diff options
| author | Roger Frank <rfrank@pglaf.org> | 2025-10-15 05:25:17 -0700 |
|---|---|---|
| committer | Roger Frank <rfrank@pglaf.org> | 2025-10-15 05:25:17 -0700 |
| commit | bc29481d98fc4bc8d644823adf73465f0bc080ec (patch) | |
| tree | 82cd575e0b03f29dee6bae35c5e009409de7e9b7 /5307-h/5307-h.htm | |
Diffstat (limited to '5307-h/5307-h.htm')
| -rw-r--r-- | 5307-h/5307-h.htm | 9236 |
1 files changed, 9236 insertions, 0 deletions
diff --git a/5307-h/5307-h.htm b/5307-h/5307-h.htm new file mode 100644 index 0000000..094e3f6 --- /dev/null +++ b/5307-h/5307-h.htm @@ -0,0 +1,9236 @@ +<?xml version="1.0" encoding="us-ascii"?> + +<!DOCTYPE html + PUBLIC "-//W3C//DTD XHTML 1.0 Strict//EN" + "http://www.w3.org/TR/xhtml1/DTD/xhtml1-strict.dtd" > + +<html xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml" lang="en"> + <head> + <title> + The Letters of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. (1769-1791.), by Wolfgang Amadeus + Mozart + </title> + <style type="text/css" xml:space="preserve"> + + body { margin:5%; background:#faebd0; text-align:justify} + P { text-indent: 1em; margin-top: .25em; margin-bottom: .25em; } + H1,H2,H3,H4,H5,H6 { text-align: center; margin-left: 15%; margin-right: 15%; } + hr { width: 50%; text-align: center;} + .foot { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; text-indent: -3em; font-size: 90%; } + blockquote {font-size: 97%; font-style: italic; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%;} + .mynote {background-color: #DDE; color: #000; padding: .5em; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 95%;} + .toc { margin-left: 10%; margin-bottom: .75em;} + .toc2 { margin-left: 20%;} + div.fig { display:block; margin:0 auto; text-align:center; } + div.middle { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; } + .figleft {float: left; margin-left: 0%; margin-right: 1%;} + .figright {float: right; margin-right: 0%; margin-left: 1%;} + .pagenum {display:inline; font-size: 70%; font-style:normal; + margin: 0; padding: 0; position: absolute; right: 1%; + text-align: right;} + .side { float: right; font-size: 75%; width: 25%; padding-left: 0.8em; + border-left: dashed thin; margin-left: 0.8em; text-align: left; + text-indent: 0; font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; + font-weight: bold; color: black; background: #eeeeee; border: solid 1px;} + pre { font-style: italic; font-size: 90%; margin-left: 10%;} + +</style> + </head> + <body> + + +<pre> + +The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Letters of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, +Vol. 1, by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart + +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: The Letters of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Vol. 1 + +Author: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart + +Translator: Lady Wallace + + +Release Date: March, 2004 [EBook #5307] +This file was first posted on June 27, 2002 +Last Updated: June 24, 2013 + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ASCII + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE LETTERS OF WOLFGANG *** + + + + +Text file produced by John Mamoun, Charles Franks and the Online +Distributed Proofreading Team + +HTML file produced by David Widger + + + + +</pre> + + <div style="height: 8em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h1> + THE LETTERS OF WOLFGANG AMADEUS MOZART. (1769-1791.) + </h1> + <h3> + In Two Volumes. Vol. I. + </h3> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h2> + By Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart + </h2> + <p> + <br /> + </p> + <h4> + Translated, From The Collection Of Ludwig Nohl, By Lady Wallace <br /> + <br /> With A Portrait And Facsimile <br /> <br /> New York and Philadelphia: + 1866. + </h4> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <p> + <b>CONTENTS</b> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_PREF"> PREFACE </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0002"> FIRST PART—ITALY, VIENNA, MUNICH.—1770 + TO 1776. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0003"> SECOND PART.—MUNICH, AUGSBURG, MANNHEIM.—SEPTEMBER + 1771 TO MARCH 1778. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0004"> THIRD PART.—PARIS.—MARCH 1778 TO + JANUARY 1779. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_4_0005"> FOURTH PART.—MUNICH.—IDOMENEO.—NOVEMBER + 1780 TO JANUARY 1781. </a> + </p> + <p class="toc"> + <a href="#link2H_CONT"> CONTENTS OF VOLUME I. [LETTERS LISTED BY DATE] + </a> + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_PREF" id="link2H_PREF"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + PREFACE + </h2> + <p> + A full and authentic edition of Mozart's Letters ought to require no + special apology; for, though their essential substance has already been + made known by quotations from biographies by Nissen, Jahn, and myself, + taken from the originals, still in these three works the letters are + necessarily not only very imperfectly given, but in some parts so + fragmentary, that the peculiar charm of this correspondence—namely, + the familiar and confidential mood in which it was written at the time—is + entirely destroyed. It was only possible to restore, and to enable others + to enjoy this charm—a charm so novel, even to those already + conversant with Mozart's life, that the most familiar incidents acquire + fresh zest from it—by an ungarbled edition of these letters. This is + what I now offer, feeling convinced that it will be welcome not only to + the mass of Mozart's admirers, but also to professional musicians; for in + them alone is strikingly set forth how Mozart lived and labored, enjoyed + and suffered, and this with a degree of vivid and graphic reality which no + biography, however complete, could ever succeed in giving. Who does not + know the varied riches of Mozart's life? All that agitated the minds of + men in that day—nay, all that now moves, and ever will move, the + heart of man—vibrated with fresh pulsation, and under the most + manifold forms, in his sensitive soul, and mirrored itself in a series of + letters, which indeed rather resemble a journal than a correspondence. + </p> + <p> + This artist, Nature had gifted in all respects with the most clear and + vigorous intellect that ever man possessed. Even in a language which he + had not so fully mastered as to acquire the facility of giving expression + to his ideas, he contrived to relate to others all that he saw and heard, + and felt and thought, with surprising clearness and the most charming + sprightliness, combined with talent and good feeling. Above all, in his + letters to his father when travelling, we meet with the most minute + delineations of countries and people, of the progress of the fine arts, + especially in the theatres and in music; we also see the impulses of his + own heart and a hundred other things which, in fascination, and universal + as well as artistic interest, have scarcely a parallel in our literature. + The style may fail to a certain degree in polish, that is, in definite + purpose in expressing what he wished to say in an attractive or congenial + form,—an art, however, which Mozart so thoroughly understood in his + music. His mode of writing, especially in the later letters from Vienna, + is often very slovenly, evidencing how averse the Maestro was to the task. + Still these letters are manifestly the unconstrained, natural, and simple + outpourings of his heart, delightfully recalling to our minds all the + sweetness and pathos, the spirit and grace, which have a thousand times + enchanted us in the music of Mozart. The accounts of his visit to Paris + may, indeed, lay claim to a certain aesthetic value, for they are written + throughout with visible zest in his own descriptions, and also with wit, + and charm, and characteristic energy. As these combined merits can only + become apparent by an ungarbled series of the letters, I have resolved, + after many long years of zealous research in collecting them, to undertake + the work,—that is, to publish the letters entire that have come to + my knowledge. + </p> + <p> + It now only remains for me to give some words of explanation as to the + method I have pursued in editing them. + </p> + <p> + In the first place, this edition, (being transcribed closely from the + originals,) if compared with the letters already published, will prove + that the latter are open to many corrections, both in trivial and more + important respects. I have forborne, however, attracting attention to the + deviations from the original text, either in Nissen or Jahn. I have no + wish to be punctilious about trifles, where, as in the case of Jahn, the + principal points are correct. Further, by this faithful production of the + letters, (nothing being omitted but the constant repetition of forms of + greeting and subscription,) we find many an additional feature in the + Maestro's life, and chiefly various facts with regard to the creation and + publication of his works, which may serve to complete and to amend various + statements in Dr. Ludwig Ritter von Kochel's "Chronological Thematic + Catalogue of the Musical Compositions of W. A. Mozart," (Leipzig, + Breitkopf and Hartel). This will be effected not only by the hitherto + unpublished letters, though comparatively few in number, but also by + passages being given in full, which have been hitherto suppressed as of no + consequence. I have referred to Nissen and Jahn only when, in spite of all + my inquiries, I could not discover the proprietor of the original, or + procure a correct copy. + </p> + <p> + I must also remark that all letters without a special address are written + to his father. I have only adhered to Mozart's defective orthography in + his few letters of early date, and in the rest adopted the more modern + fashion. I did so for this simple reason, that these defects form a charm + in his juvenile letters, from being in accordance with their boyish + contents, while, with regard to the others, they only tend to distract the + attention from the substance of the letters, instead of imparting + additional interest to them. Biographers can, and ought always to render + faithfully the original writing, because quotations alternate with the + text of the biographer; but in a regular and uninterrupted series of + letters this attraction must be very sparingly used, or it will have a + pernicious effect. + </p> + <p> + The explanatory remarks, and also the supplementary Lexicon, in which I + have availed myself of Jahn's catalogue, will make the letters more + intelligible to the world at large. The Index, too, has been most + carefully prepared to facilitate references. + </p> + <p> + Lastly, I return my best thanks to the keeper of the Archives of the + Mozarteum in Salzburg, to Herr Jellinck, and to all the librarians and + collectors of autographs who have assisted me in my task, either by + furnishing me with copies of their Mozart letters, or by letting me know + where I could procure them. I would also earnestly request all who may + possess any Mozart letters to send me an exact transcript of them in the + interest of Art; for those here given allude to many still unknown, which + are no doubt scattered about here and there, waiting to be brought to + light. + </p> + <p> + With respect to myself, the best reward I aspire to in return for the many + sacrifices this collection has cost me, is, that my readers may do justice + to the purpose which chiefly guided me throughout this publication,—my + desire being not merely to benefit science, and to give a graphic + description of the amiability and purity of heart which so distinguished + this attractive man, (for such was my aim in my "Life of Mozart,") but + above all to draw attention afresh to the unremitting zeal with which + Mozart did homage to every advance in Art, striving to make music more and + more the interpreter of man's innermost being. I also wished to show how + much his course was impeded by the sluggishness and stupidity of the + multitude, though partly sustained by the sympathy of kindred souls, till + the glorious victory was won over routine and imbecility. Amidst all the + fatiguing process of copying and collating letters already so familiar to + me, these considerations moved me more vividly than ever; and no work on + the Maestro can ever bring them with such force before the intelligent + reader as this connected succession of letters, containing his own details + of his unwearied artistic struggles and productions. May these letters, + then, kindle fresh zeal in our artists of the present day, both in + youthful genius and in laurel-crowned Maestri!—especially may they + have the happiest influence on those who devote themselves to that phase + of Art in which Mozart attained the highest renown!—may they impart + that energetic courage which is derived from the experience that incessant + efforts for the progress of Art and its appliances enlarge the limits of + human intellect, and can alone insure an immortal crown! + </p> + <p> + LUDWIG NOHL. + </p> + <p> + MUNICH, October 1, 1864. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0002" id="link2H_4_0002"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + FIRST PART—ITALY, VIENNA, MUNICH.—1770 TO 1776. + </h2> + <p> + Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was born in Salzburg on the 17th January, 1756. + His father, Leopold Mozart, belonged to a respectable tradesman's family + in the free city of Augsburg. Conscious of being gifted with no small + portion of intellectual endowments, he followed the impulse that led him + to aim at a higher position in life, and went to the then celebrated + University of Salzburg in order to study jurisprudence. As he did not, + however, at once succeed in procuring employment in this profession, he + was forced, from his straitened means, to enter the service of Canon Count + Thun as valet. Subsequently, however, his talents, and that thorough + knowledge of music by which he had already (according to the custom of + many students) gained some part of his livelihood, obtained for him a + better position. In the year 1743 he was received into the band (Kapelle) + of the Salzburg cathedral by Archbishop Sigismund; and as his capabilities + and fame as a violinist increased, the same Prince shortly afterwards + promoted him to the situation of Hof-Componist (Court Composer) and leader + of the orchestra, and in 1762 he was appointed Hof-Kapellmeister + (conductor of the Court music). + </p> + <p> + In 1747 Leopold Mozart married Anna Maria Pertlin, a foster-child of the + Convent of St. Gilgen. The fruits of this marriage were seven children, + two of whom alone survived,—Maria Anna, (the fourth), called + Nannerl, born in 1751; and the youngest, Wolfgang Amadeus Johannes + Chrysostomus. The daughter at a very early age displayed a most remarkable + talent for music, and when her father began to give her instructions in + it, an inborn and passionate love of this art was soon evident in her + little brother of three years old, who at once gave tokens of a degree of + genius far surpassing all experience, and really bordering on the + marvellous. In his fourth year he could play all sorts of little pieces on + the piano. He only required half an hour to learn a minuet, and one hour + for a longer movement; and in his fifth year he actually composed some + pretty short pieces, several of which are still extant. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote: The Grand Duchess Helene Paulowna, a few weeks ago, made a + present to the Mozarteum of the music-book from which Mozart learned + music, and in which he wrote down his first compositions.] + </p> + <p> + The wonderful acquirements of both these children, to which Wolfgang soon + added skilful playing on the violin and organ, induced their father to + travel with them. In January, 1702, when the boy was just six years old, + they went first to Munich, and in the autumn to Vienna, the children + everywhere on their journey exciting the greatest sensation, and being + handsomely remunerated. Leopold Mozart, therefore, soon afterwards + resolved to undertake a longer journey, accompanied by his whole family. + This lasted more than three years, extending from the smaller towns in + West Germany to Paris and London, while they visited, on their way back, + Holland, France, and Switzerland. The careful musical instruction which + the father perseveringly bestowed on his son, went hand in hand with the + most admirable education, and the boy was soon as universally beloved for + his amiable disposition and natural simplicity and candor, as admired for + his rare gifts and acquirements. + </p> + <p> + After nearly a year passed at home in unremitting musical instruction, and + practice of various instruments as well as composition, the father once + more set off with all his family to Vienna,—on this occasion with a + view to Wolfgang paving the way to Italy by the composition of an opera, + (Italy, at that time, being the Eldorado of music.) He succeeded in + procuring the scrittura of an opera buffa, "La Finta semplice;" but, when + finished, although the Emperor himself had intrusted the composition to + the boy, the cabals of envious singers effectually prevented its being + performed. But a German operetta which the lad of twelve also wrote at + that time, "Bastien und Bastienne," was given in private, at the summer + residence of the Mesmer family, in the suburb called Landstrasse. The + father, too, had some compensation by the Emperor commissioning his son to + compose a solemn mass for the consecration of the new Waisenhaus church, + which Wolfgang himself directed with the conductor's baton, in presence of + the Imperial Family, on the 7th December, 1768. + </p> + <p> + Immediately on their return home, the young virtuoso was appointed + archiepiscopal Concertmeister. He passed almost the whole of the year 1769 + in Salzburg, chiefly engaged in the composition of masses. We also see him + at that time eagerly occupied in improving his knowledge of Latin, + although two years previously he had composed a comedy in that language,—"Apollo + et Hyacinthus." From this study proceeds the first letter which is still + extant from his hand:— + </p> + <p> + <br /> 1. + </p> + <p> + Salzburg, 1769. + </p> + <p> + MY DEAR YOUNG LADY,— + </p> + <p> + I beg you will pardon the liberty I take in plaguing you with these few + lines, but as you said yesterday that there was nothing you could not + understand in Latin, and I might write what I chose in that language, I + could not resist the bold impulse to write you a few Latin lines. When you + have deciphered these, be so good as to send me the answer by one of + Hagenauer's servants, for my messenger cannot wait; remember, you must + answer this by a letter. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote: By a messenger of the Hagenauer family, in whose house, + opposite the inn of "Den drei Allurten," Mozart was born, and with whom + his family were on the most intimate terms.] + </p> + <p> + "Cuperem scire, de qua causa, a quam plurimis adolescentibus ottium usque + adeo oestimetur, ut ipsi se nec verbis, nec verberibus ad hoc sinant + abduci." + </p> + <p> + [Footnote: "I should like to know the reason why indolence is so highly + prized by very many young men, that neither by words nor blows will they + suffer themselves to be roused from it."] + </p> + <p> + WOLFGANG MOZART. + </p> + <p> + The father's plan to go to Italy, there to lay the foundation of a + European reputation for his son, was realized in the beginning of + December, 1769, and during the journey, the boy, who was at that time just + entering his fifteenth year, subjoined to his father's reports scraps of + his own writing, in which, in true boyish fashion, he had recourse to all + kinds of languages and witticisms, but always exhibiting in his opinions + on music the closest observation, the gravest thought, and the most acute + judgment. + </p> + <p> + <br />2. + </p> + <p> + Verona, Jan. 1770. + </p> + <p> + MY VERY DEAREST SISTER,— + </p> + <p> + I have at last got a letter a span long after hoping so much for an answer + that I lost patience; and I had good cause to do so before receiving yours + at last. The German blockhead having said his say, now the Italian one + begins. Lei e piu franca nella lingua italiana di quel che mi ho + immaginato. Lei mi dica la cagione perche lei non fu nella commedia che + hanno giocata i Cavalieri. Adesso sentiamo sempre una opera titolata Il + Ruggiero. Oronte, il padre di Bradamante, e un principe (il Signor Afferi) + bravo cantante, un baritono, [Footnote: "You are more versed in the + Italian language than I believed. Tell me why you were not one of the + actors in the comedy performed by the Cavaliers. We are now hearing an + opera called 'Il Ruggiero.' Oronte, the father of Bradamante, is a Prince + (acted by Afferi, a good singer, a baritone)."] but very affected when he + speaks out a falsetto, but not quite so much so as Tibaldi in Vienna. + Bradamante innamorata di Ruggiero (ma [Footnote: "Bradamante is enamored + of Ruggiero, but"]—she is to marry Leone, but will not) fa una + povera Baronessa, che ha avuto una gran disgrazia, ma non so la quale; + recita [Footnote: "Pretends to be a poor Baroness who has met with some + great misfortune, but what it is I don't know, she performs"] under an + assumed name, but the name I forget; ha una voce passabile, e la statura + non sarebbe male, ma distuona come il diavolo. Ruggiero, un ricco principe + innamorato di Bradamante, e un musico; canta un poco Manzuolisch + [Footnote: Manzuoli was a celebrated soprano, from whom Mozart had lessons + in singing when in London.] ed ha una bellissima voce forte ed e gia + vecchio; ha 55 anni, ed ha una [Footnote: "She has a tolerable voice, and + her appearance is in her favor, but she sings out of tune like a devil + Ruggiero, a rich Prince enamored of Bradamante, is a musico, and sings + rather in Manzuoli's style, and has a fine powerful voice, though quite + old; he is fifty-five, and has a"] flexible voice. Leone is to marry + Bradamante—richississimo e, [Footnote: "Immensely rich."] but + whether he is rich off the stage I can't say. La moglie di Afferi, che ha + una bellissima voce, ma e tanto susurro nel teatro che non si sente + niente. Irene fa una sorella di Lolli, del gran violinista che habbiamo + sentito a Vienna, a una [Footnote: "Afferi's wife has a most beautiful + voice, but sings so softly on the stage that you really hear nothing at + all. A sister of Lolli, the great violinist whom we heard at Vienna, acts + Irene; she has a"] very harsh voce, e canta sempre [Footnote: "Voice, and + always sings"] a quaver too tardi o troppo a buon' ora. Granno fa un + signore, che non so come si chiame; e la prima volta che lui recita. + [Footnote: "Slow or too fast. Ganno is acted by a gentleman whose name I + never heard. It is his first appearance on the stage."] There is a ballet + between each act. We have a good dancer here called Roessler. He is a + German, and dances right well. The very last time we were at the opera + (but not, I hope, the very last time we ever shall be there) we got M. + Roessler to come up to our palco, (for M. Carlotti gives us his box, of + which we have the key,) and conversed with him. Apropos, every one is now + in maschera, and one great convenience is, that if you fasten your mask on + your hat you have the privilege of not taking off your hat when any one + speaks to you; and you never address them by name, but always as + "Servitore umilissimo, Signora Maschera." Cospetto di Bacco! that is fun! + The most strange of all is that we go to bed at half-past seven! Se lei + indovinasse questo, io diro certamente che lei sia la madre di tutti gli + indovini. [Footnote: "If you guess this, I shall say that you are the + mother of all guessers."] Kiss mamma's hand for me, and to yourself I send + a thousand kisses, and assure you that I shall always be your affectionate + brother. + </p> + <p> + Portez-vous bien, et aimez-moi toujours. + </p> + <p> + <br />3. + </p> + <p> + Milan, Jan. 26, 1770. + </p> + <p> + I REJOICE in my heart that you were so well amused at the sledging party + you write to me about, and I wish you a thousand opportunities of + pleasure, so that you may pass your life merrily. But one thing vexes me, + which is, that you allowed Herr von Molk [an admirer of this pretty young + girl of eighteen] to sigh and sentimentalize, and that you did not go with + him in his sledge, that he might have upset you. What a lot of + pocket-handkerchiefs he must have used that day to dry the tears he shed + for you! He no doubt, too, swallowed at least three ounces of cream of + tartar to drive away the horrid evil humors in his body. I know nothing + new except that Herr Gellert, the Leipzig poet, [Footnote: Old Mozart + prized Gellert's poems so highly, that on one occasion he wrote to him + expressing his admiration.] is dead, and has written no more poetry since + his death. Just before beginning this letter I composed an air from the + "Demetrio" of Metastasio, which begins thus, "Misero tu non sei." + </p> + <p> + The opera at Mantua was very good. They gave "Demetrio." The prima donna + sings well, but is inanimate, and if you did not see her acting, but only + singing, you might suppose she was not singing at all, for she can't open + her mouth, and whines out everything; but this is nothing new to us. The + seconda donna looks like a grenadier, and has a very powerful voice; she + really does not sing badly, considering that this is her first appearance. + Il primo uomo, il musico, sings beautifully, but his voice is uneven; his + name is Caselli. Il secondo uomo is quite old, and does not at all please + me. The tenor's name is Ottini; he does not sing unpleasingly, but with + effort, like all Italian tenors. We know him very well. The name of the + second I don't know; he is still young, but nothing at all remarkable. + Primo ballerino good; prima ballerina good, and people say pretty, but I + have not seen her near. There is a grotesco who jumps cleverly, but cannot + write as I do—just as pigs grunt. The orchestra is tolerable. In + Cremona, the orchestra is good, and Spagnoletta is the name of the first + violinist there. Prima donna very passable—rather ancient, I fancy, + and as ugly as sin. She does not sing as well as she acts, and is the wife + of a violin-player at the opera. Her name is Masci. The opera was the + "Clemenza di Tito." Seconda donna not ugly on the stage, young, but + nothing superior. Primo uomo, un musico, Cicognani, a fine voice, and a + beautiful cantabile. The other two musici young and passable. The tenor's + name is non lo so [I don't know what]. He has a pleasing exterior, and + resembles Le Roi at Vienna. Ballerino primo good, but an ugly dog. There + was a ballerina who danced far from badly, and, what is a capo d'opera, + she is anything but plain, either on the stage or off it. The rest were + the usual average. I cannot write much about the Milan opera, for we did + not go there, but we heard that it was not successful. Primo uomo, Aprile, + who sings well, and has a fine even voice; we heard him at a grand church + festival. Madame Piccinelli, from Paris, who sang at one of our concerts, + acts at the opera. Herr Pick, who danced at Vienna, is now dancing here. + The opera is "Didone abbandonata," but it is not to be given much longer. + Signor Piccini, who is writing the next opera, is here. I am told that the + title is to be "Cesare in Egitto." + </p> + <p> + WOLFGANG DE MOZART, + </p> + <p> + Noble of Hohenthal and attached to the Exchequer. + </p> + <p> + <br />4. + </p> + <p> + Milan, Feb. 10, 1770. + </p> + <p> + SPEAK of the wolf, and you see his ears! I am quite well, and impatiently + expecting an answer from you. I kiss mamma's hand, and send you a little + note and a little kiss; and remain, as before, your——What? + Your aforesaid merry-andrew brother, Wolfgang in Germany, Amadeo in Italy. + </p> + <p> + DE MORZANTINI. + </p> + <p> + <br />5. + </p> + <p> + Milan, Feb. 17, 1770. + </p> + <p> + Now I am in for it! My Mariandel! I am so glad that you were so + tremendously merry. Say to nurse Urserl that I still think I sent back all + her songs, but if, engrossed by high and mighty thoughts of Italy, I + carried one off with me, I shall not fail, if I find it, to enclose it in + one of my letters. Addio, my children, farewell! I kiss mamma's hands a + thousand times, and send you a thousand kisses and salutes on your queer + monkey face. Per fare il fine, I am yours, &c. + </p> + <p> + <br />6. + </p> + <p> + Milan, Carnival, Erchtag. + </p> + <p> + MANY kisses to mamma and to you. I am fairly crazed with so much business, + [Footnote: Concerts and compositions of every kind occupied Mozart. The + principal result of his stay in Milan was, that the young maestro got the + scrittura of an opera for the ensuing season. As the libretto was to be + sent to them, they could first make a journey through Italy with easy + minds. The opera was "Mitridate, Re di Ponto."] so I can't possibly write + any more. + </p> + <p> + <br />7. + </p> + <p> + Milan, March 3, 1770. + </p> + <p> + CARA SORELLA MIA,— + </p> + <p> + I am heartily glad that you have had so much amusement. Perhaps you may + think that I have not been as merry as you; but, indeed, I cannot sum up + all we have done. I think we have been at least six or seven times at the + opera and the feste di ballo, which, as in Vienna, begin after the opera, + but with this difference, that at Vienna the dancing is more orderly. We + also saw the facchinata and chiccherata. The first is a masquerade, an + amusing sight, because the men go as facchini, or porters; there was also + a barca filled with people, and a great number on foot besides; and five + or six sets of trumpets and kettledrums, besides several bands of violins + and other instruments. The chiccherata is also a masquerade. What the + people of Milan call chicchere, we call petits maitres, or fops. They were + all on horseback, which was a pretty sight. I am as happy now to hear that + Herr von Aman [Footnote: The father had written in a previous letter, + "Herr von Aman's accident, of which you wrote to us, not only distressed + us very much, but cost Wolfgang many tears. You know how sensitive he is"] + is better, as I was grieved when you mentioned that he had met with an + accident. What kind of mask did Madame Rosa wear, and Herr von Molk, and + Herr von Schiedenhofen? Pray write this to me, if you know it; your doing + so will oblige me very much. Kiss mamma's hands for me a thousand million + times, and a thousand to yourself from "Catch him who can!" Why, here he + is! + </p> + <p> + <br />8. + </p> + <p> + Bologna, March 24, 1770. + </p> + <p> + Oh, you busy creature! + </p> + <p> + Having been so long idle, I thought it would do me no harm to set to work + again for a short time. On the post-days, when the German letters come, + all that I eat and drink tastes better than usual. I beg you will let me + know who are to sing in the oratorio, and also its title. Let me hear how + you like the Haydn minuets, and whether they are better than the first. + From my heart I rejoice to hear that Herr von Aman is now quite recovered; + pray say to him that he must take great care of himself and beware of any + unusual exertion. Be sure you tell him this. I intend shortly to send you + a minuet that Herr Pick danced on the stage, and which every one in Milan + was dancing at the feste di ballo, only that you may see by it how slowly + people dance. The minuet itself is beautiful. Of course it comes from + Vienna, so no doubt it is either Teller's or Starzer's. It has a great + many notes. Why? Because it is a theatrical minuet, which is in slow time. + The Milan and Italian minuets, however, have a vast number of notes, and + are slow and with a quantity of bars; for instance, the first part has + sixteen, the second twenty, and even twenty-four. + </p> + <p> + We made the acquaintance of a singer in Parma, and also heard her to great + advantage in her own house—I mean the far-famed Bastardella. She + has, first, a fine voice; second, a flexible organ; third, an incredibly + high compass. She sang the following notes and passages in my presence. + </p> + <p> + [Here, Mozart illustrates with about 20 measures of music] + </p> + <p> + <br />9. + </p> + <p> + Rome, April 14, 1770. + </p> + <p> + I AM thankful to say that my stupid pen and I are all right, so we send a + thousand kisses to you both. I wish that my sister were in Rome, for this + city would assuredly delight her, because St. Peter's is symmetrical, and + many other things in Rome are also symmetrical. Papa has just told me that + the loveliest flowers are being carried past at this moment. That I am no + wiseacre is pretty well known. + </p> + <p> + Oh! I have one annoyance—there is only a single bed in our lodgings, + so mamma may easily imagine that I get no rest beside papa. I rejoice at + the thoughts of a new lodging. I have just finished sketching St. Peter + with his keys, St. Paul with his sword, and St. Luke with—my sister, + &c., &c. I had the honor of kissing St. Peter's foot at San + Pietro, and as I have the misfortune to be so short, your good old + </p> + <p> + WOLFGANG MOZART + </p> + <p> + was lifted up! + </p> + <p> + <br />10. + </p> + <p> + Rome, April 21, 1770. + </p> + <p> + CARA SORELLA MIA,— + </p> + <p> + Pray try to find the "Art of Ciphering" which you copied out, but I have + lost it, and know nothing about it. So pray do write it out again for me, + with some other copies of sums, and send them to me here. + </p> + <p> + Manzuoli has entered into a contract with the Milanese to sing in my opera + [see Nos. 2-6]. For this reason he sang four or five arias to me in + Florence, and also some of my own, which I was obliged to compose in Milan + (none of my theatrical things having been heard there) to prove that I was + capable of writing an opera. Manzuoli asks 1000 ducats. It is not yet + quite certain whether Gabrielli will come. Some say Madame de' Amicis will + sing in it; we shall see her in Naples. I wish that she and Manzuoli could + act together; we should then be sure of two good friends. The libretto is + not yet chosen. I recommended one of Metastasio's to Don Ferdinando [Count + Firmiani's steward, in Milan] and to Herr von Troyer. I am at this moment + at work on the aria "Se ardore e speranza." + </p> + <p> + <br />11. + </p> + <p> + Rome, April 25, 1770. + </p> + <p> + CARA SORELLA MIA,— + </p> + <p> + Io vi accerto che io aspetto con una incredibile premura tutte le giornate + di posta qualche lettere di Salisburgo. Jeri fummo a S. Lorenzo e sentimmo + il Vespero, e oggi matina la messa cantata, e la sera poi il secondo + vespero, perche era la festa della Madonna del Buonconsiglio. Questi + giorni fummi nel Campidoglio e viddemmo varie belle cose. Se io volessi + scrivere tutto quel che viddi, non bastarebbe questo foglietto. In due + Accademie suonai, e domani suonero anche in una.—Subito dopo pranzo + giuochiamo a Potsch [Boccia]. Questo e un giuoco che imparai qui, quando + verro a casa, ve l'imparero. Finita questa lettera finiro una sinfonia + mia, che comminciai. L'aria e finita, una sinfonia e dal copista (il quale + e il mio padre) perche noi non la vogliamo dar via per copiarla; + altrimente ella sarebbe rubata. + </p> + <p> + WOLFGANGO in Germania. AMADEO MOZART in Italia. + </p> + <p> + Roma caput mundi il 25 Aprile anno 1770 nell' anno venture 1771. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote: + </p> + <p> + "DEAREST SISTER,— + </p> + <p> + "I assure you that I always expect with intense eagerness my letters from + Salzburg on post-days. Yesterday we were at S. Lorenzo and heard vespers, + and to-day at the chanted mass, and in the evening at the second vespers, + because it was the Feast of the Madonna del Buonconsiglio. A few days ago + we were at the Campidoglio, where we saw a great many fine things. If I + tried to write you an account of all I saw, this sheet would not suffice. + I played at two concerts, and to-morrow I am to play at another. After + dinner we played at Potsch [Boccia]. This is a game I have learnt, and + when I come home, I will teach it to you. When I have finished this + letter, I am going to complete a symphony that I have begun. The aria is + finished. The copyist (who is my father) has the symphony, because we do + not choose it to be copied by any one else, or it might be stolen. + </p> + <p> + "WOLFGANGO in Germany. + </p> + <p> + "AMADEO MOZART in Italy. + </p> + <p> + "Rome, mistress of the world: April 25, 1770."] + </p> + <p> + <br />12. + </p> + <p> + Naples, May 19, 1770. + </p> + <p> + CARA SORELLA MIA,— + </p> + <p> + Vi prego di scrivermi presto e tutti i giorni di posta. Io vi ringrazio di + avermi mandata questi "Art of Ciphering," [FOOTNOTE: "I beg you will write + to me soon, indeed every post-day. I thank you for having sent me the 'Art + of Ciphering.'"] e vi prego, se mai volete avere mal di testa, di mandarmi + ancora un poco di questi "books." [FOOTNOTE: "And I beg if you ever want + to have a headache, that you will send me some more."] Perdonate mi che + scrivo si malamente, ma la razione e perche anche io ebbi un poco mal di + testa. [FOOTNOTE: "of the same kind. Excuse my writing so badly, but the + reason is that I have a bit of a headache myself."] + </p> + <p> + Haydn's twelfth minuet, which you sent me, pleases me very much; you have + composed an inimitable bass for it, and without the slightest fault. I do + beg that you will often exercise yourself in such things. Mamma must not + forget to see that the guns are both polished up. Tell me how Master + Canary is? Does he still sing? and still whistle? Do you know why I am + thinking about the canary? Because we have one in our ante-room that + chirps out a G sharp just like ours. [Footnote: Mozart was extremely fond + of animals, and later in life had always birds in his room.] A propos, + Herr Johannes [Hagenauer], no doubt, received the letter of congratulation + which we intended to write to him? But if he has not got it, I will tell + him myself, when we meet in Salzburg, what ought to have been in it. + Yesterday we wore our new clothes; we were as handsome as angels. My kind + regards to Nandl; she must not fail to pray diligently for me. + </p> + <p> + Jomelli's opera is to be given on the 30th. We saw the king and queen at + mass in the court chapel at Portici, and we also saw Vesuvius. Naples is + beautiful, but as crowded with people as Vienna or Paris. As for London + and Naples, I think that in point of insolence on the part of the people + Naples almost surpasses London; because here the lazzaroni have their + regular head or leader, who receives twenty-five ducati d'argento monthly + from the king for keeping the lazzaroni in order. + </p> + <p> + Madame de' Amicis sings in the opera—we were there. Caffaro is to + compose the second opera, Ciccio di Majo the third, but who is to compose + the fourth is not yet known. Be sure you go regularly to Mirabell, to hear + the Litanies, and listen to the "Regina Coeli" or the "Salve Regina," and + sleep sound, and take care to have no evil dreams. My most transcendent + regards to Herr von Schiedenhofen—tralaliera! tralaliera! Tell him + to learn the repetition minuet on the piano, to be sure to DO so, and DO + not let him forget it. He must DO this in order to DO me the favor to let + me accompany him some day or other. DO give my best compliments to all my + friends, and DO continue to live happily, and DO not die, but DO live on, + that you may be able to DO another letter for me, and I DO one for you, + and thus we shall go on DOING till we can DO something worth DOING; but I + am one of those who will go on DOING till all DOINGS are at an end. In the + mean time I DO subscribe myself + </p> + <p> + Your W. M. + </p> + <p> + <br />13. + </p> + <p> + Naples, May 29, 1770. + </p> + <p> + Jeri l'altro fummo nella prova dell' opera del Sign. Jomelli, la quale e + una opera che e ben scritta e che me piace veramente. Il Sign. Jomelli ci + ha parlato ed era molto civile. E fummo anche in una chiesa a sentir una + Musica la quale fu del Sign. Ciccio di Majo, ed era una bellissima Musica. + Anche lui ci parlci ed era molto compito. La Signora de' Amicis canto a + meraviglia. Stiamo Dio grazia assai bene di salute, particolarmente io, + quando viene una lettera di Salisburgo. Vi prego di scrivermi tutti giorni + di posta, e se anche non avete niente da scrivermi, solamente vorrei + averlo per aver qualche lettera tutti giorni di posta. Egli non sarebbe + mal fatto, se voi mi scriveste qualche volta una letterina italiana. + </p> + <p> + [FOOTNOTE: "The other day we attended the rehearsal of Signor Jomelli's + opera, which is well written and pleases me exceedingly. Signor Jomelli + spoke to us and was very civil. We also went to a church to hear a mass by + Signor Ciccio di Majo, and it was most beautiful music. Signora de' Amicus + sang incomparably. We are, thank God, very well, and I feel particularly + so when a letter from Salzburg arrives. I beg you will write to me every + post-day, even if you have nothing to write about, for I should like to + have a letter by every post. It would not be a bad idea to write me a + little letter in Italian."] + </p> + <p> + <br />14. + </p> + <p> + Naples, June 5, 1770. + </p> + <p> + Vesuvius is smoking fiercely! Thunder and lightning and blazes! Haid homa + gfresa beim Herr Doll. Das is a deutscha Compositor, und a browa Mo. + [Footnote: "Today we dined with Herr Doll, he is a good composer and a + worthy man" [Vienna Patois]] Now I begin to describe my course of life.