, according to my usual custom, +was not yet written down; so, owing to my hurry, you will receive it in my +own very illegible writing. In order that the works may follow as nearly as +possible in their proper order, I have marked the numbers to be placed on +each, as follows:-- + +Solo Sonata, Op. 22. +Symphony, Op. 21. +Septet, Op. 20. +Concerto, Op. 19. + +I will send you their various titles shortly. + +Put me down as a subscriber to Sebastian Bach's works [see Letter 20], and +also Prince Lichnowsky. The arrangement of Mozart's Sonatas as quartets +will do you much credit, and no doubt be profitable also. I wish I could +contribute more to the promotion of such an undertaking, but I am an +irregular man, and too apt, even with the best intentions, to forget +everything; I have, however, mentioned the matter to various people, and I +everywhere find them well disposed towards it. It would be a good thing if +you would arrange the septet you are about to publish as a quintet, with a +flute part, for instance; this would be an advantage to amateurs of the +flute, who have already importuned me on the subject, and who would swarm +round it like insects and banquet on it. + +Now to tell you something of myself. I have written a ballet +["Prometheus"], in which the ballet-master has not done his part so well as +might be. The F---- von L---- has also bestowed on us a production which by +no means corresponds with the ideas of his genius conveyed by the newspaper +reports. F---- seems to have taken Herr M---- (Wenzel Mueller?) as his ideal +at the Kusperle, yet without even rising to his level. Such are the fine +prospects before us poor people who strive to struggle upwards! My dear +friend, pray lose no time in bringing the work before the notice of the +public, and write to me soon, that I may know whether by my delay I have +entirely forfeited your confidence for the future. Say all that is civil +and kind to your partner, Kuehnel. Everything shall henceforth be sent +finished, and in quick succession. So now farewell, and continue your +regards for + +Your friend and brother, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +22. + +TO HERR HOFMEISTER. + +Vienna, June, 1801. + +I am rather surprised at the communication you have desired your business +agent here to make to me; I may well feel offended at your believing me +capable of so mean a trick. It would have been a very different thing had I +sold my works to rapacious shopkeepers, and then secretly made another good +speculation; but, from _one artist to another_, it is rather a strong +measure to suspect me of such a proceeding! The whole thing seems to be +either a device to put me to the test, or a mere suspicion. In any event I +may tell you that before you received the septet from me I had sent it to +Mr. Salomon in London (to be played at his own concert, which I did solely +from friendship), with the express injunction to beware of its getting into +other hands, as it was my intention to have it engraved in Germany, and, if +you choose, you can apply to him for the confirmation of this. But to give +you a further proof of my integrity, "I herewith give you the faithful +assurance that I have neither sold the septet, the symphony, the concerto, +nor the sonata to any one but to Messrs. Hofmeister and Kuehnel, and that +they may consider them to be their own exclusive property. And to this I +pledge my honor." You may make what use you please of this guarantee. + +Moreover, I believe Salomon to be as incapable of the baseness of engraving +the septet as I am of selling it to him. I was so scrupulous in the matter, +that when applied to by various publishers to sanction a pianoforte +arrangement of the septet, I at once declined, though I do not even know +whether you proposed making use of it in this way. Here follow the +long-promised titles of the works. There will no doubt be a good deal to +alter and to amend in them; but this I leave to you. I shall soon expect a +letter from you, and, I hope, the works likewise, which I wish to see +engraved, as others have appeared, and are about to appear, in connection +with these numbers. I look on your statement as founded on mere rumors, +which you have believed with too much facility, or based entirely on +supposition, induced by having perchance heard that I had sent the work to +Salomon; I cannot, therefore, but feel some coolness towards such a +credulous friend, though I still subscribe myself + +Your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +23. + +DEDICATION TO DR. SCHMIDT.[1] + +1801. + +MONSIEUR,-- + +Je sens parfaitement bien, que la Celebrite de Votre nom ainsi que l'amitie +dont Vous m'honorez, exigeroient de moi la dedicace d'un bien plus +important ouvrage. La seule chose qui a pu me determiner a Vous offrir +celui-ci de preference, c'est qu'il me paroit d'une execution plus facile +et par la meme plus propre a contribuer a la Satisfaction dont Vous +jouissez dans l'aimable Cercle de Votre Famille.--C'est surtout, lorsque +les heureux talents d'une fille cherie se seront developpes davantage, que +je me flatte de voir ce but atteint. Heureux si j'y ai reussi et si dans +cette faible marque de ma haute estime et de ma gratitude Vous reconnoissez +toute la vivacite et la cordialite de mes sentiments. + +LOUIS VAN BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Grand Trio, Op. 38.] + + +24. + +TO HIS SCHOLAR, FERDINAND RIES.[1] + +1801. + +DEAR RIES,-- + +I send you herewith the four parts corrected by me; please compare the +others already written out with these. I also enclose a letter to Count +Browne. I have told him that he must make an advance to you of fifty +ducats, to enable you to get your outfit. This is absolutely necessary, so +it cannot offend him; for after being equipped, you are to go with him to +Baden on the Monday of the ensuing week. I must, however, reproach you for +not having had recourse to me long ago. Am I not your true friend? Why did +you conceal your necessities from me? No friend of mine shall ever be in +need, so long as I have anything myself. I would already have sent you a +small sum, did I not rely on Browne; if he fails us, then apply at once to +your + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Ries names 1801 as the date of this letter, and it was no +doubt during that summer that Count Browne was in Baden. Ries's father had +assisted the Beethoven family in every way in his power at the time of the +mother's death.] + + +25. + +TO HERR HOFMEISTER,--LEIPZIG. + +Vienna, April 8, 1802. + +Do you mean to go post-haste to the devil, gentlemen, by proposing that I +should write _such_ a _sonata_? During the revolutionary fever, a thing of +the kind might have been appropriate, but now, when everything is falling +again into the beaten track, and Bonaparte has concluded a _Concordat_ with +the Pope--such a sonata as this? If it were a _missa pro Sancta Maria a tre +voci_, or a _vesper_, &c., then I would at once take up my pen and write a +_Credo in unum_, in gigantic semibreves. But, good heavens! such a sonata, +in this fresh dawning Christian epoch. No, no!--it won't do, and I will +have none of it. + +Now for my answer in quickest _tempo_. The lady can have a sonata from me, +and I am willing to adopt the general outlines of her plan in an +_aesthetical_ point of view, without adhering to the keys named. The price +to be five ducats; for this sum she can keep the work a year for her own +amusement, without either of us being entitled to publish it. After the +lapse of a year, the sonata to revert to me--that is, I can and will then +publish it, when, if she considers it any distinction, she may request me +to dedicate it to her. + +I now, gentlemen, commend you to the grace of God. My Sonata [Op. 22] is +well engraved, but you have been a fine time about it! I hope you will +usher my Septet into the world a little quicker, as the P---- is waiting +for it, and you know the Empress has it; and when there are in this +imperial city people like ----, I cannot be answerable for the result; so +lose no time! + +Herr ---- [Mollo?] has lately published my Quartets [Op. 18] full of faults +and _errata_, both large and small, which swarm in them like fish in the +sea; that is, they are innumerable. _Questo e un piacere per un +autore_--this is what I call engraving [_stechen_, stinging] with a +vengeance.[1] In truth, my skin is a mass of punctures and scratches from +this fine edition of my Quartets! Now farewell, and think of me as I do of +you. Till death, your faithful + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: In reference to the musical piracy at that time very prevalent +in Austria.] + + +26.[1] + +TO MY BROTHERS CARL AND JOHANN BEETHOVEN. + +Heiligenstadt, Oct. 6, 1802. + +Oh! ye who think or declare me to be hostile, morose, and misanthropical, +how unjust you are, and how little you know the secret cause of what +appears thus to you! My heart and mind were ever from childhood prone to +the most tender feelings of affection, and I was always disposed to +accomplish something great. But you must remember that six years ago I was +attacked by an incurable malady, aggravated by unskilful physicians, +deluded from year to year, too, by the hope of relief, and at length forced +to the conviction of a _lasting affliction_ (the cure of which may go on +for years, and perhaps after all prove impracticable). + +Born with a passionate and excitable temperament, keenly susceptible to the +pleasures of society, I was yet obliged early in life to isolate myself, +and to pass my existence in solitude. If I at any time resolved to surmount +all this, oh! how cruelly was I again repelled by the experience, sadder +than ever, of my defective hearing!--and yet I found it impossible to say +to others: Speak louder; shout! for I am deaf! Alas! how could I proclaim +the deficiency of a sense which ought to have been more perfect with me +than with other men,--a sense which I once possessed in the highest +perfection, to an extent, indeed, that few of my profession ever enjoyed! +Alas, I cannot do this! Forgive me therefore when you see me withdraw from +you with whom I would so gladly mingle. My misfortune is doubly severe from +causing me to be misunderstood. No longer can I enjoy recreation in social +intercourse, refined conversation, or mutual outpourings of thought. +Completely isolated, I only enter society when compelled to do so. I must +live like an exile. In company I am assailed by the most painful +apprehensions, from the dread of being exposed to the risk of my condition +being observed. It was the same during the last six months I spent in the +country. My intelligent physician recommended me to spare my hearing as +much as possible, which was quite in accordance with my present +disposition, though sometimes, tempted by my natural inclination for +society, I allowed myself to be beguiled into it. But what humiliation when +any one beside me heard a flute in the far distance, while I heard +_nothing_, or when others heard _a shepherd singing_, and I still heard +_nothing_! Such things brought me to the verge of desperation, and wellnigh +caused me to put an end to my life. _Art! art_ alone, deterred me. Ah! how +could I possibly quit the world before bringing forth all that I felt it +was my vocation to produce?[2] And thus I spared this miserable life--so +utterly miserable that any sudden change may reduce me at any moment from +my best condition into the worst. It is decreed that I must now choose +_Patience_ for my guide! This I have done. I hope the resolve will not fail +me, steadfastly to persevere till it may please the inexorable Fates to cut +the thread of my life. Perhaps I may get better, perhaps not. I am prepared +for either. Constrained to become a philosopher in my twenty-eighth +year![3] This is no slight trial, and more severe on an artist than on any +one else. God looks into my heart, He searches it, and knows that love for +man and feelings of benevolence have their abode there! Oh! ye who may one +day read this, think that you have done me injustice, and let any one +similarly afflicted be consoled, by finding one like himself, who, in +defiance of all the obstacles of Nature, has done all in his power to be +included in the ranks of estimable artists and men. My brothers Carl and +Johann, as soon as I am no more, if Professor Schmidt [see Nos. 18 and 23] +be still alive, beg him in my name to describe my malady, and to add these +pages to the analysis of my disease, that at least, so far as possible, the +world may be reconciled to me after my death. I also hereby declare you +both heirs of my small fortune (if so it may be called). Share it fairly, +agree together and assist each other. You know that anything you did to +give me pain has been long forgiven. I thank you, my brother Carl in +particular, for the attachment you have shown me of late. My wish is that +you may enjoy a happier life, and one more free from care, than mine has +been. Recommend _Virtue_ to your children; that alone, and not wealth, can +ensure happiness. I speak from experience. It was _Virtue_ alone which +sustained me in my misery; I have to thank her and Art for not having ended +my life by suicide. Farewell! Love each other. I gratefully thank all my +friends, especially Prince Lichnowsky and Professor Schmidt. I wish one of +you to keep Prince L----'s instruments; but I trust this will give rise to +no dissension between you. If you think it more beneficial, however, you +have only to dispose of them. How much I shall rejoice if I can serve you +even in the grave! So be it then! I joyfully hasten to meet Death. If he +comes before I have had the opportunity of developing all my artistic +powers, then, notwithstanding my cruel fate, he will come too early for me, +and I should wish for him at a more distant period; but even then I shall +be content, for his advent will release me from a state of endless +suffering. Come when he may, I shall meet him with courage. Farewell! Do +not quite forget me, even in death; I deserve this from you, because during +my life I so often thought of you, and wished to make you happy. Amen! + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + +(_Written on the Outside._) + +Thus, then, I take leave of you, and with sadness too. The fond hope I +brought with me here, of being to a certain degree cured, now utterly +forsakes me. As autumn leaves fall and wither, so are my hopes blighted. +Almost as I came, I depart. Even the lofty courage that so often animated +me in the lovely days of summer is gone forever. O Providence! vouchsafe me +one day of pure felicity! How long have I been estranged from the glad echo +of true joy! When! O my God! when shall I again feel it in the temple of +Nature and of man?--never? Ah! that would be too hard! + +(_Outside._) + +To be read and fulfilled after my death by my brothers Carl and Johann. + +[Footnote 1: This beautiful letter I regret not to have seen in the +original, it being in the possession of the violin _virtuoso_ Ernst, in +London. I have adhered to the version given in the Leipzig _Allgemeine +Musikalische Zeitung_, Oct. 1827.] + +[Footnote 2: A large portion of the _Eroica_ was written in the course of +this summer, but not completed till August, 1804.] + +[Footnote 3: Beethoven did not at that time know in what year he was born. +See the subsequent letter of May 2, 1810. He was then far advanced in his +thirty-third year.] + + +27. + +NOTICE. + +November, 1802. + +I owe it to the public and to myself to state that the two quintets in C +and E flat major--one of these (arranged from a symphony of mine) published +by Herr Mollo in Vienna, and the other (taken from my Septet, Op. 20) by +Herr Hofmeister in Leipzig--are not original quintets, but only versions of +the aforesaid works given by the publishers. Arrangements in these days (so +fruitful in--arrangements) an author will find it vain to contend against; +but we may at least justly demand that the fact should be mentioned in the +title-page, neither to injure the reputation of the author nor to deceive +the public. This notice is given to prevent anything of the kind in future. +I also beg to announce that shortly a new original quintet of my +composition, in C major, Op. 29, will appear at Breitkopf & Haertel's in +Leipzig. + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +28. + +TO FERDINAND RIES. + +Summer of 1803. + +You no doubt are aware that I am here. Go to Stein, and ask if he can send +me an instrument, on hire. I am afraid of bringing mine here. Come to me +this evening about seven o'clock. I lodge in Oberdoebling, on the left side +of the street, No. 4, going down the hill towards Heiligenstadt. + + +29. + +TO HERR HOFMEISTER,--LEIPZIG. + +Vienna, Sept. 22, 1803. + +I hereby declare all the works you have ordered to be your property. The +list of these shall be made out and sent to you with my signature, as the +proof of their being your own. I also agree to accept the sum of fifty +ducats for them. Are you satisfied? + +Perhaps, instead of the variations with violoncello and violin,[1] I may +send you variations for the piano, arranged as a duet on a song of mine; +but Goethe's poetry must also be engraved, as I wrote these variations in +an album, and consider them better than the others. Are you satisfied? + +The arrangements are not by me, though I have revised and much improved +various passages; but I do not wish you to say that I have arranged them, +for it would be false, and I have neither time nor patience to do so. Are +you satisfied? + +Now farewell! I sincerely wish that all may go well with you. I would +gladly make you a present of all my works, if I could do so and still get +on in the world; but--remember most people are provided for, and know what +they have to live on, while, good heavens! where can an appointment be +found at the Imperial Court for such a _parvum talentum com ego_? + +Your friend, + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: These are the six variations in D, on the air _Ich denke Dein_ +written in 1800 in the album of the Countesses Josephine Deym and Therese +of Brunswick.] + + +30. + +CAUTION. + +November, 1803. + +Herr Carl Zulehner, a piratical engraver in Mayence, has announced an +edition of my collected works for the pianoforte and also stringed +instruments. I consider it my duty publicly to inform all friends of music +that I have no share whatever in this edition. + +I would never have in any way authorized any collection of my works (which, +moreover, I consider premature) without previously consulting the +publishers of single pieces, and ensuring that correctness in which +editions of my individual works are so deficient. I must also observe that +this illegal edition cannot be complete, as several new works of mine are +shortly to appear in Paris, and these Herr Zulehner, being a French +subject, dare not pirate. I intend to take another opportunity of +enumerating the details of the collection of my works to be brought out +under my own auspices and careful revision. + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +31. + +TO HERR RIES.[1] + +1804. + +Be so good as to make out a list of the mistakes and send it at once to +Simrock, and say that the work must appear as soon as possible. I will send +him the Sonata [Op. 47] and the Concerto the day after to-morrow. + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Ries relates that the three following notes refer to the +pianoforte Sonata, Op. 31, No. 1, carefully engraved by Naegeli in Zurich, +which Beethoven consequently sent forthwith to Simrock in Bonn, desiring +him to bring out "_une edition tres-correcte_" of the work. He also states +that Beethoven was residing in Heiligenstadt at the time the work was first +sent [see No. 26]. In Nottebohm's _Skizzenbuch von Beethoven_, he says (p. +43) that the first notice of the appearance of this sonata was on May 21st, +1803; but Simrock writes to me that the date of the document making over +the sonata to him is 1804.] + + +32. + +TO HERR RIES. + +I must again ask you to undertake the disagreeable task of making a fair +copy of the errors in the Zurich Sonata. I have got your list of _errata_ +"_auf der Wieden_." + + +33. + +TO HERR RIES. + +DEAR RIES,-- + +The signs are wrongly marked, and many of the notes misplaced; so be +careful! or your labor will be vain. _Ch' a detto l' amato bene?_ + + +34. + +TO HERR RIES. + +DEAR RIES,-- + +May I beg you to be so obliging as to copy this _andante_ [in the Kreuzer +Sonata] for me, however indifferently? I must send it off to-morrow, and as +Heaven alone knows what its fate may then be, I wish to get it transcribed. +But I must have it back to-morrow about one o'clock. The cause of my +troubling you is that one of my copyists is already very much occupied with +various things of importance, and the other is ill. + + +35. + +TO THE COMPOSER LEIDESDORF,--VIENNA.[1] + +DORF DES LEIDES [VILLAGE OF SORROW--LEIDESDORF],-- + +Let the bearer of this, Herr Ries, have some easy duets, and, better still, +let him have them for nothing. Conduct yourself in accordance with the +reformed doctrines. Farewell! + +BEETHOVEN + +_Minimus._ + +[Footnote 1: Date unknown. Leidesdorf was also a music-seller.] + + +36. + +TO HERR RIES. + +Baden, July 14, 1804. + +DEAR RIES,-- + +If you can find me better lodgings, I shall be very glad. Tell my brothers +not to engage these at once; I have a great desire to get one in a +spacious, quiet square or on the Bastei. It it really inexcusable in my +brother not to have provided wine, as it is so beneficial and necessary to +me. I shall take care to be present at the rehearsal on Wednesday. I am not +pleased to hear that it is to be at Schuppanzigh's. He may well be grateful +to me if my impertinences make him thinner! Farewell, dear Ries! We have +bad weather here, and I am not safe from visitors; so I must take flight in +order to be alone. + +Your true friend, + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + + +37. + +TO HERR RIES. + +Baden, July, 1804. + +DEAR RIES,-- + +As Breuning [see Nos. 13, 14, and 18] by his conduct has not scrupled to +display my character to you and the house-steward as that of a mean, petty, +base man, I beg you will convey my reply at once in person to Breuning. I +answer only one point, the first in his letter, and I do so solely because +it is the only mode of justifying myself in your eyes. Say also to him that +I had no intention of reproaching him on account of the delay of the notice +to quit, and even if Breuning were really to blame for this, our harmonious +relations are so dear and precious in my sight, that, for the sake of a few +hundreds more or less, I would never subject any friend of mine to +vexation. You are aware, indeed, that I jestingly accused you as the cause +of the notice arriving too late. I am quite sure that you must remember +this. I had entirely forgotten the whole matter, but at dinner my brother +began to say that he thought Breuning was to blame in the affair, which I +at once denied, saying that you were in fault. I think this shows plainly +enough that I attributed no blame to Breuning; but on this he sprang up +like a madman, and insisted on sending for the house-steward. Such +behavior, in the presence of all those with whom I usually associate, and +to which I am wholly unaccustomed, caused me to lose all self-control; so I +also started up, upset my chair, left the room, and did not return. This +conduct induced Breuning to place me in a pretty light to you and the +house-steward, and also to send me a letter which I only answered by +silence. I have not another word to say to Breuning. His mode of thinking +and of acting, with regard to me, proves that there never ought to have +been such friendly intimacy between us, and assuredly it can never more be +restored. I wished to make you acquainted with this, as your version of the +occurrence degraded both my words and actions. I know that, had you been +aware of the real state of the affair, you would not have said what you +did, and with this I am satisfied. + +I now beg of you, dear Ries, to go to my brother, the apothecary, as soon +as you receive this letter, and say to him that I mean to leave Baden in +the course of a few days, and that he is to engage the lodging in Doebling +as soon as you have given him this message. I had nearly left this to-day; +I detest being here--I am sick of it. For Heaven's sake urge him to close +the bargain at once, for I want to take possession immediately. Neither +show nor speak to any one of what is written in the previous page of this +letter. I wish to prove to him in every respect that I am not so meanly +disposed as he is. Indeed I have written to him, although my resolve as to +the dissolution of our friendship remains firm and unchangeable. + +Your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +38. + +TO HERR RIES. + +Berlin, July 24, 1804. + +... You were no doubt not a little surprised about the affair with +Breuning; believe me, my dear friend, that the ebullition on my part was +only an outbreak caused by many previous scenes of a disagreeable nature. I +have the gift of being able to conceal and to repress my susceptibility on +many occasions; but if attacked at a time when I chance to be peculiarly +irritable, I burst forth more violently than any one. Breuning certainly +possesses many admirable qualities, but he thinks himself quite faultless; +whereas the very defects that he discovers in others are those which he +possesses himself to the highest degree. From my childhood I have always +despised his petty mind. My powers of discrimination enabled me to foresee +the result with Breuning, for our modes of thinking, acting, and feeling +are entirely opposite; and yet I believed that these difficulties might be +overcome, but experience has disproved this. So now I want no more of his +friendship! I have only found two friends in the world with whom I never +had a misunderstanding; but what men these were! One is dead, the other +still lives. Although for nearly six years past we have seen nothing of +each other, yet I know that I still hold the first place in his heart, as +he does in mine [see No. 12]. The true basis of friendship is to be found +in sympathy of heart and soul. I only wish you could have read the letter I +wrote to Breuning, and his to me. No! never can he be restored to his +former place in my heart. The man who could attribute to his friend so base +a mode of thinking, and could himself have recourse to so base a mode of +acting towards him, is no longer worthy of my friendship. + +Do not forget the affair of my apartments. Farewell! Do not be too much +addicted to tailoring,[1] remember me to the fairest of the fair, and send +me half a dozen needles. + +I never could have believed that I could be so idle as I am here. If this +be followed by a fit of industry, something worth while may be produced. + +_Vale!_ Your + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Ries says, in Wegeler's _Biographical Notices_:--"Beethoven +never visited me more frequently than when I lived in the house of a +tailor, with three very handsome but thoroughly respectable daughters."] + + +39. + +TO MESSRS. ARTARIA & CO.[1] + +Vienna, June 1, 1805. + +I must inform you that the affair about the new quintet is settled between +Count Fries and myself. + +The Count has just assured me that he intends to make you a present of it; +it is too late to-day for a written agreement on the subject, but one shall +be sent early in the ensuing week. This intelligence must suffice for the +present, and I think I at all events deserve your thanks for it. + +Your obedient servant, + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: The quintet is probably not that in C, Op. 29, dedicated to +Count v. Fries, previously published in 1803 by Breitkopf & Haertel [see No. +27]. It is more likely that he alludes to a new quintet which the Count had +no doubt ordered.] + + +40. + +TO MADAME LA PRINCESSE LIECHTENSTEIN, &C.[1] + +November, 1805. + +Pray pardon me, illustrious Princess, if the bearer of this should cause +you an unpleasant surprise. Poor Ries, my scholar, is forced by this +unhappy war to shoulder a musket, and must moreover leave this in a few +days, being a foreigner. He has nothing, literally nothing, and is obliged +to take a long journey. All chance of a concert on his behalf is thus +entirely at an end, and he must have recourse to the benevolence of others. +I recommend him to you. I know you will forgive the step I have taken. A +noble-minded man would only have recourse to such measures in the most +utter extremity. Confident of this, I send the poor youth to you, in the +hope of somewhat improving his circumstances. He is forced to apply to all +who know him. + +I am, with the deepest respect, yours, + +L. VAN BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Communicated by Ries himself, who, to Beethoven's extreme +indignation, did not deliver the note. See Wegeler's work, p. 134. The +following remark is added:--"Date unknown; written a few days before the +entrance of the French in 1805" (which took place Nov. 13). Ries, a native +of Bonn, was now a French subject, and recalled under the laws of +conscription. The Sonata, Op. 27, No. 1, is dedicated to Princess +Liechtenstein.] + + +41. + +TO HERR MEYER.[1] + +1805. + +DEAR MEYER,-- + +Pray try to persuade Herr v. Seyfried to direct my Opera, as I wish on this +occasion to see and hear it myself _from a distance_; in this way my +patience will at all events not be so severely tried as when I am close +enough to hear my music so bungled. I really do believe that it is done on +purpose to annoy me! I will say nothing of the wind-instruments; but all +_pp._'s, _cresc._, _discresc._, and all _f._'s and _ff._'s may as well be +struck out of my Opera, for no attention whatever is paid to them. I shall +lose all pleasure in composing anything in future, if I am to hear it given +thus. To-morrow or the day after I will come to fetch you to dinner. To-day +I am again unwell. + +Your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +If the Opera is to be performed the day after to-morrow, there must be +another private rehearsal to-morrow, or _each time it will be given worse +and worse_. + +[Footnote 1: Meyer, the husband of Mozart's eldest sister-in-law, Josepha +(Hofer's widow), sang the part of Pizarro at the first performance of +_Fidelio_, Nov. 20, 1805, and also at a later period. Seyfried was at that +time Kapellmeister at the Theatre "an der Wien."] + + +42. + +TESTIMONIAL FOR C. CZERNY. + +Vienna, Dec. 7, 1805. + +I, the undersigned, am glad to bear testimony to young Carl Czerny having +made the most extraordinary progress on the pianoforte, far beyond what +might be expected at the age of fourteen. I consider him deserving of all +possible assistance, not only from what I have already referred to, but +from his astonishing memory, and more especially from his parents having +spent all their means in cultivating the talent of their promising son. + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +43. + +TO HERR ROeCKEL.[1] + +DEAR ROeCKEL,-- + +Be sure that you arrange matters properly with Mdlle. Milder, and say to +her previously from me, that I hope she will not sing anywhere else. I +intend to call on her to-morrow, to kiss the hem of her garment. Do not +also forget Marconi, and forgive me for giving you so much trouble. + +Yours wholly, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Roeckel, in 1806 tenor at the Theatre "an der Wien," sang the +part of Florestan in the spring of that year, when _Fidelio_ was revived. +Mdlle. Milder, afterwards Mdme. Hauptmann, played Leonore; Mdme. Marconi +was also prima donna.] + + +44. + +TO HERR COLLIN,[1] COURT SECRETARY AND POET. + +MY ESTEEMED COLLIN,-- + +I hear that you are about to fulfil my greatest wish and your own purpose. +Much as I desire to express my delight to you in person, I cannot find time +to do so, having so much to occupy me. Pray do not then ascribe this to any +want of proper attention towards you. I send you the "Armida"; as soon as +you have entirely done with it, pray return it, as it does not belong to +me. I am, with sincere esteem, + +Yours, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Collin, Court Secretary, was the author of _Coriolanus_, a +tragedy for which Beethoven in 1807 wrote the celebrated Overture dedicated +to that poet. According to Reichardt, Collin offered the libretto of +_Bradamante_ to Beethoven in 1808, which Reichardt subsequently composed. +This note evidently refers to a _libretto_.] + + +45. + +TO HERR GLEICHENSTEIN.[1] + +I should like very much, my good Gleichenstein, to speak to you this +forenoon between one and two o'clock, or in the afternoon, and where you +please. To-day I am too busy to call early enough to find you at home. Give +me an answer, and don't forget to appoint the place for us to meet. +Farewell, and continue your regard for your + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Probably in reference to a conference with regard to a +contract for the publication of his works, Op. 58, 59, 60, 61, and 62, that +Beethoven had made on the 20th April, 1807, with Muzio Clementi, who had +established a large music firm in London; it was also signed by Baron +Gleichen. + +Beethoven's first intention was to dedicate Op. 58 to him, which is evident +from a large page in Schindler's work, on which is written in bold +characters, by the master's own hand, "_Quatrieme Concerto pour le Piano, +avec accompagnement, etc., dedie a son ami Gleichenstein_," &c. The name of +the Archduke Rudolph had been previously written, and was eventually +adopted, and Gleichenstein afterwards received the dedication of the Grand +Sonata with violoncello, Op. 69.] + + +46. + +TO THE DIRECTORS OF THE COURT THEATRE.[1] + +Vienna, December, 1807. + +The undersigned has cause to flatter himself that during the period of his +stay in Vienna he has gained some favor and approbation from the highest +nobility, as well as from the public at large, his works having met with an +honorable reception both in this and other countries. Nevertheless he has +had difficulties of every kind to contend against, and has not hitherto +been so fortunate as to acquire a position that would enable him _to live +solely for art_, and to develop his talents to a still higher degree of +perfection, which ought to be the aim of every artist, thus ensuring future +independence instead of mere casual profits. + +The mere wish _to gain a livelihood_ has never been the leading clew that +has hitherto guided the undersigned on his path. His great aim has been the +_interest of art_ and the ennobling of taste, while his genius, soaring to +a higher ideal and greater perfection, frequently compelled him to +sacrifice his talents and profits to the Muse. Still works of this kind won +for him a reputation in distant lands, securing him the most favorable +reception in various places of distinction, and a position befitting his +talents and acquirements. + +The undersigned does not, however, hesitate to say that this city is above +all others the most precious and desirable in his eyes, owing to the number +of years he has lived here, the favor and approval he has enjoyed from both +high and low, and his wish fully to realize the expectations he has had the +good fortune to excite, but most of all, he may truly say, from his +_patriotism as a German_. Before, therefore, making up his mind to leave a +place so dear to him, he begs to refer to a hint which the reigning Prince +Lichnowsky was so kind as to give him, to the effect that the directors of +the theatre were disposed to engage the undersigned on reasonable +conditions in the service of their theatre, and to ensure his remaining in +Vienna by securing to him a permanent position, more propitious to the +further exercise of his talents. As this assurance is entirely in +accordance with the wishes of the undersigned, he takes the liberty, with +all due respect, to place before the directors his readiness to enter into +such an engagement, and begs to state the following conditions for their +gracious consideration. + +1. The undersigned undertakes and pledges himself to compose each year at +least _one grand opera_, to be selected by the directors and himself; in +return for this he demands a _fixed salary_ of 2400 florins a year, and +also a free benefit at the third performance of each such opera. + +2. He also agrees to supply the directors annually with a little _operetta_ +or a _divertissement_, with choruses or occasional music of the kind, as +may be required, _gratis_; he feels confident that on the other hand the +directors will not refuse, in return for these various labors, to grant him +_a benefit concert_ at all events once a year in one of the theatres. +Surely the above conditions cannot be thought exorbitant or unreasonable, +when the expenditure of time and energy entailed by the production of an +_opera_ is taken into account, as it entirely excludes the possibility of +all other mental exertion; in other places, too, the author and his family +have a share in the profits of every individual performance, so that even +_one_ successful work at once ensures the future fortunes of the composer. +It must also be considered how prejudicial the present rate of exchange is +to artists here, and likewise the high price of the necessaries of life, +while a residence in foreign countries is open to them. + +But in any event, whether the directors accede to or decline this present +proposal, the undersigned ventures to request that he may be permitted to +give a concert for his own benefit in one of the theatres. For if his +conditions be accepted, the undersigned must devote all his time and +talents to the composition of such an opera, and thus be prevented working +in any other way for profit. In case of the non-acceptance of these +proposals, as the concert he was authorized to give last year did not take +place owing to various obstacles, he would entreat, as a parting token of +the favor hitherto vouchsafed to him, that the promise of last year may now +be fulfilled. In the former case, he would beg to suggest _Annunciation +Day_ [March 25.] for his concert, and in the latter a day during the +ensuing Christmas vacation. + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN, M.P. + +[_Manu propria._] + +[Footnote 1: This application was fruitless. See Reichardt's _Vertraute +Briefe_. "These two (Lobkowitz and Esterhazy) are the heads of the great +theatrical direction, which consists entirely of princes and counts, who +conduct all the large theatres on their own account and at their own risk." +The close of this letter shows that it was written in December.] + + +47. + +TO COUNT FRANZ VON OPPERSDORF.[1] + +Vienna, Nov. 1, 1808 [_sic!_]. + +MY DEAR COUNT,-- + +I fear you will look on me with displeasure when I tell you that necessity +compelled me not only to dispose of the symphony I wrote for you, but to +transfer another also to some one else. Be assured, however, that you shall +soon receive the one I intend for you. I hope that both you and the +Countess, to whom I beg my kind regards, have been well since we met. I am +at this moment staying with Countess Erdoedy in the apartments below those +of Prince Lichnowsky. I mention this in case you do me the honor to call on +me when you are in Vienna. My circumstances are improving, without having +recourse to the intervention of people _who treat their friends +insultingly_. I have also the offer of being made _Kapellmeister_ to the +King of Westphalia, and it is possible that I may accept the proposal. +Farewell, and sometimes think of your attached friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: The fourth Symphony is dedicated to Count Oppersdorf.] + + +48.[1] + +I fear I am too late for to-day, but I have only now been able to get back +your memorial from C----, because H---- wished to add various items here +and there. I do beg of you to dwell chiefly on the great importance to me +of adequate opportunities to exercise my art; by so doing you will write +what is most in accordance with my head and my heart. The preamble must set +forth what I am to have in Westphalia--600 ducats in gold, 150 ducats for +travelling expenses; all I have to do in return for this sum being to +direct the King's [Jerome's] concerts, which are short and few in number. I +am not even bound to direct any opera I may write. So, thus freed from all +care, I shall be able to devote myself entirely to the most important +object of my art--to write great works. An orchestra is also to be placed +at my disposition. + +N.B. As member of a theatrical association, the title need not be insisted +on, as it can produce nothing but annoyance. With regard to the _Imperial +service_, I think that point requires delicate handling, and not less so +the solicitation for the title of _Imperial Kapellmeister_. It must, +however, be made quite clear that I am to receive a sufficient salary from +the Court to enable me to renounce the annuity which I at present receive +from the gentlemen in question [the Archduke Rudolph, Prince Kinsky, and +Prince Lobkowitz], which I think will be most suitably expressed by my +stating that it is my hope, and has ever been my most ardent wish, to enter +the Imperial service, when I shall be ready to give up as much of the above +salary as the sum I am to receive from His Imperial Majesty amounts to. +(N.B. We must have it to-morrow at twelve o'clock, as we go to Kinsky then. +I hope to see you to-day.) + +[Footnote 1: This note, now first published, refers to the call Beethoven +had received, mentioned in the previous No. The sketch of the memorial that +follows is not, however, in Beethoven's writing, and perhaps not even +composed by him [see also No. 46]. It is well known that the Archduke +Rudolph, Prince Kinsky, and Prince Lobkowitz had secured to the _maestro_ a +salary of 4000 gulden.] + + +49. + +The aim and endeavor of every true artist must be to acquire a position in +which he can occupy himself exclusively with the accomplishment of great +works, undisturbed by other avocations or by considerations of economy. A +composer, therefore, can have no more ardent wish than to devote himself +wholly to the creation of works of importance, to be produced before the +public. He must also keep in view the prospect of old age, in order to make +a sufficient provision for that period. + +The King of Westphalia has offered Beethoven a salary of 600 gold ducats +for life, and 150 ducats for travelling expenses, in return for which his +sole obligations are, occasionally to play before His Majesty, and to +conduct his chamber concerts, which are both few and short. This proposal +is of a most beneficial nature both to art and the artist. + +Beethoven, however, much prefers a residence in this capital, feeling so +much gratitude for the many proofs of kindness he has received in it, and +so much patriotism for his adopted father-land, that he will never cease to +consider himself an Austrian artist, nor take up his abode elsewhere, if +anything approaching to the same advantages are conferred on him here. + +As many persons of high, indeed of the very highest rank, have requested +him to name the conditions on which he would be disposed to remain here, in +compliance with their wish he states as follows:-- + +1. Beethoven must receive from some influential nobleman security for a +permanent salary for life: various persons of consideration might +contribute to make up the amount of this salary, which, at the present +increased price of all commodities, must not consist of less than 4000 +florins _per annum_. Beethoven's wish is that the donors of this sum should +be considered as cooperating in the production of his future great works, +by thus enabling him to devote himself entirely to these labors, and by +relieving him from all other occupations. + +2. Beethoven must always retain the privilege of travelling in the +interests of art, for in this way alone can he make himself known, and +acquire some fortune. + +3. His most ardent desire and eager wish is to be received into the +Imperial service, when such an appointment would enable him partly or +wholly to renounce the proposed salary. In the mean time the title of +_Imperial Kapellmeister_ would be very gratifying to him; and if this wish +could be realized, the value of his abode here would be much enhanced in +his eyes. + +If his desire be fulfilled, and a salary granted by His Majesty to +Beethoven, he will renounce so much of the said 4000 florins as the +Imperial salary shall amount to; or if this appointment be 4000 florins, he +will give up the whole of the former sum. + +4. As Beethoven wishes from time to time to produce before the public at +large his new great works, he desires an assurance from the present +directors of the theatre on their part, and that of their successors, that +they will authorize him to give a concert for his own benefit every year on +Palm Sunday, in the Theatre "an der Wien." In return for which Beethoven +agrees to arrange and direct an annual concert for the benefit of the poor, +or, if this cannot be managed, at all events to furnish a new work of his +own for such a concert. + + +50. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +December, 1808. + +MY EXCELLENT FRIEND,-- + +All would go well now if we had only a curtain, without it the _Aria_ ["Ah! +Perfido"] _will be a failure_.[1] I only heard this to-day from S. +[Seyfried], and it vexes me much: a curtain of any kind will do, even a +bed-curtain, or merely a _kind of gauze screen_, which could be instantly +removed. There must be something; for the Aria is in the _dramatic style_, +and better adapted for the stage than for effect in a concert-room. +_Without a curtain, or something of the sort, the Aria will be devoid of +all meaning, and ruined! ruined! ruined!! Devil take it all!_ The Court +will probably be present. Baron Schweitzer [Chamberlain of the Archduke +Anton] requested me earnestly to make the application myself. Archduke Carl +granted me an audience and promised to come. The Empress _neither promised +nor refused_. + +A hanging curtain!!!! or the Aria and I will both be hanged to-morrow. +Farewell! I embrace you as cordially on this new year as in the old one. +_With or without a curtain!_ Your + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Reichardt, in his _Vertraute Briefe_ relates among other +things about the concert given by Beethoven in the Royal Theatre "an der +Wien," Oct. 22, 1808, as follows:--"Poor Beethoven, who derived from this +concert the first and only net profits which accrued to him during the +whole year, met with great opposition and very slender support in arranging +and carrying it out. First came the _Pastoral Symphony; or, Reminiscences +of Rural Life_; then followed, as the sixth piece, a long Italian _scena_, +sung by Demoiselle Killitzky, a lovely Bohemian with a lovely voice." The +above note [to Zmeskall?] certainly refers to this concert.] + + +51. + +TO FERDINAND RIES.[1] + +1809. + +MY DEAR FELLOW,-- + +Your friends have at any rate given you very bad advice; but I know all +about them: they are the very same to whom you sent that fine news about me +from Paris; the very same who inquired about my age--information that you +contrived to supply so correctly!--the very same who have often before +injured you in my opinion, but now permanently. Farewell! + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Ries himself gives the date of this note as 1809, though he +cannot recall what gave rise to it. It is probably connected with a fact +mentioned by Wegeler, p. 95, that Reichardt, who was at that time in +Vienna, had advised Beethoven's young pupil, Ries, to apply to the King of +Westphalia for the appointment of Kapellmeister, which he had recently +given up. This was reported to Beethoven, and roused his ire. Ries, too, +had written from Paris that the taste in music there was very indifferent; +that Beethoven's works were little known or played in that city. Beethoven +was also very susceptible with regard to his age. At the request of some of +Beethoven's friends, Ries, in 1806, obtained Beethoven's baptismal +certificate, and sent it to Vienna. But the _maestro's_ wrath on this +occasion passed away as quickly as usual.] + + +52. + +TO ZMESKALL.[1] + +March 7, 1809. + +It is just what I expected! As to the blows, that is rather far-fetched. +The story is at least three months' old, and very different from what he +now makes it out to be. The whole stupid affair was caused by a female +huckster and a couple of low fellows. I lose very little. He no doubt was +corrupted in the very house where I am now living. + +[Footnote 1: [See No. 10.] The notes to Zmeskall generally have the dates +written by himself. This one bears the date March 7, 1809. In all points +connected with domestic life, and especially in household matters and +discords, Zmeskall was always a kind and consolatory friend. Beethoven at +that time lived in the same house with Countess Erdoedy. [See No. 74.]] + + +53. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +My most excellent, high, and well-born Herr v. Zmeskall, Court Secretary +and Member of the Society of the Single Blessed,--If I come to see you +to-day, ascribe it to the fact that a person wishes to speak to me at your +house whom I could not refuse to see. I come without any _card_ from you, +but I hope you will not on that account _discard_ me. + +Yours truly--most truly, + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + + +54. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +It seems to me, dear Zmeskall, if war really does break out, when it comes +to an end you will be the very man for an appointment in the Peace +Legation. What a glorious office!!! I leave it entirely to you to do the +best you can about my servant, only henceforth Countess Erdoedy must not +attempt to exercise the smallest influence over him. She says she made him +a present of twenty-five florins, and gave him five florins a month, solely +to induce him to stay with me. I cannot refuse to believe this trait of +generosity, but I do not choose that it should be repeated. Farewell! I +thank you for your friendship, and hope soon to see you. + +Yours ever, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +55. + +TO ZMESKALL.[1] + +April 16, 1809. + +If I cannot come to-day, dear Zmeskall which is very possible, ask Baroness +von ---- [name illegible] to give you the pianoforte part of the Trios, and +be so good as to send them and the other parts to me to-day. + +In haste, your + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: April 16, 1809. By the Terzetts he no doubt means the Trios, +Op. 70, dedicated to Countess Erdoedy.] + + +56. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +April 17, 1809. + +DEAR Z.,-- + +A suitable lodging has just been found out for me, but I need some one to +help me in the affair. I cannot employ my brother, because he only +recommends what costs least money. Let me know, therefore, if we can go +together to look at the house. It is in the Klepperstall.[1] + +[Footnote 1: An der Moelker Bastei.] + + +57. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +April 25, 1809. + +I shall be glad, right glad, to play. I send you the violoncello part; if +you find that you can manage it, play it yourself, or let old Kraft[1] do +so. I will tell you about the lodging when we meet. + +Your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Anton Kraft (and likewise his son, Nicolaus Kraft) was a most +admirable violoncello-player, with whom Beethoven from the earliest days of +his residence in Vienna had played a great deal at Prince Lichnowsky's. +Kraft was at that time in Prince Lobkowitz's band.] + + +58. + +TO ZMESKALL.[1] + +May 14, 1809. + +MY DEAR LITTLE MUSICAL OLD COUNT!-- + +I think after all it would be advisable to let old Kraft play, as the trios +are to be heard for the first time (in society), and you can play them +afterwards; but I leave it all to your own option. If you meet with any +difficulties, one of which may possibly be that Kraft and S. [Schuppanzigh] +do not harmonize well together, then Herr v. Zmeskall must distinguish +himself, not as a mere musical Count, but as an energetic musician. + +Your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Kraft and Schuppanzigh were then each giving quartet +_soirees_.] + + +59. + +TO FREIHERR V. HAMMER-PURGSTALL.[1] + +1809. + +I feel almost ashamed of your complaisance and kindness in permitting me to +see the MS. of your as yet unknown literary treasures. Pray receive my +sincere thanks. I also beg to return both your operettas. Wholly engrossed +by my professional avocations, it is impossible for me to give an opinion, +especially with regard to the Indian Operetta; as soon as time permits, I +will call on you for the purpose of discussing this subject, and also the +Oratorio of "The Deluge." Pray always include me among the warm admirers of +your great talents. + +I am, sir, with sincere esteem, your obedient + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: I see in Schindler's _Beethoven_, that he wished to have "an +Indian Chorus of a religious character" from this renowned Orientalist, +who, in sending his _Persian Operetta_, written "rather with an ideal than +a musical object," and likewise an oratorio, _The Deluge_, +remarks:--"Should you not find these works in all respects executed quite +to your taste, still I feel convinced that through the genius of a +Beethoven alone can music portray the rising of the great flood and the +pacifying of the surging waters."] + + +60. + +TO FREIHERR V. HAMMER-PURGSTALL.[1] + +1809. + +Forgive me, my dear H----, for not having brought you the letter for Paris. +I have been, and still am, so much occupied, that day after day I am +obliged to delay writing it, but you shall have it to-morrow, even if I am +unable to come myself to see you, which I am most anxious to do. + +There is another matter that I would most earnestly press on you; perhaps +you might succeed in doing something for a _poor unfortunate man_. I allude +to Herr Stoll, son of the celebrated physician. With many persons the +question is whether a man has been ruined by his own fault or by that of +others, but this is not so with either you or me; it is sufficient that +Stoll is unfortunate, and looks on a journey to Paris as his sole resource, +having last year made many influential acquaintances, who, when he goes +there, are to endeavor to procure him a professorship in Westphalia. Stoll +has therefore applied to Herr v. Neumann, in the State Chancery Office, to +send him with a government courier to Paris, but the latter refuses to take +him for less than twenty-five louis d'or. Now I request you, my dear +friend, to speak to Herr v. Neumann to arrange, if possible, that the +courier should either take Stoll _gratis_, or for a small sum. I am +persuaded that if there is nothing particular against it, you will be glad +to interest yourself in poor Stoll. I return to the country to-day, but +hope soon to be so fortunate as to enjoy an hour of your society. In the +mean time I send you my best wishes, and beg you will believe in the +sincere esteem of + +Your obedient + +LUDWIG v. BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Reichardt states that Stoll was in Vienna in the spring of +1809, which fixes the date of this letter. Napoleon bestowed a pension on +the young poet (who appears to have gone to Paris), mistaking him for his +father, the celebrated physician.] + + +61. + +TO BARONESS VON DROSSDICK. + +MY ESTEEMED THERESE,-- + +You will receive with this what I promised. Had not many serious obstacles +intervened, I would have sent you more, in order to show you that where my +friends are concerned _I always perform more than I promise_. I hope, and +do not doubt, that you are agreeably occupied and enjoying society, but not +too much, I trust, to prevent your thinking of us. It would show too much +confidence in you, or too high an estimation of my own merits, were I to +attribute the sentiment to you, "That people are not together only when +present, but that the absent and the dead also live with us." Who could +ascribe such a thought to the volatile Therese, who takes the world so +lightly? Among your various occupations, do not forget the piano, or +rather, music in general, for which you have so fine a talent: why not then +seriously cultivate it? You, who have so much feeling for the good and the +beautiful, should strive to recognize the perfections of so charming an +art, which in return always casts so bright a reflection on us. + +I live in entire quiet and solitude, and even though occasional flashes of +light arouse me, still since you all left this I feel a hopeless void which +even my art, usually so faithful to me, has not yet triumphed over. Your +pianoforte is ordered, and you shall soon have it. What a difference you +must have discovered between the treatment of the theme I extemporized on +the other evening and the mode in which I have recently written it out for +you? You must explain this yourself, only do not find the solution in the +punch! How happy you are to get away so soon to the country! I cannot enjoy +this luxury till the 8th. I look forward to it with the delight of a child. +What happiness I shall feel in wandering among groves and woods, and among +trees, and plants, and rocks! No man on earth can love the country as I do! +Thickets, trees, and rocks supply the echo man longs for! + +You shall soon receive some more of my compositions, which will not cause +you to complain so much of difficulties. Have you read Goethe's "Wilhelm +Meister," and Schlegel's "Translations of Shakspeare"? People have so much +leisure in the country, that perhaps you would like me to send you these +works? It happens that I have an acquaintance in your neighborhood; so +perhaps you may see me some morning early for half an hour, after which I +must be off again. You will also observe that I intend to bore you for as +short a time as possible.[1] + +Commend me to the regard of your father and mother, though I have as yet no +right to claim it. Remember me also to your cousin M. [Mathilde]. Farewell, +my esteemed Therese; I wish you all the good and charm that life can offer. +Think of me kindly, and forget my follies. Rest assured that no one would +more rejoice to hear of your happiness, even were you to feel no interest +in your devoted servant and friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +N.B. It would be very amiable in you to write me a few lines, to say if I +can be of any use to you here. + +[Footnote 1: Herr v. Malfatti Rohrenbach, nephew of the renowned physician +who was so prominent in Beethoven's last illness, lately related to me in +Vienna as follows:--Beethoven went to pay a visit to young Frau Therese, +Baroness Drossdick, at Moedling, but not finding her at home, he tore a +sheet of music-paper out of a book, and wrote some music to a verse of +Matthisson's, and on the other side, inscribed, in large letters, "To my +dear Therese." The "Mathilde" mentioned farther on was, according to +Baermann, a Baroness Gleichenstein. [See No. 45.]] + + +62. + +A MDLLE. MDLLE. DE GERARDI.[1] + +DEAR MDLLE. G.,-- + +I cannot with truth deny that the verses you sent have considerably +embarrassed me. It causes a strange sensation to see and hear yourself +praised, and yet to be conscious of your own defects, as I am. I consider +such occurrences as mere incitements to strive to draw nearer the +unattainable goal set before us by Art and Nature, difficult as it may be. +These verses are truly beautiful, with the exception of one fault that we +often find in poets, which is, their being misled by Fancy to believe that +they really do see and hear _what they wish to see and hear_, and yet even +this is far below their ideal. You may well believe that I wish to become +acquainted with the poet or poetess; pray receive also yourself my thanks +for the kindly feeling you show towards your sincere friend, + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Nothing has hitherto been ascertained respecting either the +date of this note, or the lady to whom it is addressed.] + + +63. + +TO ZMESKALL.[1] + +January 23, 1810. + +What are you about? My gayety yesterday, though only assumed, has not only +vexed but offended you. The _uninvited guests_ seemed so little to deserve +your ill-humor, that I endeavored to use all my friendly influence to +prevent your giving way to it, by my pretended flow of spirits. I am still +suffering from indigestion. Say whether you can meet me at the "Swan" +to-day. + +Your true friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: The cause that gave rise to this note is not known.] + + +64. + +TO WEGELER. + +Vienna, May 2, 1810. + +MY DEAR OLD FRIEND,-- + +These lines may very possibly cause you some surprise, and yet, though you +have no written proof of it, I always retain the most lively remembrance of +you. Among my MSS. is one that has long been destined for you, and which +you shall certainly receive this summer. For the last two years my secluded +and quiet life has been at an end, and I have been forcibly drawn into the +vortex of the world; though as yet I have attained no good result from +this,--nay, perhaps rather the reverse,--but who has not been affected by +the storms around us? Still I should not only be happy, but the happiest of +men, if a demon had not taken up his settled abode in my ears. Had I not +somewhere read that man must not voluntarily put an end to his life while +he can still perform even one good deed, I should long since have been no +more, and by my own hand too! Ah! how fair is life; but for me it is +forever poisoned! + +You will not refuse me one friendly service, which is to procure me my +baptismal certificate. As Steffen Breuning has an account with you, he can +pay any expenses you may incur, and I will repay him here. If you think it +worth while to make the inquiry in person, and choose to make a journey +from Coblenz to Bonn, you have only to charge it all to me. I must, +however, warn you that I had an _elder brother_ whose name was also Ludwig, +with the second name of _Maria_, who died. In order to know my precise age, +the date of my birth must be first ascertained, this circumstance having +already led others into error, and caused me to be thought older than I +really am. Unluckily, I lived for some time without myself knowing my age +[see Nos. 26 and 51]. I had a book containing all family incidents, but it +has been lost, Heaven knows how! So pardon my urgently requesting you to +try to discover _Ludwig Maria's_ birth, as well as that of the present +Ludwig. The sooner you can send me the certificate of baptism the more +obliged shall I be.[1] I am told that you sing one of my songs in your +Freemason Lodge, probably the one in E major, which I have not myself got; +send it to me, and I promise to compensate you threefold and fourfold.[2] +Think of me with kindness, little as I apparently deserve it. Embrace your +dear wife and children, and all whom you love, in the name of your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Wegeler says:--"I discovered the solution of the enigma (why +the baptismal certificate was so eagerly sought) from a letter written to +me three months afterwards by my brother-in-law, Stephan von Breuning, in +which he said: 'Beethoven tells me at least once a week that he means to +write to you; but I believe his _intended marriage is broken off_; he +therefore feels no ardent inclination to thank you for having procured his +baptismal certificate.'"] + +[Footnote 2: Beethoven was mistaken; Wegeler had only supplied other music +to the words of Matthisson's _Opfer Lied_.] + + +65. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +July 9, 1810. + +DEAR Z.,-- + +You are about to travel, and so am I on account of my health. In the mean +time all goes topsy-turvy with me. The _Herr_[1] wants to have me with him, +and Art is not less urgent in her claims. I am partly in Schoenbrunn and +partly here; every day assailed by messages from strangers and new +acquaintances, and even as regards art I am often driven nearly distracted +by my undeserved fame. Fortune seeks me, and for that very reason I almost +dread some new calamity. As for your "Iphigenie," the facts are these. I +have not seen it for the last two years and a half, and have no doubt lent +it to some one; but to whom?--that is the question. I have sent in all +directions, and have not yet discovered it, but hope still to find it. If +lost, you shall be indemnified. Farewell, my dear Z. I trust that when we +meet again you will find that my art has made some progress in the interim. + +Ever remain my friend, as much as I am yours, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: The "Herr" is his pupil, the Archduke Rudolph.] + + +66. + +TO BETTINA BRENTANO.[1] + +Vienna, August 11, 1810. + +MY DEAREST FRIEND,-- + +Never was there a lovelier spring than this year; I say so, and feel it +too, because it was then I first knew you. You have yourself seen that in +society I am like a fish on the sand, which writhes and writhes, but cannot +get away till some benevolent Galatea casts it back into the mighty ocean. +I was indeed fairly stranded, dearest friend, when surprised by you at a +moment in which moroseness had entirely mastered me; but how quickly it +vanished at your aspect! I was at once conscious that you came from another +sphere than this absurd world, where, with the best inclinations, I cannot +open my ears. I am a wretched creature, and yet I complain of others!! You +will forgive this from the goodness of heart that beams in your eyes, and +the good sense manifested by your ears; at least they understand how to +flatter, by the mode in which they listen. My ears are, alas! a +partition-wall, through which I can with difficulty hold any intercourse +with my fellow-creatures. Otherwise, perhaps, I might have felt more +assured with you; but I was only conscious of the full, intelligent glance +from your eyes, which affected me so deeply that never can I forget it. My +dear friend! dearest girl!