—Alle + 9 ore, qualche volta anche alle dieci mi svelgio, e poi andiamo fuor di + casa, e poi pranziamo da un trattore, e dopo pranzo scriviamo, e poi + sortiamo, e indi ceniamo, ma che cosa? Al giorno di grasso, un mezzo pollo + ovvero un piccolo boccone d'arrosto; al giorno di magro un piccolo pesce; + e di poi andiamo a dormire. Est-ce que vous avez compris?—Redma + dafir Soisburgarisch, don as is gschaida. Wir sand Gottlob gesund da Voda + und i. [Footnote: "I rise generally every morning at 9 o'clock, but + sometimes not till 10, when we go out. We dine at a restaurateur's, after + dinner I write, and then we go out again, and afterwards sup, but on what? + on jours gras, half a fowl, or a small slice of roast meat, on jours + maigres a little fish, and then we go to sleep. Do you understand? Let us + talk Salzburgisch, for that is more sensible. Thank God, my father and I + are well" [Patois]] I hope you and mamma are so also. Naples and Rome are + two drowsy cities. A scheni Schrift! net wor? [Footnote: "Fine writing, is + it not?" [Patois.]] Write to me, and do not be so lazy. Altrimente avrete + qualche bastonate di me. Quel plaisir! Je te casserai la tete. [Footnote: + "Otherwise I will cudgel you soundly. What a pleasure—to break your + head!"] I am delighted with the thoughts of the portraits [of his mother + and sister, who had promised to have their likenesses taken], und i bi + korios wias da gleich sieht; wons ma gfoin, so los i mi und den Vodan a so + macho. Maidli, lass Da saga, wo list dan gwesa he? [Footnote: "And I am + anxious to see what they are like, and then I will have my father and + myself also taken. Fair maiden, say, where have you been, eh?" [Patois.]] + The opera here is Jomelli's; it is fine, but too grave and old-fashioned + for this stage. Madame de' Amicis sings incomparably, and so does Aprile, + who used to sing at Milan. The dancing is miserably pretentious. The + theatre beautiful. The King has been brought up in the rough Neapolitan + fashion, and at the opera always stands on a stool, so that he may look a + little taller than the Queen, who is beautiful and so gracious, for she + bowed to me in the most condescending manner no less than six times on the + Molo. + </p> + <p> + <br />15. + </p> + <p> + Naples, June 16, 1770. + </p> + <p> + I AM well and lively and happy as ever, and as glad to travel. I made an + excursion on the Mediterranean. I kiss mamma's hand and Nannerl's a + thousand times, and am your son, Steffl, and your brother, Hansl. + </p> + <p> + <br />16. + </p> + <p> + Rome, July 7, 1770. + </p> + <p> + CARA SORELLA MIA,— + </p> + <p> + I am really surprised that you can compose so charmingly. In a word, the + song is beautiful. Often try something similar. Send me soon the other six + minuets of Haydn. Mademoiselle, j'ai l'honneur d'etre votre tres-humble + serviteur et frere, + </p> + <p> + CHEVALIER DE MOZART. + </p> + <p> + [He had received from the Pope the cross of the Order of the Golden Spur.] + </p> + <p> + <br />17. + </p> + <p> + Bologna, July 21, 1770. + </p> + <p> + I WISH mamma joy of her name-day, and hope that she may live for many + hundred years to come and retain good health, which I always ask of God, + and pray to Him for you both every day. I cannot do honor to the occasion + except with some Loretto bells, and wax tapers, and caps, and gauze when I + return. In the mean time, good-bye, mamma. I kiss your hand a thousand + times, and remain, till death, your attached son. + </p> + <p> + <br />18. + </p> + <p> + Io vi auguro d'Iddio, vi dia sempre salute, e vi lasci vivere ancora cent' + anni e vi faccia morire quando avrete mille anni. Spero che voi impararete + meglio conoscermi ni avvenire e che poi ne giudicherete come ch' egli vi + piace. Il tempo non mi permette di scriver motto. La penna non vale un + corno, ne pure quello che la dirigge. Il titolo dell' opera che ho da + comporre a Milano, non si sa ancora. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote: "My prayer to God is, that He may grant you health, and allow + you to live to be a hundred, and not to die till you are a thousand years + old. I hope that you will learn to know me better in future, and that you + will then judge of me as you please. Time does not permit me to write + much. My pen is not worth a pin, nor the hand that guides it. I don't yet + know the title of the opera that I am to compose at Milan."] + </p> + <p> + My landlady at Rome made me a present of the "Thousand and One Nights" in + Italian; it is most amusing to read. + </p> + <p> + <br />19. + </p> + <p> + Bologna, August 4, 1770. + </p> + <p> + I GRIEVE from my heart to hear that Jungfrau Marthe is still so ill, and I + pray every day that she may recover. Tell her from me that she must beware + of much fatigue and eat only what is strongly salted [she was + consumptive]. A propos, did you give my letter to Robinsiegerl? [Sigismund + Robinig, a friend of his]. You did not mention it when you wrote. I beg + that when you see him you will tell him he is not quite to forget me. I + can't possibly write better, for my pen is only fit to write music and not + a letter. My violin has been newly strung, and I play every day. I only + mention this because mamma wished to know whether I still played the + violin. I have had the honor to go at least six times by myself into the + churches to attend their splendid ceremonies. In the mean time I have + composed four Italian symphonies [overtures], besides five or six arias, + and also a motett. + </p> + <p> + Does Herr Deibl often come to see you? Does he still honor you by his + amusing conversation? And the noble Herr Carl von Vogt, does he still + deign to listen to your tiresome voices? Herr von Schiedenhofen must + assist you often in writing minuets, otherwise he shall have no + sugar-plums. + </p> + <p> + If time permitted, it would be my duty to trouble Herr von Molk and Herr + von Schiedenhofen with a few lines; but as that most indispensable of all + things is wanting, I hope they will forgive my neglect, and consider me + henceforth absolved from this honor. I have begun various cassations [a + kind of divertimento], so I have thus responded to your desire. I don't + think the piece in question can be one of mine, for who would venture to + publish as his own composition what is, in reality, written by the son of + the Capellmeister, and whose mother and sister are in the same town? Addio—farewell! + My sole recreations consist in dancing English hornpipes and cutting + capers. Italy is a land of sleep; I am always drowsy here. Addio—good-bye! + </p> + <p> + <br />20. + </p> + <p> + Bologna, August 21, 1770. + </p> + <p> + I AM not only still alive, but in capital spirits. To-day I took a fancy + to ride a donkey, for such is the custom in Italy, so I thought that I too + must give it a trial. We have the honor to associate with a certain + Dominican who is considered a very pious ascetic. I somehow don't quite + think so, for he constantly takes a cup of chocolate for breakfast, and + immediately afterwards a large glass of strong Spanish wine; and I have + myself had the privilege of dining with this holy man, when he drank a lot + of wine at dinner and a full glass of very strong wine afterwards, two + large slices of melons, some peaches and pears for dessert, five cups of + coffee, a whole plateful of nuts, and two dishes of milk and lemons. This + he may perhaps do out of bravado, but I don't think so—at all + events, it is far too much; and he eats a great deal also at his afternoon + collation. + </p> + <p> + <br />21. + </p> + <p> + Bologna, Sept. 8, 1770. + </p> + <p> + NOT to fail in my duty, I must write a few words. I wish you would tell me + in your next letter to what brotherhoods I belong, and also let me know + the prayers I am bound to offer up for them. I am now reading + "Telemachus," and am already in the second volume. Good-bye for the + present! Love to mamma. + </p> + <p> + <br />22. + </p> + <p> + I HOPE that mamma and you are both well, but I wish you would answer my + letters more punctually in time to come; indeed, it is far easier to + answer than to originate. I like these six minuets far better than the + first twelve; we often played them to the Countess [Pallivicini, at whose + country-seat, near Bologna, father and son spent some months]. We only + wish we could succeed in introducing a taste for German minuets into + Italy, as their minuets last nearly as long as entire symphonies. Forgive + my bad writing; I could write better, but I am in such a hurry. + </p> + <p> + <br />23. + </p> + <p> + Bologna, Sept. 29, 1770. + </p> + <p> + IN order to fill up papa's letter, I intend to add a few words. I grieve + deeply to hear of Jungfrau Marthe's long-continued illness, which the poor + girl bears, too, with such patience. I hope, please God, she may still + recover. If not, we must not grieve too much, for the will of God is + always best, and God certainly knows better than we do whether it is most + for our good to be in this world or in the next. But it will cheer her to + enjoy this fine weather once more after all the rain. + </p> + <p> + <br />24. + </p> + <p> + Bologna, Oct. 6, 1770. + </p> + <p> + I AM heartily glad that you have been so gay; I only wish I had been with + you. I hope Jungfrau Marthe is better. To-day I played the organ at the + Dominicans. Congratulate the .... from me, and say that I sincerely wish + they may live to see the fiftieth anniversary of Father Dominikus's saying + mass, and that we may all once more have a happy meeting. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote: Jahn observes that he probably alludes to their intimate + friends, the merchant Hagenauer's family, with whom old Mozart had many + pecuniary transactions for the purpose of his travels, and whose son + entered the church in 1764.] + </p> + <p> + My best wishes to all Thereserls, and compliments to all my friends in the + house and out of the house. I wish I were likely soon to hear the + Berchtesgadner symphonies, and perhaps blow a trumpet or play a fife in + one myself. I saw and heard the great festival of St. Petronius in + Bologna. It was fine, but long. The trumpeters came from Lucca to make the + proper flourish of honor, but their trumpeting was detestable. + </p> + <p> + <br />25. + </p> + <p> + Milan, Oct. 20, 1770. + </p> + <p> + MY DEAR MAMMA,— + </p> + <p> + I cannot write much, for my fingers ache from writing out such a quantity + of recitative. I hope you will pray for me that my opera ["Mitridate Re di + Ponto"] may go off well, and that we soon may have a joyful meeting. I + kiss your hands a thousand times, and have a great deal to say to my + sister; but what? That is known only to God and myself. Please God, I hope + soon to be able to confide it to her verbally; in the mean time, I send + her a thousand kisses. My compliments to all kind friends. We have lost + our good Martherl, but we hope that by the mercy of God she is now in a + state of blessedness. + </p> + <p> + <br />26. + </p> + <p> + Milan, Oct. 27, 1770. + </p> + <p> + MY VERY DEAREST SISTER,— + </p> + <p> + You know that I am a great talker, and was so when I left you. At present + I replace this very much by signs, for the son of this family is deaf and + dumb. I must now set to work at my opera. I regret very much that I cannot + send you the minuet you wish to have, but, God willing, perhaps about + Easter you may see both it and me. I can write no more.—Farewell! + and pray for me. + </p> + <p> + <br />27. + </p> + <p> + Milan, Nov. 3, 1770. + </p> + <p> + MY VERY DEARLY LOVED SISTER,— + </p> + <p> + I thank you and mamma for your sincere good wishes; my most ardent desire + is to see you both soon in Salzburg. In reference to your congratulations, + I may say that I believe Herr Martinelli suggested your Italian project. + My dear sister, you are always so very clever, and contrived it all so + charmingly that, just underneath your congratulations in Italian, followed + M. Martini's compliments in the same style of penmanship, so that I could + not possibly find you out; nor did I do so, and I immediately said to + papa, "Oh! how I do wish I were as clever and witty as she is!" Then papa + answered, "Indeed, that is true enough." On which I rejoined, "Oh! I am so + sleepy;" so he merely replied, "Then stop writing." Addio! Pray to God + that my opera may be successful. I am your brother, + </p> + <p> + W. M., + </p> + <p> + whose fingers are weary from writing. + </p> + <p> + <br />28. + </p> + <p> + Milan, Dec. 1, 1770. + </p> + <p> + DEAREST SISTER,— + </p> + <p> + As it is so long since I wrote to you, I thought that I might perhaps + pacify your just wrath and indignation by these lines. I have now a great + deal to work at, and to write for my opera. I trust all will go well, with + the help of God. Addio! As ever, your faithful brother, + </p> + <p> + WOLFGANG MOZART. + </p> + <p> + <br />29. + </p> + <p> + MY DARLING SISTER,— + </p> + <p> + It is long since I have written to you, having been so much occupied with + my opera. As I have now more time, I shall attend better to my duty. My + opera, thank God, is popular, as the theatre is full every evening, which + causes great surprise, for many say that during all the time they have + lived in Milan they never saw any first opera so crowded as on this + occasion. I am thankful to say that both papa and I are quite well, and I + hope at Easter to have an opportunity of relating everything to mamma and + you. Addio! A propos, the copyist was with us yesterday, and said that he + was at that moment engaged in transcribing my opera for the Lisbon court. + Good-bye, my dear Madlle. sister, + </p> + <p> + Always and ever your attached brother. + </p> + <p> + <br />30. + </p> + <p> + Venice, Feb 15, 1771 + </p> + <p> + MY VERY DEAR SISTER,— + </p> + <p> + You have, no doubt, heard from papa that I am well. I have nothing to + write about, except my love and kisses to mamma. Give the enclosed—Al + sig. Giovanni. La signora perla ricono la riverisce tanto come anche tutte + le altre perle, e li assicuro che tutte sono inamorata di lei, e che + sperano che lei prendera per moglie tutte, come i Turchi per contenar + tutte sei. Questo scrivo in casa di Sign. Wider, il quale e un galant' + uomo come lei melo scrisse, ed jeri abbiamo finito il carnavale da lui, + cenardo da lui e poi ballammo ed andammo colle perle in compagnie nel + ridotto nuovo, che mi piacque assai. Quando sto dal Sign. Wider e + guardando fuori della finestra vedo la casa dove lei abito quando lei fu + in Venezia. Il nuovo non so niente. Venezia mi piace assai. Il mio + complimento al Sign., suo padre e madre, sorelle, fratelli, e a tutti i + miei amici ed amiche. Addio! + </p> + <p> + [Footnote: "To Herr Johannes [Hagenauer] The fair 'pearl' has the same + high opinion of you that all the other 'pearls' here have. I assure you + that they are all in love with you, and their hope is that you will marry + them all (like the Turks), and so please them every one. I write this in + the house of Signor Wider, who is an excellent man and exactly what you + wrote to me, yesterday we finished the Carnival in his house. We supped + there and then danced, and went afterwards, in company with the 'pearls,' + to the new masquerade, which amused me immensely. When I look out of the + window at Signor Wider's, I see the house that you inhabited in Venice. I + have no news. I like Venice very well. My compliments to your father and + mother, brothers and sisters, and all my friends. Adieu!"] + </p> + <p> + <br />31. + </p> + <p> + Venice, Feb. 20, 1771. + </p> + <p> + I AM still well, and, thank God, in the land of the living. Madame de' + Amicis has been singing at S. Benedetto. Say to Herr Johannes that the + Widerischen Berlein family are constantly speaking of him (particularly + Madlle. Catherine), so he must soon return to Vienna to encounter the + attacca—that is, in order to become a true Venetian, you must allow + yourself to be bumped down on the ground. They wished to do this to me + also, but though seven women tried it, the whole seven together did not + succeed in throwing me down. Addio! + </p> + <p> + The travellers arrived again at home towards the end of March, 1771. The + marriage of the Archduke Ferdinand with the Princess of Modena, which took + place in the October of that year, was attended with great festivities, + and recalled the father and son to Italy in the course of a few months, + Wolfgang having received a command from the Empress Maria Theresa to + compose a dramatic serenata in honor of these nuptials. + </p> + <p> + <br />32. + </p> + <p> + Verona, August 18, 1771. + </p> + <p> + DEAREST SISTER,— + </p> + <p> + I have not slept more than half an hour, for I don't like to sleep after + eating. You may hope, believe, think, be of opinion, cherish the + expectation, desire, imagine, conceive, and confidently suppose, that we + are in good health; but I can tell you so to a certainty. Wish Herr von + Heffner a happy journey from me, and ask him if he has seen Annamindl? + </p> + <p> + [Wolfgang, who was then fifteen, had taken advantage of his leisure during + their short stay in Salzburg to fall in love for the first time. We shall + find frequent allusions to this subject. See also No. 25.] + </p> + <p> + <br />33. + </p> + <p> + Milan, August 23, 1771. + </p> + <p> + MY VERY DEAR SISTER,— + </p> + <p> + We suffered much from heat in the course of our journey, and the dust + constantly dried us up so impertinently that we should have been choked, + or died of thirst, if we had not been too sensible for that. For a whole + month past (say the Milanese) there has been no rain here; to-day a slight + drizzle began, but the sun has now come out again, and it is once more + very warm. What you promised me (you well know my meaning, you kind + creature!) don't fail to perform, I entreat. I shall be indeed very + grateful to you. I am at this moment actually panting from the heat—I + tear open my waistcoat! Addio—good-bye! + </p> + <p> + WOLFGANG. + </p> + <p> + Above us we have a violinist, below us is another, next to us a + singing-master, who gives lessons, and, in the room opposite, a + hautboy-player. This is famous for a composer—it inspires so many + fine thoughts. + </p> + <p> + <br />34. + </p> + <p> + Milan, August 31, 1771. + </p> + <p> + MY DEAREST SISTER,— + </p> + <p> + We are quite well, thank God! I have been eating quantities of fine pears, + peaches, and melons in your place. My greatest amusement is to talk by + signs to the dumb, which I can do to perfection. Herr Hasse [the + celebrated opera composer] arrived here yesterday, and to-day we are going + to pay him a visit. We only received the book of the Serenata last + Thursday. [Footnote: It was "Ascanio in Alba" that Wolfgang got to compose + for Milan; and it was this music which made Hasse exclaim, "This boy will + cause us all to be forgotten."] I have very little to write about. Do not, + I entreat, forget about THE ONE OTHER, where no other can ever be. You + understand me, I know. + </p> + <p> + <br />35. + </p> + <p> + Milan, Sept. 13, 1771. + </p> + <p> + DEAR SISTER,— + </p> + <p> + I write only for writing's sake. It is indeed very inconvenient, because I + have a severe cold. Say to Fraulein W. von Molk that I rejoice at the + thoughts of Salzburg, in the hope that I may again receive the same kind + of present for the minuets which was bestowed on me at a similar concert. + She knows all about it. + </p> + <p> + <br />36. + </p> + <p> + Milan, Sept. 21, 1771. + </p> + <p> + I AM well, God be praised! I can't write much. 1st, I have nothing to say. + 2d, my fingers ache from writing. I often whistle an air, but no one + responds. Only two arias of the Serenata are still wanting, and then it + will be finished. I have no longer any fancy for Salzburg; I am afraid I + might go mad too. [He had heard that several persons there had lost their + reason.] + </p> + <p> + <br />37. + </p> + <p> + Milan, Oct. 5, 1771. + </p> + <p> + I AM in good health, but always sleepy. Papa has snatched from my pen all + that I had to write about, which is, that he has already written + everything. Signora Gabrielli is here, and we are soon going to see her, + as we wish to become acquainted with all distinguished singers. + </p> + <p> + <br />38. + </p> + <p> + Milan, Oct. 26, 1771. + </p> + <p> + MY work being now completed, I have more time to write, but have nothing + to say, as papa has written you all I could have said. I am well, thank + God! but have no news, except that in the lottery the numbers 35, 59, 60, + 61, and 62 have turned up prizes, so if we had selected these we should + have won; but as we did not put in at all we neither won nor lost, but + only laughed at those who did the latter. The two arias encored in the + Serenata were those of Manzuoli, and Girelli, the prima donna, I hope you + may be well amused in Triebenbach with shooting, and (weather permitting) + with walking. + </p> + <p> + <br />39. + </p> + <p> + Milan, Nov. 2, 1771. + </p> + <p> + Papa says that Herr Kerschbaumer travels with profit and observation, and + we can testify that he conducts himself very judiciously; at all events he + can give a more satisfactory account of his journey than some of his + friends, one of whom said that he could not see Paris properly because the + houses there were too high. To-day Hasse's opera is to be given; as papa, + however, is not going, I can't go either. [FOOTNOTE: Hasse had also a + festal opera to compose, but Leopold Mozart writes, "I am sorry to say + that Wolfgang's Serenata has totally eclipsed Hasse's opera."] Fortunately + I know all the airs thoroughly by heart, so I can see and hear them in my + own thoughts at home. + </p> + <p> + <br />40. + </p> + <p> + Milan, Nov. 24, 1771. + </p> + <p> + DEAREST SISTER,— + </p> + <p> + Herr Manzuoli, the musico, who has always been considered and esteemed as + the best of his class, has in his old age given a proof of his folly and + arrogance. He was engaged at the opera for the sum of 500 gigliati + (ducats), but as no mention was made in the contract of the Serenata, he + demanded 500 ducats more for singing in it, making 1000. The court only + sent him 700 and a gold box, (and enough too, I think,) but he returned + the 700 ducats and the box, and went away without anything. I don't know + what the result of this history will be—a bad one, I fear! + </p> + <p> + <br />41. + </p> + <p> + Milan, Nov. 30, 1771. + </p> + <p> + That you may not suppose I am ill, I write you a few lines. I saw four + fellows hanged in the Dom Platz. They hang here just as they do in Lyons. + </p> + <p> + We now find the father and son once more in Salzburg, in the middle of + December, 1771. Archbishop Sigismund died, and on the 14th of March, 1772, + Archbishop Hieronymus was elected, who was destined to cause much sorrow + to Mozart. Soon after, in honor of the procession and homage of the new + prince, he composed the allegorical azione teatrale "Il sogno di + Scipione." In October he resumed his travels, having undertaken the + scrittura for the approaching Carnivals both at Milan and at Venice. + </p> + <p> + <br />42. + </p> + <p> + Bologna, Oct. 28, 1772. + </p> + <p> + We have got to Botzen already. Already? rather not till now. I am hungry, + thirsty, sleepy, and lazy, but I am quite well. We saw the monastery in + Hall, and I played the organ there. When you see Nadernannerl, tell her I + spoke to Herr Brindl (her lover), and he charged me to give her his + regards. I hope that you kept your promise and went last Sunday to D——N——[in + cipher]. Farewell! write me some news. Botzen—a pig-sty! + </p> + <p> + <br />43. + </p> + <p> + Milan, Nov. 7, 1772. + </p> + <p> + Don't be startled at seeing my writing instead of papa's. These are the + reasons: first, we are at Herr von Oste's, and the Herr Baron Christiani + is also here, and they have so much to talk about, that papa cannot + possibly find time to write; and, secondly, he is too lazy. We arrived + here at 4 o'clock this afternoon, and are both well. All our good friends + are in the country or at Mantua, except Herr von Taste and his wife, who + send you and my sister their compliments. Herr Misliweczeck [a young + composer of operas from Paris] is still here. There is not a word of truth + either in the Italian war, which is so eagerly discussed in Germany, or in + the castles here being fortified. Forgive my bad writing. + </p> + <p> + Address your letters direct to us, for it is not the custom here, as in + Germany, to carry the letters round; we are obliged to go ourselves to + fetch them on post-days. There is nothing new here; we expect news from + Salzburg. + </p> + <p> + Not having a word more to say, I must conclude. Our kind regards to all + our friends. We kiss mamma 1,000,000,000 times (I have no room for more + noughts); and as for my sister, I would rather embrace her in persona than + in imagination. + </p> + <p> + <br />44. + </p> + <p> + CARISSIMA SORELLA,— + </p> + <p> + Spero che voi sarete stata dalla Signora, che voi gia sapete. Vi prego, se + la videte di farla un Complimento da parte mia. Spero e non dubito punto + che voi starete bene di salute. Mi son scordato di darvi nuova, che + abbiamo qui trovato quel Sign. Belardo, ballerina, che abbiamo conosciuto + in Haye ed in Amsterdam, quello che attaco colla spada il ballerino, il + Sign. Neri, perche credeva che lui fosse cagione che non ebbe la + permission di ballar in teatro. Addio, non scordarvi di me, io sono sempre + il vostro fidele fratello. + </p> + <p> + [FOOTNOTE: "DEAREST SISTER,—I hope you have been to see the lady—you + know who. I beg that when you see her you will give her my compliments. I + hope, and do not doubt, that you are in good health. I forgot to tell you + that we found Signor Belardo here, a dancer whom we knew at the Hague and + at Amsterdam—the same person who attacked Signor Neri with a sword, + because he thought he was the cause of his not obtaining permission to + dance in the theatre. Adieu! Do not forget me, always your faithful + brother."] + </p> + <p> + <br />45. + </p> + <p> + Milan, Nov. 21, 1772. + </p> + <p> + I thank you exceedingly—you know for what. I cannot possibly write + to Herr von Heffner. When you see him, make him read aloud what follows. I + hope he will be satisfied with it:— + </p> + <p> + "I am not to take it amiss that my unworthy friend has not answered my + letter; as soon as he has more leisure, he will certainly, beyond all + doubt, positively and punctually send me a reply." + </p> + <p> + <br />46. + </p> + <p> + Milan, Nov. 28, 1772. + </p> + <p> + We both send our congratulations to Herr von Aman; tell him from me that, + owing to his having all along made a mystery of the affair, I feel much + annoyed, for I fear I may have said more than I ought about his bride. I + thought he had been more straightforward. One thing more. Say to Herr von + Aman that, if he wishes to have a right merry wedding, he must be so kind + as to wait till we return, so that what he promised me may come to pass, + namely, that I was to dance at his wedding. Tell Herr Leitgeb [a + horn-player in the Archbishop's orchestra] that he must come straight to + Milan, for he is sure to succeed well here; but he must come soon. Pray + let him know this, for I am anxious about it. + </p> + <p> + <br />47. + </p> + <p> + Milan, Dec. 5, 1772. + </p> + <p> + I have now about fourteen pieces to write, and then I shall have finished. + [Footnote: He alludes to his Milan opera, "Lucio Silla."] Indeed, the trio + and the duet may be considered as four. I cannot possibly write much, for + I have no news, and in the next place I scarcely know what I am writing, + as all my thoughts are absorbed in my opera, so there is some danger of my + writing you a whole aria instead of a letter. I have learned a new game + here, called mercanti in fiera. As soon as I come home we can play at it + together. I have also learned a new language from Frau von Taste, which is + easy to speak, though troublesome to write, but still useful. It is, I + own, rather a little childish, but will do capitally for Salzburg. My kind + regards to pretty Nandl and to the canary, for these two and yourself are + the most innocent creatures in our house. Fischietti [the Archbishop's + Capellmeister] will no doubt soon begin to work at his opera buffa + (translated into German, his CRAZY opera!). Addio! + </p> + <p> + The following letter of Wolfgang's shows the sparkling state of his + spirits, caused by the completion of his opera. At each line he turns the + page, so that one line stands, as it were, on the head of the other. The + father, too, in the joy of his heart that the arduous work was drawing to + a close, and with it his long journey, writes four lines, one above + another, round the edge of the page, so that the whole forms a framework + for a sketch of a burning heart and four triangles (symbols of fidelity), + and a bird on the wing from whose beak a distich is streaming:— + </p> + <p> + Oh! fly to seek my child so fair Here, and there, and everywhere! + </p> + <p> + Wolfgang adds:— + </p> + <p> + <br />48. + </p> + <p> + Milan, Dec. 18, 1772. + </p> + <p> + I HOPE, dear sister, that you are well, dear sister. When this letter + reaches you, dear sister, my opera will be in scena, dear sister. Think of + me, dear sister, and try, dear sister, to imagine with all your might that + my dear sister sees and hears it also. In truth, it is hard to say, as it + is now eleven o'clock at night, but I do believe, and don't at all doubt, + that in the daytime it is brighter than at Easter. My dear sister, + to-morrow we dine with Herr von Mayer; and do you know why? Guess! Because + he invited us. The rehearsal to-morrow is to be in the theatre. The + impresario, Signor Cassiglioni, has entreated me not to say a word of this + to a soul, as all kinds of people would come crowding in, and that we + don't wish. So, my child, I beg, my child, that you won't say one syllable + to any one on the subject, or too many people would come crowding in, my + child. Approposito, do you know the history that occurred here? Well, I + will relate it to you. We were going home straight from Count Firmiani's, + and when we came into our street we opened our door, and what do you think + happened? We went in. Good-bye, my pet. Your unworthy brother (frater), + </p> + <p> + WOLFGANG. + </p> + <p> + On the 26th of December "an incomparable performance" of "Lucio Silla" + took place; it was eminently successful, and continued to fill the house + night after night in the most surprising way. The father writes home + regularly, and Wolfgang subjoins the usual postscripts, which, however, at + this time contain nothing worth quoting. We give only part of an Italian + letter which he writes for practice:— + </p> + <p> + <br />49. + </p> + <p> + .... Vi prego di dire al Sig. Giovanni Hagenauer da parte mia, che non + dubiti, che andro a veder sicuramente in quella bottega delle armi, se ci + sono quei nomi [?] che lui desidera, e che senza dubbio doppo averlo + trovato le portero meco a Salisburgo. Mi dispiace che il Sig. Leitgeb e + partito tanto tardi da Salisburgo [see No. 46] che non trovera piu in + scena la mia opera e forte non ci trovera nemeno, se non in viaggio. + </p> + <p> + Hieri sera era la prima prova coi stromenti della seconda opera, ma ho + sentito solamente il primo atto, perche a secondo mene andiedi essendo gia + tardi. In quest' opera saranno sopra il balco 24 cavalli e . . . mondo di + gente, che saro miracolo se non succede qualche disgrazia. La musica mi + piace; se piace al replico non so, perche alle prime prove non e lecito l' + andarci che alle personne che sono del Teatro. Io spero che domani il mio + padre potra uscir di casa. Sta sera fa cativissimo tempo. La Signora + Teyber e adesso a Bologna e il carnevale venturo recitera a Turino e + l'anno sussiquente poi va a cantare a Napoli. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote: "Pray say from me to Johannes Hagenauer, that he may entirely + rely on my going to the armorer's shop, to see if I can procure what he + desires, and after getting it I will not fail to bring it with me to + Salzburg. I regret that Herr Leitgeb delayed so long leaving Salzburg [see + No. 46], for he will no longer find my opera in scena, nor will he find us + either unless we meet on our travels. Yesterday evening was our first + rehearsal of the second opera with instruments, but I only heard the first + act, for I went away at the second, because it was so very late. In this + opera there are to be twenty-four horses and a crowd of people on the + stage at the same time, so it will be surprising if no accident happens. + The music pleases me; whether it will please others I cannot tell, for no + persons but those belonging to the theatre are permitted to attend the + first rehearsals. I hope that papa will be able to leave the house + to-morrow. The weather is detestable this evening. Madame Teyber is now at + Bologna; she is to act at Turin in the ensuing Carnival, and the year + following she is to sing at Naples."] + </p> + <p> + After enjoying some more of the amusements of the Carnival, they arrived + again in Salzburg about the middle of March. This place, or rather their + position at court there, was in the highest degree repugnant to both; so + the father, in the course of his travels, applied to the Grand-Duke of + Tuscany for an appointment for his son. As, however, nothing was to be got + in that quarter, he directed his views to the Imperial capital itself; and + thus, at the end of three months, we find him again with his son in + Vienna. From thence Wolfgang often wrote to his loved ones at home. + </p> + <p> + <br />50. + </p> + <p> + Vienna, August 14, 1773. + </p> + <p> + I HOPE that your Majesty [Footnote 1: O. Jahn remarks that this epithet is + a reminiscence of a fantastic game that often amused the boy on his + journeys. He imagined a kingdom, the inhabitants of which were endowed + with every gift that could make them good and happy.] enjoys the best + state of health; and yet that now and then—or rather sometimes—or, + better still, from time to time—or, still better, qualche volta, as + the Italians say—your Majesty will impart to me some of your grave + and important thoughts (emanating from that most admirable and solid + judgment which, in addition to beauty, your Majesty so eminently + possesses; and thus, although in such tender years, my Queen casts into + the shade not only the generality of men but even the gray-haired). + </p> + <p> + P. S. This is a most sensible production. + </p> + <p> + <br />51. + </p> + <p> + Vienna, August 21, 1773. + </p> + <p> + When we contemplate the benefit of time, and yet are not entirely + oblivious of the estimation in which we ought to hold the sun, then it is + quite certain, Heaven be praised! that I am quite well. My second + proposition is of a very different character. Instead of sun, let us put + moon, and instead of benefit, science; then any one, gifted with a certain + amount of reasoning powers, will at once draw the conclusion that—I + am a fool because you are my sister. How is Miss Bimbles? [the dog.] I beg + you will convey all sorts of amiable messages from me to her. I also send + my kind remembrances to M. Kreibich [conductor of the Imperial + chamber-music], whom we knew at Presburg and also at Vienna; and very best + regards from Her Majesty the Empress, Frau Fischerin, and Prince Kaunitz. + Oidda! + </p> + <p> + GNAGFLOW TRAZOM. + </p> + <p> + <br />52. + </p> + <p> + Vienna, Sept. 15, 1773. + </p> + <p> + WE are quite well, thank God; on this occasion we have contrived to make + time to write to you, although we have so much business to do. We hope you + also are well. Dr. Niderl's death grieved us very much. I assure you we + cried a good deal, and moaned and groaned. Our kind regards to "Alle gute + Geister loben Gott den Herrn" [to all good spirits who praise the Lord], + and to all our friends. We graciously remain + </p> + <p> + Yours, WOLFGANG. + </p> + <p> + Given from our capital of Vienna. + </p> + <p> + The travellers returned home the end of September, for no situation was to + be found in Vienna either; indeed, they did not even give a public concert + there. Wolfgang remained in his native town during the whole of the + ensuing year, writing instrumental and church music. At length he received + a commission from the Elector of Bavaria, Maximilian III., to write an + opera buffa for the Carnival of 1775,—"La finta Giardiniera." + </p> + <p> + <br />53. + </p> + <p> + Munich, Dec. 28, 1774. + </p> + <p> + My Dearest Sister, + </p> + <p> + I entreat you not to forget, before your journey, [FOOTNOTE: Nannerl had + also the most eager desire to see the new opera, and the father at last + succeeded in getting a lodging for her in the large market place, in the + house of a widow, "a black-eyed brunette," Frau von Durst.] to perform + your promise, that is, to make a certain visit. I have my reasons for + this. Pray present my kind regards in that quarter, but in the most + impressive and tender manner—the most tender; and, oh!——but + I need not be in such anxiety on the subject, for I know my sister and her + peculiarly loving nature, and I feel quite convinced that she will do all + she can to give me pleasure—and from self-interest, too—rather + a spiteful hit that! [Nannerl was considered a little selfish by her + family.] + </p> + <p> + <br />54. + </p> + <p> + Munich, Dec. 30, 1774. + </p> + <p> + I BEG my compliments to Roxalana, who is to drink tea this evening with + the Sultan, All sorts of pretty speeches to Madlle. Mizerl; she must not + doubt my love. I have her constantly before my eyes in her fascinating + neglige. I have seen many pretty girls here, but not one whose beauty can + be compared with hers. Do not forget to bring the variations on Ekart's + menuet d'exaude, and also those on Fischer's minuet. I was at the theatre + last night. The play was "Der Mode nach der Haushaltung," which was + admirably acted. My kind regards to all my friends. I trust that you will + not fail to—Farewell! I hope to see you soon in Munich. Frau von + Durst sends you her remembrances. Is it true that Hagenauer is become a + professor of sculpture in Vienna? Kiss mamma's hand for me, and now I stop + for to-day. Wrap yourself up warmly on your journey, I entreat, or else + you may chance to pass the fourteen days of your visit in the house, + stifling beside a stove, unable once to move. I see the vivid lightning + flash, and fear there soon will be a crash! + </p> + <p> + Your brother. + </p> + <p> + <br />55. + </p> + <p> + To HIS MOTHER. + </p> + <p> + Munich, Jan. 11, 1775. + </p> + <p> + WE are all three well, Heaven be praised! I cannot possibly write much, + for I must go forthwith to the rehearsal. Tomorrow the grand rehearsal + takes place, and on the 13th my opera is to be in scena. I am much vexed + that you should cast any slight on Count Seeau [Intendant of the Munich + Theatre], for no one can be more kind or courteous, and he has more good + breeding than many of his degree in Munich. Herr von Molk was in such a + state of wonder and admiration at the opera seria when he heard it, that + we felt quite ashamed of him, for it clearly showed every one that he had + never in his life seen anything but Salzburg and Innspruck. Addio! + </p> + <p> + <br />56. + </p> + <p> + To HIS MOTHER. + </p> + <p> + Munich, Jan. 14, 1775. + </p> + <p> + GOD be praised! My opera was given yesterday, the 13th, and proved so + successful that I cannot possibly describe all the tumult. In the first + place, the whole theatre was so crammed that many people were obliged to + go away. After each aria there was invariably a tremendous uproar and + clapping of hands, and cries of Viva Maestro! Her Serene Highness the + Electress and the Dowager (who were opposite me) also called out Bravo! + When the opera was over, during the interval when all is usually quiet + till the ballet begins, the applause and shouts of Bravo! were renewed; + sometimes there was a lull, but only to recommence afresh, and so forth. I + afterwards went with papa to a room through which the Elector and the + whole court were to pass. I kissed the hands of the Elector and the + Electress and the other royalties, who were all very gracious. At an early + hour this morning the Prince Bishop of