--Art! who comprehends it? with whom can I +discuss this mighty goddess? How precious to me were the few days when we +talked together, or, I should rather say, corresponded! I have carefully +preserved the little notes with your clever, charming, most charming +answers; so I have to thank my defective hearing for the greater part of +our fugitive intercourse being written down. Since you left this I have had +some unhappy hours,--hours of the deepest gloom, when I could do nothing. +I wandered for three hours in the Schoenbrunn Allee after you left us, but +no _angel_ met me there to take possession of me as you did. Pray forgive, +my dear friend, this deviation from the original key, but I must have such +intervals as a relief to my heart. You have no doubt written to Goethe +about me? I would gladly bury my head in a sack, so that I might neither +see nor hear what goes on in the world, because I shall meet you there no +more; but I shall get a letter from you? Hope sustains me, as it does half +the world; through life she has been my close companion, or what would have +become of me? I send you "Kennst Du das Land," written with my own hand, as +a remembrance of the hour when I first knew you; I send you also another +that I composed since I bade you farewell, my dearest, fairest sweetheart! + + Herz, mein Herz, was soll das geben, + Was bedraenget dich so sehr; + Welch ein neues fremdes Leben, + Ich erkenne dich nicht mehr. + +Now answer me, my dearest friend, and say what is to become of me since my +heart has turned such a rebel. Write to your most faithful friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: The celebrated letters to Bettina are given here exactly as +published in her book, _Ilius Pamphilius und die Ambrosia_ (Berlin, Arnim, +1857) in two volumes. I never myself had any doubts of their being genuine +(with the exception of perhaps some words in the middle of the third +letter), nor can any one now distrust them, especially after the +publication of _Beethoven's Letters_. But for the sake of those for whom +the weight of innate conviction is not sufficient proof, I may here mention +that in December, 1864, Professor Moritz Carriere, in Munich, when +conversing with me about _Beethoven's Letters_, expressly assured me that +these three letters were genuine, and that he had seen them in Berlin at +Bettina v. Arnim's in 1839, and read them most attentively and with the +deepest interest. From their important contents, he urged their immediate +publication; and when this shortly after ensued, no change whatever struck +him as having been made in the original text; on the contrary, he still +perfectly remembered that the much-disputed phraseology (and especially the +incident with Goethe) was precisely the same as in the originals. This +testimony seems to me the more weighty, as M. Carriere must not in such +matters be looked on as a novice, but as a competent judge, who has +carefully studied all that concerns our literary heroes, and who would not +permit anything to be falsely imputed to Beethoven any more than to Goethe. +Beethoven's biography is, however, the proper place to discuss more closely +such things, especially his character and his conduct in this particular +case. At present we only refer in general terms to the first chapter of +_Beethoven's Jugend_, which gives all the facts connected with these +letters to Bettina and the following ones--a characteristic likeness of +Beethoven thus impressed itself on the mind of the biographer, and was +reproduced in a few bold outlines in his _Biography_. These letters could +not, however, possibly be given _in extenso_ in a general introduction to a +comprehensive biography.] + + +67. + +TO BETTINA BRENTANO. + +Vienna, Feb. 10, 1811. + +DEAR AND BELOVED FRIEND,-- + +I have now received two letters from you, while those to Tonie show that +you still remember me, and even too kindly. I carried your letter about +with me the whole summer, and it often made me feel very happy; though I do +not frequently write to you, and you never see me, still I write you +letters by thousands in my thoughts. I can easily imagine what you feel at +Berlin in witnessing all the noxious frivolity of the world's rabble,[1] +even had you not written it to me yourself. Such prating about art, and yet +no results!!! The best description of this is to be found in Schiller's +poem "Die Fluesse," where the river Spree is supposed to speak. You are +going to be married, my dear friend, or are already so, and I have had no +chance of seeing you even once previously. May all the felicity that +marriage ever bestowed on husband and wife attend you both! What can I say +to you of myself? I can only exclaim with Johanna, "Compassionate my fate!" +If I am spared for some years to come, I will thank the Omniscient, the +Omnipotent, for the boon, as I do for all other weal and woe. If you +mention me when you write to Goethe, strive to find words expressive of my +deep reverence and admiration. I am about to write to him myself with +regard to "Egmont," for which I have written some music solely from my love +for his poetry, which always delights me. Who can be sufficiently grateful +to a great poet,--the most precious jewel of a nation! Now no more, my dear +sweet friend! I only came home this morning at four o'clock from an orgy, +where I laughed heartily, but to-day I feel as if I could weep as sadly; +turbulent pleasures always violently recoil on my spirits. As for Clemens +[Brentano, her brother], pray thank him for his complaisance; with regard +to the Cantata, the subject is not important enough for us here--it is very +different in Berlin; and as for my affection, the sister engrosses so large +a share, that little remains for the brother. Will he be content with this? + +Now farewell, my dear, dear friend; I imprint a sorrowful kiss on your +forehead, thus impressing my thoughts on it as with a seal. Write soon, +very soon, to your brother, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: An expression which, as well as many others, he no doubt +borrowed from Bettina, and introduced to please her.] + + +68. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +1811. + +I am disposed to engage a man who has just offered me his services,--a +music-copyist. His parents live in Vienna, which might be convenient in +many respects, but I first wish to speak to you about the terms; and as you +are disengaged to-morrow, which I, _alas_! am every day, I beg you will +take coffee with me in the afternoon, when we can discuss the matter, and +then proceed from _words to deeds_. We have also the honor to inform you +that we intend shortly to confer on you some of the decorations of the +Order of our Household,--the first class for yourself, the others for any +one you choose, except a priest. We shall expect your answer early +to-morrow. We now present you with some blotches of ink. Your + +BEETHOVEN. + + +69. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +1811. + +MOST HIGH-BORN OF MEN!-- + +We beg you to confer some goose-quills on us; we will in return send you a +whole bunch of the same sort, that you may not be obliged to pluck out your +own. It is just possible that you may yet receive the Grand Cross of the +Order of the Violoncello. We remain your gracious and most friendly of all +friends, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +70. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.[1] + +The Spring of 1811. + +YOUR ROYAL HIGHNESS,-- + +As in spite of every effort I can find no copyist to write in my house, I +send you my own manuscript; all you have to do is to desire Schlemmer to +get you an efficient copyist, who must, however, write out the Trio in your +palace, otherwise there would be no security against piracy. I am better, +and hope to have the honor of waiting on you in the course of a few days, +when we must strive to make up for lost time. I always feel anxious and +uneasy when I do not attend your Royal Highness as often or as assiduously +as I wish. It is certainly the truth when I say that the loss is mine, but +I trust I shall not soon again be so unwell. Be graciously pleased to +remember me; the time may yet come when I shall be able to show you doubly +and trebly that I deserve this more than ever. + +I am your Royal Highness's devoted servant, + +LUDWIG V. BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Schlemmer was for many years Beethoven's copyist.] + + +71. + +MY DEAR FRIEND,--[1] + +I have taken this trouble only that I might figure correctly, and thus be +able sometimes to lead others. As for mistakes, I scarcely ever required to +have them pointed out to me, having had from my childhood such a quick +perception, that I exercised it unconscious that it ought to be so, or in +fact could be otherwise. + +[Footnote 1: Written on a sheet of music-paper (oblong folio) numbered 22, +and evidently torn out of a large book. On the other side (21) is written, +in Beethoven's hand, instructions on the use of the fourth in retardations, +with five musical examples. The leaf is no doubt torn from one of the books +that Beethoven had compiled from various text-books, for the instruction of +the Archduke Rudolph. I have therefore placed Beethoven's remark here.] + + +72. + +TO THE DRAMATIC POET TREITSCHKE. + +June 6, 1811. + +DEAR TREITSCHKE,-- + +Have you read the book, and may I venture to hope that you will be +persuaded to undertake it? Be so good as to give me an answer, as I am +prevented going to you myself. If you have already read it, then send it +back to me, that I may also look over it again before you begin to work at +it. Above all, if it be your good pleasure that I should soar to the skies +on the wings of your poetry, I entreat you to effect this as soon as +possible. + +Your obedient servant, + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + + +73. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +Sept. 10, 1811. + +DEAR ZMESKALL,-- + +Let the rehearsal stand over for the present. I must see my doctor again +to-day, of whose bungling I begin to tire. Thanks for your metronome; let +us try whether we can measure Time into Eternity with it, for it is so +_simple_ and _easily managed_ that there seems to be no impediment to this! +In the mean time we will have a conference on the subject. The mathematical +precision of clockwork is of course greater; yet formerly, in watching the +little experiments you made in my presence, I thought there was something +worthy of notice in your metronome, and I hope we shall soon succeed in +_setting it thoroughly right_. Ere long I hope to see you. + +Your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +74. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +Oct. 26, 1811. + +I shall be at the "Swan" to-day, and hope to meet you there _to a +certainty_, but don't come too late. My foot is better; the author of so +many poetical _feet_ promises the _head_ author a sound foot within a +week's time. + + +75. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +Nov. 20, 1811. + +We are deucedly obliged to you. We beg you to be careful not to lose your +well-earned fame. You are exhorted to pursue the same course, and we remain +once more your deucedly attached + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +76. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +Jan. 19, 1812. + +I shall be at the "Swan" to-day, dear Z. I have, alas! _too much_ leisure, +and you _none_! Your + +BEETHOVEN. + + +77. + +TO ZMESKALL.[1] + +1812. + +CONFOUNDED LITTLE QUONDAM MUSICAL COUNT! + +What the deuce has become of you? Are you to be at the "Swan" to-day? No? +... Yes! See from this enclosure what I have done for Hungary. When a +German undertakes a thing, even without pledging his word, he acts very +differently from one of those Hungarian Counts, such as B. [Brunswick], who +allowed me to travel by myself--from what paltry, miserable motive who can +tell?--and kept me waiting, though he did not wait for me! + +My excellent little quondam musical Count, + +I am now, as ever, your attached + +BEETHOeVERL. + +Return the enclosure, for we wish to bring it, and something else, pretty +forcibly under the notice of the Count. + +[Footnote 1: The date of this and the following note is decided by the +allusion to his compositions written for Hungary (Pesth). See the +subsequent letter to Varenna.] + + +78. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +You are summoned to appear to-day at the "Swan;" Brunswick also comes. If +you do not appear, you are henceforth excluded from all that concerns us. +Excuses _per excellentiam_ cannot be accepted. Obedience is enjoined, +knowing that we are acting for your benefit, and that our motive is to +guard you against temptations and faithlessness _per excellentiam--dixi_. + +BEETHOVEN. + + +79. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +DEAR ZMESKALL,-- + +The well-known watchmaker who lives close to the Freiung is to call on you. +I want a first-rate repeater, for which he asks forty ducats. As you like +that kind of thing, I beg you will exert yourself on my behalf, and select +a really good watch for me. + +With the most enthusiastic admiration for a man like yourself, who is soon +to give me an opportunity of displaying in his favor my particular +knowledge of horn-playing, I am your + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +80. + +TO KAMMERPROCURATOR VARENNA,--GRATZ.[1] + +1812. + +If the wish to benefit the poor were not so evident in your letter, I +should have felt not a little offended by your accompanying your request to +me by the offer of payment. From my childhood, whenever my art could be +serviceable to poor suffering humanity, I have never allowed any other +motive to influence me, and never required anything beyond the heartfelt +gratification that it always caused me. With this you will receive an +Oratorio--(A), the performance of which occupies half an evening, also an +Overture and a Fantasia with Chorus--(B). If in your benevolent institution +you possess a _depot_ for such things, I beg you will deposit these three +works there, as a mark of my sympathy for the destitute; to be considered +as their property, and to be given at any concerts intended for their sole +benefit. In addition to these, you will receive an Introduction to the +"Ruins of Athens," the score of which shall be written out for you as soon +as possible. Likewise a Grand Overture to "Ungarn's erste Wohlthaeter" +[Hungary's First Benefactors]. + +Both form part of two works that I wrote for the Hungarians at the opening +of their new theatre [in Pesth]. Pray give me, however, your written +assurance that these works shall not be performed elsewhere, as they are +not published, nor likely to be so for some time to come. You shall receive +the latter Grand Overture as soon as it is returned to me from Hungary, +which it will be in the course of a few days. + +The engraved Fantasia with Chorus could no doubt be executed by a lady, an +amateur, mentioned to me here by Professor Schneller.[2] The words after +the Chorus No. 4, in C major, were altered by the publishers, and are now +quite contrary to the musical expression; those written in _pencil_, +therefore, on the music must be sung. If you can make use of the Oratorio, +I can send you _all the parts written out_, so that the outlay may be less +for the poor. Write to me about this. + +Your obedient + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: The correspondence with Varenna, consisting of fourteen +letters and four notes, was purchased some years ago by a collector of +autographs in Leipzig, and sold again by public auction, probably to +different persons. It would be like pursuing leaves scattered by the wind +to try to recover these letters. Those here given have for the most part +appeared in newspapers; I cannot, therefore, be responsible for the text, +farther than their publication goes, which, however, has evidently been +conducted by a clever hand. The date of the first letter is to be gleaned +from the second, and we also learn from them that _The Ruins of Athens_ and +_King Stephen_ (or at all events the Overture) were already finished in +January, 1812.] + +[Footnote 2: This _dilettante_ was Mdlle. Marie Koschak, subsequently the +wife of Dr. Pachler, an advocate in Gratz, from whom two letters are given +by Schindler of the dates of August 15th, 1825, and November 5th, 1826, in +which she invites Beethoven to visit her in Gratz. Schindler considers as +applicable to this lady the words of a note in Beethoven's writing of which +he has given a fac-simile in his _Biography_, I. 95; the date 1817 or 1818. +They are as follows:--"Love alone, yes! love alone can make your life +happier. O God! grant that I may at last find her who can strengthen me in +virtue, whom I can legitimately call my own. On July 27th, when she drove +past me in Baden, she seemed to gaze at me." This lady also plays a +friendly part in Franz Schubert's _Life_. See her _Biography_ by Dr. +Kreissle.] + + +81. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +Feb. 2, 1812. + +By no means _extraordinary_, but _very ordinary_ mender of pens! whose +talent has failed on this occasion (for those I send require to be fresh +mended), when do you intend at last to cast off your fetters?--when? You +never for a moment think of me; accursed to me is life amid this Austrian +barbarism. I shall go now chiefly to the "Swan," as in other taverns I +cannot defend myself against intrusion. Farewell! that is, _fare as well_ +as I wish you to do without + +Your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +Most wonderful of men! We beg that your servant will engage a person to fit +up my apartment; as he is acquainted with the lodgings, he can fix the +proper price at once. Do this soon, you Carnival scamp!!!!!!! + +The enclosed note is at least a week old. + + +82. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +Feb. 8, 1812. + +Most extraordinary and first and foremost man of the pendulum in the world, +and without a lever too!!! + +I am much indebted to you for having imparted to me some share of your +motive power. I wish to express my gratitude in person, and therefore +invite you this morning to come to the "Swan,"--a tavern, the name of which +itself shows that it is a fitting place when such a subject is in question, + +Yours ever, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +83. + +TO VARENNA,--GRATZ. + +Vienna, Feb. 8, 1812. + +Herr Rettich has already got the parts of the Oratorio, and when you no +longer require them I beg you will send them back to me. It is not probable +that anything is wanting, but even in that case, as you have the score, you +can easily remedy this. I only yesterday received the Overtures from +Hungary, and shall have them copied and forwarded to you as soon as +possible. I likewise send a March with a vocal Chorus, also from the "Ruins +of Athens." Altogether you will now have sufficient to fill up the time. + +As these pieces are only in manuscript, I shall let you know at the time I +send them what precautions I wish you to take with regard to the Overtures +and the March with Chorus. + +As I do not publish any new work until a year after its composition, and, +when I do so, am obliged invariably to give a written assurance to the +publisher that no one is in possession of it, you can yourself perceive +that I must carefully guard against any possible contingency or casualty as +to these pieces. I must, however, assure you that I shall always be +disposed to show the warmest zeal in aid of your charity, and I here pledge +myself to send you every year works that exist solely in manuscript, or +compositions written expressly for this charitable purpose. I beg you will +also let me know what your future plans are with regard to your +institution, that I may act accordingly. + +Farewell! I remain, with the highest consideration, + +Your obedient + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +84. + +TO ZMESKALL.[1] + +Feb. 19, 1812. + +DEAR Z.,-- + +I only yesterday received the written information that the Archduke pays +his share in the new paper-money of the full value [_Einloesungsschein_]. I +beg you will write out for me, as nearly as you can, the substance of what +you said on Sunday, and which we thought it advisable to send to the other +two. I am offered a certificate that the Archduke is to pay in +_Einloesungsschein_, but I think this unnecessary, more especially as the +people about Court, in spite of all their apparent friendship for me, +declare that my demands are _not just_!!!! O Heaven! aid me in enduring +this! I am no Hercules, to help Atlas in carrying the world, or to strive +to do so in his place. It was only yesterday that I heard the particulars +of the handsome manner in which Baron von Kraft had judged and spoken of me +to Zisius! But never mind, dear Z.! My endurance of these shameful attacks +cannot continue much longer; persecuted art will everywhere find an +asylum--Daedalus, though imprisoned in a labyrinth, found wings to carry +him aloft. Oh! I too shall find wings! + +Yours ever, + +BEETHOVEN. + +If you have time, send me this morning the draft of the memorial;--probably +for nothing, and to receive nothing! so much time is already lost, and only +to be kept in suspense by civil words! + +[Footnote 1: The Finance Patent appeared in Austria in 1811, by which the +value of money was depreciated by a fifth. This also affected the salary +that Beethoven drew from the Archduke Rudolph, Prince Kinsky, and Prince +Lobkowitz. The first of these gentlemen paid his full share in +_Einloesungsschein_. Lobkowitz, at the request of Beethoven, soon after did +the same; with Kinsky's share alone difficulties arose subsequently, owing +to his death.] + + +85. + +TO VARENNA. + +Lent, 1812. + +In spite of my anxiety to serve the cause of your charity, I have been +quite unable to do so. I have no copyist of my own to write for me as +formerly, and the limited time renders it impossible for me to do so +myself; thus I am obliged to have recourse to strangers as copyists. One of +these promised to write out the Overtures, &c., &c., for you; but Passion +Week intervening, when there are so many concerts, prevented his being able +to keep his word, in spite of every effort on my part. Even if the +Overtures and the March with Chorus were transcribed, it would not be +possible to send them by this post, and if we wait for the next, the music +will arrive too late for Easter Sunday. Let me know if there are any means +you could adopt to gain a little more time, or any chance opportunity of +sending these works to you, and I will do all that lies in my power to aid +the cause of your charity. + +I am, with esteem, yours obediently, + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +86. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.[1] + +1812. + +YOUR IMPERIAL HIGHNESS,-- + +I was much vexed not to receive Y.I.H.'s message to come to you till very +late yesterday evening--indeed nearly at eleven o'clock. Contrary to my +usual custom, I did not go home at all during the afternoon, the fine +weather having tempted me to spend the whole afternoon in walking, and the +evening at the Banda, "auf der Wieden," and thus I was not aware of your +wish till I returned home. In the mean time, whenever Y.I.H. desires it, I +am ready at any hour or moment to place myself at your disposal. I +therefore await your gracious commands. + +I am your Imperial Highness's most obedient + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: The date 1812 is marked on the sheet by another hand, and the +close of the second note proves that it was at the commencement of this +year.] + + +87. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1812. + +YOUR IMPERIAL HIGHNESS,-- + +I was unable till to-day, when I leave my bed for the first time, to answer +your gracious letter. It will be impossible for me to wait on you +to-morrow, but perhaps the day after. I have suffered much during the last +few days, and I may say two-fold from not being in a condition to devote a +great part of my time to you, according to my heartfelt wish. I hope now, +however, to have cleared off all scores for spring and summer (I mean as to +health). + +I am your Imperial Highness's most obedient servant, + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +88. + +TO VARENNA,--GRATZ. + +Vienna, May 8, 1812. + +SIR,-- + +Being still far from well, and much occupied, I have been unable to reply +to your letters. How in the world did such an unfounded idea ever occur to +you as that I was displeased? It would certainly have been better had you +returned the music as soon as it had been performed; for at that period I +could have produced it here, whereas now, unluckily, it comes too late; but +I only say _unluckily_ because it prevents my being able to spare the +worthy ladies the expenses of copying. At any other time I would on no +account have allowed them to pay for writing out the works, but it so +happens that at this moment I am visited with every kind of _contretemps_, +so I cannot avoid doing so. Possibly Herr O., although with the best +intentions, has delayed informing you of this, which obliged me to apply to +him for repayment of the expenses of copying; perhaps, too, in my haste, I +did not express myself distinctly. You can now, esteemed sir, have the +Overture and the Chorus again if you require them. + +I feel convinced that in any event you will prevent my confidence being +abused; in the mean time you may keep the Overture on the conditions I have +stated. If I find that I am able to pay for the copying, I will redeem it +for my own use. + +The score of the Oratorio is a gift, and also the Overture to "Egmont." +Keep the parts of the Oratorio beside you till you can have it performed. + +Select whatever you choose for the concert which I hear you now intend to +give, and if you decide on the Chorus and the Overture, they shall be +forwarded to you at once. For the future concert, for the benefit of the +venerable Ursulines, I promise you an entirely new symphony at all events, +and perhaps also a work of some importance for voices, and as I have now a +favorable opportunity, the copying shall not cost you a farthing. My joy +would be beyond all bounds if the concert were to be successful, and I +could spare you all expense;--at all events, take my good-will for granted. + +Remember me to the admirable teachers of the children, and say to them that +I shed tears of joy at the happy result of my poor good-will, and that so +far as my humble capabilities can serve them, they shall always find in me +the warmest sympathy. + +My cordial thanks for your invitation; I would fain become acquainted with +the interesting scenery of Styria, and possibly I may one day enjoy that +pleasure. Farewell! I heartily rejoice in having found in you a friend to +the poor and needy, and am always yours to command. + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN, M.P. + + +89. + +TO JOSEPH FREIHERR VON SCHWEIGER, CHAMBERLAIN OF THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.[1] + +1812. + +The most insignificant of mortals has just been to wait on his gracious +master, when he found everything closed; so he came here, where indeed all +was _open_, but no one to be found except the trusty servant. I had a heavy +packet of music with me, in order to ensure a good musical evening before +we parted; but in vain. Malfatti[2] is resolved that I shall go to Toeplitz, +which is anything but agreeable to me. As, however, I must obey, I hope at +least that my gracious master will not enjoy himself quite so much without +me. _O vanitas!_ for it is nothing else. Before I set off for Toeplitz I +will either go to Baden to see you or write. Farewell! Pray present my +homage to my gracious master, and continue your regard for + +Your friend, + +[K.] BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: The journey to Toeplitz took place in the year 1812.] + +[Footnote 2: A very celebrated physician in Vienna at that time, consulted +by Beethoven.] + + +90. + +TO VARENNA,--GRATZ. + +Toeplitz, July 19, 1812. + +My thanks have been too long delayed for all the dainties which the worthy +ladies sent for my enjoyment; being constantly ill in Vienna, I was at last +forced to take refuge here. + +However, better late than never; so I beg you will say all sorts of kind +things in my name to the admirable Ursuline ladies, though I did not +deserve so much gratitude; indeed it is rather for me to thank Him who +enables me to render my art occasionally useful to others. When you next +wish to make use of my poor abilities for the benefit of the venerable +ladies, you have only to write to me. + +A new symphony is now ready for you, and as the Archduke Rudolph has had it +copied out, it will cost you nothing. Perhaps I may one of these days be +able to send you something vocal. I only wish and hope that you will not +ascribe my anxiety to serve these venerable ladies to a certain degree of +vanity or desire for fame, as this would grieve me exceedingly. If these +good ladies wish to do me any service in return, I beg they will include me +with their pupils in their pious orisons. I remain, with esteem, + +Your friend, + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + +I shall remain here for some weeks; so if there is any occasion to write, +address to me here. + + +91. + +WRITTEN IN THE ALBUM OF THE SINGER, MDME. AUGUSTE SEBALD. + +Toeplitz, August 8, 1812. + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN, + + Who even if you would, + Forget you never should. + + +92. + +TO H.R. HIGHNESS THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +Franzensbrunn, Aug. 12, 1812. + +It was my bounden duty long ago to have recalled myself to Y.R.H.'s +recollection, but partly my occupations and the state of my health, as well +as my own insignificance, made me reluctant to do so. I missed Y.R.H. by +one night only in Prague; for when proceeding to pay my respects to you in +the morning, I found you had set off the very night before. In Toeplitz I +heard a military band four times a day,--the only musical report which I +can give you. I was a great deal with Goethe.[1] My physician Staudenheim, +however, ordered me off to Carlsbad,[2] and from thence here, and probably +I shall have to go back to Toeplitz from this. What flights! And yet it +seems very doubtful whether any improvement in my condition has hitherto +taken place. I receive the best accounts of Y.R.H.'s health, and also of +the persistent devotion you exhibit towards the musical Muse. Y.R.H. has no +doubt heard of a concert that I gave for the benefit of the sufferers by +fire in the Stadt Baden,[3] assisted by Herr Polledro.[4] The receipts were +nearly 1000 florins W.W., and if I had not been restricted in my +arrangements we might easily have taken 2000 florins. It was literally a +_poor concert for the poor_. I could only find at the publisher's here some +of my earlier sonatas with violin accompaniments, and as Polledro had set +his heart on these, I was obliged to content myself with playing an old +Sonata.[5] The entire concert consisted of a trio, in which Polledro +played, my Sonata with violin, then again something was played by Polledro, +and, lastly, I extemporized. Meanwhile I do sincerely rejoice that by this +means something has fallen to the share of the poor _Badeners_. Pray deign +to accept my best wishes for your welfare, and my entreaty that you will +sometimes think of me. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: Beethoven speaks very briefly of his meeting with Goethe. +Goethe in his _Tag- und Jahrschriften_ of 1812 makes no allusion to +Beethoven during his stay at Toeplitz. It does not, therefore, appear that +either of these master-minds found any particular pleasure in each other +when they met personally. Beethoven, indeed, dedicated to "the immortal +Goethe" (1812) his composition the _Meeresstille und glueckliche Fahrt_, but +only wrote once to him in 1823 to obtain a subscription from the Grand Duke +of Weimar for his Grand Mass, and received no answer from Goethe. In the +complete edition of Goethe's works Beethoven's name is only once mentioned +by Goethe, when he refers to his funeral obsequies.] + +[Footnote 2: Dr. Staudenheim was, like Malfatti, one of the most celebrated +physicians in Vienna. Beethoven, too, was well acquainted with Staudenheim, +but in his regimen he neither followed the prescriptions of Staudenheim nor +of Malfatti.] + +[Footnote 3: The Stadt Baden, near Vienna, had been visited on July 16th by +a most destructive conflagration.] + +[Footnote 4: Giov. Batt. Polledro, Kapellmeister in Turin, born 1776, +travelled through Germany as a violinist from 1809 to 1812. He gave a +concert in Vienna in March, 1812.] + +[Footnote 5: The violin Sonata with pianoforte was probably Op. 47 +(composed in 1803 and published in 1805, according to Thayer, No. 111), or +one of his earlier compositions, Op. 30, or 24, or 23.] + + +93. + +TO BETTINA VON ARNIM. + +Toeplitz, August 15, 1812. + +MY MOST DEAR KIND FRIEND,-- + +Kings and princes can indeed create professors and privy-councillors, and +confer titles and decorations, but they cannot make great men,--spirits +that soar above the base turmoil of this world. There their powers fail, +and this it is that forces them to respect us.