Chiemsee [who had most probably + procured the scrittura for his young friend Wolfgang] sent to congratulate + me that the opera had proved such a brilliant success in every respect. As + to our return home, it is not likely to be soon, nor should mamma wish it, + for she must know well what a good thing it is to have a little breathing + time. We shall come quite soon enough to——. One most just and + undeniable reason is, that my opera is to be given again on Friday next, + and I am very necessary at the performance, or it might be difficult to + recognize it again. There are very odd ways here. 1000 kisses to Miss + Bimberl [the dog]. + </p> + <p> + The Archbishop of Salzburg, who was very reluctant to admit the merits of + his Concertmeister, was an involuntary witness of the universal + approbation bestowed on Wolfgang's opera, although he would not go to hear + it himself. On the 18th of January, 1775, Wolfgang added the following + lines to his father's letter:— + </p> + <p> + <br />57. + </p> + <p> + MY DEAR SISTER, + </p> + <p> + [FOOTNOTE: Nannerl had not yet gone home, but was enjoying the Carnival in + various masks.] + </p> + <p> + How can I help the clock choosing at this moment to strike a quarter after + seven o'clock? It is not papa's fault either. Mamma will hear all the rest + from you. At present there is no fair sailing for me, as the Archbishop is + staying here, though not for long. It is currently reported that he is to + remain till he sets off again! I only regret that he is not to see the + first masked ball. + </p> + <p> + Your faithful FRANZ v. NASENBLUT. + </p> + <p> + Milan, May 5, 1756. + </p> + <p> + Immediately after Ash Wednesday the trio returned to Salzburg, where + Mozart remained uninterruptedly for another year and a half, actively + engaged in the duties of his situation. He wrote the following letter on + the 4th of September, 1776, to the celebrated Pater Martini in Bologna:— + </p> + <p> + <br />58. + </p> + <p> + MOLTO REVDO PADE MAESTRO, PADRONE MIO STIMATISSIMO,—La venerazione, + la stima e il rispetto, che porto verso la di lei degnissima persona mi + spinse di incommodarla colle presente e di mandargli un debole pezzo di + mia musica, rimmettendola alla di lei maestrale giudicatura. Scrissi + l'anno scorso il Carnevale una opera buffa ("La finta Giardiniera") a + Monaco in Baviera. Pochi giorni avanti la mia partenza di la desiderava S. + A. Elletorale di sentire qualche mia musica in contrapunto: era adunque + obligato di scriver questo Motetto in fretta per dar tempo a copiar il + spartito per Sua Altezza ed a cavar le parti per poter produrlo la + prossima domenica sotto la Messa grande in tempo del Offertorio. Carissimo + e stimatissimo Sigr. P. Maestro! Lei e ardentemente pregato di dirmi + francamente e senza riserva il di lei parere. Viviamo in questo mondo per + imparare sempre industriosamente, e per mezzo dei raggionamenti di + illuminarsi l'un l'altro e d'affatigarsi di portar via sempre avanti le + scienze e le belle arti. Oh quante e quante volte desidero d'esser piu + vicino per poter parlar e raggionar con Vostra Paternita molto Revda. Vivo + in una paese dove la musica fa pocchissimo fortuna, benche oltre di quelli + che ci hanno abandonati, ne abbiamo ancora bravissimi professori e + particolarmente compositori di gran fondo, sapere e gusto. Per il teatro + stiamo male per mancanza dei recitanti. Non abbiamo Musici e non gli + averemo si facilmente, giache vogliono esser ben pagati: e la generosita, + non e il nostro difetto. Io mi diverto intanto a scrivere per la camera e + per la chiesa: e ne son quivi altri due bravissimi contrapuntisti, cioe il + Sgr. Haydn e Adlgasser. Il mio padre e maestro della chiesa Metropolitana, + che mi da l'occasione di scrivere per la chiesa, quanto che ne voglio. Per + altro il mio padre gia 36 anni in servizio di questa Corte e sapendo, che + questo Arcivescovo non puo e non vuol vedere gente avanzata in eta, non lo + se ne prende a core, si e messo alla letteratura per altro gia suo studio + favorito. La nostra musica di chiesa e assai differente di quella d'Italia + e sempre piu, che una Messa con tutto il Kyrie, Gloria, Credo, la Sonata + all' Epistola, l'Offertorio osia Motetto, Sanctus ed Agnus Dei, ed anche + la piu solenne, quando dice la Messa il Principe stesso, non ha da durare + che al piu longo 3 quarti d'ora. Ci vuole un studio particolare per queste + sorte di compositione, e che deve pero essere una Messa con tutti + stromenti—Trombe di guerra, Tympani ecc. Ah! che siamo si lontani + Carissmo Sgr. P. Maestro, quante cose che avrai a dirgli!—Reverisco + devotamente tutti i Sgri. Filarmonici: mi raccommando via sempre nelle + grazie di lei e non cesso d'affligermi nel vedermi lontano dalla persona + del mondo che maggiormente amo, venero e stimo, e di cui inviolabilmente + mi protesto di V. Pta molto Rda + </p> + <p> + umilissmo e devotssmo servitore, + </p> + <p> + WOLFGANGO AMADEO MOZART. + </p> + <p> + Salisburgo, 4 Settembre, 1776. + </p> + <p> + [FOOTNOTE: + </p> + <p> + To Father Martini. + </p> + <p> + "Salzburg, Sept. 4, 1776. + </p> + <p> + "MOST REVEREND AND ESTEEMED FATHER AND MAESTRO,— + </p> + <p> + "The veneration, the esteem, and the respect I feel for your illustrious + person, induce me to intrude on you with this letter, and also to send you + a small portion of my music, which I venture to submit to your masterly + judgment. Last year, at Monaco, in Bavaria, I wrote an opera buffa ("La + finta Giardiniera") for the Carnival. A few days previous to my departure + from thence, his Electoral Highness wished to hear some of my contrapuntal + music; I was therefore obliged to write this motett in haste, to allow + time for the score to be copied for his Highness, and to arrange the parts + so that it might be produced on the following Sunday at grand mass at the + offertory. Most dear and highly esteemed Maestro, I do entreat you to give + me unreservedly your candid opinion of the motett. We live in this world + in order always to learn industriously, and to enlighten each other by + means of discussion, and to strive vigorously to promote the progress of + science and the fine arts. Oh, how many and many a time have I desired to + be nearer you, that I might converse and discuss with your Reverence! I + live in a country where music has very little success, though, exclusive + of those who have forsaken us, we have still admirable professors, and + more particularly composers of great solidity, knowledge, and taste. We + are rather badly off at the theatre from the want of actors. We have no + MUSICI, nor shall we find it very easy to get any, because they insist + upon being well paid, and generosity is not a failing of ours. I amuse + myself in the mean time by writing church and chamber music, and we have + two excellent contrapuntists here, Haydn and Adlgasser. My father is + maestro at the Metropolitan church, which gives me an opportunity to write + for the church as much as I please. Moreover, my father has been + thirty-six years in the service of this court, and knowing that our + present Archbishop neither can nor will endure the sight of elderly + people, he does not take it to heart, but devotes himself to literature, + which was always his favorite pursuit Our church music is rather different + from that of Italy, and the more so, as a mass including the Kyne, Gloria, + Credo, the Sonata all Epistola, the Offertory or Motett, Sanctus, and + Agnus Dei, and even a solemn mass, when the Prince himself officiates, + must never last more than three-quarters of an hour. A particular course + of study is required for this class of composition. And what must such a + mass be, scored with all the instruments, war-drums, cymbals, &c, + &c! Oh! why are we so far apart, dearest Signor Maestro? for how many + things I have to say to you! I devoutly revere all the Signori + Filarmonici. I venture to recommend myself to your good opinion, I shall + never cease regretting being so distant from the person in the world whom + I most love, venerate, and esteem. I beg to subscribe myself, reverend + Father, always your most humble and devoted servant, + </p> + <p> + "WOLFGANG AMADEUS MOZART"] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0003" id="link2H_4_0003"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + SECOND PART.—MUNICH, AUGSBURG, MANNHEIM.—SEPTEMBER 1771 TO + MARCH 1778. + </h2> + <p> + On the 22d of December, 1777, Mozart's father wrote as follows to Padre + Martini in Bologna:—"My son has been now five years in the service + of our Prince, at a mere nominal salary, hoping that by degrees his + earnest endeavors and any talents he may possess, combined with the utmost + industry and most unremitting study, would be rewarded; but in this hope + we find ourselves deceived. I forbear all allusion to our Prince's mode of + thinking and acting; but he was not ashamed to declare that my son knew + nothing, and that he ought to go to the musical training school in Naples + to learn music. And why did he say all this? In order to intimate that a + young man should not be so absurd as to believe that he deserved a rather + higher salary after such a decisive verdict had issued from the lips of a + prince. This has induced me to sanction my son giving up his present + situation. He therefore left Salzburg on the 23d of September" [with his + mother]. + </p> + <p> + <br />59. + </p> + <p> + Wasserburg, Sept. 23, 1777. + </p> + <p> + Mon Tres-Cher Pere,— + </p> + <p> + God be praised! we reached Waging, Stain, Ferbertshaim, and Wasserburg + safely. Now for a brief report of our journey. When we arrived at the city + gates, we were kept waiting for nearly a quarter of an hour till they + could be thrown open for us, as they were under repair. Near Schinn we met + a drove of cows, and one of these very remarkable, for each side was a + different color, which we never before saw. When at last we got to Schinn, + we met a carriage, which stopped, and ecce, our postilion called out we + must change. "I don't care," said I. Mamma and I were parleying, when a + portly gentleman came up, whose physiognomy I at once recognized; he was a + Memmingen merchant. He stared at me for some time, and at last said, "You + surely are Herr Mozart?" "At your service," said I; "I know you, too, by + sight, but not your name. I saw you, a year ago, at Mirabell's [the palace + garden in Salzburg] at a concert." He then told me his name, which, thank + God! I have forgotten; but I retained one of probably more importance to + me. When I saw this gentleman in Salzburg, he was accompanied by a young + man whose brother was now with him, and who lives in Memmingen. His name + is Herr Unhold, and he pressed me very much to come to Memmingen if + possible. We sent a hundred thousand loves to papa by them, and to my + sister, the madcap, which they promised to deliver without fail. This + change of carriages was a great bore to me, for I wished to send a letter + back from Waging by the postilion. We then (after a slight meal) had the + honor of being conveyed as far as Stain, by the aforesaid post-horses, in + an hour and a half. At Waging I was alone for a few minutes with the + clergyman, who looked quite amazed, knowing nothing of our history. From + Stain we were driven by a most tiresome phlegmatic postilion—N. B., + in driving I mean; we thought we never were to arrive at the next stage. + At last we did arrive, as you may see from my writing this letter. (Mamma + is half asleep.) From Ferbertshaim to Wasserburg all went on well. Viviamo + come i principi; we want nothing except you, dear papa. Well, this is the + will of God; no doubt all will go on right. I hope to hear that papa is as + well as I am and as happy. Nothing comes amiss to me; I am quite a second + papa, and look after everything.[Footnote: The father had been very uneasy + at the idea of allowing the inexperienced youth, whose unsuspicious + good-nature exposed him still more to danger, to travel alone; for the + mother also was not very expert in travelling.] I settled from the first + to pay the postilions, for I can talk to such fellows better than mamma. + At the Stern, in Wasserburg, we are capitally served; I am treated here + like a prince. About half an hour ago (mamma being engaged at the time) + the Boots knocked at the door to take my orders about various things, and + I gave them to him with the same grave air that I have in my portrait. + Mamma is just going to bed. We both beg that papa will be careful of his + health, not go out too early, nor fret, [Footnote: The Father was strongly + disposed to hypochondria.] but laugh and be merry and in good spirits. We + think the Mufti H. C. [the Archbishop Hieronymus Colloredo] a MUFF, but we + know God to be compassionate, merciful, and loving. I kiss papa's hands a + thousand times, and embrace my SISTER MADCAP as often as I have to-day + taken snuff. I think I have left my diplomas at home? [his appointment at + court.] I beg you will send them to me soon. My pen is rude, and I am not + refined. + </p> + <p> + <br />60. + </p> + <p> + Munich, Sept. 26, 1777. + </p> + <p> + WE arrived safely in Munich on the afternoon of the 24th, at half-past + four o'clock. A complete novelty to me was being obliged to drive to the + Custom House, escorted by a grenadier with a fixed bayonet. The first + person we knew, who met us when driving, was Signor Consoli; he recognized + me at once, and showed the utmost joy at seeing me again. Next day he + called on us. I cannot attempt to describe the delight of Herr Albert [the + "learned landlord" of the Black Eagle, on the Kaufinger Gasse, now Hotel + Detzer]; he is indeed a truly honest man, and a very good friend of ours. + On my arrival I went to the piano, and did not leave it till dinner-time. + Herr Albert was not at home, but he soon came in, and we went down to + dinner together. There I met M. Sfeer and a certain secretary, an intimate + friend of his; both send their compliments to you. Though tired by our + journey, we did not go to bed till late; we, however, rose next morning at + seven o'clock. My hair was in such disorder that I could not go to Count + Seeau's till half-past ten o'clock. When I got there I was told that he + had driven out to the chasse. Patience! In the mean time I wished to call + on Chorus-master Bernard, but he had gone to the country with Baron + Schmid. I found Herr von Belvall deeply engaged in business; he sent you a + thousand compliments. Rossi came to dinner, and at two o'clock Consoli, + and at three arrived Becke [a friend of Mozart's and an admirable + flute-player], and also Herr von Belvall. I paid a visit to Frau von Durst + [with whom Nannerl had lived], who now lodges with the Franciscans. At six + o'clock I took a short walk with Herr Becke. There is a Professor Huber + here, whom you may perhaps remember better than I do; he says that the + last time he either saw or heard me was at Vienna, at Herr von Mesmer's, + junior. He is neither tall nor short, pale, with silvery-gray hair, and + his physiognomy rather like that of Herr Unterbereiter. This gentleman is + vice-intendant of the theatre; his occupation is to read through all the + comedies to be acted, to improve or to spoil, to add to or to put them + aside. He comes every evening to Albert's, and often talks to me. To-day, + Friday, the 26th, I called on Count Seeau at half-past eight o'clock. This + was what passed. As I was going into the house I met Madame Niesser, the + actress, just coming out, who said, "I suppose you wish to see the Count?" + "Yes!" "He is still in his garden, and Heaven knows when he may come!" I + asked her where the garden was. "As I must see him also," said she, "let + us go together." We had scarcely left the house when we saw the Count + coming towards us about twelve paces off; he recognized and instantly + named me. He was very polite, and seemed already to know all that had + taken place about me. We went up the steps together slowly and alone; I + told him briefly the whole affair. He said that I ought at once to request + an audience of his Highness the Elector, but that, if I failed in + obtaining it, I must make a written statement. I entreated him to keep + this all quite private, and he agreed to do so. When I remarked to him + that there really was room for a genuine composer here, he said, "I know + that well." I afterwards went to the Bishop of Chiemsee, and was with him + for half an hour. I told him everything, and he promised to do all he + could for me in the matter. At one o'clock he drove to Nymphenburg, and + declared positively he would speak to the Electress. On Sunday the Count + comes here. Herr Joannes Kronner has been appointed Vice-Concertmeister, + which he owes to a blunt speech of his. He has produced two symphonies—Deo + mene liberi [God preserve me from such]—of his own composition. The + Elector asked him, "Did you really compose these?" "Yes, your Royal + Highness!" "From whom did you learn?" "From a schoolmaster in Switzerland, + where so much importance is attached to the study of composition. This + schoolmaster taught me more than all your composers here, put together, + could teach me." Count Schonborn and his Countess, a sister of the + Archbishop [of Salzburg], passed through here to-day. I chanced to be at + the play at the time. Herr Albert, in the course of conversation, told + them that I was here, and that I had given up my situation. They were all + astonishment, and positively refused to believe him when he said that my + salary, of blessed memory, was only twelve florins thirty kreuzers! They + merely changed horses, and would gladly have spoken with me, but I was too + late to meet them. Now I must inquire what you are doing, and how you are. + Mamma and I hope that you are quite well. I am still in my very happiest + humor; my head feels as light as a feather since I got away from that + chicanery. I have grown fatter already. + </p> + <p> + <br />61. + </p> + <p> + Munich, Sept. 29, 1777. + </p> + <p> + TRUE enough, a great many kind friends, but unluckily most of them have + little or nothing in their power. I was with Count Seeau yesterday, at + half-past ten o'clock, and found him graver and less natural than the + first time; but it was only in appearance, for to-day I was at Prince + Zeill's [Bishop of Chiemsee—No. 56], who, with all courtesy, said to + me, "I don't think we shall effect much here. During dinner, at + Nymphenburg, I spoke privately to the Elector, who replied: 'It is too + soon at this moment; he must leave this and go to Italy and become famous. + I do not actually reject him, but these are too early days as yet.'" There + it is! Most of these grandees have such paroxysms of enthusiasm for Italy. + Still, he advised me to go to the Elector, and to place my case before him + as I had previously intended. I spoke confidentially at dinner to-day with + Herr Woschitka [violoncellist in the Munich court orchestra, and a member + of the Elector's private band], and he appointed me to come to-morrow at + nine o'clock, when he will certainly procure me an audience. We are very + good friends now. He insisted on knowing the name of my informant; but I + said to him, "Rest assured that I am your friend and shall continue to be + so; I am in turn equally convinced of your friendship, so you must be + satisfied with this." But to return to my narrative. The Bishop of + Chiemsee also spoke to the Electress when tete-a-tete with her. She + shrugged her shoulders, and said she would do her best, but was very + doubtful as to her success. I now return to Count Seeau, who asked Prince + Zeill (after he had told him everything). "Do you know whether Mozart has + not enough from his family to enable him to remain here with a little + assistance? I should really like to keep him." Prince Zeill answered: "I + don't know, but I doubt it much; all you have to do is to speak to himself + on the subject." This, then, was the cause of Count Seeau being so + thoughtful on the following day. I like being here, and I am of the same + opinion with many of my friends, that if I could only remain here for a + year or two, I might acquire both money and fame by my works, and then + more probably be sought by the court than be obliged to seek it myself. + Since my return here Herr Albert has a project in his head, the fulfilment + of which does not seem to me impossible. It is this: He wishes to form an + association of ten kind friends, each of these to subscribe 1 ducat (50 + gulden) monthly, 600 florins a year. If in addition to this I had even 200 + florins per annum from Count Seeau, this would make 800 florins + altogether. How does papa like this idea? Is it not friendly? Ought not I + to accept it if they are in earnest? I am perfectly satisfied with it; for + I should be near Salzburg, and if you, dearest papa, were seized with a + fancy to leave Salzburg (which from my heart I wish you were) and to pass + your life in Munich, how easy and pleasant would it be! For if we are + obliged to live in Salzburg with 504 florins, surely we might live in + Munich with 800. + </p> + <p> + To-day, the 30th, after a conversation with Herr Woschitka, I went to + court by appointment. Every one was in hunting-costume. Baron Kern was the + chamberlain on service. I might have gone there last night, but I could + not offend M. Woschitka, who himself offered to find me an opportunity of + speaking to the Elector. At 10 o'clock he took me into a narrow little + room, through which his Royal Highness was to pass on his way to hear + mass, before going to hunt. Count Seeau went by, and greeted me very + kindly: "How are you, dear Mozart?" When the Elector came up to me, I + said, "Will your Royal Highness permit me to pay my homage and to offer + your Royal Highness my services?" "So you have finally left Salzburg?" "I + have left it forever, your Royal Highness. I only asked leave to make a + journey, and being refused, I was obliged to take this step, although I + have long intended to leave Salzburg, which is no place for me, I feel + sure." "Good heavens! you are quite a young man. But your father is still + in Salzburg?" "Yes, your Royal Highness; he humbly lays his homage at your + feet, &c., &c. I have already been three times in Italy. I have + written three operas, and am a member of the Bologna Academy; I underwent + a trial where several maestri toiled and labored for four or five hours, + whereas I finished my work in one. This is a sufficient testimony that I + have abilities to serve any court. My greatest wish is to be appointed by + your Royal Highness, who is himself such a great &c., &c." "But, + my good young friend, I regret that there is not a single vacancy. If + there were only a vacancy!" "I can assure your Royal Highness that I would + do credit to Munich." "Yes, but what does that avail when there is no + vacancy?" This he said as he was moving on; so I bowed and took leave of + his Royal Highness. Herr Woschitka advises me to place myself often in the + way of the Elector. This afternoon I went to Count Salern's. His daughter + is a maid of honor, and was one of the hunting-party. Ravani and I were in + the street when the whole procession passed. The Elector and the Electress + noticed me very kindly. Young Countess Salern recognized me at once, and + waved her hand to me repeatedly. Baron Rumling, whom I had previously seen + in the antechamber, never was so courteous to me as on this occasion. I + will soon write to you what passed with Salern. He was very kind, polite, + and straightforward.