[1] When two persons like +Goethe and myself meet, these grandees cannot fail to perceive what such as +we consider great. Yesterday, on our way home, we met the whole Imperial +family; we saw them coming some way off, when Goethe withdrew his arm from +mine, in order to stand aside; and, say what I would, I could not prevail +on him to make another step in advance. I pressed down my hat more firmly +on my head, buttoned up my great-coat, and, crossing my arms behind me, I +made my way through the thickest portion of the crowd. Princes and +courtiers formed a lane for me; Archduke Rudolph took off his hat, and the +Empress bowed to me first. These great ones of the earth _know me_. To my +infinite amusement, I saw the procession defile past Goethe, who stood +aside with his hat off, bowing profoundly. I afterwards took him sharply to +task for this; I gave him no quarter, and upbraided him with all his sins, +especially towards you, my dear friend, as we had just been speaking of +you. Heavens! if I could have lived with you as _he_ did, believe me I +should have produced far greater things. A musician is also a poet, he too +can feel himself transported into a brighter world by a pair of fine eyes, +where loftier spirits sport with him and impose heavy tasks on him. What +thoughts rushed into my mind when I first saw you in the Observatory during +a refreshing May shower, so fertilizing to me also![2] The most beautiful +themes stole from your eyes into my heart, which shall yet enchant the +world when Beethoven no longer _directs_. If God vouchsafes to grant me a +few more years of life, I must then see you once more, my dear, most dear +friend, for the voice within, to which I always listen, demands this. +Spirits may love one another, and I shall ever woo yours. Your approval is +dearer to me than all else in the world. I told Goethe my sentiments as to +the influence praise has over men like us, and that we desire our equals to +listen to us with their understanding. Emotion suits women only; (forgive +me!) music ought to strike fire from the soul of a man. Ah! my dear girl, +how long have our feelings been identical on all points!!! The sole real +good is some bright kindly spirit to sympathize with us, whom we thoroughly +comprehend, and from whom we need not hide our thoughts. _He who wishes to +appear something, must in reality be something._ The world must acknowledge +us, it is not always unjust; but for this I care not, having a higher +purpose in view. I hope to get a letter from you in Vienna; write to me +soon and fully, for a week hence I shall be there. The Court leaves this +to-morrow, and to-day they have another performance. The Empress has +studied her part thoroughly. The Emperor and the Duke wished me to play +some of my own music, but I refused, for they are both infatuated with +_Chinese porcelain_. A little indulgence is required, for reason seems to +have lost its empire; but I do not choose to minister to such perverse +folly--I will not be a party to such absurd doings to please those princes +who are constantly guilty of eccentricities of this sort. Adieu! adieu! +dear one; your letter lay all night next my heart, and cheered me. +Musicians permit themselves great license. _Heavens! how I love you!_ Your +most faithful friend and deaf brother, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Fraeulein Giannatasio del Rio, in the journal she sent to the +_Grenz Boten_ in 1857, states that Beethoven once declared, "It is very +pleasant to associate with the great of the earth, but one must possess +some quality which inspires them with respect."] + +[Footnote 2: According to Bettina (see _Goethe's Correspondence with a +Child_, II. 193), their first acquaintance was made in Beethoven's +apartments.] + + +94. + +TO PRINCESS KINSKY,--PRAGUE + +Vienna, Dec. 30, 1812. + +YOUR HIGHNESS,-- + +The dreadful event which deprived you of your husband, Prince von Kinsky, +snatching him from his father-land and from all those who love him,[1] as +well as from many whom he generously supported, filling every heart capable +of appreciating goodness and greatness with the deepest sorrow, affected me +also in the most profound and painful degree. The stern duty of +self-interest compels me to lay before your Highness a humble petition, the +reasonable purport of which may, I hope, plead my excuse for intruding on +your Highness at a time when so many affairs of importance claim your +attention. Permit me to state the matter to your Highness. + +Y.H. is no doubt aware that when I received a summons to Westphalia in the +year 1809, his Highness Prince von Kinsky, your late husband, together with +his I.H. Archduke Rudolph and H.H. the Prince von Lobkowitz, offered to +settle on me for life an annual income of 4000 gulden, provided I declined +the proposal in question, and determined to remain in Austria. Although +this sum was by no means in proportion to that secured to me in Westphalia, +still my predilection for Austria, as well as my sense of this most +generous proposal, induced me to accept it without hesitation. The share +contributed by H.H. Prince Kinsky consisted of 1800 florins, which I have +received by quarterly instalments since 1809 from the Prince's privy purse. +Though subsequent occurrences partially diminished this sum, I rested +satisfied, till the appearance of the Finance Patent, reducing bank-notes +into _Einloesung Schein_. I applied to H.I.H. the Archduke Rudolph to +request that the portion of the annuity contributed by H.I.H. should in +future be paid in _Einloesung Schein_. This was at once granted, and I +received a written assurance to that effect from H.I.H. Prince von +Lobkowitz agreed to the same with regard to his share,--700 florins [see +No. 84]. H.H. Prince von Kinsky being at that time in Prague, I addressed +my respectful petition to him last May, through Herr Varnhagen von Ense, an +officer in the Vogelsang Regiment, that his Highness's contribution to my +salary--1800 florins--should be paid like the rest in _Einloesung Schein_. +Herr von Varnhagen wrote as follows, and the original of the letter is +still extant:-- + +"I had yesterday the desired interview with Prince Kinsky. With the highest +praise of Beethoven, he at once acceded to his demand, and is prepared to +pay up the arrears, and also all future sums from the date of the +_Einloesung Schein_, in that currency. The cashier here has received the +necessary instructions, and Beethoven can draw for the whole sum on his way +through Prague, or, if he prefers it, in Vienna, as soon as the Prince +returns there. + +"Prague, June 9, 1812." + +When passing through Prague some weeks afterwards, I took the opportunity +of waiting on the Prince, and received from him the fullest confirmation of +this promise. H.H. likewise assured me that he entirely admitted the +propriety of my demand, and considered it quite reasonable. As I could not +remain in Prague till this affair was finally settled, H.H. was so kind as +to make me a payment of sixty ducats on account, which, according to H.H.'s +calculation, were good for 600 florins Vienna currency. The arrears were to +be paid up on my return to Vienna, and an order given to the cashier to pay +my salary in future in _Einloesung Schein_. Such was H.H.'s pleasure. My +illness increasing in Toeplitz, I was obliged to remain there longer than I +originally intended. In the month of September I therefore addressed to +H.H., who was then in Vienna, through one of my friends here, Herr Oliva, a +written memorial, claiming his promise, when H.H. graciously repeated to +this friend the assurance he had already given me, adding that in the +course of a few days he would give the necessary instructions on the +subject to his cashier. + +A short time afterwards he left Vienna. When I arrived there, I inquired +from the Prince's secretary whether H.H. had given directions about my +salary before leaving Vienna, when, to my surprise, I was told that H.H. +had done nothing in the matter. + +My title to the liquidation of my claim is proved by the testimony of the +Herren von Varnhagen and Oliva, to whom H.H. spoke on the subject, +reiterating his consent. I feel convinced that the illustrious heirs and +family of this prince will in the same spirit of benevolence and generosity +strive to fulfil his intentions. I therefore confidently place in Y.H.'s +hands my respectful petition, viz., "to pay up the arrears of my salary in +_Einloesung Schein_, and to instruct your cashier to transmit me the amount +in future, in the same currency." Relying on your sense of justice +according me a favorable decision, I remain Y.H.'s + +Most obedient servant, + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Prince Josef Ferdinand Kinsky, born December, 1781, and killed +by a fall from his horse, November 3, 1812.] + + +95. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1813.[1] + +I have been far from well since last Sunday, but have suffered more in mind +than in body. I beg your forgiveness a thousand times for not having sooner +sent my apologies; each day I had the strongest inclination to wait on you, +but Heaven knows that in spite of the best will that I always entertain for +the best of masters I was unable to do so, distressing as it is to me not +to have it in my power to sacrifice all to him for whom I cherish the +highest esteem, love, and veneration. Y.R.H. would perhaps act wisely in +making a pause at present with the Lobkowitz concerts; even the most +brilliant talent may lose its effect by too great familiarity. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: Prince Franz Josef Lobkowitz died December 25th, 1816. His +musical meetings were certainly continued till 1813, or longer.] + + +96. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1813.[1] + +At early dawn to-morrow the copyist shall begin the last movement. As I am +in the mean time writing several other works, I did not hurry myself much +with this last movement merely for the sake of punctuality, especially as I +must write this more deliberately, with a view to Rode's[2] playing; we +like quick, full-toned passages in our _Finales_, which do not suit R., and +this rather cramps me. At all events, all is sure to go well next Tuesday. +I very much doubt whether I shall be able to present myself at Y.R.H.'s on +that evening, in spite of my zeal in your service; but to make up for this, +I mean to come to you to-morrow forenoon and to-morrow afternoon, that I +may entirely fulfil the wishes of my illustrious pupil. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: 1813. January-February.] + +[Footnote 2: Pierre Rode, the violinist, arrived in Vienna in January, +1813, and gave a concert in the Redoutensaal on February 6th, but did not +give universal satisfaction (_A.M.Z._, 1813, p. 114), and a second concert +that he had projected does not appear to have taken place. He played in +Gratz on February 20th and 27th. It seems that Rode was to play with +Beethoven at the Archduke Rudolph's, for which occasion Beethoven prepared +a composition for them both. Was this the Sonata for pianoforte and violin, +Op. 36, which he afterwards dedicated to the Archduke? Thayer states that +it was written by Beethoven in 1810, and sold to the music-publisher +Steiner in Vienna in April, 1815. No other composition for the violin and +pianoforte is so likely to be the one as this. It is, however, a mistake in +the _Bibliotheque Universelle_, tome xxxvi. p. 210, to state that Beethoven +during Rode's stay in Vienna composed the "delicieuse Romance" which was +played with so much expression by De Baillot on the violin. There are only +two Romances known for the violin by Beethoven, the one in G major, Op. 40, +in the year 1803, and the second in F major, Op. 50, published in 1805. +(Thayer, 102 and 104.)] + + +97. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1813. + +I had just gone out yesterday when your gracious letter reached me. As for +my health, it is pretty much the same, particularly as moral causes affect +it, which do not seem likely to be removed; particularly as I can have +recourse to no one but myself for aid, and can find help in my own head +alone; and more particularly still, because in these days neither words, +nor honor, nor written pledges, seem binding on any one. As for my +occupations, I have come to an end with some of them, and, even without +your gracious invitation, I intended to appear at the usual hour to-day. +With regard to Rode [see No. 96], I beg Y.R.H. to be so good as to let me +have the part by the bearer of this, and I will send it to him at once, +with a polite note from me. _He certainly will not take amiss my sending +him the part. Oh! certainly not! Would to Heaven that I were obliged to ask +his forgiveness on this account! for in that case things would really be in +a better position._ Is it your pleasure that I should come to you this +evening at five o'clock as usual, or does Y.R.H. desire another hour? I +shall endeavor to arrange accordingly, and punctually to fulfil your +wishes. + +[K.] + + +98. + +TO PRINCESS KINSKY. + +Vienna, Feb. 12, 1813. + +YOUR HIGHNESS!-- + +You were so gracious as to declare with regard to the salary settled on me +by your deceased husband, that you saw the propriety of my receiving it in +Vienna currency, but that the authority of the court of law which has +assumed the guardianship of the estate must first be obtained. Under the +conviction that the authorities who represent their princely wards could +not fail to be influenced by the same motives that actuated the late Prince +in his conduct towards me, I think I am justified in expecting the +ratification of my claim from the aforesaid court, as I can prove, by the +testimony of well-known, respectable, and upright men, the promise and +intentions of H.H. in my behalf, which cannot fail to be binding on his +heirs and children. If, therefore, the proofs submitted should even be +found deficient in legal formality, I cannot doubt that this want will be +supplied by the noble mode of thinking of this illustrious house, and by +their own inclination to generous actions. + +Possibly another question may at present arise from the condition of the +inheritance, which is no doubt heavily burdened, both owing to the +melancholy and sudden death of the late Prince, and by the state of the +times, which renders it equally just and indispensable to husband carefully +all possible resources. On this account it is far from my wish to claim +more than is absolutely necessary for my own livelihood, and grounded on +the contract itself,--the legality of such a claim on the heirs of the late +Prince not being in any way disputed. + +I beg, then, that Y.H. will be pleased to direct the arrears of my salary, +due since the 1st September, 1811, calculated in Vienna currency, in +accordance with the scale of the contract, making in W.W. 1088 florins 42 +kreuzers, to be paid, and _in the interim_, the question whether this +salary ought to be paid in Vienna currency can be deferred until the +affairs are settled, when the subject is again brought before the trustees, +and my claims admitted to be just by their consent and authority. The late +Prince having given me sixty ducats merely on account of my salary, which +was to be paid by agreement in Vienna currency, and as this agreement (as +every intelligent man will inform Y.H.) must be accepted to its full +extent, or at all events not cause me loss, it follows as a matter of +course that Y.H. will not object to my considering the sixty ducats as only +an instalment of the arrears due to me beyond the usual scale of payment, +agreed to be paid in Vienna currency, so that the amount must not be +deducted from the sum still due to me. + +I feel sure that Y.H.'s noble feelings will do justice to the equity of my +proposal, and my wish to enter into every detail of this affair, so far as +circumstances permit, and also my readiness to postpone my claims to suit +your convenience. The same elevated sentiments which prompted you to fulfil +the engagement entered into by the late Prince, will also make Y.H. +apprehend the absolute necessity entailed on me by my position again to +solicit immediate payment of the arrears of my salary, which are +indispensable for my maintenance. + +Anxiously hoping for a favorable answer to my petition, I have the honor to +remain, with profound respect, + +Y.R.H.'s obedient servant, + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +99. + +TO PRINCESS KINSKY. + +HIGHLY HONORED PRINCESS!-- + +As the Prince's counsel declared that my claim could not be heard till the +choice of a guardian had been made, and as I now hear that Y.H. has been +graciously pleased yourself to assume that office, but decline receiving +any one, I present my humble petition in writing, requesting at the same +time your early consideration; for you can easily understand that, relying +on a thing as a certainty, it is painful to be so long deprived of it, +especially as I am obliged entirely to support an unfortunate sickly +brother and his whole family,[1] which (not computing my own wants) has +entirely exhausted my resources, having expected to provide for myself by +the payment of my salary. You may perceive the justice of my claims from +the fact of my faithfully naming the receipt of the sixty ducats, advanced +to me by the late Prince in Prague, the Prince's counsel himself declaring +that I might have said nothing about this sum, the late Prince not having +mentioned it either to him or to his cashier. + +Forgive my being obliged to intrude this affair on you, but necessity +compels me to do so. Some days hence I shall take the liberty of making +inquiries on the subject from the Prince's counsel, or from any one Y.H. +may appoint. + +I remain, most esteemed and illustrious Princess, + +Your devoted servant, + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: See a letter to Ries, Nov. 22d, 1815:--"He was consumptive for +some years, and, in order to make his life easier, I can safely compute +what I gave him at 10,000 florins W.W."] + + +100. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +DEAR Z.,-- + +Forward the accompanying letter to-day without fail to Brunswick, that it +may arrive as soon and as safely as possible. Excuse the trouble I give +you. I have been again applied to, to send some of my works to Gratz, in +Styria, for a concert to be given in aid of the Ursuline convent and its +schools: last year they had very large receipts by this means. Including +this concert, and one I gave in Carlsbad for the benefit of the sufferers +from fire at Baden, three concerts have been given by me, and through me, +for benevolent purposes in one year; and yet if I ask a favor, people are +as deaf as a post. Your + +BEETHOVEN. + +I. Letter to Sclowonowitsch (Maitre des bureaux des postes) in Cassel. I +can no longer do without the books of Tiedge and Frau von der Recke, as I +am expected to give some opinion about them. + + +101. + +TO HERR JOSEPH VARENNA,--GRATZ. + +MY GOOD SIR,-- + +Rode was not quite correct in all that he said of me; my health is not +particularly good, and from no fault of my own,--my present condition being +the most unfortunate of my life. But neither this nor anything in the world +shall prevent me from assisting, so far as it lies in my power, the +innocent and distressed ladies of your convent by my poor works. I +therefore place at your disposal two new symphonies, a bass aria with +chorus, and several minor choruses; if you desire again to perform +"Hungaria's Benefactors," which you gave last year, it is also at your +service. Among the choruses you will find a "Dervise Chorus," a capital +bait for a mixed public. + +In my opinion, your best plan would be to select a day when you could give +the "Mount of Olives," which has been everywhere performed. This would +occupy one half of the concert, and the other half might consist of a new +symphony, the overtures, and various choruses, and likewise the above-named +bass aria and chorus; thus the evening would not be devoid of variety. But +you can settle all this more satisfactorily with the aid of your own +musical authorities. I think I can guess what you mean about a gratuity for +me from a _third person_. Were I in the same position as formerly, I would +at once say, "Beethoven never accepts anything _where the benefit of +humanity is concerned_;" but owing to my own too great benevolence I am +reduced to a low ebb, the cause of which, however, does not put me to +shame, being combined with other circumstances for which men devoid of +honor and principle are alone to blame; so I do not hesitate to say that I +would not refuse the contribution of the rich man to whom you allude.[1] +But there is no question here of any _claim_. If, however, the affair with +the _third person_ comes to nothing, pray rest assured that I shall be +equally disposed to confer the same benefit as last year on my friends the +respected Ursuline ladies, and shall at all times be ready to succor the +poor and needy so long as I live. And now farewell! Write soon, and I will +zealously strive to make all necessary arrangements. My best wishes for the +convent. + +I am, with esteem, your friend, + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Reichardt, on the 1st March, 1809, writes in his _Vertraute +Briefe_,--"Beethoven, by 'a rich third person,' as the following letter +proves, meant Louis Bonaparte, who, after abdicating the Dutch throne, +lived in Gratz."] + + +102. + +TO VARENNA. + +MY EXCELLENT V. [VARENNA],-- + +I received your letter with much pleasure, but with much displeasure the +100 florins allotted to me by our poor convent ladies; in the mean time I +will apply part of this sum to pay the copyists--the surplus and the +accounts for copying shall be sent to these good ladies. + +I never accept anything for such a purpose. I thought that perhaps the +_third person_ to whom you alluded might be the Ex-King of Holland, in +which case I should have had no scruples, under my present circumstances, +in accepting a gratuity from him, who has no doubt taken enough from the +Dutch in a less legitimate way; but as it is, I must decline (though in all +friendship) any renewal of this subject. + +Let me know whether, were I to come myself to Gratz, I could give a +concert, and what the receipts would probably be; for Vienna, alas! can no +longer continue my place of abode. Perhaps it is now too late? but any +information from you on the point will be very welcome. + +The works are being copied, and you shall have them as soon as possible. +You may do just what you please with the Oratorio; where it will be of most +use it will best fulfil my intentions. + +I am, with esteem, your obedient + +BEETHOVEN. + +P.S. Say all that is kind from me to the worthy Ursuline ladies. I rejoice +in being able to serve them. + + +103. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +Confounded, invited guest! _Domanowetz!_--not musical Count, but gobbling +Count! dinner Count! supper Count! &c., &c. The Quartet is to be tried over +to-day at ten o'clock or half-past, at Lobkowitz's.[1] His Highness, whose +wits are generally astray, is not yet arrived; so pray join us, if you can +escape from your Chancery jailer. Herzog is to see you to-day. He intends +to take the post of my man-servant; you may agree to give him thirty +florins, with his wife _obbligata_. Firing, light, and morning livery +found. I must have some one who knows how to cook, for if my food continues +as bad as it now is, I shall always be ill. I dine at home to-day, because +I get better wine. If you will only order what you like, I very much wish +you to come to me. You shall have the wine _gratis_, and of far better +quality than what you get at the scoundrelly "Swan." + +Your very insignificant + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Reichardt, in his _Vertraute Briefe_, writes: "The beautiful +quartets and evening concerts for the Archduke Rudolph still continue at +Prince von Lobkowitz's, although the Prince himself is about to join his +battalion in Bohemia." Reichardt, Vol. I. p. 182, calls Lobkowitz "an +indefatigable, insatiable, genuine enthusiast for art."] + + +104. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +Feb. 25, 1813. + +I have been constantly indisposed, dear Zmeskall, since I last saw you; in +the mean time the servant who lived with you before your present one has +applied for my situation. I do not recollect him, but he told me he had +been with you, and that you had nothing to say against him, except that he +did not dress your hair as you wished. I gave him earnest-money, though +only a florin. Supposing you have no other fault to find with the man (and +if so I beg you will candidly mention it), I intend to engage him, for you +know that it is no object with me to have my hair dressed; it would be more +to the purpose if my finances could be dressed, or _re-dressed_. I hope to +get an answer from you to day. If there is no one to open the door to your +servant, let him leave the note in the entrance to the left, and should he +find no one there either, he must give it to the porter's wife below +stairs. May Heaven prosper you in your musical undertakings! Your + +BEETHOVEN, + +_Miserabilis._ + + +105. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +Feb. 28, 1813. + +Let us leave things as they are for to-day, dear Z., till we meet [and so +on about the servant]. + +Farewell! Carefully guard the fortresses of the realm, which, as you know, +are no longer virgins, and have already received many a shot. + +Your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +106. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +MOST WORTHY COUNSELLOR, OWNER OF MINES AND LORD OF FASTNESSES IN BURGUNDY +AND BUDA!-- + +Be so good as to let me know how matters stand, as this afternoon at latest +I shall take advantage of your reply to my question, by giving my servant +warning for this day fortnight. His wages, &c., &c. [The rest relates to +his servant.] + + +107. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +April 19, 1813. + +MY DEAR ZMESKALL,-- + +I have been refused the University Hall. I heard this two days since; but +being indisposed yesterday I could not go to see you, nor can I to-day +either. We have no resource now but the Kaernthnerthor Theatre, or the one +"an der Wien." I believe there will only be one concert. If both these +fail, we must then have recourse to the Augarten, in which case we ought +certainly to give two concerts. Reflect on this, my dear friend, and let me +have your opinion. To-morrow the symphonies may perhaps be tried over at +the Archduke's if I am able to go out, of which I will apprise you. + +Your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +108. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +April 23, 1813. + +DEAR Z.,-- + +All will go right, the Archduke being resolved to take this Prince +_Fizlypuzly_ roundly to task. Let me know if you are to dine at the tavern +to-day, or where? Pray tell me if "Sentivany" is properly spelt, as I wish +to write to him at the same time about the Chorus. We must also consult +together what day to choose. By the by, be cautious not to mention the +intercession of the Archduke, for Prince _Fizlypuzly_ is not to be with him +till Sunday, and if that evil-minded creditor had any previous hint of the +affair, he would still try to evade us. + +Yours ever, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +109. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +April 26, 1813. + +Lobkowitz will give me a day on the 15th of May, or after that period, +which seems to me scarcely better than none at all; so I am almost disposed +to give up all idea of a concert. But the Almighty will no doubt prevent my +being utterly ruined. + +Yours, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +110. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +Baden, May 27, 1813. + +I have the honor to inform you of my arrival in Baden, which is indeed +still very empty of human beings, but with all the greater luxuriance and +full lustre does Nature shine in her enchanting loveliness. Where I fail, +or ever have failed, be graciously indulgent towards me, for so many trying +occurrences, succeeding each other so closely, have really almost +bewildered me; still I am convinced that the resplendent beauties of Nature +here, and the charming environs, will gradually restore my spirits, and a +double share of tranquillity be my portion, as by my stay here I likewise +fulfil the wishes of Y.R.H. Would that my desire soon to hear that Y.R.H. +is fully restored were equally fulfilled! This is indeed my warmest wish, +and how much I grieve that I cannot at this moment contribute to your +recovery by means of _my_ art! This is reserved for the goddess Hygeia +alone, and I, alas! am only a poor mortal, who commends himself to Y.R.H., +and sincerely hopes soon to be permitted to wait on you. + +[K.] + + +111. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +Vienna, July 24, 1813. + +From day to day I have been expecting to return to Baden; in the mean time, +the discords that detain me here may possibly be resolved by the end of the +ensuing week. To me a residence in a town during the summer is misery, and +when I also remember that I am thus prevented waiting on Y.R.H., it is +still more vexatious and annoying. It is, in fact, the Lobkowitz and Kinsky +affairs that keep me here. Instead of pondering over a number of bars, I am +obliged constantly to reflect on the number of peregrinations I am forced +to make; but for this, I could scarcely endure to the end. Y.R.H. has no +doubt heard of Lobkowitz's misfortunes,[1] which are much to be regretted; +but after all, to be rich is no such great happiness! It is said that Count +Fries alone paid 1900 gold ducats to Duport, for which he had the security +of the ancient Lobkowitz house. The details are beyond all belief. I hear +that Count Rasumowsky[2] intends to go to Baden, and to take his Quartet +with him, which is really very pretty, and I have no doubt that Y.R.H. will +be much pleased with it. I know no more charming enjoyment in the country +than quartet music. I beg Y.R.H. will accept my heartfelt wishes for your +health, and also compassionate me for being obliged to pass my time here +under such disagreeable circumstances. But I will strive to compensate +twofold in Baden for what you have lost. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: Prince Lobkowitz's "misfortunes" probably refer to the great +pecuniary difficulties which befell this music and pomp loving Prince +several years before his death. Beethoven seems to have made various +attempts to induce the Prince to continue the payment of his share of the +salary agreed on, though these efforts were long fruitless. The subject, +however, appears to have been again renewed in 1816, for on the 8th of +March in this year Beethoven writes to Ries to say that his salary consists +of 3400 florins E.S., and this sum he received till his death.] + +[Footnote 2: Those who played in Count Rasumowsky's Quartets, to whom +Beethoven dedicated various compositions, were the _virtuosi_ Schuppanzigh +(1st), Sina (2d violin), Linke (violoncello), Weiss (violin).] + + +112. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1813.[1] + +I beg to inquire whether, being in some degree restored, I am to wait on +you this evening? I at the same time take the liberty to make a humble +request. I was in hopes that by this time, at all events, my melancholy +circumstances would have brightened, but all continues in its old state, so +I must determine on giving two concerts.[2] I find that I am compelled to +give up my former resolution never to give any except for benevolent +purposes; as self-maintenance demands that I should do so. The hall of the +University would be the most advantageous and distinguished for my present +object, and my humble request consists in entreating Y.R.H. to be so +gracious as to send a line to the present _Rector Magnificus_ of the +University, through Baron Schweiger, which would certainly ensure my +getting the hall. In the hope of a favorable answer, I remain, &c., &c. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: Late in the autumn of 1813.] + +[Footnote 2: The concerts here referred to were given in the University +Hall on the 8th and 12th December, 1813, when the _Battle of Vittoria_ and +the A major Symphony were performed for the first time. Beethoven himself +conducted.] + + +113. + +TO FREIHERR JOSEF VON SCHWEIGER. + +Late in the Autumn of 1813. + +MY DEAR FRIEND,-- + +I have to-day applied (by letter) to my gracious master to interest himself +in procuring the University Hall for two concerts which I think of giving, +and in fact must give, for all remains as it was. Always considering you, +both in good and evil fortune, my best friend, I suggested to the Duke that +you should apply in his name for this favor to the present Rector of the +University. Whatever may be the result, let me know H.R.H.'s decision as +soon as possible, that I may make further efforts to extricate myself from +a position so detrimental to me and to my art. I am coming this evening to +the Archduke. + +Your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[K.] + + +114. + +TO HERR VON BAUMEISTER.[1] + +DEAR SIR,-- + +I request you will send me the parts of the Symphony in A, and likewise my +score. His I.H. can have the MS. again, but I require it at present for the +music in the Augarten to-morrow. I have just received two tickets, which I +send to you, and beg you will make use of them. + +I am, with esteem, yours, + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Private Secretary to the Archduke Rudolph.] + + +115. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +Oct. 9, 1813. + +MY DEAR GOOD Z.,-- + +Don't be indignant with me for asking you to address the enclosed letter +properly; the person for whom it is intended is constantly complaining that +he gets no letters from me. Yesterday I took one myself to the post-office, +when I was asked where the letter was meant to go. I see, therefore, that +my writing seems to be as little understood as myself. Thence my request to +you. Your + +BEETHOVEN. + + +116. + +LETTER OF THANKS. + +I esteem it my duty to express my gratitude for the great zeal shown by all +those artists who so kindly cooeperated on the 8th and 12th December [1813] +in the concerts given for the benefit of the Austrian and Bavarian soldiers +wounded at the battle of Hanau. It was a rare combination of eminent +artists, where all were inspired by the wish to be of use to their +father-land, and to contribute by the exercise of their talents to the +fulfilment of the undertaking, while, regardless of all precedence, they +gladly accepted subordinate places.[1] While an artist like Herr +Schuppanzigh was at the head of the first violins, and by his fiery and +expressive mode of conducting kindled the zeal of the whole orchestra, Herr +Kapellmeister Salieri did not scruple to give the time to the drums and +cannonades; Herr Spohr and Herr Mayseder, each worthy from his talents to +fill the highest post, played in the second and third rank. Herr Siboni and +Herr Giuliani also filled subordinate places. The conducting of the whole +was only assigned to me from the music being my own composition; had it +been that of any one else, I would willingly, like Herr Hummel, have taken +my place at the big drum, as the only feeling that pervaded all our hearts +was true love for our father-land, and the wish cheerfully to devote our +powers to those who had sacrificed so much for us. Particular thanks are +due to Herr Maelzel, inasmuch as he first suggested the idea of this +concert, and the most troublesome part of the enterprise, the requisite +arrangements, management, and regulations, devolved on him. I more +especially thank him for giving me an opportunity by this concert of +fulfilling a wish I have long cherished, to compose for such a benevolent +object (exclusive of the works already made over to him) a comprehensive +work more adapted to the present times, to be laid on the altar of my +father-land.[2] As a notice is to be published of all those who assisted on +this occasion, the public will be enabled to judge of the noble self-denial +exercised by a mass of the greatest artists, working together with the same +benevolent object in view. + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: The A major Symphony and _Wellington's Victory at Vittoria_ +were performed.] + +[Footnote 2: "Obsolete" is written in pencil by Beethoven.] + + +117. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.[1] + +1814. + +I beg you will send me the score of the "Final Chorus"[2] for half a day, +as the theatrical score is so badly written. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: The spring of 1814.] + +[Footnote 2: The _Schlusschor_, the score of which Beethoven requests the +Archduke to send him, is in all probability the Finale _Germania! +Germania!_ intended for Treitschke's Operetta _Die gute Nachricht_, which +refers to the taking of Paris by the Allies, and was performed for the +first time at Vienna in the Kaernthnerthor Theatre on the 11th April, 1814. +The same _Final Chorus_ was substituted for another of Beethoven's (_Es ist +vollbracht_) in Treitschke's Operetta _Die Ehrenpforten_, first given on +the 15th July, 1815, in the Kaernthnerthor Theatre. Both these choruses are +printed in score in Breitkopf & Haertel's edition of Beethoven's works.] + + +118. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1814. + +Having only so recently received the score of the "Final Chorus," I must +ask you to excuse your getting it back so late. The best thing H.R.H. can +do is to have it transcribed, for in its present form the score is of no +use. I would have brought it myself, but I have been laid up with a cold +since last Sunday, which is most severe, and obliges me to be very careful, +being so much indisposed. I never feel greater satisfaction than when +Y.R.H. derives any pleasure through me. I hope very soon to be able to wait +on you myself, and in the mean time I pray that you will keep me in +remembrance. + +[K.] + + +119. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1814. + +The song "Germania" belongs to the whole world who sympathize with the +subject, and to you beyond all others, just as I myself am wholly yours. I +wish you a good journey to Palermo. + +[K.] + + +120. + +TO TREITSCHKE. + +March, 1814. + +MY DEAR, WORTHY T.,-- + +I have read with the greatest satisfaction your amendments of the Opera +["Fidelio" which was about to be again performed]. It has decided me once +more to rebuild the desolate ruins of an ancient fortress. + +Your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +121. + +TO TREITSCHKE. + +The affair of the Opera is the most troublesome in the world, and there is +scarcely one part of it which quite satisfies me now, and that I have not +been obliged to _amend by something more satisfactory_. But what a +difference between this, and giving one's self up to freely flowing thought +and inspiration! + + +122. + +TO TREITSCHKE. + +1814. + +I request, my dear T., that you will send me the score of the song [in +"Fidelio," _Geld ist eine schoene Sache_], that the interpolated notes may +be transcribed in all the instrumental parts; though I shall not take it at +all amiss if you prefer that Girowetz or any other person, perhaps +Weinmueller [who sang the part of Rocco], should do so. This I have nothing +to say against, but I will not suffer my composition to be altered by any +one whatever, be he who he may. + +I am, with high consideration, + +Your obedient + +BEETHOVEN. + + +123. + +TO COUNT MORITZ LICHNOWSKY.[1] + +MY DEAR COUNT,-- + +If you wish to attend our council [about the alterations in "Fidelio"], I +beg to inform you that it assembles this afternoon at half-past three +o'clock, in the Spielmann Haus, auf dem Graben, No. 188, 4th Etage, at Herr +Weinmueller's. I shall be very glad if you have leisure to be present. + +[Footnote 1: The mention of Weinmueller decides the date of this note, as it +was in the spring of 1814 that he, together with the singers Saal and Vogl, +brought about the revival of _Fidelio_.] + + +124. + +TO COUNT MORITZ LICHNOWSKY.[1] + +My dear, victorious, and yet sometimes nonplussed (?) Count! I hope that +you rested well, most precious and charming of all Counts! Oh! most beloved +and unparalleled Count! most fascinating and prodigious Count! + +[Music: Treble clef, E-flat Major, 2/2 time. +Graf Graf Graf Graf (in 3-part harmony) +Graf (in 3-part counterpoint) +Graf Graf Graf, liebster Graf, liebstes Schaf, +bester Graf, bestes Schaf! Schaf! Schaf!] + +(_To be repeated at pleasure_.) + +At what hour shall we call on Walter to-day? My going or not depends +entirely on you. Your + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: In Schindler's _Beethoven's Nachlass_ there is also an +autograph Canon of Beethoven's in F major, 6/8, on Count Lichnowsky, on the +words, _Bester Herr Graf, Sie sind ein Schaf_, written (according to +Schindler) Feb. 20th, 1823, in the coffee-house "Die Goldne Birne," in the +Landstrasse, where Beethoven usually went every evening, though he +generally slipped in by the backdoor.] + + +125. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1814. + +I hope you forgive me for not having come to you. Your displeasure would be +totally undeserved, and I will amply compensate for lost time in a few +days. My Opera of "Fidelio"[1] is again to be performed, which gives me a +great deal to do; moreover, though I look well, I am not so in reality. The +arrangements for my second concert[2] are partly completed. I must write +something new for Mdlle. Milder.[3] Meanwhile it is a consolation to me to +hear that Y.R.H. is so much better. I hope I am not too sanguine in +thinking that I shall soon be able to contribute towards this. I have taken +the liberty to apprise my Lord Falstaff[4] that he is ere long to have the +honor of appearing before Y.R.H. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: Letters 125 and 126 refer to the revival of the Opera of +_Fidelio_, which had not been given since 1806, and was not again produced +on the stage till the 23d May, 1814, in the Kaernthnerthor Theatre. +Beethoven's benefit took place on the 8th July, two newly composed pieces +being inserted.] + +[Footnote 2: Beethoven gave a concert on the 2d January, 1814, when +_Wellington's Victory_ was performed, and on the 26th March another for the +benefit of the Theatrical Fund, at which the _Overture to Egmont_ and +_Wellingtons's Victory_ were given, directed by Beethoven himself.] + +[Footnote 3: Anna Milder, Royal Court opera singer, a pupil of Vogl's, who +first sang the part of Leonore in _Fidelio_.] + +[Footnote 4: By "my Lord Falstaff" he means the corpulent violinist +Schuppanzigh.] + + +126. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +Vienna, July 14, 1814. + +Whenever I inquire about you I hear nothing but good news. As for my own +insignificant self, I have been hitherto hopelessly detained in Vienna, and +unable to approach Y.R.H.; I am also thus deprived of the enjoyment of +beautiful Nature, so dear to me. The directors of the theatre are so +_conscientious_, that, contrary to their faithful promise, they have again +given my Opera of "Fidelio," without thinking of giving me any share in the +receipts. They would have exhibited the same commendable good faith a +second time, had I not been on the watch like a French custom-house officer +of other days. At last, after a great many troublesome discussions, it was +settled that the Opera of "Fidelio" should be given on Monday the 18th of +July, for my benefit. These _receipts_ at this season of the year may more +properly be called _deceits_; but if a work is in any degree successful it +often becomes a little feast for the author. To this feast the master +invites his illustrious pupil, and hopes--yes! I hope that Y.R.H. will +graciously consent to come, and thus add lustre to everything by your +presence. It would be a great boon if Y.R.H. would endeavor to persuade the +other members of the Imperial family to be present at the representation of +my Opera, and I on my part will not fail to take the proper steps on the +subject which duty commands. Vogl's illness[1] enabled me to satisfy my +desire to give the part of Pizarro to Forti,[2] his voice being better +suited to it; but owing to this there are daily rehearsals, which cannot +fail to have a favorable effect on the performance, but which render it +impossible for me to wait upon Y.R.H. before my benefit. Pray give this +letter your favorable consideration, and think graciously of me. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: Joh. Mich. Vogl, born August 10th, 1768, was Court opera +singer (tenor) in Vienna from 1794 to 1822; he died November 19th, 1840.] + +[Footnote 2: Forti, born June 8th, 1790, a member of the Royal Court +Theatre (a barytone), pensioned off in 1834.] + + +127. + +DEPOSITION. + +1814. + +I voluntarily presented Maelzel _gratis_ with a "Battle Symphony" for his +panharmonica. After having kept it for some time, he brought me back the +score, which he had already begun to engrave, saying that he wished it to +be harmonized for a full orchestra. The idea of a battle had already +occurred to me, which, however, could not be performed on his panharmonica. +We agreed to select this and some more of my works [see No. 116] to be +given at the concert for the benefit of disabled soldiers. At that very +time I became involved in the most frightful pecuniary difficulties. +Forsaken by every one in Vienna, and in daily expectation of remittances, +&c., Maelzel offered me fifty gold ducats, which I accepted, saying that I +would either repay them, or allow him to take the work to London, (provided +I did not go there myself with him,) referring him to an English publisher +for payment. + +I got back from him the score written for the panharmonica. The concerts +then took place, and during that time Herr Maelzel's designs and character +were first fully revealed. Without my consent, he stated on the bills of +the concert that the work was _his property_. Indignant at this, I insisted +on his destroying these bills. He then stated that I had given it to him as +a friendly act, because he was going to London. To this I did not object, +believing that I had reserved the right to state the conditions on which +the work should be his own. I remember that when the bills were being +printed, I violently opposed them, but the time was too short, as I was +still writing the work. In all the fire of inspiration, and absorbed in my +composition, I scarcely thought at all on the subject. Immediately after +the first concert in the University Hall, I was told on all sides, and by +people on whom I could rely, that Maelzel had everywhere given out he had +paid me 400 gold ducats for the Symphony. I sent what follows to a +newspaper, but the editor would not insert it, as Maelzel stands well with +them all. As soon as the first concert was over, I repaid Maelzel his fifty +ducats, declaring that having discovered his real character, nothing should +ever induce me to travel with him; justly indignant that, without +consulting me, he had stated in the bills that all the arrangements for the +concert were most defective. His own despicable want of patriotism too is +proved by the following expressions: "I care nothing at all about L.; if it +is only said in London that people have paid ten gulden for admission here, +that is all I care about; the wounded are nothing to me." Moreover, I told +him that he might take the work to London on certain conditions, which I +would inform him of. He then asserted that it was a _friendly gift_, and +made use of this phrase in the newspapers after the second concert, without +giving me the most remote hint on the subject. As Maelzel is a rude, +churlish man, entirely devoid of education or cultivation, it is easy to +conceive the tenor of his conduct to me during this time, which still +further irritated me. Who could bear to be forced to bestow a _friendly +gift_ on such a man? I was offered an opportunity to send the work to the +Prince Regent, [afterwards George IV.] It was therefore quite impossible +for me to _give away the work unconditionally_. + +He then called on a mutual friend to make proposals. He was told on what +day to return for an answer, but he never appeared, set off on his travels, +and performed the work in Munich. How did he obtain it? He could not +possibly _steal_ it; but Herr Maelzel had several of the parts for some +days in his house, and he caused the entire work to be harmonized by some +obscure musical journeyman, and is now hawking it about the world. Herr +Maelzel promised me ear-trumpets. I harmonized the "Battle Symphony" for +his panharmonica from a wish to keep him to his word. The ear-trumpets came +at last, but were not of the service to me that I expected. For this slight +trouble Herr Maelzel, after my having arranged the "Battle Symphony" for a +full orchestra, and composed a battle-piece in addition, declared that I +ought to have made over these works to him as _his own exclusive property_. +Even allowing that I am in some degree obliged to him for the ear-trumpets, +this is entirely balanced by his having made at least 500 gulden in Munich +by my mutilated or stolen battle-piece. He has therefore paid himself in +full. He had actually the audacity to say here that he was in possession of +the battle-piece; in fact he showed it, written out, to various persons. I +did not believe this; and, in fact, with good reason, as the whole is not +by me, but compiled by some one else. Indeed the credit he assumes for the +work should alone be sufficient compensation. + +The secretary at the War Office made no allusion whatever to me, and yet +every work performed at both concerts was of my composition. + +Herr Maelzel thinks fit to say that he has delayed his visit to London on +account of the battle-piece, which is a mere subterfuge. He stayed to +finish his patchwork, as the first attempt did not succeed. + +BEETHOVEN. + + +128. + +TO HERR J. KAUKA, DOCTOR OF LAWS IN PRAGUE, IN THE KINGDOM OF BOHEMIA. + +The Summer of 1814. + +A thousand thanks, my esteemed Kauka. At last I meet with a _legal +representative_ and a _man_, who can both write and think without using +unmeaning formulas. You can scarcely imagine how I long for the end of this +affair, as it not only interferes with my domestic expenditure, but is +injurious to me in various ways. You know yourself that a sensitive spirit +ought not to be fettered by miserable anxieties, and much that might render +my life happy is thus abstracted from it. Even my inclination and the duty +I assigned myself, to serve suffering humanity by means of my art, I have +been obliged to limit, and must continue to do so.[1] + +I write nothing about our monarchs and monarchies, for the newspapers give +you every information on these subjects.[2] The intellectual realm is the +most precious in my eyes, and far above all temporal and spiritual +monarchies. Write to me, however, what you wish _for yourself_ from my poor +musical capabilities, that I may, in so far as it lies in my power, supply +something for your own musical sense and feeling. Do you not require all +the papers connected with the Kinsky case? If so I will send them to you, +as they contain most important testimony, which, indeed, I believe you read +when with me. Think of me and do not forget that you represent a +disinterested artist in opposition to a niggardly family. How gladly do men +withhold from the poor artist in one respect _what they pay him in +another_, and there is no longer a Zeus with whom an artist can invite +himself to feast on ambrosia. Strive, my dear friend, to accelerate the +tardy steps of justice. Whenever I feel myself elevated high, and in happy +moments revel in my artistic sphere, circumstances drag me down again, and +none more than these two lawsuits. You too have your disagreeable moments, +though with the views and capabilities I know you to possess, especially in +your profession, I could scarcely have believed this; still I must recall +your attention to myself. I have drunk to the dregs a cup of bitter sorrow, +and already earned martyrdom in art through my beloved artistic disciples +and colleagues. I beg you will think of me every day, and imagine it to be +an _entire world_, for it is really asking rather too much of you to think +of so humble an _individual_ as myself. + +I am, with the highest esteem and friendship, + +Your obedient + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: He supported a consumptive brother and his wife and child.] + +[Footnote 2: At the Vienna Congress Beethoven was received with much +distinction by the potentates present.] + + +129. + +ADDRESS AND APPEAL TO LONDON ARTISTS BY L. VAN BEETHOVEN. + +Vienna, July 25, 1814. + +Herr Maelzel, now in London, on his way thither performed my "Battle +Symphony" and "Wellington's Battle of Vittoria" in Munich, and no doubt he +intends to produce them at London concerts, as he wished to do in +Frankfort. This induces me to declare that I never in any way made over or +transferred the said works to Herr Maelzel; that no one possesses a copy of +them, and that the only one verified by me I sent to his Royal Highness the +Prince Regent of England. The performance of these works, therefore, by +Herr Maelzel is either an imposition on the public, as the above +declaration proves that he does not possess them, or if he does, he has +been guilty of a breach of faith towards me, inasmuch as he must have got +them in a surreptitious manner. + +But even in the latter case the public will still be deluded, for the works +that Herr Maelzel performs under the titles of "Wellington's Battle of +Vittoria" and "Battle Symphony" are beyond all doubt spurious and +mutilated, as he never had any portion of either of these works of mine, +except some of the parts for a few days. + +This suspicion becomes a certainty from the testimony of various artists +here, whose names I am authorized to give if necessary. These gentlemen +state that Herr Maelzel, before he left Vienna, declared that he was in +possession of these works, and showed various portions, which, however, as +I have already proved, must be counterfeit. The question whether Herr +Maelzel be capable of doing me such an injury is best solved by the +following fact,--In the public papers he named himself as sole giver of the +concert on behalf of our wounded soldiers, whereas my works alone were +performed there, and yet he made no allusion whatsoever to me. + +I therefore appeal to the London musicians not to permit such a grievous +wrong to be done to their fellow-artist by Herr Maelzel's performance of +the "Battle of Vittoria" and the "Battle Symphony," and also to prevent the +London public being so shamefully imposed upon. + + +130. + +TO DR. KAUKA. + +Vienna, August 22, 1814. + +You have shown a feeling for harmony, and you can resolve a great discord +in my life, which causes me much discomfort, into more pleasing melody, if +you will. I shortly expect to hear something of what you understand is +likely to happen, as I eagerly anticipate the result of this most _unjust_ +affair with the Kinskys. When the Princess was here, she seemed to be well +disposed towards me; still I do not know how it will end. In the mean time +I must restrict myself in everything, and await with entire confidence what +is _rightfully my own_ and _legally devolves on me_; and though unforeseen +occurrences caused changes in this matter, still two witnesses recently +bore testimony to the wish of the deceased Prince that my appointed salary +in _Banco Zettel_ should be paid in _Einloesung Schein_, making up the +original sum, and the Prince himself gave me sixty gold ducats _on account_ +of my claim. + +Should the affair turn out badly for me by the conduct of the Kinsky +family, I will publish it in every newspaper, to their disgrace. If there +had been an heir, and the facts had been told to him _in all their truth_, +just as I narrated them, I am convinced that he would at once have adopted +the words and deeds of his predecessor. Has Dr. Wolf [the previous +advocate] shown you the papers, or shall I make you acquainted with them? +As I am by no means sure that this letter will reach you safely, I defer +sending you the pianoforte arrangement of my opera "Fidelio," which is +ready to be dispatched. + +I hope, in accordance with your usual friendliness, soon to hear from you. +I am also writing to Dr. Wolf (who certainly does not treat any one +_wolfishly_), in order not to arouse his _passion_, so that he may have +_compassion_ on me, and neither take my purse nor my life. + +I am, with esteem, your true friend, + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +131. + +TO COUNT MORITZ LICHNOWSKY. + +Baden, Sept. 21, 1841.[1] + +MOST ESTEEMED COUNT AND FRIEND,-- + +I unluckily only got your letter yesterday. A thousand thanks for your +remembrance of me. Pray express my gratitude also to your charming Princess +Christiane [wife of Prince Carl Lichnowsky]. I had a delightful walk +yesterday with a friend in the Bruehl, and in the course of our friendly +chat you were particularly mentioned, and lo! and behold! on my return I +found your kind letter. I see you are resolved to continue to load me with +benefits. + +As I am unwilling you should suppose that a step I have already taken is +prompted by your recent favors, or by any motive of the sort, I must tell +you that a sonata of mine [Op. 90] is about to appear, _dedicated to you_. +I wished to give you a surprise, as this dedication has been long designed +for you, but your letter of yesterday induces me to name the fact. I +required no new motive thus publicly to testify my sense of your friendship +and kindness. But as for anything approaching to a gift in return, you +would only distress me, by thus totally misinterpreting my intentions, and +I should at once decidedly refuse such a thing. + +I beg to kiss the hand of the Princess for her kind message and all her +goodness to me. _Never have I forgotten what I owe to you all_, though an +unfortunate combination of circumstances prevented my testifying this as I +could have wished. + +From what you tell me about Lord Castlereagh, I think the matter in the +best possible train. If I were to give an opinion on the subject, I should +say that Lord Castlereagh ought to hear the work given here before writing +to Wellington. I shall soon be in Vienna, when we can consult together +about a grand concert. Nothing is to be effected at Court; I made the +application, but--but-- + +[Music: Treble clef, C major, 4/4 time, Adagio. +al-lein al-lein al-lein] + +_Silentium!!!_ + +Farewell, my esteemed friend; pray continue to esteem me worthy of your +friendship. Yours, + +BEETHOVEN. + +A thousand compliments to the illustrious Princess. + +[Footnote 1: The date reversed, as written by Beethoven, is here given.] + + +132. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1814. + +I perceive that Y.R.H. wishes to try the effect of my music even upon +horses.[1] We shall see whether its influence will cause the riders to +throw some clever summersets. Ha! ha! I can't help laughing at Y.R.H. +thinking of me on such an occasion; for which I shall remain so long as I +live, &c., &c., &c. The horse-music that Y.R.H. desires shall set off to +you full gallop. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: A tournament was held on the 23d November, 1814, in the Royal +Riding School. Beethoven was probably requested by the Archduke to compose +some music for it, which, however, has not been traced.] + + +133. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1814. + +It is impossible for me to-day to wait on you, much as I wish it. I am +dispatching the work on Wellington's victory[1] to London. Such matters +have their appointed and fixed time, which cannot be delayed without final +loss. To-morrow I hope to be able to call on Y.R.H. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: The Cantata _Der glorreiche Augenblick_, the poetry by Dr. +Alois Weissenbach, set to music by Beethoven for chorus and orchestra (Op. +136), was first given in Vienna on the 29th November, 1814, and repeated on +the 2d December.] + + +134. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +(In a different hand) Dec. 1814. + +I really feel that I can never deserve your goodness towards me. I beg to +offer my most respectful thanks for Y.R.H.'s gracious intervention in my +affairs at Prague. I will punctually attend to the score of the Cantata.[1] +I trust Y.R.H. will forgive my not having yet been to see you. After the +concert for the poor, comes one in the theatre, equally for the benefit of +the _impresario in angustia_, for they have felt some just shame, and have +let me off with one third and one half of the usual charges. I have now +some fresh work on hand, and then there is a new opera to be begun,[2] the +subject of which I am about to decide on. Moreover, I am again far from +well, but a few days hence I will wait on Y.R.H. If I could be of any +service to Y.R.H., the most eager and anxious wish of my life would be +fulfilled. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: What concert Beethoven alludes to I cannot discover, but no +mention of it being made in the very exact _Allgemeine Leipziger +Musikalische Zeitung_, it appears not to have taken place.] + +[Footnote 2: The new opera, with the subject of which Beethoven was +occupied, was no doubt Treitschke's _Romulus_.] + + +135. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1814. + +My warmest thanks for your present.[1] I only regret that you could not +participate in the music. I have now the honor to send you the score of the +Cantata [see No. 134]. Y.R.H. can keep it for some days, and afterwards I +shall take care that it is copied for you as soon as possible. + +I feel still quite exhausted from fatigue and worry, pleasure and +delight!--all combined! I shall have the honor of waiting on you in the +course of a few days. I hope to hear favorable accounts of Y.R.H.'s health. +How gladly would I sacrifice many nights, were it in my power to restore +you entirely! + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: The present he refers to was probably for the concert of +November 29th, or December 2d, 1814.] + + +136. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1814.[1] + +I see with real pleasure that I may dismiss all fears for your well-being. +As for myself, I hope (always feeling happy when able to give you any +pleasure) that my health is also rapidly recruiting, when I intend +forthwith to compensate both you and myself for the _pauses_ that have +occurred. As for Prince Lobkowitz, his _pauses_ with me still continue, and +I fear he will never again come in at the right place; and in Prague (good +heavens! with regard to Prince Kinsky's affair) they scarcely as yet know +what a figured bass is, for they sing in slow, long-drawn choral notes; +some of these sustained through sixteen bars |======|. As all these +discords seem likely to be very slowly resolved, it is best to bring +forward only those which we can ourselves resolve, and to give up the rest +to inevitable fate. Allow me once more to express my delight at the +recovery of Y.R.H. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: 1814 or 1815. Prince Lobkowitz was still alive at that time +(died December 21st, 1816).] + + +137. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1814. + +As you were so kind as to let me know through Count Troyer[1] that you +would write a few lines on my affairs in Prague to the _Oberstburggraf_ +Count Kolowrat, I take the liberty to enclose my letter to Count K.; I do +not believe that it contains anything to which Y.R.H. will take exception. +There is no chance of my being allowed payment in _Einloesung Schein_, for, +in spite of all the proofs, the guardians cannot be persuaded to consent to +this; still it is to be hoped that by the friendly steps we have meanwhile +had recourse to, _extra-judicially_, a more favorable result may be +obtained,--as, for instance, the rate of the scale to be higher. If, +however, Y.R.H. will either write a few words yourself, or cause it to be +done in your name, the affair will certainly be _much accelerated_, which +induces me earnestly to entreat Y.R.H. to perform your gracious promise to +me. This affair has now gone on for three years, and is still--undecided. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: Count Ferdinand Troyer was one of the Archduke's +chamberlains.] + + +138. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1814. + +I have again for a fortnight past been afflicted with severe headaches, +though constantly hoping to get better, but in vain. Now, however, that the +weather is improved, my physician promises me a speedy cure. Though as each +day I expected to be the last of my suffering, I did not write to you on +the subject; besides, I thought that Y.R.H. probably did not require me, as +it is so long since Y.R.H. sent for me. During the festivities in honor of +the Princess of Baden,[1] and the injury to Y.R.H.'s finger, I began to +work very assiduously, and as the fruit of this, among others, is a new +pianoforte trio.[2] Myself very much occupied, I had no idea that I had +incurred the displeasure of Y.R.H., though I now begin almost to think this +to be the case. In the mean time I hope soon to be able to present myself +before your tribunal. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: The festivities in honor of the Princess of Baden were +probably during the Congress, 1814.] + +[Footnote 2: The new trio, if the one in B flat for the pianoforte, violin, +and violoncello, Op. 97, was first performed on the 11th April, 1814, in +the hall of the "Komischer Kaiser." Letter 139 also mentions this trio, +composed in 1811 and published in July, 1816.] + + +139. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1814. + +I beg you will be so good as to let me have the Trio in B flat with all the +parts, and also both parts of the violin Sonata in G,[1] as I must have +them written out for myself with all speed, not being able to hunt out my +own scores among so many others. I hope that this detestable weather has +had no bad effect on Y.R.H.'s health; I must own that it rather deranges +me. In three or four days at least I shall have the honor to restore both +works to their proper place. + +Do the musical pauses still continue? + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: The Sonata for pianoforte and violin in G major, Op. 96, was +purchased by Haslinger, April 1st, 1815, and published the end of July, +1816. It was composed in 1814--perhaps in 1813. Thayer thinks in 1810.] + + +140. + +TO HERR KAUKA. + +Vienna, Jan. 11, 1815. + +MY GOOD, WORTHY K.,-- + +I received Baron Pasqualati's letter to-day, by which I perceive that you +wish me to defer any fresh measures. In the mean time all the necessary +papers are lodged with Pasqualati; so be so good as to inform him that he +must delay taking any further steps. To-morrow a council is to be held +here, and you and P. shall learn the result probably to-morrow evening. +Meanwhile I wish you to look through the paper I sent to the Court through +Pasqualati, and read the appendix carefully. You will then see that Wolf +and others have not given you correct information. + +One thing is certain, that there are sufficient proofs _for any one who +wishes to be convinced_. How could it ever occur to me _to think of written +legal testimony_ with such a man as Kinsky, whose integrity and generosity +were everywhere acknowledged? I remain, with the warmest affection and +esteem, + +In haste, your friend, + +B. + + +141. + +TO HERR KAUKA. + +1815. + +MY DEAR AND ESTEEMED K.,-- + +What can I think, or say, or feel? As for W. [Wolf], it seems to me that he +not only showed _his weak points_, but gave himself no trouble to conceal +them. It is impossible that he can have drawn up his statement in +accordance with all the actual evidence he had. The order on the treasury +about the rate of exchange was given by Kinsky previous to his consent to +pay me my salary in _Einloesung Schein_, as the documents prove; indeed it +is only necessary to examine the date to show this, so the first +instruction is of importance. The _species facti_ prove that I was more +than six months absent from Vienna. As I was not anxious to get the money, +I allowed the affair to stand over; so the Prince thus forgot to recall his +former order to the treasury, but that he neither forgot his promise to me, +nor to Varnhagen [an officer] in my behalf, is evident by the testimony of +Herr von Oliva, to whom shortly before his departure from hence--and indeed +into another world--he repeated his promise, making an appointment to see +him when he should return to Vienna, in order to arrange the matter with +the treasury, which of course was prevented by his untimely death. + +The testimony of the officer Varnhagen is accompanied by a document (he +being at present with the Russian army), in which he states that he is +prepared to _take his oath_ on the affair. The evidence of Herr Oliva is +also to the effect that he is willing to confirm his evidence by oath +before the Court. As I have sent away the testimony of Col. Count Bentheim, +I am not sure of its tenor, but I believe the Count also says that he is +prepared at any time to make an affidavit on the matter in Court, and I am +myself _ready to swear before the Court_ that Prince Kinsky said to me in +Prague, "he thought it only fair to me that my salary should be paid in +_Einloesung Schein_." These were his own words. + +He gave me himself sixty gold ducats in Prague, on account (good for about +600 florins), as, owing to my state of health, I could remain no longer, +and set off for Toeplitz. The Prince's word was _sacred_ in my eyes, never +having heard anything of him to induce me either to bring two witnesses +with me or to ask him for any written pledge. I see from all this that Dr. +Wolf has miserably mismanaged the business, and has not made you +sufficiently acquainted with the papers. + +Now as to the step I have just taken. The Archduke Rudolph asked me some +time since whether the Kinsky affair was yet terminated, having probably +heard something of it. I told him that it looked very bad, as I knew +nothing, absolutely nothing, of the matter. He offered to write himself, +but desired me to add a memorandum, and also to make him acquainted with +all the papers connected with the Kinsky case. After having informed +himself on the affair, he wrote to the _Oberstburggraf_, and enclosed my +letter to him. + +The _Oberstburggraf_ answered both the Duke and myself immediately. In the +letter to me he said "that I was to present a petition to the Provincial +Court of Justice in Prague, along with all the proofs, whence it would be +forwarded to him, and that he would do his utmost to further my cause." He +also wrote in the most polite terms to the Archduke; indeed, he expressly +said "that he was thoroughly cognizant of the late Prince Kinsky's +intentions with regard to me and this affair, and that I might present a +petition," &c. The Archduke instantly sent for me, and desired me to +prepare the document and to show it to him; he also thought that I ought to +solicit payment in _Einloesung Schein_, as there was ample proof, if not in +strictly legal form, of the intentions of the Prince, and no one could +doubt that if he had survived he would have adhered to his promise. If he +[the Archduke] were this day the heir, _he would demand no other proofs +than those already furnished_. I sent this paper to Baron Pasqualati, who +is kindly to present it himself to the Court. Not till after the affair had +gone so far did Dr. Adlersburg receive a letter from Dr. Wolf, in which he +mentioned that he had made a claim for 1500 florins. As we have come so far +as 1500 florins with the _Oberstburggraf_, we may possibly get on to 1800 +florins. I do not esteem this any _favor_, for the late Prince was one of +those who urged me most to refuse a salary of 600 gold ducats per annum, +offered to me from Westphalia; and he said at the time "that he was +resolved I should have no chance of eating hams in Westphalia." Another +summons to Naples somewhat later I equally declined, and I am entitled to +demand a fair compensation for the loss I incurred. If the salary were to +be paid in bank-notes, what should I get? Not 400 florins in +_Conventionsgeld_!!! in lieu of such a salary as 600 ducats! There are +ample proofs for those who wish to act justly; and what does the _Einloesung +Schein_ now amount to??!!! It is even at this moment no equivalent for what +I refused. This affair was pompously announced in all the newspapers while +I was nearly reduced to beggary. The intentions of the Prince are evident, +and in my opinion the family are bound to act in accordance with them +unless they wish to be disgraced. Besides, the revenues have rather +increased than diminished by the death of the Prince; so there is no +sufficient ground for curtailing my salary. + +I received your friendly letter yesterday, but am too weary at this moment +to write all that I feel towards you. I can only commend my case to your +sagacity. It appears that the _Oberstburggraf_ is the chief person; so what +he wrote to the Archduke must be kept a profound secret, for it might not +be advisable that any one should know of it but you and Pasqualati. You +have sufficient cause on looking through the papers to show how improperly +Dr. Wolf has conducted the affair, and that another course of action is +necessary. I rely on your friendship to act as you think best for my +interests. + +Rest assured of my warmest thanks, and pray excuse my writing more to-day, +for a thing of this kind is very fatiguing,--more so than the greatest +musical undertaking. My heart has found something for you to which yours +will respond, and this you shall soon receive. + +Do not forget me, poor tormented creature that I am! and _act for me_ and +_effect for me_ all that is possible. + +With high esteem, your true friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +142. + +TO HERR KAUKA. + +Vienna, Jan. 14, 1815. + +MY GOOD AND WORTHY K.,-- + +The long letter I enclose was written when we were disposed to claim the +1800 florins. Baron Pasqualati's last letter, however, again made me waver, +and Dr. Adlersburg advised me to adhere to the steps already taken; but as +Dr. Wolf writes that he has offered in your name to accept 1500 florins a +year, I beg you will at least make every effort to get that sum. For this +purpose I send you the long letter written before we received Baron P.'s +dissuasive one, as you may discover in it many reasons for demanding _at +least_ the 1500 florins. The Archduke, too, has written a second time to +the _Oberstburggraf_, and we may conclude from his previous reply that he +will certainly exert himself, and that we shall at all events succeed in +getting the 1500 florins. + +Farewell! I cannot write another syllable; such things exhaust me. May your +friendship accelerate this affair!--if it ends badly, then I must leave +Vienna, because I could not possibly live on my income, for here things +have come to such a pass that everything has risen to the highest price, +and that price must be paid. The last two concerts I gave cost me 1508 +florins, and had it not been for the Empress's munificent present I should +scarcely have derived any profit whatever. + +Your faithful friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +143.[1] + +TO THE HONORABLE MEMBERS OF THE LANDRECHT. + +Vienna, 1815. + +GENTLEMEN,-- + +Quite ignorant of law proceedings, and believing that all claims on an +inheritance could not fail to be liquidated, I sent to my lawyer in Prague +[Dr. Kauka] the contract signed by the Archduke Rudolph, Prince Lobkowitz, +and Prince von Kinsky, in which these illustrious personages agreed to +settle on me an annual allowance of 4000 florins. My constant efforts to +obtain a settlement of my claim, and also, as I am bound to admit, my +reproaches to Dr. Kauka for not conducting the affair properly (his +application to the guardians having proved fruitless), no doubt prompted +him to have recourse to law. + +None but those who are fully aware of my esteem for the deceased Prince can +tell how repugnant it is to my feelings to appear as a complainant against +my benefactor. + +Under these circumstances I have recourse to a shorter path, in the +conviction that the guardians of the Prince's estate will be disposed to +mark their appreciation of art, and also their desire to fulfil the +engagements of the late Prince. According to the terms of the contract in +question, the Archduke Rudolph, Prince Lobkowitz, and Prince v. Kinsky +granted me these 4000 florins until I should obtain a situation of equal +value; and further, if by misfortune or old age I was prevented exercising +my art, these distinguished contracting parties secured this pension to me +for life, while I, in return, pledged myself not to leave Vienna. + +This promise was generous, and equally generous was its fulfilment, for no +difficulty ever occurred, and I was in the peaceful enjoyment of my pension +till the Imperial Finance Patent appeared. The consequent alteration in the +currency made no difference in the payments of the Archduke Rudolph, for I +received his share in _Einloesung Schein_, as I had previously done in +bank-notes, without any reference to the new scale. The late illustrious +Prince v. Kinsky also at once assured me that his share (1800 florins) +should also be paid in _Einloesung Schein_. As however, he omitted giving +the order to his cashier, difficulties arose on the subject. Although my +circumstances are not brilliant, I would not have ventured to bring this +claim before the notice of the guardians of the estate, if respectable, +upright men had not received the same pledge from the late Prince's own +lips, namely, that he would pay my past as well as my future claims in +Vienna currency, which is proved by the papers B, C, D, appended to the +pleas. Under these circumstances I leave the guardians to judge whether, +after so implicitly relying on the promise of the deceased Prince, I have +not cause to complain of my delicacy being wounded by the objection +advanced by the curators to the witnesses, from their not having been +present together at the time the promise was made, which is most +distressing to my feelings. + +In order to extricate myself from this most disagreeable lawsuit, I take +the liberty to give an assurance to the guardians that I am prepared, both +as to the past and the future, to be satisfied with the 1800 florins, +Vienna currency; and I flatter myself that these gentlemen will admit that +I on my part make thus no small sacrifice, as it was solely from my esteem +for those illustrious Princes that I selected Vienna for my settled abode, +at a time when the most advantageous offers were made to me elsewhere. + +I therefore request the Court to submit this proposal to the guardians of +the Kinsky estates for their opinion, and to be so good as to inform me of +the result. + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: See No. 94. On the 18th January, 1815, the Court of Justice at +Prague decreed that the trustees of Prince Kinsky's estate should pay to L. +v. Beethoven the sum of 1200 florins W.W. from November 3d, 1812, instead +of the original written agreement of 1800 florins. Dr. Constant, of +Wurzbach, in his _Biographical Austrian Lexicon_, states that Beethoven +dedicated his splendid song _An die Hoffnung_, Op. 94, to Princess Kinsky, +wife of Prince Ferdinand Kinsky, who died in 1812.] + + +144. + +TO BARON VON PASQUALATI. + +January, 1815. + +MY ESTEEMED FRIEND,-- + +I beg you will kindly send me by the bearer the proper form for the Kinsky +receipt (_but sealed_) for 600 florins half-yearly from the month of April. +I intend to send the receipt forthwith to Dr. Kauka in Prague,[1] who on a +former occasion procured the money for me so quickly. I will deduct your +debt from this, but if it be possible to get the money here before the +remittance arrives from Prague, I will bring it at once to you myself. + +I remain, with the most profound esteem, + +Your sincere friend, + +BEETHOVEN + +[Footnote 1: This man, now ninety-four years of age and quite blind, was at +that time Beethoven's counsel in Prague. Pasqualati was that benefactor of +Beethoven's who always kept rooms for him in his house on the Moelker +Bastei, and whose kind aid never deserted him to the close of his life.] + + +145. + +TO HERR KAUKA. + +Vienna, Feb. 24, 1815. + +MY MUCH ESTEEMED K.,-- + +I have repeatedly thanked you through Baron Pasqualati for your friendly +exertions on my behalf, and I now beg to express one thousand thanks +myself. The intervention of the Archduke could not be very palatable to +you, and perhaps has prejudiced you against me. You had already done all +that was possible when the Archduke interfered. If this had been the case +sooner, and we had not employed that one-sided, or many-sided, or +weak-sided Dr. Wolf, then, according to the assurances of the +_Oberstburggraf_ himself, the affair might have had a still more favorable +result. I shall therefore ever and always be grateful to you for your +services. The Court now deduct the sixty ducats I mentioned of my own +accord, and to which the late Prince never alluded either to his treasurer +or any one else. Where truth could injure me it has been accepted, so why +reject it when it could have benefited me? How unfair! Baron Pasqualati +requires information from you on various points. + +I am again very tired to-day, having been obliged to discuss many things +with poor P.; such matters exhaust me more than the greatest efforts in +composition. It is a new field, the soil of which I ought not to be +required to till. This painful business has cost me many tears and much +sorrow. The time draws near when Princess Kinsky must be written to. Now I +must conclude. How rejoiced shall I be when I can write you the pure +effusions of my heart once more; and this I mean to do as soon as I am +extricated from all these troubles. Pray accept again my heartfelt thanks +for all that you have done for me, and continue your regard for + +Your attached friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +146. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1815. + +I heard yesterday, and it was indeed confirmed by meeting Count Troyer, +that Y.R.H. is now here. I therefore send the dedication of the Trio [in B +flat] to Y.R.H., whose name is inscribed on it; but all my works on which I +place any value, though the name does not appear, are equally designed for +Y.R.H. I trust, however, that you will not think I have a motive in saying +this,--men of high rank being apt to suspect self-interest in such +expressions,--and I mean on this occasion to risk the imputation so far as +_appearances_ go, by at once asking a favor of Y.R.H. My well-grounded +reasons for so doing you will no doubt at once perceive, and graciously +vouchsafe to grant my request. I have been very much indisposed in Baden +since the beginning of last October; indeed, from the 5th of October I have +been entirely confined to my bed, or to my room, till about a week ago. I +had a very serious inflammatory cold, and am still able to go out very +little, which has also been the cause of my not writing to Y.R.H. in +Kremsir. May all the blessings that Heaven can shower upon earth attend +you. + +[K.] + + + + +SECOND PART. + + +LIFE'S MISSION. + +1815 TO 1822. + + + + +PART II. + + +147. + +WRITTEN IN SPOHR'S ALBUM.[1] + +Vienna, March 3, 1815. + +[Music: Treble clef, F Major, 3/4 time. +Kurz, kurz, kurz, kurz ist der Schmerz, der Schmerz, +e-wig, e-wig ist die Freu-de, ist die Freu-de, +ja die Freu-de, e-wig ist die Freu-de. +Kurz, kurz, kurz, kurz ist der Schmerz, der Schmerz, der Schmerz, +e-wig, e-wig ist die Freu-de, ist die Freu-de, +e-wig ist die Freude, e-wig, e-wig ist die Freu-de. +Kurz, kurz, kurz, kurz ist der Schmerz, der Schmerz, der Schmerz, +e-wig, e-wig ist die Freude, e-wig ist die Freu-de.] + +Whenever, dear Spohr, you chance to find true art and true artists, may you +kindly remember + +Your friend, + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: From the fac-simile in Spohr's _Autobiography_, Vol. I.] + + +148. + +TO HERR KAUKA. + +Vienna, April 8, 1815. + +It seems scarcely admissible to be on the friendly terms on which I +consider myself with you, and yet to be on such unfriendly ones that we +should live close to each other and never meet!!!!![1] You write "_tout a +vous_." Oh! you humbug! said I. No! no! it is really too bad. I should like +to thank you 9000 times for all your efforts on my behalf, and to reproach +you 20,000 that you came and went as you did. So all is a delusion! +friendship, kingdom, empire; all is only a vapor which every breeze wafts +into a different form!! Perhaps I may go to Toeplitz, but it is not certain. +I might take advantage of that opportunity to let the people of Prague hear +something--what think you? if _indeed you still think of me at all_! As the +affair with Lobkowitz is now also come to a close, we may write _Finis_, +though it far from _fine is_ for me. + +Baron Pasqualati will no doubt soon call on you again; he also has taken +much trouble on my account. Yes, indeed! it is easy to talk of _justice_, +but to obtain it from others is _no easy matter_. In what way can I be of +service to you in my own art? Say whether you prefer my celebrating the +monologue of a fugitive king, or the perjury of a usurper--or the true +friends, who, though near neighbors, never saw each other? In the hope of +soon hearing from you--for being now so far asunder it is easier to hold +intercourse than when nearer!--I remain, with highest esteem, + +Your ever-devoted friend, + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Kauka evidently had been recently in Vienna without visiting +Beethoven.] + + +149. + +TO HERR KAUKA. + +1815. + +MY DEAR AND WORTHY K.,-- + +I have just received from the Syndic Baier in R. the good news that you +told him yourself about Prince F.K. As for the rest, you shall be perfectly +satisfied. + +I take the liberty to ask you again to look after my interests with the +Kinsky family, and I subjoin the necessary receipt for this purpose [see +No. 144]. Perhaps some other way may be found, though it does not as yet +occur to me, by means of which I need not importune you in future. On the +15th October [1815] I was attacked by an inflammatory cold, from the +consequences of which I still suffer, and my art likewise; but it is to be +hoped that I shall now gradually recover, and at all events be able once +more to display the riches of my little realm of sweet sounds. Yet I am +very poor in all else--owing to the times? to poverty of spirit? or +what???? Farewell! Everything around disposes us to _profound silence_; but +this shall not be the case as to the bond of friendship and soul that +unites us. I loudly proclaim myself, now as ever, + +Your loving friend and admirer, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +150. + +TO HERR KAUKA. + +1815. + +MY MOST WORTHY FRIEND,-- + +My second letter follows that of yesterday, May 2d. Pasqualati tells me +to-day, after the lapse of a month and six days, that the house of +Ballabene is too _high and mighty_ to assist me in this matter. I must +therefore appeal to your _insignificance_ (as I myself do not hesitate to +be so mean as to serve other people). My house-rent amounts to 550 florins, +and must be paid out of the sum in question. + +As soon as the newly engraved pianoforte pieces appear, you shall receive +copies, and also of the "Battle," &c., &c. Forgive me, forgive me, my +generous friend; some other means must be found to forward this affair with +due promptitude. + +In haste, your friend and admirer, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +151. + +TO MR. SALOMON,--LONDON.[1] + +Vienna, June 1, 1815. + +MY GOOD FELLOW-COUNTRYMAN,-- + +I always hoped to meet you one day in London, but many obstacles have +intervened to prevent the fulfilment of this wish, and as there seems now +no chance of such a thing, I hope you will not refuse a request of mine, +which is that you will be so obliging as to apply to some London publisher, +and offer him the following works of mine. Grand Trio for piano, violin, +and violoncello [Op. 97], 80 ducats. Pianoforte Sonata, with violin +accompaniment [Op. 96], 60 ducats. Grand Symphony in A (one of my very +best); a short Symphony in F [the 8th]; Quartet for two violins, viola, and +violoncello in F minor [Op. 95]; Grand Opera in score, 30 ducats. Cantata +with Choruses and Solos ["The Glorious Moment"], 30 ducats. Score of the +"Battle of Vittoria" and "Wellington's Victory," 80 ducats; also the +pianoforte arrangement of the same, if not already published, which, I am +told here, is the case. I have named the prices of some of these works, on +a scale which I hold to be suitable for England, but I leave it to you to +say what sum should be asked both for these and the others. I hear, indeed, +that Cramer [John, whose pianoforte-playing was highly estimated by +Beethoven] is also a publisher, but my scholar Ries lately wrote to me that +Cramer not long since _publicly expressed his disapproval of my works_: I +trust from no motive but that of _being of service to art_, and if so I +have no right to object to his doing this. If, however, Cramer should wish +to possess any of my _pernicious_ works, I shall be as well satisfied with +him as with any other publisher; but I reserve the right to give these +works to be published here, so that they may appear at the same moment in +London and Vienna. + +Perhaps you may also be able to point out to me in what way I can recover +from the Prince Regent [afterwards George IV.] the expenses of transcribing +the "Battle Symphony" on Wellington's victory at Vittoria, to be dedicated +to him, for I have long ago given up all hope of receiving anything from +that quarter. I have not even been deemed worthy of an answer, whether I am +to be authorized to dedicate the work to the Prince Regent; and when at +last I propose to publish it here, I am informed that it has already +appeared in London. What a fatality for an author!!! While the English and +German papers are filled with accounts of the success of the work, as +performed at Drury Lane, and that theatre drawing great receipts from it, +the author has not one friendly line to show, not even payment for the cost +of copying the work, and is thus deprived of all profit.[2] For if it be +true that the pianoforte arrangement is soon to be published by a German +publisher, copied from the London one, then I lose both my fame and my +_honorarium_. The well-known generosity of your character leads me to hope +that you will take some interest in the matter, and actively exert yourself +on my behalf. + +The inferior paper-money of this country is now reduced to one fifth of its +value, and I am paid according to this scale. After many struggles and +considerable loss, I at length succeeded in obtaining the full value; but +at this moment the old paper-money has again risen far beyond the fifth +part, so that it is evident my salary becomes for the second time almost +_nil_, and there is no hope of any compensation. My whole income is derived +from my works. If I could rely on a good sale in England, it would +doubtless be very beneficial to me. Pray be assured of my boundless +gratitude. I hope soon, very soon, to hear from you. + +I am, with esteem, your sincere friend, + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: J.P. Salomon was likewise a native of Bonn, and one of the +most distinguished violin-players of his time. He had been Kapellmeister to +Prince Heinrich of Prussia, and then went to London, where he was very +active in the introduction of German music. It was through his agency that +Beethoven's connection with Birchall, the music publisher, first commenced, +to whom a number of his letters are addressed.] + +[Footnote 2: Undoubtedly the true reading of these last words, which in the +copy before me are marked as "difficult to decipher."] + + +152. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1815. + +Pray forgive my asking Y.R.H. to send me the two Sonatas with violin +_obbligato_[1] which I caused to be transcribed for Y.R.H. I require them +only for a few days, when I will immediately return them. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: If by the two Sonatas for the pianoforte with violoncello +_obbligato_, Op. 102 is meant, they were composed in July-August, 1815, and +appeared on Jan. 13th, 1819. The date of the letter appears also to be +1815.] + + +153. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1815. + +I beg you will kindly send me the Sonata in E minor,[1] as I wish to +correct it. On Monday I shall inquire for Y.R.H. in person. _Recent +occurrences_[2] render it indispensable to complete many works of mine +about to be engraved as quickly as possible; besides, my health is only +partially restored. I earnestly entreat Y.R.H. to desire _some one_ to +write me a few lines as to the state of your own health. I trust I shall +hear a better--nay, the best report of it. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: The letters 152 and 153 speak sometimes expressly of the +pianoforte Sonata in E minor, Op. 90, these being engraved or under +revision, and sometimes only indicate them. This Sonata, dedicated to Count +Lichnowsky, was composed on August 14th, 1814, and published in June, +1815.] + +[Footnote 2: What "recent occurrences" Beethoven alludes to, unless indeed +his well-known misfortunes as to his salary and guardianship we cannot +discover.] + + +154. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1815. + +You must almost think my illness a mere fiction, but that is assuredly not +the case. I am obliged always to come home early in the evening. The first +time that Y.R.H. was graciously pleased to send for me, I came home +immediately afterwards, but feeling much better since then, I made an +attempt the evening before last to stay out a little later. If Y.R.H. does +not countermand me, I intend to have the honor of waiting on you this +evening at five o'clock. I will bring the new Sonata with me, merely for +to-day, for it is so soon to be engraved that it is not worth while to have +it written out. + +[K.] + + +155. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1815. + +I intended to have given you this letter myself, but my personal attendance +might possibly be an intrusion; so I take the liberty once more to urge on +Y.R.H. the request it contains. I should also be glad if Y.R.H. would send +me back my last MS. Sonata, for as I _must_ publish it, it would be labor +lost to have it transcribed, and I shall soon have the pleasure of +presenting it to you engraved. I will call again in a few days. I trust +these joyous times may have a happy influence on your precious health. + +[K.] + + +156. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +Vienna, July 23, 1815. + +When you were recently in town, the enclosed Chorus[1] occurred to me. I +hurried home to write it down, but was detained longer in doing so than I +at first expected, and thus, to my great sorrow, I missed Y.R.H. The bad +custom I have followed from childhood, instantly to write down my first +thoughts, otherwise they not unfrequently go astray, has been an injury to +me on this occasion. I therefore send Y.R.H. my impeachment and my +justification, and trust I may find grace in your eyes. I hope soon to +present myself before Y.R.H., and to inquire after a health so precious to +us all. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: In 1815 the Chorus of _Die Meeresstille_ was composed by +Beethoven. Was this the chorus which occurred to him? The style of the +letter leaves his meaning quite obscure.] + + +157. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +1815. + +It is neither presumption, nor the pretension of advocating any one's +cause, still less from the wish of arrogating to myself the enjoyment of +any especial favor with Y.R.H., that induces me to make a suggestion which +is in itself very simple. Old Kraft[1] was with me yesterday; he wished to +know if it were possible for him to be lodged in your palace, in return for +which he would be at Y.R.H.'s service as often as you please it. He has +lived for twenty years in the house of Prince Lobkowitz, and during a great +part of that time he received no salary; he is now obliged to vacate his +rooms without receiving any compensation whatever. The position of the poor +deserving old man is hard, and I should have considered myself equally +hard, had I not ventured to lay his case before you. Count Troyer will +request an answer from Y.R.H. As the object in view is to brighten the lot +of a fellow-creature, pray forgive your, &c., &c. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: Old Kraft was a clever violoncello-player who had an +appointment in Prince Lobkowitz's band, but when the financial crisis +occurred in the Prince's affairs he lost his situation, and was obliged to +give up his lodging.] + + +158. + +WRITTEN IN ENGLISH TO MR. BIRCHALL, MUSIC PUBLISHER, LONDON. + +Mr. Beethoven send word to Mr. Birchall that it is severall days past that +he has sent for London Wellington's Battel Sinphonie and that Mr. +B[irchall] may send for it at Thomas Coutts. Mr. Beethoven wish Mr. B. +would make ingrave the sayd Sinphonie so soon as possible and send him word +in time the day it will be published that he may prevend in time the +Publisher in Vienna. + +In regard the 3. Sonata which Mr. Birchall receive afterwerths there is not +wanted such a g't hurry and Mr. B. will take the liberty to fixe the day +when the are to be published. + +Mr. B[irchall] sayd that Mr. Salomon has a good many tings to say +concerning the Synphonie in G [? A]. + +Mr. B[eethoven] wish for a answer so soon as possible concerning the days +of the publication. + + +159. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +October 16, 1815. + +I only wish to let you know that I am _here_, and not _elsewhere_, and wish +in return to hear if you are _elsewhere_ or _here_. I should be glad to +speak to you for a few minutes when I know that you are at home and alone. +_Farewell_--but not _too well_--sublime Commandant Pacha of various +mouldering fortresses!!! + +In haste, your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +160. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +Nov. 16, 1815. + +Since yesterday afternoon I have been lying in a state of exhaustion, owing +to my great distress of mind caused by the sudden death of my unhappy +brother. It was impossible for me to send an answer to Y.R.H. yesterday, +and I trust you will graciously receive my present explanation. I expect, +however, certainly to wait on Y.R.H. to-morrow. + +[K.] + + +161. + +TO THE MESSRS. BIRCHALL,--LONDON. + +Vienna, Nov. 22, 1815. + +You will herewith receive the pianoforte arrangement of the Symphony in A. +"Wellington's Battle Symphony," and "Victory at Vittoria" were sent a month +since, through Herr Neumann, to the care of Messrs. Coutts; so you have no +doubt received them long ere this. + +In the course of a fortnight you shall have the Trio and Sonata, when you +are requested to pay into the hands of Messrs. Coutts the sum of 130 gold +ducats. I beg you will make no delay in bringing out these works, and +likewise let me know on what day the "Wellington Symphony" is to appear, so +that I may take my measures here accordingly. I am, with esteem, + +Your obedient + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +162. + +TO RIES. + +Vienna, Wednesday, Nov. 22, 1815. + +MY DEAR RIES,-- + +I hasten to apprise you that I have to-day forwarded by post the pianoforte +arrangement of the Symphony in A, to the care of Messrs Coutts. As the +Court is absent, few, indeed almost no couriers go from here; moreover, the +post is the safest way. The Symphony ought to be brought out about March; +the precise day I will fix myself. So much time has already been lost on +this occasion that I could not give an earlier notice of the period of +publication. The Trio in [??] and the violin Sonata may be allowed more +time, and both will be in London a few weeks hence. I earnestly entreat +you, dear Ries, to take charge of these matters, and also to see that I get +the money; I require it, and it costs me a good deal before all is sent +off. + +I have lost 600 florins of my yearly salary; at the time of the +_bank-notes_ there was no loss, but then came the _Einloesungsscheine_ +[reduced paper-money], which deprives me of these 600 florins, after +entailing on me several years of annoyance, and now the total loss of my +salary. We are at present arrived at a point when the _Einloesungsscheine_ +are even lower than the _bank-notes_ ever were. I pay 1000 florins for +house-rent: you may thus conceive all the misery caused by paper-money. + +My poor unhappy brother [Carl v. Beethoven, a cashier in Vienna] is just +dead [Nov. 15th, 1815]; he had a bad wife. For some years past he has been +suffering from consumption, and from my wish to make his life less irksome +I may compute what I gave him at 10,000 florins (_Wiener Waehrung_). This +indeed does not seem much to an Englishman, but it is a great deal for a +poor German, or rather Austrian. The unhappy man was latterly much changed, +and I must say I lament him from my heart, though I rejoice to think I left +nothing undone that could contribute to his comfort. + +Tell Mr. Birchall that he is to repay the postage of my letters to you and +Mr. Salomon, and also yours to me; he may deduct this from the sum he owes +me; I am anxious that those who work for me should lose as little as +possible by it. "Wellington's Victory at Vittoria"[1] must have arrived +long ago through the Messrs. Coutts. Mr. Birchall need not send payment +till he is in possession of all the works; only do not delay letting me +know when the day is fixed for the publication of the pianoforte +arrangement. For to-day, I only further earnestly recommend my affairs to +your care; I shall be equally at your service at any time. Farewell, dear +Ries. + +Your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: "This is also to be the title of the pianoforte arrangement." +(Note by Beethoven.)] + + +163. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +Jan. 1816. + +MY GOOD ZMESKALL,-- + +I was shocked to discover to-day that I had omitted replying to a proposal +from the "Society of Friends to Music in the Austrian States" to write an +Oratorio for them. + +The death of my brother two months ago, which, owing to the guardianship of +my nephew having devolved on me, has involved me in all sorts of annoyances +and perplexities, has caused this delay in my answer. In the mean time, the +poem of Herr van Seyfried is already begun, and I purpose shortly to set it +to music. I need not tell you how very flattering I consider such a +commission, for how could I think otherwise? and I shall endeavor to acquit +myself as honorably as my poor talents will admit of. + +_With regard to our artistic resources_, when the time for the performance +arrives I shall certainly take into consideration those usually at our +disposal, without, however, strictly limiting myself to them. I hope I have +made myself clearly understood on this point. As I am urged to say what +gratuity I require in return, I beg to know whether the Society will +consider 400 gold ducats a proper remuneration for such a work? I once more +entreat the forgiveness of the Society for the delay in my answer, but I am +in some degree relieved by knowing that, at all events, you, my dear +friend, have already verbally apprised the Society of my readiness to write +a work of the kind.[1] + +Ever, my worthy Z., your + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: In the _Fischof'sche Handschrift_ we are told:--"The allusion +to 'our artistic resources' requires some explanation. Herr v. Zmeskall had +at that time received instructions to give a hint to the great composer +(who paid little regard to the difficulty of executing his works) that he +must absolutely take into consideration the size of the orchestra, which at +grand concerts amounted to 700 performers. The Society only stipulated for +the exclusive right to the work for one year, and did not purchase the +copyright; they undertook the gratuity for the poem also, so they were +obliged to consult their pecuniary resources, and informed the composer +that they were prepared to give him 200 gold ducats for the use of the work +for a year, as they had proposed. Beethoven was quite satisfied, and made +no objection whatever; he received an advance on this sum according to his +own wish, the receipt of which he acknowledged in 1819. Beethoven rejected +the first poem selected, and desired to have another. The Society left his +choice quite free. Herr Bernhard undertook to supply a new one. Beethoven +and he consulted together in choosing the subject, but Herr Bernhard, +overburdened by other business, could only send the poem bit by bit. +Beethoven, however, would not begin till the whole was in his hands."] + + +164. + +TO MDLLE. MILDER-HAUPTMANN.[1] + +Vienna, Jan. 6, 1816. + +MY HIGHLY VALUED MDLLE. MILDER, MY DEAR FRIEND,-- + +I have too long delayed writing to you. How gladly would I personally +participate in the enthusiasm you excite at Berlin in "Fidelio!" A thousand +thanks on my part for having so faithfully adhered to _my_ "Fidelio." If +you will ask Baron de la Motte-Fouque, in my name, to discover a good +subject for an opera, and one suitable likewise to yourself, you will do a +real service both to me and to the German stage; it is also my wish to +write it expressly for the _Berlin Theatre_, as no new opera can ever +succeed in being properly given here under this very penurious direction. +Answer me soon, very soon--quickly, very quickly--as quickly as +possible--as quick as lightning--and say whether such a thing is +practicable. Herr Kapellmeister B. praised you up to the skies to me, and +he is right; well may he esteem himself happy who has the privilege of +enjoying your muse, your genius, and all your splendid endowments and +talents;--it is thus I feel. Be this as it may, those around can only call +themselves your fellow-creatures [Nebenmann], whereas I alone have a right +to claim the honored name of captain [_Hauptmann_]. + +In my secret heart, your true friend and admirer, + +BEETHOVEN. + +My poor unfortunate brother is dead, which has been the cause of my long +silence. As soon as you have replied to this letter, I will write myself to +Baron de la Motte-Fouque. No doubt your influence in Berlin will easily +obtain for me a commission to write a grand opera (in which you shall be +especially studied) on favorable terms; but do answer me soon, that I may +arrange my other occupations accordingly. + +[Music: Tenor clef, C Major, 4/4 time. +Ich kues-se Sie, drue-cke Sie an's Herz! +Ich der Haupt-mann, der Haupt-mann.] + +Away with all other false _Hauptmaenner_! [captains.] + +[Footnote 1: Mdlle. Milder married Hauptmann, a jeweller in Munich, in +1810, travelled in 1812, and was engaged at Berlin in 1816.] + + +165. + +TO RIES + +Vienna, Jan. 20, 1816. + +DEAR RIES,-- + +The Symphony is to be dedicated to the Empress of Russia. The pianoforte +score of the Symphony in A must not, however, appear before June, for the +publisher here cannot be ready sooner. Pray, dear Ries, inform Mr. Birchall +of this at once. The Sonata with violin accompaniment, which will be sent +from here by the next post, can likewise be published in London in May, but +the Trio at a later date (it follows by the next post); I will myself name +the time for its publication. And now, dear Ries, pray receive my heartfelt +thanks for your kindness, and especially for the corrections of the proofs. +May Heaven bless you more and more, and promote your progress, in which I +take the most sincere interest. My kind regards to your wife. Now as ever, + +Your sincere friend, + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +166. + +TO MR. BIRCHALL,--LONDON. + +Vienne, le 3. Febr. den 1816 + +VOUS RECEUES CI JOINT-- + +Le grand Trio p. Pf. V. et Vllo. Sonata pour Pf. et Violin--qui form le +reste de ce qu'il vous a plus a me comettre. Je vous prie de vouloir payer +la some de 130 Ducats d'Holland come le poste lettre a Mr. Th. Cutts et Co. +de votre ville e de me croire avec toute l'estime et consideration + +Votre tres humble Serviteur, + +LOUIS VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +167. + +TO CZERNY.[1] + +MY DEAR CZERNY,-- + +Pray give the enclosed to your parents for the dinners the boy had recently +at your house; I positively will not accept these _gratis_. Moreover, I am +very far from wishing that your lessons should remain without +remuneration,--even those already given must be reckoned up and paid for; +only I beg you to have a little patience for a time, as nothing can be +_demanded_ from the widow, and I had and still have heavy expenses to +defray;--but I _borrow_ from you for the moment only. The boy is to be with +you to-day, and I shall come later. + +Your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Carl Czerny, the celebrated pianist and composer, for whom +Beethoven wrote a testimonial in 1805 (see No. 42). He gave lessons to +Beethoven's nephew in 1815, and naturally protested against any payment, +which gave rise to the expressions on the subject in many of his notes to +Czerny, of which there appear to be a great number.] + + +168. + +TO CZERNY.[1] + +Vienna, Feb. 12, 1816. + +DEAR CZERNY,-- + +I cannot see you to-day, but I will call to-morrow being desirous to talk +to you. I spoke out so bluntly yesterday that I much regretted it +afterwards. But you must forgive this on the part of an author, who would +have preferred hearing his work as he wrote it, however charmingly you +played it. I will, however, _amply_ atone for this by the violoncello +Sonata.[2] + +Rest assured that I cherish the greatest regard for you as an artist, and I +shall always endeavor to prove this. + +Your true friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Czerny, in the _A.M. Zeitung_, 1845, relates:--"On one +occasion (in 1812), at Schuppanzigh's concert, when playing Beethoven's +quintet with wind-instruments, I took the liberty, in my youthful levity, +to make many alterations,--such as introducing difficulties into the +passages, making use of the upper octaves, &c., &c. Beethoven sternly and +deservedly reproached me for this, in the presence of Schuppanzigh, Linke, +and the other performers."] + +[Footnote 2: Opera 69, which Czerny (see _A.M. Zeitung_) was to perform +with Linke the following week.] + + +169. + +TO RIES,--LONDON. + +Vienna, Feb. 28, 1816. + +... For some time past I have been far from well; the loss of my brother +affected both my spirits and my works. Salomon's death grieves me much, as +he was an excellent man whom I have known from my childhood. You are his +executor by will, while I am the guardian of my late poor brother's child. +You can scarcely have had as much vexation from Salomon's death as I have +had from that of my brother!--but I have the sweet consolation of having +rescued a poor innocent child from the hands of an unworthy mother. +Farewell, dear Ries; if I can in any way serve you, look on me as + +Your true friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +170. + +TO GIANNATASIO DEL RIO,--VIENNA. + +Feb. 1816. + +SIR,-- + +I have great pleasure in saying that at last I intend to-morrow to place +under your care the dear pledge intrusted to me. But I must impress on you +not to permit any influence on the mother's part to decide when and where +she is to see her son. We can, however, discuss all this more minutely +to-morrow.... You must keep a watchful eye on your servant, for mine was +_bribed by her_ on one occasion. More as to this verbally, though it is a +subject on which I would fain be silent; but the future welfare of the +youth you are to train renders this unpleasant communication necessary. I +remain, with esteem, + +Your faithful servant and friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +171. + +TO G. DEL RIO. + +1816. + +Your estimable lady, Mdme. A.G. [Giannatasio] is politely requested to let +the undersigned know as soon as possible (that I may not be obliged to keep +it all in my head) how many pairs of stockings, trousers, shoes, and +drawers are required, and how many yards of kerseymere to make a pair of +black trousers for my tall nephew; and for the sake of the "Castalian +Spring" I beg, without any further reminders on my part, that I may receive +an answer to this. + +As for the Lady Abbess [a nickname for their only daughter], there shall be +a conference held on Carl's affair to-night, viz., if things are to +continue as they are. + +Your well (and ill) born + +BEETHOVEN. + + +172. + +TO G. DEL RIO. + +1816. + +I heard yesterday evening, unluckily at too late an hour, that you had +something to give me; had it not been for this, I would have called on you. +I beg, however, that you will send it, as I have no doubt it is a letter +for me from the "Queen of the Night."[1] Although you gave me permission to +fetch Carl twice already, I must ask you to let him come to me when I send +for him at eleven o'clock to-morrow, as I wish to take him with me to hear +some interesting music. It is also my intention to make him play to me +to-morrow, as it is now some time since I heard him. I hope you will urge +him to study more closely than usual to-day, that he may in some degree +make up for his holiday. I embrace you cordially, and remain, + +Yours truly, + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: The "Queen of the Night" was the name given to Carl's mother +by Beethoven. She was a person of great levity of conduct and bad +reputation, and every effort was made by Beethoven to withdraw her son from +her influence, on which account he at once removed him from her care, and +placed him in this institution. She consequently appealed to the law +against him,--the first step in a long course of legal proceedings of the +most painful nature.] + + +173. + +TO G. DEL RIO.[1] + +1816. + +I send you, dear sir, the cloak, and also a school-book of my Carl's, and +request you will make out a list of his clothes and effects, that I may +have it copied for myself, being obliged, as his guardian, to look +carefully after his property. I intend to call for Carl to-morrow about +half-past twelve o'clock, to take him to a little concert, and wish him to +dine with me afterwards, and shall bring him back myself. With respect to +his mother, I desire that _under the pretext_ of the boy being _so busy_, +you will not let her see him; no man on earth can know or judge of this +matter better than myself, and by any other line of conduct all my +well-matured plans for the welfare of the child might be materially +injured. I will myself discuss with you when the mother is henceforth to +have access to Carl, for I am anxious on every account to prevent the +occurrence of yesterday ever being repeated. I take all the responsibility +on myself; indeed, so far as I am concerned, the Court conferred on me full +powers, and the authority at once to counteract anything adverse to the +welfare of the boy. If they could have looked on her in the light of an +estimable mother, they assuredly would not have excluded her from the +guardianship of her child. Whatever she may think fit to assert, nothing +has been done in a clandestine manner against her. There was but one voice +in the whole council on the subject. I hope to have no further trouble in +this matter, for the burden is already heavy enough. + +From a conversation I had yesterday with Adlersburg [his lawyer], it would +appear that a long time must yet elapse before the Court can decide what +really belongs to the child. In addition to all these anxieties am I also +to endure a persecution such as I have recently experienced, and from which +I thought I _was entirely rescued by your Institution_? Farewell! + +I am, with esteem, your obedient + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Beethoven's arbitrary authority had been previously sanctioned +by a decree of the Court, and the mother deprived of all power over her +son.] + + +174. + +TO FERDINAND RIES,--LONDON. + +Vienna, March 8, 1816. + +My answer has been too long delayed; but I was ill, and had a great press +of business. Not a single farthing is yet come of the ten gold ducats, and +I now almost begin to think that the English are only liberal when in +foreign countries. It is the same with the Prince Regent, who has not even +sent me the cost of copying my "Battle Symphony," nor one verbal or written +expression of thanks. My whole income consists of 3400 florins in +paper-money. I pay 1100 for house-rent, and 900 to my servant and his wife; +so you may reckon for yourself what remains. Besides this, the entire +maintenance of my young nephew devolves on me. At present he is at school, +which costs 1100 florins, and is by no means a good one; so that I must +arrange a proper household and have him with me. How much money must be +made to live at all here! and yet there seems no end to +it--because!--because!--because!--but you know well what I mean. + +Some commissions from the Philharmonic would be very acceptable to me, +besides, the concert. Now let me say that my dear scholar Ries must set to +work and dedicate something valuable to me, to which his master may +respond, and repay him in his own coin. How can I send you my portrait? My +kind regards to your wife. I, alas! have none. One alone I wished to +possess, but never shall I call her mine![1] This, however, has not made me +a woman-hater. + +Your true friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: See the statement of Fraeulein del Rio in the _Grenzboten_. We +read:--"My father's idea was that marriage alone could remedy the sad +condition of Beethoven's household matters; so he asked him whether he knew +any one, &c., &c. Our long-existing presentiment was then realized." His +love was unfortunate. Five years ago he had become acquainted with a person +with whom he would have esteemed it the highest felicity of his life to +have entered into closer ties; but it was vain to think of it, being almost +an impossibility! a chimera! and yet his feelings remained the same as the +very first day he had seen her! He added, "that never before had he found +such harmony! but no declaration had ever been made, not being able to +prevail on himself to do so." This conversation took place in Sept. 1816, +at Helenenthal, in Baden, and the person to whom he alluded was undoubtedly +Marie L. Pachler-Koschak in Gratz. (See No. 80.)] + + +175. + +TO F. RIES. + +Vienna, April 3, 1816. + +Neate[1] is no doubt in London by this time. He took several of my works +with him, and promised to do the best he could for me. + +The Archduke Rudolph [Beethoven's pupil, see No. 70] also plays your works +with me, my dear Ries; of these "Il Sogno" especially pleased us. Farewell! +Remember me to your charming wife, and to any fair English ladies who care +to receive my greetings. + +Your true friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Charles Neate, a London artist, as Schindler styles him in his +_Biography_ (II. 254), was on several different occasions for some time +resident in Vienna, and very intimate with Beethoven, whom he tried to +persuade to come to London. He also was of great service in promoting the +sale of his works. A number of Neate's letters, preserved in the Berlin +State Library, testify his faithful and active devotion and attachment to +the master.] + + +176. + +POWER OF ATTORNEY. + +Vienna, May 2, 1816. + +I authorize Herr v. Kauka, Doctor of Laws in the kingdom of Bohemia, +relying on his friendship, to obtain for me the receipt of 600 florins +W.W., payable at the treasury of Prince Kinsky, from the house of Ballabene +in Prague, and after having drawn the money to transmit the same to me as +soon as possible. + +Witness my hand and seal. + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +177. + +TO F. RIES. + +Vienna, June 11, 1816. + +MY DEAR RIES,-- + +I regret much to put you to the expense of postage on my account; gladly as +I assist and serve every one, I am always unwilling myself to have recourse +to others. I have as yet seen nothing of the ten ducats, whence I draw the +inference that in England, just as with us, there are idle talkers who +prove false to their word. I do not at all blame you in this matter. I have +not heard a syllable from Neate; so I do wish you would ask him whether he +has disposed of the F minor Concerto. I am almost ashamed to allude to the +other works I intrusted to him, and equally so of myself, for having given +them to him so confidingly, devoid of all conditions save those suggested +by his own friendship and zeal for my interests. + +A translation has been sent to me of an article in the "Morning Chronicle" +on the performance of the Symphony. Probably it will be the same as to this +and all the other works Neate took with him as with the "Battle Symphony;" +the only profit I shall derive will be reading a notice of their +performance in the newspapers. + + +178. + +TO G. DEL RIO. + +1816. + +MY WORTHY G.,-- + +I beg you will send Carl to me with the bearer of this letter; otherwise I +shall not be able to see him all day, which would be contrary to his own +interest, as my influence seems to be required; in the same view, I beg you +will give him a few lines with a report of his conduct, so that I may enter +at once on any point where improvement is necessary. + +I am going to the country to-day, and shall not return till rather late at +night; being always unwilling to infringe your rules, I beg you will send +some night-things with Carl, so that if we return too late to bring him to +you to-day, I can keep him all night, and take him back to you myself early +next morning. + +In haste, always yours, + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + + +179. + +TO G. DEL RIO. + +1816. + +I must apologize to you, my good friend, for Carl having come home at so +late an hour. We were obliged to wait for a person who arrived so late that +it detained us, but I will not soon repeat this breach of your rules. As to +Carl's mother, I have now decided that your wish not to see her again in +your house shall be acceded to. This course is far more safe and judicious +for our dear Carl, experience having taught me that every visit from his +mother leaves a root of bitterness in the boy's heart, which may injure, +but never can benefit him. I shall strive to arrange occasional meetings at +my house, which is likely to result in everything being entirely broken off +with her. As we thoroughly agree on the subject of Carl's mother, we can +mutually decide on the mode of his education. + +Your true friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +180. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +Vienna, July 11, 1816. + +Your kindness towards me induces me to hope that you will not attribute to +any _selfish_ design on my part the somewhat audacious (though only as to +the surprise) dedication annexed. The work[1] was written for Y.R.H., or +rather, it owes its existence to you, and this the world (the musical +world) ought to know. I shall soon have the honor of waiting on Y.R.H. in +Baden. Notwithstanding all the efforts of my physician, who will not allow +me to leave this, the weakness in my chest is no better, though my general +health is improved. I hope to hear all that is cheering of your own health, +about which I am always so much interested. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: Does Beethoven here allude to the dedication of the Sonata for +pianoforte and violin in G major, Op. 96, which, though sold to a publisher +in April, 1815, was designated as quite new in the _Allgemeine Zeitung_ on +July, 29, 1816?] + + +181. + +WRITTEN IN ENGLISH TO MR. BIRCHALL. + +1816. + +Received, March, 1816, of Mr. Robert Birchall, music-seller, 133 New Bond +Street, London, the sum of one hundred and thirty gold Dutch ducats, value +in English currency sixty-five pounds, for all my copyright and interest, +present and future, vested or contingent, or otherwise within the United +kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland in the four following compositions or +pieces of music composed or arranged by me, viz.:-- + +1st. A Grand Battle Sinfonia, descriptive of the battle and victory at +Vittoria, adapted for the pianoforte and dedicated to his Royal Highness +the Prince Regent--40 ducats. + +2d. A Grand Symphony in the key of A, adapted to the pianoforte and +dedicated to-- + +3d. A Grand Trio for the pianoforte, violin, and violoncello in the key of +B. + +4th. A Sonata for the pianoforte, with an accompaniment for the violin in +the key of G, dedicated to-- + +And, in consideration of such payment I hereby, for myself, my executors, +and administrators, promise and engage to execute a proper anignment +thereof to him, his executors and administrators or anignees, at his or +their request and costs, as he or they shall direct. And I likewise promise +and engage as above, that none of the above shall be published in any +foreign country, before the time and day fixed and agreed on for such +publication between R. Birchall and myself shall arrive. + +L. VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +182. + +WRITTEN IN FRENCH TO MR. BIRCHALL,--LONDON. + +Vienne 22. Juilliet, 1816. + +MONSIEUR,-- + +J'ai recu la declaration de propriete de mes Oeuvres entierement cede a +Vous pour y adjoindre ma Signature. Je suis tout a fait disposer a seconder +vos voeux si tot, que cette affaire sera entierement en ordre, en egard de +la petite somme de 10 # d'or la quelle me vient encore pour le fieux de la +Copieture de poste de lettre etc. comme j'avois l'honneur de vous +expliquier dans une note detaille sur ses objectes. Je vous invite donc +Monsieur de bien vouloir me remettre ces petits objects, pour me mettre +dans l'etat de pouvoir vous envoyer le Document susdit. Agrees Monsieur +l'assurance de l'estime la plus parfait avec la quelle j'ai l'honneur de me +dire + +LOUIS VAN BEETHOVEN. + +Copying . . . . 1. 10. 0. +Postage to Amsterdam 1. 0. 0. + ---- Trio . . . 2. 10. -- + ----------- + L5. 0. 0. + + +183. + +TO G. DEL RIO. + +July 28, 1816. + +MY GOOD FRIEND,-- + +Various circumstances compel me to take charge of Carl myself; with this +view permit me to enclose you the amount due at the approaching quarter, at +the expiry of which Carl is to leave you. Do not, I beg, ascribe this to +anything derogatory either to yourself or to your respected institution, +but to other pressing motives connected with Carl's welfare. It is only an +experiment, and when it is actually carried out I shall beg you to fortify +me by your advice, and also to permit Carl sometimes to visit your +institution. I shall always feel the most sincere gratitude to you, and +never can forget your solicitude, and the kind care of your excellent wife, +which has fully equalled that of the best of mothers. I would send you at +least four times the sum I now do, if my position admitted of it; but at +all events I shall avail myself at a future and, I hope, a brighter day, of +every opportunity to acknowledge and to do justice to the foundation _you_ +have laid for the moral and physical good of my Carl. With regard to the +"Queen of the Night," our system must continue the same; and as Carl is +about to undergo an operation in your house which will cause him to feel +indisposed, and consequently make him irritable and susceptible, you must +be more careful than ever to prevent her having access to him; otherwise +she might easily contrive to revive all those impressions in his mind which +we are so anxious to avoid. What confidence can be placed in any promise to +reform on her part, the impertinent scrawl I enclose will best prove [in +reference, no doubt, to an enclosed note]. I send it merely to show you how +fully I am justified in the precautions I have already adopted with regard +to her. On this occasion, however, I did not answer like a Sarastro, but +like a Sultan. I would gladly spare you the anxiety of the operation on +Carl, but as it must take place in your house, I beg you will inform me of +the outlay caused by the affair, and the expenses consequent on it, which I +will thankfully repay. Now farewell! Say all that is kind from me to your +dear children and your excellent wife, to whose continued care I commend my +Carl. I leave Vienna to-morrow at five o'clock A.M., but shall frequently +come in from Baden. + +Ever, with sincere esteem, your + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + + +184. + +TO G. DEL RIO. + +Mdme. A.G. is requested to order several pairs of good linen drawers for +Carl. I intrust Carl to her kindness, and entirely rely on her motherly +care. + + +185. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +Baden, September 5, 1816. + +DEAR Z.,-- + +I don't know whether you received a note that I recently left on the +threshold of your door, for the time was too short to enable me to see you. +I must therefore repeat my request about another servant, as the conduct of +my present one is such that I cannot possibly keep him.[1] He was engaged +on the 25th of April, so on the 25th of September he will have been five +months with me, and he received 50 florins on account. The money for his +boots will be reckoned from the third month (in my service), and from that +time at the rate of 40 florins per annum; his livery also from the third +month. From the very first I resolved not to keep him, but delayed +discharging him, as I wished to get back the value of my florins. In the +mean time if I can procure another, I will let this one leave my service on +the 15th of the month, and also give him 20 florins for boot money, and 5 +florins a month for livery (both reckoned from the third month), making +altogether 35 florins. I ought therefore still to receive 15 florins, but +these I am willing to give up; in this way I shall at all events receive +some equivalent for my 50 florins. If you can find a suitable person, I +will give him 2 florins a day while I am in Baden, and if he knows how to +cook he can use my firewood in the kitchen. (I have a kitchen, though I do +not cook in it.) If not, I will add a few kreutzers to his wages. As soon +as I am settled in Vienna, he shall have 40 florins a month, and board and +livery as usual, reckoned from the third month in my service, like other +servants. It would be a good thing if he understood a little tailoring. So +now you have my proposals, and I beg for an answer by the 10th of this +month at the latest, that I may discharge my present servant on the 2d, +with the usual fortnight's warning; otherwise I shall be obliged to keep +him for another month, and every moment I wish to get rid of him. As for +the new one, you know pretty well what I require,--_good, steady conduct_, +a _good character_, and _not to be of a bloodthirsty nature_, that I may +feel my life to be safe, as, for the sake of various scamps in this world, +I should like to live a little longer. By the 10th, therefore, I shall +expect to hear from you on this affair. If you don't run restive, I will +soon send you my treatise on the four violoncello strings, very profoundly +handled; the first chapter devoted exclusively to entrails in general, the +second to catgut in particular. I need scarcely give you any further +warnings, as you seem to be quite on your guard against wounds inflicted +before certain fortresses. The most _profound peace_ everywhere prevails!!! +Farewell, my good _Zmeskaellchen_! I am, as ever, _un povero musico_ and +your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +N.B. I shall probably only require my new servant for some months, as, for +the sake of my Carl, I must shortly engage a housekeeper. + +[Footnote 1: During a quarrel, the servant scratched Beethoven's face.] + + +186. + +TO HERR KAUKA. + +Baden, Sept. 6, 1816. + +MY WORTHY K.,-- + +I send you herewith the receipt, according to your request, and beg that +you will kindly arrange that I should have the money by the 1st October, +and without any deduction, which has hitherto been the case; I also +particularly beg _you will not assign the money to Baron P._ (I will tell +you why when we meet; for the present let this remain between ourselves.) +Send it either direct to myself, or, if it must come through another +person, do not let it be Baron P. It would be best for the future, as the +house-rent is paid here for the great house belonging to Kinsky, that my +money should be paid at the same time. This is only my own idea. The Terzet +you heard of will soon be engraved, which is infinitely preferable to all +written music; you shall therefore receive an engraved copy, and likewise +some more of my unruly offspring. In the mean time I beg that you will see +only what is truly good in them, and look with an indulgent eye on the +human frailties of these poor innocents. Besides, I am full of cares, being +in reality father to my late brother's child; indeed I might have ushered +into the world a second part of the "Flauto Magico," having also been +brought into contact with a "Queen of the Night." I embrace you from my +heart, and hope soon in so far to succeed that you may owe some thanks to +my Muse. My dear, worthy Kauka, I ever am your truly attached friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +187. + +QUERY? + +What would be the result were I to leave this, and indeed the kingdom of +Austria altogether? Would the life-certificate, if signed by the +authorities of a non-Austrian place, still be valid? + +_A tergo._ + +I beg you will let me know the postage all my letters have cost you. + + +188. + +TO G. DEL RIO. + +Sunday, September 22, 1816. + +Certain things can never be fully expressed. Of this nature are my +feelings, and especially my gratitude, on hearing the details of the +operation on Carl from you. You will excuse my attempting even remotely to +shape these into words. I feel certain, however, that you will not decline +the tribute I gladly pay you; but I say no more. You can easily imagine my +anxiety to hear how my dear son is going on; do not omit to give me your +exact address, that I may write to you direct. After you left this I wrote +to Bernhard [Bernard], to make inquiries at your house, but have not yet +got an answer; so possibly you may have thought me a kind of half-reckless +barbarian, as no doubt Herr B. has neglected to call on you, as well as to +write to me. I can have no uneasiness about Carl when your admirable wife +is with him: that is quite out of the question. You can well understand how +much it grieves me not to be able to take part in the sufferings of my +Carl, and that I at least wish to hear frequently of his progress. As I +have renounced such an unfeeling, unsympathizing friend as Herr B. +[Bernard], I must have recourse to your friendship and complaisance on this +point also, and shall hope soon to receive a few lines from you. I beg to +send my best regards and a thousand thanks to your admirable wife. + +In haste, your + +BEETHOVEN. + +I wish you to express to Smetana [the surgeon] my esteem and high +consideration. + + +189. + +TO G. DEL RIO. + +If you do not object, I beg you will allow Carl to come to me with the +bearer of this. I forgot, in my haste, to say that all the love and +goodness which Mdme. A.G. [Giannatasio] showed my Carl during his illness +are inscribed in the list of my obligations, and I hope one day to show +that they are ever present in my mind. Perhaps I may see you to-day with +Carl. + +In haste, your sincere friend, + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + + +190. + +TO WEGELER. + +I take the opportunity through J. Simrock to remind you of myself. I hope +you received the engraving of me [by Letronne], and likewise the Bohemian +glass. When I next make a pilgrimage through Bohemia you shall have +something more of the same kind. Farewell! You are a husband and a father; +so am I, but without a wife. My love to your dear ones--to _our_ dear ones. + +Your friend, + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + + +191. + +WRITTEN IN ENGLISH TO MR. BIRCHALL, MUSIC SELLER, LONDON. + +Vienna, 1. Oct. 1816. + +MY DEAR SIR,-- + +I have duly received the L5 and thought previously you would non increase +the number of Englishmen neglecting their word and honor, as I had the +misfortune of meeting with two of this sort. In replic to the other topics +of your favor, I have no objection to write variations according to your +plan, and I hope you will not find L30 too much, the Accompaniment will be +a Flute or Violin or a Violoncello; you'll either decide it when you send +me the approbation of the price, or you'll leave it to me. I expect to +receive the songs or poetry--the sooner the better, and you'll favor me +also with the probable number of Works of Variations you are inclined to +receive of me. The Sonata in G with the accompan't of a Violin to his +Imperial Highnesse Archduke Rodolph of Austria--it is Op'a 96. The Trio in +Bb is dedicated to the same and is Op. 97. The Piano arrangement of the +Symphony in A is dedicated to the Empress of the Russians--meaning the Wife +of the Emp'r Alexander--Op. 98. + +Concerning the expences of copying and packing it is not possible to fix +him before hand, they are at any rate not considerable, and you'll please +to consider that you have to deal with a man of honor, who will not charge +one 6p. more than he is charged for himself. Messrs. Fries & Co. will +account with Messrs. Coutts & Co.