—P. S. Ma tres-chere soeur, next time I mean to + write you a letter all for yourself. My remembrances to B. C. M. R. and + various other letters of the alphabet. Adieu! A man built a house here and + inscribed on it: "Building is beyond all doubt an immense pleasure, but I + little thought that it would cost so much treasure." During the night some + one wrote underneath, "You ought first to have counted the cost." + </p> + <p> + <br />62. + </p> + <p> + Munich, Oct. 2, 1777. + </p> + <p> + YESTERDAY, October 1st, I was again at Count Salern's, and to-day I even + dined with him. I have played a great deal during the last three days, and + with right good will too. Papa must not, however, imagine that I like to + be at Count Salern's on account of the young lady; by no means, for she is + unhappily in waiting, and therefore never at home, but I am to see her at + court to-morrow morning, at ten o'clock, in company with Madame Hepp, + formerly Madlle. Tosson. On Saturday the court leaves this, and does not + return till the 20th. To-morrow I am to dine with Madame and Madlle. de + Branca, the latter being a kind of half pupil of mine, for Sigl seldom + comes, and Becke, who usually accompanies her on the flute, is not here. + On the three days that I was at Count Salern's I played a great many + things extempore—two Cassations [Divertimentos] for the Countess, + and the finale and Rondo, and the latter by heart. You cannot imagine the + delight this causes Count Salern. He understands music, for he was + constantly saying Bravo! while other gentlemen were taking snuff, humming + and hawing, and clearing their throats, or holding forth. I said to him, + "How I do wish the Elector were only here, that he might hear me play! He + knows nothing of me—he does not know what I can do. How sad it is + that these great gentlemen should believe what any one tells them, and do + not choose to judge for themselves! BUT IT IS ALWAYS SO. Let him put me to + the test. He may assemble all the composers in Munich, and also send in + quest of some from Italy and France, Germany, and England and Spain, and I + will undertake to write against them all." I related to him all that had + occurred to me in Italy, and begged him, if the conversation turned on me, + to bring in these things. He said, "I have very little influence, but the + little that is in my power I will do with pleasure." He is also decidedly + of opinion that if I could only remain here, the affair would come right + of itself. It would not be impossible for me to contrive to live, were I + alone here, for I should get at least 300 florins from Count Seeau. My + board would cost little, for I should be often invited out; and even were + it not so, Albert would always be charmed to see me at dinner in his + house. I eat little, drink water, and for dessert take only a little fruit + and a small glass of wine. Subject to the advice of my kind friends, I + would make the following contract with Count Seeau:—I would engage + to produce every year four German operas, partly buffe and partly serie; + from each of these I should claim the profits of one performance, for such + is the custom here. This alone would bring me in 500 florins, which along + with my salary would make up 800 florins, but in all probability more; for + Reiner, an actor and singer, cleared 200 florins by his benefit, and I am + VERY MUCH BELOVED HERE, and how much more so should I be if I contributed + to the elevation of the national theatre of Germany in music! And this + would certainly be the case with me, for I was inspired with the most + eager desire to write when I heard the German operettas. The name of the + first singer here is Keiserin; her father is cook to a count here; she is + a very pleasing girl, and pretty on the stage; I have not yet seen her + near. She is a native of this place. When I heard her it was only her + third appearance on the stage. She has a fine voice, not powerful, though + by no means weak, very pure, and a good intonation. Her instructor is + Valesi; and her style of singing shows that her master knows how to sing + as well as how to teach. When she sustains her voice for a couple of bars, + I am quite surprised at the beauty of her crescendo and decrescendo. She + as yet takes her shakes slowly, and this I highly approve of, for it will + be all the more pure and clear if she ever wishes to take it quicker; + besides, it is easier when quick. She is a great favorite with the people + here, and with me. + </p> + <p> + Mamma was in the pit; she went as early as half-past four o'clock to get a + place. I, however, did not go till half-past six o'clock, for I can go to + any box I please, being pretty well known. I was in the Brancas' box; I + looked at Keiserin with my opera-glass, and at times she drew tears from + my eyes. I often called out bravo, bravissimo, for I always remembered + that it was only her third appearance. The piece was Das Fischermadchen, a + very good translation of Piccini's opera, with his music. As yet they have + no original pieces, but are now anxious soon to give a German opera seria, + and a strong wish prevails that I should compose it. The aforesaid + Professor Huber is one of those who wish this. I shall now go to bed, for + I can sit up no longer. It is just ten o'clock. Baron Rumling lately paid + me the following compliment: "The theatre is my delight—good actors + and actresses, good singers, and a clever composer, such as yourself." + This is indeed only talk, and words are not of much value, but he never + before spoke to me in this way. + </p> + <p> + I write this on the 3d of October. To-morrow the court departs, and does + not return till the 20th. If it had remained here, I would have taken the + step I intended, and stayed on here for a time; but as it is, I hope to + resume my journey with mamma next Tuesday. But meanwhile the project of + the associated friends, which I lately wrote to you about, may be + realized, so that when we no longer care to travel we shall have a + resource to fall back upon. Herr von Krimmel was to-day with the Bishop of + Chiemsee, with whom he has a good deal to do on the subject of salt. He is + a strange man; here he is called "your Grace,"—that is, THE LACKEYS + do so. Having a great desire that I should remain here, he spoke very + zealously to the Prince in my favor. He said to me, "Only let me alone; I + will speak to the Prince, and I have a right to do so, for I have done + many things to oblige him." The Prince promised him that I should + POSITIVELY be appointed, but the affair cannot be so quickly settled. On + the return of the court he is to speak to the Elector with all possible + earnestness and zeal. At eight o'clock this morning I called on Count + Seeau. I was very brief, and merely said, "I have only come, your + Excellency, to explain my case clearly. I have been told that I ought to + go to Italy, which is casting a reproach on me. I was sixteen months in + Italy, I have written three operas, and all this is notorious enough. What + further occurred, your Excellency will see from these papers." And after + showing him the diplomata, I added, "I only show these and say this to + your Excellency that, in the event of my being spoken of, and any + injustice done me, your Excellency may with good grounds take my part." He + asked me if I was now going to France. I said I intended to remain in + Germany; by this, however, he supposed I meant Munich, and said, with a + merry laugh, "So you are to stay here after all?" I replied, "No! to tell + you the truth, I should like to have stayed, if the Elector had favored me + with a small sum, so that I might then have offered my compositions to + your Excellency devoid of all interested motives. It would have been a + pleasure to me to do this." At these words he half lifted his skull-cap. + </p> + <p> + At ten o'clock I went to court to call on Countess Salern. I dined + afterwards with the Brancas. Herr Geheimrath von Branca, having been + invited by the French Ambassador, was not at home. He is called "your + Excellency." Countess Salern is a Frenchwoman, and scarcely knows a word + of German; so I have always been in the habit of talking French to her. I + do so quite boldly, and she says that I don't speak at all badly, and that + I have the good habit of speaking slowly, which makes me more easily + understood. She is a most excellent person, and very well-bred. The + daughter plays nicely, but fails in time. I thought this arose from want + of ear on her part, but I find I can blame no one but her teacher, who is + too indulgent and too easily satisfied. I practised with her to-day, and I + could pledge myself that if she were to learn from me for a couple of + months, she would play both well and accurately. + </p> + <p> + At four o'clock I went to Frau von Tosson's, where I found mamma and also + Frau von Hepp. I played there till eight o'clock, and after that we went + home; and at half-past nine a small band of music arrived, consisting of + five persons—two clarionet-players, two horns, and one bassoon. Herr + Albert (whose name-day is to-morrow) arranged this music in honor of me + and himself. They played rather well together, and were the same people + whom we hear during dinner at Albert's, but it is well known that they are + trained by Fiala. They played some of his pieces, and I must say they are + very pretty: he has some excellent ideas. To-morrow we are to have a small + musical party together, where I am to play. (Nota bene, on that miserable + piano! oh, dear! oh, dear! oh, dear!) I beg you will excuse my horrid + writing, but ink, haste, sleep, and dreams are all against me. I am now + and forever amen, your dutiful son, + </p> + <p> + A. W. MOZART. + </p> + <p> + <br />63. + </p> + <p> + Munich, Oct. 6, 1777. + </p> + <p> + Mamma cannot write; in the first place, she is not inclined, and, + secondly, she has a headache. So I must hold the pen for her and keep + faith with her. I am just going with the Professor to call on Madlle. + Keiserin. Yesterday we had in our house a clerical wedding, or altum + tempus ecclesiasticum. There was dancing, but I only danced four minuets, + and was in my own room again by eleven o'clock, for, out of fifty young + ladies, there was only one who danced in time—Madlle. Kaser, a + sister of Count Perusa's secretary. The Professor thought fit to leave me + in the lurch, so I did not go to Madlle. Keiserin, because I don't know + where she lives. Last Saturday, the 4th, on the stately and solemn + occasion of the name-day of his Royal Highness the Archduke Albert, we had + a select music-party at home, which commenced at half-past three o'clock + and finished at eight. M. Dubreil, whom papa no doubt remembers, was also + present; he is a pupil of Tartini's. In the forenoon he gave a lesson on + the violin to the youngest son, Carl, and I chanced to come in at the + time, I never gave him credit for much talent, but I saw that he took + great pains in giving his lesson; and when we entered into conversation + about violin, concert, and orchestral playing, he reasoned very well, and + was always of my opinion, so I retracted my former sentiments with regard + to him, and was persuaded that I should find him play well in time, and a + correct violinist in the orchestra. I, therefore, invited him to be so + kind as to attend our little music rehearsal that afternoon. We played, + first of all, the two quintets of Haydn, but to my dismay I could scarcely + hear Dubreil, who could not play four continuous bars without a mistake. + He could never find the positions, and he was no good friend to the + sospirs [short pauses]. The only good thing was that he spoke politely and + praised the quintets; otherwise—As it was, I said nothing to him, + but he kept constantly saying himself, "I beg your pardon, but really I am + out again! the thing is puzzling, but fine!" I invariably replied, "It + does not in the least signify; we are only among ourselves." I then played + the concertos in C, in B, and in E flat, and after that a trio of mine. + This was finely accompanied, truly! In the adagio I was obliged to play + six bars of his part. As a finale, I played my last divertimento in B; + they all pricked up their ears. I played as if I had been the greatest + violin-player in all Europe. + </p> + <p> + The Sunday after, at three o'clock, we were at a certain Herr von Hamm's. + The Bishop of Chiemsee set off to-day for Salzburg. N. B.—I send my + sister, by him, "6 duetti a clavicembalo e violino," by Schuster. I have + often played them here; they are by no means bad. If I remain long enough, + I intend to compose six in this style, for it is much liked here. + </p> + <p> + <br />64. + </p> + <p> + Munich, Oct. 11, 1777. + </p> + <p> + WHY have I not as yet written anything about Misliweczeck? [See No. 43.] + Because I was only too glad not to think of him; for when he is spoken of + I invariably hear how highly he praises me, and what a kind and true + friend he is of mine; but then follow pity and lamentation. He was + described to me, and deeply was I distressed. How could I bear that + Misliweczeck, my intimate friend, should be in the same town, nay, even in + the same corner of the world with me, and neither see him nor speak to + him? Impossible! so I resolved to go to visit him. On the previous day, I + called on the manager of the Duke's Hospital to ask if I might see my + friend in the garden, which I thought best, though the doctors assured me + there was no longer any risk of infection. The manager agreed to my + proposal, and said I should find him in the garden between eleven and + twelve o'clock, and, if he was not there when I came, to send for him. + Next day I went with Herr von Hamm, secretary in the Crown Office, (of + whom I shall speak presently,) and mamma to the Duke's Hospital. Mamma + went into the Hospital church, and we into the garden. Misliweczeck was + not there, so we sent him a message. I saw him coming across, and knew him + at once from his manner of walking. I must tell you that he had already + sent me his remembrances by Herr Heller, a violoncello-player, and begged + me to visit him before I left Munich. When he came up to me, we shook + hands cordially. "You see," said he, "how unfortunate I am." These words + and his appearance, which papa is already aware of from description, so + went to my heart that I could only say, with tears in my eyes, "I pity you + from my heart, my dear friend." He saw how deeply I was affected, so + rejoined quite cheerfully, "Now tell me what you are doing; when I heard + that you were in Munich, I could scarcely believe it; how could Mozart be + here and not long ago have come to see me?" "I hope you will forgive me, + but I had such a number of visits to make, and I have so many kind friends + here." "I feel quite sure that you have indeed many kind friends, but a + truer friend than myself you cannot have." He asked me whether papa had + told me anything of a letter he had received. I said, "Yes, he did write + to me," (I was quite confused, and trembled so much in every limb that I + could scarcely speak,) "but he gave me no details." He then told me that + Signor Gaetano Santoro, the Neapolitan impresario, was obliged, owing to + impegni and protezione, to give the composition of the opera for this + Carnival to a certain Maestro Valentini; but he added, "Next year he has + three at liberty, one of which is to be at my service. But as I have + already composed six times for Naples, I don't in the least mind + undertaking the less promising one, and making over to you the best + libretto, viz. the one for the Carnival. God knows whether I shall be able + to travel by that time, but if not, I shall send back the scrittura. The + company for next year is good, being all people whom I have recommended. + You must know that I have such influence in Naples that, when I say engage + such a one, they do so at once." Marquesi is the primo uomo, whom he, and + indeed all Munich too, praises very highly; Marchiani is a good prima + donna; and there is a tenor, whose name I cannot recall, but Misliweczeck + says he is the best in all Italy. He also said, "I do beg of you to go to + Italy; there one is esteemed and highly prized." And in truth he is right. + When I come to reflect on the subject, in no country have I received such + honors, or been so esteemed, as in Italy, and nothing contributes more to + a man's fame than to have written Italian operas, and especially for + Naples. He said he would write a letter for me to Santoro, which I was to + copy out when I went to see him next day; but finding it impossible to + return, he sent me a sketch of the letter to-day. I was told that when + Misliweczeck heard people here speaking of Becke, or other performers on + the piano, he invariably said, "Let no one deceive himself; none can play + like Mozart; in Italy, where the greatest masters are, they speak of no + one but Mozart; when his name is mentioned, not a word is said of others." + I can now write the letter to Naples when I please; but, indeed, the + sooner the better. I should, however, first like to have the opinion of + that highly discreet Hofcapellmeister, Herr von Mozart. I have the most + ardent desire to write another opera. The distance is certainly great, but + the period is still a long way off when I am to write this opera, and + there may be many changes before then. I think I might at all events + undertake it. If, in the mean time, I get no situation, eh, bien! I shall + then have a resource in Italy. I am at all events certain to receive 100 + ducats in the Carnival; and when I have once written for Naples I shall be + sought for everywhere. As papa well knows, there is an opera buffa in + Naples in spring, summer, and autumn, for which I might write for the sake + of practice, not to be quite idle. It is true that there is not much to be + got by this, but still there is something, and it would be the means of + gaining more honor and reputation than by giving a hundred concerts in + Germany, and I am far happier when I have something to compose, which is + my chief delight and passion; and if I get a situation anywhere, or have + hopes of one, the scrittura would be a great recommendation to me, and + excite a sensation, and cause me to be more thought of. This is mere talk, + but still I say what is in my heart. If papa gives me any good grounds to + show that I am wrong, then I will give it up, though, I own, reluctantly. + Even when I hear an opera discussed, or am in a theatre myself and hear + voices, oh! I really am beside myself! + </p> + <p> + To-morrow, mamma and I are to meet Misliweczeck in the Hospital garden to + take leave of him; for he wished me last time to fetch mamma out of + church, as he said he should like to see the mother of so great a + virtuoso. My dear papa, do write to him as often as you have time to do + so; you cannot confer a greater pleasure on him, for the man is quite + forsaken. Sometimes he sees no one for a whole week, and he said to me, "I + do assure you it does seem so strange to me to see so few people; in Italy + I had company every day." He looks thin, of course, but is still full of + fire and life and genius, and the same kind, animated person he always + was. People talk much of his oratorio of "Abraham and Isaac," which he + produced here. He has just completed (with the exception of a few arias) a + Cantata, or Serenata, for Lent; and when he was at the worst he wrote an + opera for Padua. Herr Heller is just come from him. When I wrote to him + yesterday I sent him the Serenata that I wrote in Salzburg: for the + Archduke Maximilian ["Il Re Pastore"]. + </p> + <p> + Now to turn to something else. Yesterday I went with mamma immediately + after dinner to take coffee with the two Fraulein von Freysinger. Mamma, + however, took none, but drank two bottles of Tyrolese wine. At three + o'clock she went home again to make preparations for our journey. I, + however, went with the two ladies to Herr von Hamm's, whose three young + ladies each played a concerto, and I one of Aichner's prima vista, and + then went on extemporizing. The teacher of these little simpletons, the + Demoiselles Hamm, is a certain clerical gentleman of the name of Schreier. + He is a good organ-player, but no pianist. He kept staring at me with an + eye-glass. He is a reserved kind of man who does not talk much; he patted + me on the shoulder, sighed, and said, "Yes—you are—you + understand—yes—it is true—you are an out-and-outer!" By + the by, can you recall the name of Freysingen—the papa of the two + pretty girls I mentioned? He says he knows you well, and that he studied + with you. He particularly remembers Messenbrunn, where papa (this was + quite new to me) played most incomparably on the organ. He said, "It was + quite startling to see the pace at which both hands and feet went, but + quite inimitable; a thorough master indeed; my father thought a great deal + of him; and how he humbugged the priests about entering the Church! You + are just what he was then, as like as possible; only he was a degree + shorter when I knew him." A propos, a certain Hofrath Effeln sends you his + kind regards; he is one of the best Hofraths here, and would long ago have + been made chancellor but for one defect—TIPPLING. When we saw him + for the first time at Albert's, both mamma and I thought, "What an + odd-looking fish!" Just imagine a very tall man, stout and corpulent, and + a ridiculous face. When he crosses the room to another table, he folds + both hands on his stomach, stoops very low, and then draws himself up + again, and makes little nods; and when this is over he draws back his + right foot, and does this to each individual separately. He says that he + knows papa intimately. I am now going for a little to the play. Next time + I will write more fully, but I can't possibly go on to-day, for my fingers + do ache uncommonly. + </p> + <p> + Munich, October 11th, at 1/4 to 12 at night, I write as follows:—I + have been at the Drittl comedy, but only went in time for the ballet, or + rather the pantomime, which I had not before seen. It is called "Das von + der fur Girigaricanarimanarischaribari verfertigte Ei." It was very good + and funny. We are going to-morrow to Augsburg on account of Prince Taxis + not being at Ratisbon but at Teschingen. He is, in fact, at present at his + country-seat, which is, however, only an hour from Teschingen. I send my + sister, with this, four preludes; she will see and hear for herself the + different keys into which they lead. My compliments to all my kind + friends, particularly to young Count Arco, to Madlle. Sallerl, and to my + best of all friends, Herr Bullinger; I do beg that next Sunday at the + usual eleven-o'clock music he will be so good as to make an authoritative + oration in my name, and present my regards to all the members of the + orchestra and exhort them to industry, that I may not one day be accused + of being a humbug, for I have everywhere extolled their orchestra, and I + intend always to do so. + </p> + <p> + <br />65. + </p> + <p> + Augsburg, Oct. 14, 1777. + </p> + <p> + I HAVE made no mistake in my date, for I write before dinner, and I think + that next Friday, the day after to-morrow, we shall be off again. Pray + hear how generous the gentlemen of Augsburg are. In no place was I ever so + overwhelmed with marks of distinction as here. My first visit was to the + Stadtpfleger Longo Tabarro [Burgomaster Langenmantl]. My cousin, + [Footnote: Leopold Mozart had a brother in Augsburg, a bookbinder, whose + daughter, "das Basle" (the cousin), was two years younger than Mozart.] a + good, kind, honest man and worthy citizen, went with me, and had the honor + to wait in the hall like a footman till my interview with the high and + mighty Stadtpfleger was over. I did not fail first of all to present + papa's respectful compliments. He deigned graciously to remember you, and + said, "And pray how have things gone with him?" "Vastly well, God be + praised!" I instantly rejoined, "and I hope things have also gone well + with you?" He then became more civil, and addressed me in the third + person, so I called him "Sir"; though, indeed, I had done so from the + first. He gave me no peace till I went up with him to see his son-in-law + (on the second floor), my cousin meanwhile having the pleasure of waiting + in the staircase-hall. I was obliged to control myself with all my might, + or I must have given some polite hint about this. On going upstairs I had + the satisfaction of playing for nearly three-quarters of an hour on a good + clavichord of Stein's, in the presence of the stuck-up young son, and his + prim condescending wife, and the simple old lady. I first extemporized, + and then played all the music he had, prima, vista, and among others some + very pretty pieces of Edlmann's. Nothing could be more polite than they + all were, and I was equally so, for my rule is to behave to people just as + they behave to me; I find this to be the best plan. I said that I meant to + go to Stein's after dinner, so the young man offered to take me there + himself. I thanked him for his kindness, and promised to return at two + o'clock. I did so, and we went together in company with his + brother-in-law, who looks a genuine student. Although I had begged that my + name should not be mentioned, Herr von Langenmantl was so incautious as to + say, with a simper, to Herr Stein, "I have the honor to present to you a + virtuoso on the piano." I instantly protested against this, saying that I + was only an indifferent pupil of Herr Sigl in Munich, who had charged me + with a thousand compliments to him. Stein shook his head dubiously, and at + length said, "Surely I have the honor of seeing M. Mozart?" "Oh, no," said + I; "my name is Trazom, and I have a letter for you." He took the letter + and was about to break the seal instantly, but I gave him no time for + that, saying, "What is the use of reading the letter just now? Pray open + the door of your saloon at once, for I am so very anxious to see your + pianofortes." "With all my heart," said he, "just as you please; but for + all that I believe I am not mistaken." He opened the door, and I ran + straight up to one of the three pianos that stood in the room. I began to + play, and he scarcely gave himself time to glance at the letter, so + anxious was he to ascertain the truth; so he only read the signature. + "Oh!" cried he, embracing me, and crossing himself and making all sorts of + grimaces from intense delight. I will write to you another day about his + pianos. He then took me to a coffee-house, but when we went in I really + thought I must bolt, there was such a stench of tobacco-smoke, but for all + that I was obliged to bear it for a good hour. I submitted to it all with + a good grace, though I could have fancied that I was in Turkey. He made a + great fuss to me about a certain Graf, a composer (of flute concertos + only); and said, "He is something quite extraordinary," and every other + possible exaggeration. I became first hot and then cold from nervousness. + This Graf is a brother of the two who are in Harz and Zurich. He would not + give up his intention, but took me straight to him—a dignified + gentleman indeed; he wore a dressing-gown that I would not be ashamed to + wear in the street. All his words are on stilts, and he has a habit of + opening his mouth before knowing what he is going to say; so he often + shuts it again without having said anything. After a great deal of + ceremony he produced a concerto for two flutes; I was to play first + violin. The concerto is confused, not natural, too abrupt in its + modulations, and devoid of all genius. When it was over I praised it + highly, for, indeed, he deserves this. The poor man must have had labor + and study enough to write it. At last they brought a clavichord of Stein's + out of the next room, a very good one, but inch-thick with dust. Herr + Graf, who is director here, stood there looking like a man who had + hitherto believed his own modulations to be something very clever, but all + at once discovers that others may be still more so, and without grating on + the ear. In a word, they all seemed lost in astonishment. + </p> + <p> + <br />66. + </p> + <p> + Augsburg, Oct. 17, 1777. + </p> + <p> + WITH regard to the daughter of Hamm, the Secretary of War, I can only say + that there can be no doubt she has a decided talent for music, for she has + only learned three years, and can play a number of pieces very well. I + find it difficult, however, to explain distinctly the impression she makes + on me while she is playing; she seems to me so curiously constrained, and + she has such an odd way of stalking over the keys with her long bony + fingers! To be sure, she has had no really good master, and if she remains + in Munich she will never become what her father wishes and hopes, for he + is eager beyond measure that she should one day be a distinguished + pianiste. If she goes to papa at Salzburg, it will be a twofold benefit to + her, both as to music and common sense, of which she certainly has no + great share. She has often made me laugh very much, and you would have + amusement enough for your trouble. She is too absent to think of eating + much. You say I ought to have practised with her? I really could not for + laughing, for when I occasionally played something with the right hand, + she instantly said bravissimo, and that in the voice of a little mouse. + </p> + <p> + I will now relate to you as briefly as possible the Augsburg history to + which I have already alluded. Herr von Fingerle, who sent his compliments + to you, was also at Herr Graf's. The people were very civil, and discussed + the concert I proposed to give, all saying, "It will be one of the most + brilliant concerts ever given in Augsburg. You have a great advantage in + having made the acquaintance of our Stadtpfleger Langenmantl; besides, the + name of Mozart has much influence here." So we separated mutually pleased. + I must now tell you that Herr von Langenmantl, junior, when at Herr + Stein's, said that he would pledge himself to arrange a concert in the + Stube, [Footnote: The Bauernstube, the Patrician Casino.] (as something + very select, and complimentary to me,) for the nobility alone. You can't + think with what zeal he spoke, and promised to undertake it. We agreed + that I should call on him the next morning for the answer; accordingly I + went; this was on the 13th. He was very polite, but said that as yet he + could not say anything decided. I played there again for an hour, and he + invited me next day, the 14th, to dinner. In the forenoon he sent to beg + that I would come to him at eleven o'clock, and bring some pieces with me, + as he had asked some of the professional musicians, and they intended to + have some music. I immediately sent some music, and went myself at eleven, + when, with many lame excuses, he coolly said, "By the by, I could do + nothing about the concert; oh, I was in such a rage yesterday on your + account. The patrician members of the Casino said that their cashbox was + at a very low ebb, and that you were not the kind of virtuoso who could + expect a souverain d'or." I merely smiled, and said, "I quite agree with + them." N. B.—He is Intendant of Music in the Casino, and the old + father a magistrate! but I cared very little about it. We sat down to + dinner; the old gentleman also dined up-stairs with us, and was very + civil, but did not say a word about the concert. After dinner I played two + concertos, something out of my head, and then a trio of Hafeneder's on the + violin. I would gladly have played more, but I was so badly accompanied + that it gave me the colic. He said to me, good-naturedly, "Don't let us + part company to-day; go to the play with us, and return here to supper." + We were all very merry. When we came back from the theatre, I played again + till we went to supper. Young Langenmantl had already questioned me in the + forenoon about my cross, [Footnote: Mozart, by his father's desire, wore + the "Order of the Golden Spur," conferred on him by the Pope.] and I told + him exactly how I got it, and what it was. He and his brother-in-law said + over and over again, "Let us order a cross, too, that we may be on a par + with Herr Mozart." I took no notice of this. They also repeatedly said, + "Hallo! you sir! Knight of the Spur!" I said not a word; but during supper + it became really too bad. "What may it have cost? three ducats? must you + have permission to wear it? Do you pay extra for leave to do so? We really + must get one just like it." An officer there of the name of Bach, said, + "For shame! what would you do with the cross?" That young ass, Kurzen + Mantl, winked at him, but I saw him, and he knew that I did. A pause + ensued, and then he offered me snuff, saying, "There, show that you don't + care a pinch of snuff for it." I still said nothing. At length he began + once more in a sneering tone: "I may then send to you to-morrow, and you + will be so good as to lend me the cross for a few minutes, and I will + return it immediately after I have spoken to the goldsmith about it. I + know that when I ask him its value (for he is a queer kind of man) he will + say a Bavarian thaler; it can't be worth more, for it is not gold, only + copper, ha! ha!" I said, "By no means—it is lead, ha! ha!" I was + burning with anger and rage. "I say," rejoined he, "I suppose I may, if + need be, leave out the spur?" "Oh, yes," said I, "for you have one already + in your head; I, too, have one in mine, but of a very different kind, and + I should be sorry to exchange mine for yours; so there, take a pinch of + snuff on that!" and I offered him snuff. He became pale with rage, but + began again: "Just now that order looked so well on that grand waistcoat + of yours." I made no reply, so he called the servant and said "Hallo! you + must have greater respect for my brother-in-law and myself when we wear + the same cross as Herr Mozart; take a pinch of snuff on that!" I started + up; all did the same, and showed great embarrassment. I took my hat and my + sword, and said, "I hope to have the pleasure of seeing you to-morrow." + "To-morrow I shall not be here." "Well, then, the next morning, when I + shall still be here." "Ho, ho! you surely don't mean to"—"I mean + nothing; you are a set of boors, so good-night," and off I went. + </p> + <p> + Next day I told the whole story to Herr Stein, Herr Geniaulx, and to Herr + Director Graf—I don't mean about the cross, but how highly disgusted + I was at their having bragged so much about a concert, and now it had come + to nothing. "I call this making a fool of a person and leaving him in the + lurch. I am very sorry that I ever came here. I could not possibly have + believed that in Augsburg, my papa's native town, such an insult could + have been offered to his son." You cannot imagine, dear papa, how angry + and indignant these three gentlemen were, saying, "Oh, you must positively + give a concert here; we don't stand in need of the patricians." I, + however, adhered to my resolution and said, "I am willing to give a small + farewell concert at Herr Stein's, for my few kind friends here who are + connoisseurs." The Director was quite distressed, and exclaimed, "It is + abominable—shameful; who could have believed such a thing of + Langenmantl! Par Dieu! if he really wished it, no doubt it would have been + carried through." We then separated. The Director went down-stairs with me + in his dressing-gown as far as the door, and Herr Stein and Geniaulx + walked home with me. They urged us to make up our mind to stay here for a + time, but we remained firm. I must not forget to say that, when young + Langenmantl lisped out to me, in his usual cool indifferent way, the + pleasant news as to my concert, he added, that the patricians invited me + to their concert next Thursday. I said, "I will come as one of the + audience." "Oh, we hope you will give us the pleasure of hearing you play + also." "Well, perhaps I may; why not?" But having received so grievous an + insult the next evening, I resolved not to go near him again, to steer + clear of the whole set of patricians, and to leave Augsburg. During + dinner, on the 16th, I was called out by a servant-maid of Langenmantl's, + who wished to know whether he might expect me to go with him to the + concert? and he begged I would come to him immediately after dinner. I + sent my compliments in return, that I had no intention of going to the + concert; nor could I come to him, as I was already engaged (which was + quite true); but that I would call next morning to take leave of him, as + on Saturday next, at furthest, I was to leave Augsburg. In the meantime + Herr Stein had been to see the other patricians of the Evangelical party, + and spoke so strongly to them that these gentlemen were quite excited. + "What!" said they, "shall we permit a man who does us so much honor to + leave this without even hearing him? Herr von Langenmantl, having already + heard him, thinks that is enough." + </p> + <p> + At last they became so excited that Herr Kurzenmantl, the excellent youth, + was obliged to go to Herr Stein himself to entreat him, in the name of the + patricians, to do all in his power to persuade me to attend the concert, + but to say that I must not expect great things. At last I went with him, + though with considerable reluctance. The principal gentlemen were very + polite, particularly Baron Belling, who is a director or some such animal; + he opened my music-portfolio himself. I brought a symphony with me, which + they played, and I took a violin part. The orchestra is enough to throw + any one into fits. That young puppy Langenmantl was all courtesy, but his + face looked as impertinent as ever; he said to me, "I was rather afraid + you might have escaped us, or been offended by our jokes the other + evening." "By no means," said I coolly; "you are still very young; but I + advise you to be more cautious in future, for I am not accustomed to such + jokes. The subject on which you were so facetious did you no credit, nor + did it answer your purpose, for you see I still wear the order; you had + better have chosen some other topic for your wit." "I assure you," said + he, "it was only my brother-in-law who"—"Let us say no more about + it," said I. "We had nearly been deprived of the pleasure of seeing you + altogether," he rejoined. "Yes; had it not been for Herr Stein, I + certainly should not have come; and, to tell you the truth, I am only here + now to prevent you Augsburg gentlemen being the laughing-stock of other + countries, which would have been the case if I had told them that I was + eight days in the city where my father was born, without any one there + taking the trouble to hear me!" I played a concerto, and all went off well + except the accompaniment; and as a finale I played a sonata. At the close, + Baron Belling thanked me in the warmest manner in the name of all the + company; and, begging me to consider only their good will, presented me + with two ducats. + </p> + <p> + They give me no peace here till I agree to give a public concert next + Saturday. Perhaps—but I own I am heartily sick of it all. I shall be + indeed glad when I arrive at a place where there is a court. I may with + truth say that, were it not for my kind cousins, my regrets would be as + numberless as the hairs on my head for ever having come to Augsburg. I + must write you some account of my fair cousin, but you must excuse my + deferring this till to-morrow, for one ought to be quite fresh to praise + her as highly as she deserves. + </p> + <p> + The 17th.