--The postage may be lessened as I have +been told. I offer you of my Works the following new ones. A Grand Sonata +for the Pianoforte alone L40. A Trio for the Piano with accomp't of Violin +and Violoncello for L50. It is possible that somebody will offer you other +works of mine to purchase, for ex. the score of the Grand Symphony in +A.--With regard to the arrangement of this Symphony for the Piano I beg you +not to forget that you are not to publish it until I have appointed the day +of its publication here in Vienna. This cannot be otherwise without making +myself guilty of a dishonorable act--but the Sonata with the Violin and the +Trio in B fl. may be published without any delay. + +With all the _new works_, which you will have of me or which I offer you, +it rests with you to name the day of their publication at your own choice: +I entreat you to honor me as soon as possible with an answer having many +ordres for compositions and that you may not be delayed. My address or +direction is + +Monsieur Louis van Beethoven + +No. 1055 & 1056 Sailerstette 3d. Stock. Vienna. + +You may send your letter, if you please, direct to your most humble servant + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +192. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +Oct. 24, 1816. + +WELL BORN, AND YET EVIL BORN! (AS WE ALL ARE!) + +We are in Baden to-day, and intend to bring the celebrated naturalist +Ribini a collection of dead leaves. To-morrow we purpose paying you not +only a _visit_ but a _visitation_. + +Your devoted + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +193. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +November, 1816.[1] + +I have been again much worse, so that I can only venture to go out a little +in the daytime; I am, however, getting better, and hope now to have the +honor of waiting on Y.R.H. three times a week. Meanwhile, I have many and +great cares in these terrible times (which surpass anything we have ever +experienced), and which are further augmented by having become the father +since last November of a poor orphan. All this tends to retard my entire +restoration to health. I wish Y.R.H. all imaginable good and happiness, and +beg you will graciously receive and not misinterpret + +Your, &c., &c. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: A year after Carl von Beethoven's death (Nov. 15, 1815).] + + +194. + +TO FREIHERR VON SCHWEIGER. + +BEST! + +MOST AMIABLE! + +FIRST AND FOREMOST TURNER MEISTER OF EUROPE! + +The bearer of this is a poor devil! (like many another!!!) You could assist +him by asking your gracious master whether he is disposed to purchase one +of his small but neat pianos. I also beg you will recommend him to any of +the Chamberlains or Adjutants of the Archduke Carl, to see whether it is +possible that H.R.H. would buy one of these instruments for his Duchess. We +therefore request an introduction from the illustrious _Turner Meister_ for +this poor devil[1] to the Chamberlains and Adjutants of the household. + +Likewise + +1 + +poor devil, + +[K.] L. V. BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: A name cannot now be found for the "poor devil."] + + +195. + +TO G. DEL RIO. + +Nov. 16, 1816. + +MY DEAR FRIEND,-- + +My household seems about to make shipwreck, or something very like it. You +know that I was duped into taking this house on false pretexts; besides, my +health does not seem likely to improve in a hurry. To engage a tutor under +such circumstances, whose character and whose very exterior even are +unknown to me, and thus to intrust my Carl's education to hap-hazard, is +quite out of the question, no matter how great the sacrifices which I shall +be again called on to make. I beg you, therefore, to keep Carl for the +ensuing quarter, commencing on the 9th. I will in so far comply with your +proposal as to the cultivation of the science of music, that Carl may come +to me two or three times a week, leaving you at six o'clock in the evening +and staying with me till the following morning, when he can return to you +by eight o'clock. It would be too fatiguing for Carl to come every day, and +indeed too great an effort and tie for me likewise, as the lessons must be +given at the same fixed hour. + +During this quarter we can discuss more minutely the most suitable plan for +Carl, taking into consideration both his interests and my own. I must, +alas! mention my own also in these times, which are daily getting worse. If +your garden residence had agreed with my health, everything might have been +easily adjusted. With regard to my debt to you for the present quarter, I +beg you will be so obliging as to call on me, that I may discharge it; the +bearer of this has the good fortune to be endowed by Providence with a vast +amount of stupidity, which I by no means grudge him the benefit of, +provided others do not suffer by it. As to the remaining expenses incurred +for Carl, either during his illness or connected with it, I must, for a few +days only, request your indulgence, having great calls on me at present +from all quarters. I wish also to know what fee I ought to give Smetana for +the successful operation he performed; were I rich, or not in the same sad +position in which all are who have linked their fate to this country +(always excepting _Austrian usurers_), I would make no inquiries on the +subject; and I only wish you to give me a rough estimate of the proper fee. +Farewell! I cordially embrace you, and shall always look on you as a friend +of mine and of Carl's. + +I am, with esteem, your + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + + +196. + +TO G. DEL RIO. + +Though I would gladly spare you all needless disagreeable trouble, I +cannot, unluckily, do so on this occasion. Yesterday, in searching for some +papers, I found this pile, which has been sent to me respecting Carl. I do +not quite understand them, and you would oblige me much by employing some +one to make out a regular statement of all your outlay for Carl, so that I +may send for it to-morrow. I hope you did not misunderstand me when I +yesterday alluded to _magnanimity_, which certainly was not meant for you, +but solely for the "Queen of the Night," who is never weary of hoisting the +sails of her vindictiveness against me; so on this account I require +vouchers, more for the satisfaction of others than for her sake (as I never +will submit to render her any account of my actions). No stamp is required, +and the sum alone for each quarter need be specified, for I believe most of +the accounts are forthcoming; so all you have to do is to append them to +your _prospectus_ [the conclusion illegible]. + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + + +197. + +TO G. DEL RIO. + +Nov. 14, 1816. + +MY GOOD FRIEND,-- + +I beg you will allow Carl to come to me to-morrow, as it is the anniversary +of his father's death [Nov. 15th], and we wish to visit his grave together. +I shall probably come to fetch him between twelve and one o'clock. I wish +to know the effect of my treatment of Carl, after your recent complaints. +In the mean time, it touched me exceedingly to find him so susceptible as +to his honor. Before we left your house I gave him some hints on his want +of industry, and while walking together in a graver mood than usual, he +pressed my hand vehemently, but met with no response from me. At dinner he +scarcely eat anything, and said that he felt very melancholy, the cause of +which I could not extract from him. At last, in the course of our walk, he +owned that _he was vexed because he had not been so industrious as usual_. +I said what I ought on the subject, but in a kinder manner than before. +This, however, proves a certain delicacy of feeling, and such _traits_ lead +me to augur all that is good. If I cannot come to you to-morrow, I hope you +will let me know by a few lines the result of my conference with Carl. + +I once more beg you to let me have the account due for the last quarter. I +thought that you had misunderstood my letter, or even worse than that. I +warmly commend my poor orphan to your good heart, and, with kind regards to +all, I remain + +Your friend, + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + + +198. + +TO G. DEL RIO. + +MY GOOD FRIEND,-- + +Pray forgive me for having allowed the enclosed sum to be ready for you +during the last twelve days or more, and not having sent it. I have been +very much occupied, and am only beginning to recover, though indeed the +word _recovery_ has not yet been pronounced. + +In haste, with much esteem, ever yours, + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + + +199. + +TO HERR TSCHISCHKA. + +SIR,-- + +It is certainly of some moment to me _not to appear in a false light_, +which must account for the accompanying statement being so prolix. As to +the future system of education, I can at all events congratulate myself on +having done all that I could possibly effect at present _for the best_, and +trust _that the future may be in accordance with it_. But if the welfare of +my nephew demands a _change_, I shall be the first not only to propose such +a step, but _to carry it out_. I am no self-interested guardian, but I wish +to establish a new monument to my name through my nephew. I _have no need +of my nephew_, but he has need of me. Idle talk and calumnies are beneath +the dignity of a man with proper self-respect, and what can be said when +these extend even to the subject of linen!!! This might cause me great +annoyance, _but a just man ought to be able to bear injustice_ without in +the _most remote degree_ deviating from the path of _right_. In this +conviction I will stand fast, and nothing shall make me flinch. To deprive +me of my nephew would indeed entail a heavy responsibility. As a matter of +_policy_ as well as of morality, such a step would be productive of evil +results to my nephew. _I urgently recommend his interests to you._ As for +me, _my actions_ for _his_ benefit (not for my _own_) must speak for me. + +I remain, with esteem, + +Your obedient + +BEETHOVEN. + +Being very busy, and rather indisposed, I must claim your indulgence for +the writing of the memorial. + + +200. + +WRITTEN IN ENGLISH TO MR. BIRCHALL,--LONDON. + +Vienna 14. December 1816--1055 Sailerstette. + +DEAR SIR,-- + +I give you my word of honor that I have signed and delivered the receipt to +the home Fries and Co. some day last August, who as they say have +transmitted it to Messrs. Coutts and Co. where you'll have the goodness to +apply. Some error might have taken place that instead of Messrs. C. sending +it to you they have been directed to keep it till fetched. Excuse this +irregularity, but it is not my fault, nor had I ever the idea of +withholding it from the circumstance of the L5 not being included. Should +the receipt not come forth as Messrs. C., I am ready to sign any other, and +you shall have it directly with return of post. + +If you find Variations--in my style--too dear at L30, I will abate for the +sake of your friendship one third--and you have the offer of such +Variations as fixed in our former lettres for L20 each Air. + +Please to publish the Symphony in A immediately--as well as the Sonata--and +the Trio--they being ready here. The Grand Opera Fidelio is my work. The +arrangement for the Pianoforte has been published here under my care, but +the score of the Opera itself is not yet published. I have given a copy of +the score to Mr. Neate under the seal of friendship and whom I shall direct +to treat for my account in case an offer should present. + +I anxiously hope your health is improving, give me leave to subscrive +myself + +Dear Sir + +Your very obedient Serv. + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +201. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +Dec. 16, 1816. + +With this, dear Zmeskall, you will receive my friendly dedication [a +stringed quartet, Op. 95], which may, I hope, serve as a pleasant memorial +of our long-enduring friendship here; pray accept it as a proof of my +esteem, and not merely as the extreme end of a thread long since spun out +(for you are one of my earliest friends in Vienna). + +Farewell! Beware of mouldering fortresses! for an attack on them will be +more trying than on those in a better state of preservation! As ever, + +Your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +N.B. When you have a moment's leisure, let me know the probable cost of a +livery, without linen, but including hat and boots. Strange changes have +come to pass in my house. The man is off to the devil, I am thankful to +say, whereas his wife seems the more resolved to take root here. + + +202. + +TO FRAU VON STREICHER--NEE STEIN. + +Dec. 28, 1816. + +N---- ought to have given you the New Year's tickets yesterday, but it +seems she did not do so. The day before I was occupied with Maelzel, whose +business was pressing, as he leaves this so soon; otherwise you may be sure +that I would have hurried up again to see you. Your dear kind daughter was +with me yesterday, but I scarcely ever remember being so ill; my _precious +servants_ were occupied from seven o'clock till ten at night in trying to +heat the stove. The bitter cold, particularly in my room, caused me a +chill, and the whole of yesterday I could scarcely move a limb. All day I +was coughing, and had the most severe headache I ever had in my life; so by +six o'clock in the evening I was obliged to go to bed, where I still am, +though feeling somewhat better. Your brother dined with me yesterday, and +has shown me great kindness. You are aware that on the same day, the 27th +of December, I discharged B. [Baberl]. I cannot endure either of these vile +creatures; I wonder if Nany will behave rather better from the departure of +her colleague? I doubt it--but in that case I shall send her _packing_ +without any ceremony. She is too uneducated for a housekeeper, indeed quite +a _beast_; but the other, in spite of her pretty face, is even _lower than +the beasts_. As the New Year draws near, I think five florins will be +enough for Nany; I have not paid her the charge for _making her spencer_, +on account of her _bad behavior to you_. The other certainly _deserves no +New Year's gift_; besides, she has nine florins of mine on hand, and when +she leaves I don't expect to receive more than four or five florins of that +sum. I wish to have _your opinion about all this_. Pray accept my best +wishes for your welfare, which are offered in all sincerity. I am your +debtor in so many ways, that I really often feel quite ashamed. Farewell; I +trust I may always retain your friendship. + +Now, as ever, your friend, + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + + +203. + +TO FRAU VON STREICHER. + +I thank you for the interest you take in me. I am rather better, though +to-day again I have been obliged to endure a great deal from Nany; but I +shied half a dozen books at her head by way of a New Year's gift. We have +stripped off the leaves (by sending off Baberl) and lopped off the +branches, but we must extirpate the _roots_, till nothing is left but the +actual soil. + + +204. + +TO FRAU VON STREICHER. + +Nany is not strictly _honest_, and an odiously stupid _animal_ into the +bargain. Such people must be managed not by _love_ but by _fear_. I now see +this clearly. Her account-book alone cannot show you everything clearly; +you must often drop in unexpectedly at dinner-time, like an avenging angel, +to see with your own eyes _what_ we actually have. I never dine at home +now, _unless_ I have some friend as my guest, for I have no wish to pay as +much for one person as would serve for four. I shall _now soon_ have my +dear son Carl with me, so economy is more necessary than ever. I cannot +prevail on myself to go to you; I know you will forgive this. I am very +sensitive, and not used to such things, so the less ought I to expose +myself to them. In addition to twelve kreutzers for bread, Nany has a roll +of white bread every morning. Is this usual?--and it is the same with the +cook. A daily roll for breakfast comes to eighteen florins a year. +_Farewell_, and _work well_ for me. Mdlle. Nany is wonderfully changed for +the better since I sent the half-dozen books at her head. Probably they +chanced to come in collision with her _dull brain_ or her _bad heart_; at +all events, she now plays the part of a penitent swindler!!! + +In haste, yours, + +BEETHOVEN. + + +205. + +TO FRAU VON STREICHER. + +Nany yesterday took me to task in the vulgar manner usual with people of +her _low class_, about my complaining to you; so she evidently knew that I +had written to you on the subject. All the devilry began again yesterday +morning, but I made short work of it by throwing the heavy arm-chair beside +my bed at B.'s head, which procured me peace for the rest of the day. They +always take their revenge on me when I write to you, or when they discover +any communication between us. + +I do thank Heaven that I everywhere find men who interest themselves in me; +one of the _most distinguished Professors_ in this University has in the +kindest manner undertaken _all that concerns Carl's education_. If you +happen to meet any of the Giannatasios at Czerny's, you had better _know +nothing of what is going on about Carl_, and say that it is _contrary_ to +my _usual habit to disclose my plans, as when a project is told to others +it is no longer exclusively your own_. They would like to interfere in the +matter, and I do not choose that these _commonplace people should do so, +both for_ my _own sake and Carl's_. Over their portico is inscribed, in +golden letters, "Educational Institution," whereas "_Non_-Educational +Institution" would be more appropriate. + +As for the servants, there is only _one voice_ about their immorality, to +which _all_ the other annoyances here may be ascribed. + +Pray receive my benediction in place of that of the Klosterneuburgers.[1] + +In haste, your friend, + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Frau von Streicher was at that time in Klosterneuburg.] + + +206. + +TO FRAU VON STREICHER. + +Judgment was executed to-day on the notorious criminal! She bore it nearly +in the same spirit as Caesar did Brutus's dagger, except that in the former +case truth formed the basis, while in hers only wicked malice. The +kitchen-maid seems more handy than the former _ill-conducted beauty_; she +no longer shows herself,--a sign that she does not expect a _good +character_ from me, though I really had some thoughts of giving her one. +The kitchen-maid at first made rather a wry face about carrying wood, &c. + + +207. + +TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH. + +Last day of December, 1816. + +I have been again obliged to keep my room ever since the Burgher +concert,[1] and some time must no doubt elapse before I shall be able to +dismiss all precautions as to my health. The year is about to close; and +with this new year my warmest wishes are renewed for the welfare of Y.R.H.; +but indeed these have neither beginning nor end with me, for every day I +cherish the same aspirations for Y.R.H. If I may venture to add a wish for +myself to the foregoing, it is, that I may daily thrive and prosper more in +Y.R.H.'s good graces. The master will always strive not to be unworthy of +the favor of his illustrious master and pupil. + +[K.] + +[Footnote 1: Beethoven directed his A major Symphony in the Burgher concert +in the Royal Redoutensaal on the 25th December, 1816.] + + +208. + +TO G. DEL RIO. + +... As to his mother, she urgently requested to see Carl in my house. You +have sometimes seen me tempted to place more confidence in her, and my +feelings would lead me to guard against harshness towards her, especially +as it is not in her power to injure Carl. But you may well imagine that to +one usually so independent of others, the annoyances to which I am exposed +through Carl are often utterly insupportable, and above all with regard to +his mother; I am only too glad to hear nothing of her, which is the cause +of my avoiding her name. With respect to Carl, I beg you will enforce the +strictest discipline on him, and if he refuses to obey your orders or to do +his duty, I trust you will at once _punish_ him. Treat him as if he were +your own child rather than a _mere pupil_, for I already told you that +during his father's lifetime he only submitted to the discipline of blows, +which was a bad system; still, such was the fact, and we must not forget +it. + +If you do not see much of me, pray ascribe it solely to the little +inclination I have for society, which is sometimes more developed and +sometimes less; and this you might attribute to a change in my feelings, +but it is not so. What is good alone lives in my memory, and not what is +painful. Pray impute therefore solely to these hard times my not more +practically showing my gratitude to you on account of Carl. God, however, +directs all things; so my position may undergo a favorable change, when I +shall hasten to show you how truly I am, with sincere esteem, your grateful +friend, + +L. V. BEETHOVEN. + +I beg you will read this letter to Carl. + + +209. + +TO G. DEL RIO. + +Carl must be at H.B.'s to-day before four o'clock; I must request you +therefore to ask his professor to dismiss him at half-past three o'clock; +if this cannot be managed he must not go into school at all. In the latter +case, I will come myself and fetch him; in the former, I will meet him in +the passage of the University. To avoid all confusion, I beg for an +explicit answer as to what you settle. As you have been loudly accused of +showing great party feeling, I will take Carl myself. If you do not see me, +attribute it to my distress of mind, for I am now only beginning to feel +the full force of this terrible incident.[1] + +In haste, your + +BEETHOVEN. + +[Footnote 1: Probably the reversal of the first decree in the lawsuit with +Carl's mother, who in order to procure a verdict more favorable to her +claims, pointed out to the Austrian "Landrecht," where the lawsuit had been +hitherto carried on, an error in their proceedings, the "Van," prefixed to +Beethoven's name, having been considered by them a sign of nobility. +Beethoven was cited to appear, and on the appointed day, pointing to his +head and his heart, he said, "My nobility is here, and here." The +proceedings were then transferred to the "magistrate," who was in universal +bad odor from his mode of conducting his business.] + + +210. + +TO G. DEL RIO. + +The assertions of this wicked woman have made such a painful impression on +me, that I cannot possibly answer every point to-day; to-morrow you shall +have a detailed account of it all; but on no pretext whatever allow her to +have access to Carl, and adhere to your rule that she is only to see him +once a month. As she has been once this month already, she cannot come +again till the next. + +In haste, your + +BEETHOVEN. + + +211. + +TO HOFRATH VON MOSEL. + +1817. + +SIR,-- + +I sincerely rejoice that we take the same view as to the terms in use to +denote the proper time in music which have descended to us from barbarous +times. For example, what can be more irrational than the general term +_allegro_, which only means _lively_; and how far we often are from +comprehending the real time, so that the piece itself _contradicts the +designation_. As for the four chief movements,--which are, indeed, far from +possessing the truth or accuracy of the four cardinal points,--we readily +agree _to dispense with them_, but it is quite another matter as to the +words that indicate the character of the music; these we cannot consent to +do away with, for while the time is, as it were, part and parcel of the +piece, the _words denote the spirit in which it is conceived_. + +So far as I am myself concerned, I have long purposed giving up those +inconsistent terms _allegro_, _andante_, _adagio_, and _presto_; and +Maelzel's metronome furnishes us with the best opportunity of doing so. I +here _pledge_ myself _no longer_ to make use of them in any of my new +compositions. It is another question whether we can by this means attain +the necessary universal use of the metronome. I scarcely think we shall! I +make no doubt that we shall be loudly proclaimed as _despots_; but if the +cause itself were to derive benefit from this, it would at least be better +than to incur the reproach of Feudalism! In our country, where music has +become a national requirement, and where the use of the metronome must be +enjoined on every village schoolmaster, the best plan would be for Maelzel +to endeavor to sell a certain number of metronomes by subscription, at the +present higher prices, and as soon as the number covers his expenses, he +can sell the metronomes demanded by the national requirements at so cheap a +rate, that we may certainly anticipate their _universal use_ and +_circulation_. Of course some persons must take the lead in giving an +impetus to the undertaking. You may safely rely on my doing what is in my +power, and I shall be glad to hear what post you mean to assign to me in +the affair. + +I am, sir, with esteem, your obedient + +LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN. + + +212. + +TO S.A. STEINER, MUSIC PUBLISHER,--VIENNA. + +HIGHEST BORN! MOST ADMIRABLE! AND MARVELLOUS LIEUTENANT-GENERAL![1] + +We beg you to give us bank-notes for twenty-four gold ducats at yesterday's +rate of exchange, and to send them to us this evening or to-morrow, in +order that we may forthwith _remit_ and _transmit_ them. I should be glad +and happy if your trustworthy Adjutant were to bring me these, as I have +something particular to say to him. He must forget all his resentment, like +a good Christian; we acknowledge his merits and do not contest his +demerits. In short, and once for all, we wish to see him. This evening +would suit us best. + +We have the honor to remain, most astounding Lieutenant-General! your +devoted + +GENERALISSIMUS. + +[Footnote 1: Beethoven styled himself "Generalissimus," Herr A. Steiner +"Lieutenant-General," and his partner, Tobias Haslinger, "Adjutant" and +"Adjutant-General."] + + +213. + +TO LIEUTENANT-GENERAL VON STEINER.--PRIVATE. + +PUBLICANDUM,-- + +After due consideration, and by the advice of our Council, we have +determined and decreed that henceforth on all our works published with +German titles, the word _Pianoforte_ is to be replaced by that of _Hammer +Clavier_, and our worthy Lieutenant-General, his Adjutant, and all whom it +may concern, are charged with the execution of this order. + +Instead of Pianoforte--_Hammer Clavier_. + +Such is our will and pleasure. + +Given on the 23d of January, 1817, by the _Generalissimus_. + +_Manu propria._ + + +214. + +TO STEINER. + +The following dedication occurred to me of my new Sonata:-- + + "Sonata for the Pianoforte, + or + _Hammer Clavier_. +Composed and dedicated to Frau Baronin Dorothea + Ertmann--nee Graumann, + by + Ludwig van Beethoven." + +If the title is already engraved, I have the two following proposals to +make; viz., that I pay for one title--I mean that it should be at my +expense, or reserved for another new sonata of mine, for which purpose the +mines of the Lieutenant-General (or _pleno titulo_, Lieutenant-General and +First Councillor of State) must be opened to usher it into the light of +day; the title to be previously shown to a good linguist. _Hammer Clavier_ +is certainly German, and so is the device. Honor to whom honor is due! How +is it, then, that I have as yet received no reports of the carrying out of +my orders, which, however, have no doubt been attended to? + +Ever and always your attached + +_Amicus +ad Amicum +de Amico._ + +[Music: Treble clef. +O Ad-ju-tant!] + +N.B. I beg you will observe the most profound silence about the dedication, +as I wish it to be a surprise! + + +215. + +TO ZMESKALL. + +Jan. 30, 1817. + +DEAR Z.,-- + +You seem to place me on a level with Schuppanzigh, &c., and have distorted +the plain and simple meaning of my words. You are not my debtor, but I am +yours, and now you make me so more than ever. I cannot express to you the +pain your gift has caused me, and I must candidly say that I cannot give +you one friendly glance _in return_. Although you confine yourself to the +practice of music, still you have often recourse to the power of +imagination, and it seems to me that this not unfrequently leads to +uncalled-for caprice on your part; at least, so it appeared to me from your +letter after my dedication. Loving as my sentiments are towards you, and +much as I prize all your goodness, still I feel provoked!--much +provoked!--terribly provoked! + +Your debtor afresh, + +Who will, however, contrive to have his revenge, + +L. VAN BEETHOVEN. + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + +End of Project Gutenberg's Beethoven's Letters 1790-1826, Vol. 1 of 2 +by Lady Wallace + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK BEETHOVEN'S LETTERS 1790-1826 *** + +***** This file should be named 13065.txt or 13065.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + https://www.gutenberg.org/1/3/0/6/13065/ + +Produced by Juliet Sutherland, John Williams and the Online +Distributed Proofreading Team. + + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions +will be renamed. + +Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no +one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation +(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without +permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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