—I now write early in the morning to say that my cousin is + pretty, intelligent, lovable, clever, and gay, probably because she has + lived so much in society; she was also some time at Munich. We do, indeed, + exactly suit each other, for she too is rather inclined to be satirical, + so we banter our friends most merrily together. [The Mozart family were + both well known and dreaded for their somewhat sharp tongues.] + </p> + <p> + <br />67. + </p> + <p> + Augsburg, Oct. 17, 1777. + </p> + <p> + I must now tell you about the Stein pianos. Before seeing these, Spath's + pianos were my favorites; but I must own that I give the preference to + those of Stein, for they damp much better than those in Ratisbon. If I + strike hard, whether I let my fingers rest on the notes or lift them, the + tone dies away at the same instant that it is heard. Strike the keys as I + choose, the tone always remains even, never either jarring or failing to + sound. It is true that a piano of this kind is not to be had for less than + three hundred florins, but the pains and skill which Stein bestows on them + cannot be sufficiently repaid. His instruments have a feature of their + own; they are supplied with a peculiar escapement. Not one in a hundred + makers attends to this; but, without it, it is impossible that a piano + should not buzz and jar. His hammers fall as soon as they touch the + strings, whether the keys be held down by the fingers or not. When he has + completed an instrument of this class, (which he told me himself,) he + tries all kinds of passages and runs on it, and works away at it, testing + its powers till it is capable of doing anything, for he labors not for his + own benefit alone, (or he might be saved much trouble,) but for that of + music. He often says, "If I were not such a passionate lover of music, + playing also myself a little on the piano, I should long ago have lost + patience with my work, but I like my instruments to respond to the player, + and to be durable." His pianos do really last well. He warrants the + sounding-board neither breaking nor cracking; when he has finished one, he + exposes it in the air to rain, snow, sun, and every kind of devilry, that + it may give way, and then inserts slips of wood which he glues in, making + it quite strong and solid. He is very glad when it does crack, for then he + is pretty sure nothing further can happen to it. He frequently makes cuts + into them himself, and then glues them up, thus making them doubly strong. + He has three of these pianos at this moment finished, and I played on them + again to-day. + </p> + <p> + We dined to-day with young Herr Gassner, who is the handsome widower of a + lovely young wife; they were only married two years. He is an excellent + and kind young man; he gave us a capital dinner. A colleague of the Abbe + Henri Bullinger, and Wishofer also dined there, and an ex-Jesuit, who is + at present Capellmeister in the cathedral here. He knows Herr Schachtner + well [court-trumpeter at Salzburg], and was leader of his band in + Ingolstadt; he is called Father Gerbl. Herr Gassner, and one of his wife's + unmarried sisters, mamma, our cousin, and I went after dinner to Herr + Stein's. At four o'clock came the Capellmeister and Herr Schmittbauer, the + organist of St. Ulrich, a worthy good old man. I played at sight a sonata + of Becke's, which was rather difficult, but very poor, al solito. The + astonishment of the Capellmeister and the organist was indescribable. I + have played my six sonatas by heart repeatedly, both here and in Munich. + The fifth in G, I played at the distinguished Casino concert, and the last + in D, which has an incomparable effect on Stein's pianos. The pedals, + pressed by the knees, are also better made by him than by any one else; + you scarcely require to touch them to make them act, and as soon as the + pressure is removed not the slightest vibration is perceptible. + </p> + <p> + To-morrow perhaps I shall come to his organs, that is, write to you about + them, and I reserve for the last the subject of his little daughter. When + I said to Herr Stein that I should like to play on one of his organs, as + the organ was my passion, he seemed surprised, and said, "What! such a man + as you, so great a pianist, like to play on an instrument devoid of + sweetness and expression, with no gradations from piano to forte, but + always going on the same?" "That does not signify; the organ always was, + both in my eyes and ears, the king of all instruments." "Well, just as you + please." So we went together. I could readily perceive from his + conversation that he did not expect me to do great things on his organ, + evidently thinking that I should handle it in the style of a piano. He + told me that by Schobert's own desire he had taken him also to the organ, + "and very nervous it made me," said he, "for Schobert had told everybody, + and the church was nearly full. I did not doubt the man's spirit, fire, + and execution; still, this does not much suit the organ. But the moment he + began my opinion was entirely changed." I only said in reply, "Do you then + think, Herr Stein, that I am likely to run wild on the organ?" "Oh! you!"—When + we came to the organ-loft, I began a prelude, when he laughed. A fugue + followed. "I can now quite understand why you like to play the organ," + said he, "when you can play in this manner." At first the pedal was a + little awkward for me, as it was without the breaks, beginning with C, + then D E in one row, whereas with us D and E are above, just where E flat + and F sharp are here; but I quickly mastered it. + </p> + <p> + I went also to try the old organ at St. Ulrich's. The stair that leads to + it is really dreadful. I requested that some other person might play the + organ for me, that I might go down and listen to it, for above the organ + has no effect; but I profited very little by this, for the young leader of + the choir, a priest, made such reckless runs on the organ that it was + impossible to understand them, and when he attempted harmonies they proved + only discords, being always false. Afterwards they would insist on our + going to a coffee-room, for mamma and my cousin were with us. A certain + Father Emilian, a conceited jackass and a sorry witling, was very sweet on + my cousin, and wished to have his jest with her, but she made a jest of + him. At last, when rather tipsy, (which soon occurred,) he began to talk + about music, and sang a canon, saying, "I never in my life heard anything + finer." I said, "I regret that I can't sing it with you, for nature has + not given me the power of intoning." "No matter," said he. So he began. I + made the third, but I sang different words—thus: "Pater Emilian, oh! + thou numskull"—sotto voce to my cousin; then we laughed on for at + least half an hour. The Pater said to me, "If we only could be longer + together, we could discuss the art of musical composition." "In that + case," said I, "our discussion would soon come to an end." A famous rap on + the knuckles for him! TO BE CONTINUED. + </p> + <p> + <br />68. + </p> + <p> + Augsburg, Oct. 23, 1777. + </p> + <p> + MY concert took place yesterday. Count Wolfeck interested himself much in + it, and brought some chanoinesses with him. I went to his lodgings the + very day I arrived, but he was not here at that time. A few days ago he + returned, and on hearing that I was still in Augsburg, he did not wait for + a visit from me, but at the very moment when I was taking my hat and sword + to go to call on him he walked in. I must now give you a description of + the last few days before my concert. Last Saturday I was at St. Ulrich's, + as I already told you. Some days before my cousin took me with him to + present me to the Prelate of the Holy Cross, a kind excellent old man. + Previous to going to St. Ulrich's last Saturday, I went with my cousin to + the Monastery of the Holy Cross, as the first time I was there neither the + Deacon nor the Procurator was at home, and my cousin told me that the + Procurator was very jolly. [Here mamma inserts a few lines—which + frequently occurs in the letters. She says at the close:] "I am quite + surprised that Schuster's duets [see No. 63] are still"—Wolfgang: + "Oh, he has got them." Mamma: "No, indeed; he always writes that he has + not got them." Wolfgang: "I hate arguing; I am sure he has got them, so + there's an end of it." Mamma: "You are mistaken." Wolfgang: "No; I am + right. I will show it to mamma in his own writing." Mamma: "Well, where is + it?" Wolfgang: "Here; read it." She is reading it at this moment. + </p> + <p> + Last Sunday I attended service at the Holy Cross, and at ten o'clock we + went to Herr Stein's, where we tried over a couple of symphonies for the + concert. Afterwards I dined with my cousin at the Holy Cross, where a band + played during dinner. Badly as they play in the monastery, I prefer it to + the Augsburg orchestra. I played a symphony, and a concerto in B of + Vanhall's, on the violin, with unanimous applause. The Dean is a kind, + jovial man, a cousin of Eberlin [deceased Capellmeister of Salzburg]. His + name is Zeschinger. He knows papa well. At night, after supper, I played + the Strassburg concerto; it went as smooth as oil; every one praised the + fine pure tone. A small clavichord was then brought in, on which I + preluded, and played a sonata and the Fischer variations. Some of those + present whispered to the Dean that he ought to hear me play in the organ + style. I asked him to give me a theme, which he declined, but one of the + monks did so. I handled it quite leisurely, and all at once (the fugue + being in G minor) I brought in a lively movement in the major key, but in + the same tempo, and then at the end the original subject, only reversed. + At last it occurred to me to employ the lively movement for the subject of + the fugue also, I did not hesitate long, but did so at once, and it went + as accurately as if Daser [a Salzburg tailor] had taken its measure. The + Dean was in a state of great excitement. "It is over," said he, "and it's + no use talking about it, but I could scarcely have believed what I have + just heard; you are indeed an able man. My prelate told me beforehand that + in his life he never heard any one play the organ in a more finished and + solid style" (he having heard me some days previously when the Dean was + not here). At last some one brought me a fugued sonata, and asked me to + play it. But I said, "Gentlemen, I really must say this is asking rather + too much, for it is not likely I shall be able to play such a sonata at + sight." "Indeed, I think so too; it is too much; no one could do it," said + the Dean eagerly, being all in my favor. "At all events," said I, "I can + but try." I heard the Dean muttering all the time behind me, "Oh, you + rogue! oh, you knave!" I played till 11 o'clock, bombarded and besieged, + as it were, by fugue themes. + </p> + <p> + Lately, at Stein's, he brought me a sonata of Becke's, but I think I + already told you this. A propos, as to his little girl, [Footnote: + Nanette, at that time eight years old; afterwards the admirable wife of + Andreas Streicher, the friend of Schiller's youth, and one of Beethoven's + best friends in Vienna.] any one who can see and hear her play without + laughing must be Stein [stone] like her father. She perches herself + exactly opposite the treble, avoiding the centre, that she may have more + room to throw herself about and make grimaces. She rolls her eyes and + smirks; when a passage comes twice she always plays it slower the second + time, and if three times, slower still. She raises her arms in playing a + passage, and if it is to be played with emphasis she seems to give it with + her elbows and not her fingers, as awkwardly and heavily as possible. The + finest thing is, that if a passage occurs (which ought to flow like oil) + where the fingers must necessarily be changed, she does not pay much heed + to that, but lifts her hands, and quite coolly goes on again. This, + moreover, puts her in a fair way to get hold of a wrong note, which often + produces a curious effect. I only write this in order to give you some + idea of pianoforte-playing and teaching here, so that you may in turn + derive some benefit from it. Herr Stein is quite infatuated about his + daughter. She is eight years old, and learns everything by heart. She may + one day be clever, for she has genius, but on this system she will never + improve, nor will she ever acquire much velocity of finger, for her + present method is sure to make her hand heavy. She will never master what + is the most difficult and necessary, and in fact the principal thing in + music, namely, time; because from her infancy she has never been in the + habit of playing in correct time. Herr Stein and I discussed this point + together for at least two hours. I have, however, in some degree converted + him; he asks my advice now on every subject. He was quite devoted to + Becke, and now he sees and hears that I can do more than Becke, that I + make no grimaces, and yet play with so much expression that he himself + acknowledges none of his acquaintances have ever handled his pianos as I + do. My keeping so accurately in time causes them all much surprise. The + left hand being quite independent in the tempo rubato of an adagio, they + cannot at all comprehend. With them the left hand always yields to the + right. Count Wolfeck and others, who have a passionate admiration for + Becke, said lately publicly in a concert that I beat Becke hollow. Count + Wolfeck went round the room saying, "In my life I never heard anything + like this." He said to me, "I must tell you that I never heard you play as + you did to-day, and I mean to say so to your father as soon as I go to + Salzburg." What do you think was the first piece after the symphony? The + concerto for three pianos. Herr Demmler took the first part, I the second, + and Herr Stein the third. I then played a solo, my last sonata in D, for + Durnitz, and afterwards my concerto in B; then again a solo in the organ + style, namely, a fugue in C minor, then all of a sudden a splendid sonata + in C major, finishing with a rondo, all extempore. What a noise and + commotion there was! Herr Stein did nothing but make faces and grimaces of + astonishment. Herr Demmler was seized with fits of laughter, for he is a + queer creature, and when anything pleases him exceedingly, he can't help + laughing heartily; indeed, on this occasion he actually began to swear! + Addio! + </p> + <p> + <br />69. + </p> + <p> + Augsburg, Oct. 25, 1777. + </p> + <p> + The receipts of the concert were 90 florins, without deducting the + expenses. Including, therefore, the two ducats we took in the Casino + concert, we had 100 florins. The expenses of the concert did not exceed 16 + florins 30 kreutzers; the room I had gratis. I believe most of the + musicians will make no charge. We have now ALTOGETHER lost about 26 or 27 + florins. This is not of much moment. I am writing this on Saturday the + 25th. This morning early I received the letter with the sad news of Frau + Oberbereiterin's death. Madlle. Tonerl can now purse up her mouth, or + perhaps open it wide, and shut it again as empty as ever. As to the + baker's daughter, I have no objection to make; I foresaw all this long + ago. This was the cause of my reluctance to leave home, and finding it so + difficult to go. I hope the affair is not by this time known all over + Salzburg? I beg you, dear papa, most urgently to keep the matter quiet as + long as possible, and in the mean time to pay her father on my account any + expenses he may have incurred by her entrance into the convent, which I + will repay gladly when I return to Salzburg. + </p> + <p> + I thank you most truly, dear papa, for your good wishes on my name-day. Do + not be uneasy on my account, for I have always God before my eyes, I + acknowledge His omnipotence, I dread His wrath; but I also know His love, + His compassion and mercy towards His creatures, and that He will never + forsake His servants. When His will is done I am resigned; so I never can + fail to be happy and contented. I shall certainly also strive to live as + strictly as possible in accordance with your injunctions and advice. Thank + Herr Bullinger a thousand times for his congratulations. I mean to write + to him soon and thank him myself, but I may in the mean time assure him + that I neither know nor have any better, more sincere, or truer friend + than himself. I beg also humbly to thank Madlle. Sallerl; pray tell her I + mean to enclose some verses to show my gratitude to her in my letter to + Herr Bullinger. Thank my sister also; she is to keep the Schuster duets, + and give herself no further trouble on the subject. + </p> + <p> + In your first letter, dear papa, you write that I lowered myself by my + conduct to that lad Langenmantl. Anything but that! I was only + straightforward, no more. I see you think he is still a boy; he is one or + two and twenty, and a married man. Can any one be considered a boy who is + married? I have never gone near him since. I left two cards for him + to-day, and excused myself for not going in, having so many indispensable + calls to make. I must now conclude, for mamma insists absolument on going + to dinner, and then to pack. To-morrow we go straight to Wallerstein. My + dear little cousin, who sends you her regards, is anything but a prude. + She dressed a la Francaise to please me yesterday. She looked at least 5 + per cent, prettier in consequence. Now, Addio! + </p> + <p> + On the 26th of October the mother and son set off to Mannheim. The mother + writes that Wolfgang intended to write to Augsburg, "but he will scarcely + be able to do so to-day, for he is now at the rehearsal of the oratorio; + so I must beg you to accept my humble self instead." Wolfgang then adds:— + </p> + <p> + <br />70. + </p> + <p> + Mannheim, Oct. 30, 1777. + </p> + <p> + I must beg you also to accept my insignificancy. I went to-day with Herr + Danner to M. Cannabich's [Director of the Elector's orchestra]. He was + uncommonly polite, and I played something for him on his piano, which is a + very good one. We went together to the rehearsal. I could scarcely help + laughing when I was presented to the musicians, because, though some who + knew me by renomme were very civil and courteous, the rest, who knew + nothing whatever about me, stared in such a ludicrous way, evidently + thinking that because I am little and young nothing great or mature is to + be found in me; but they shall soon find it out. Herr Cannabich is to take + me himself to-morrow to Count Savioli, the Intendant of Music. One good + thing is that the Elector's name-day is close at hand. The oratorio they + are rehearsing is Handel's, but I did not stay to hear it, for they first + rehearsed a Psalm Magnificat of the Vice-Capellmeister here, [Abbe] + Vogler, which lasted a good hour. I must now conclude, for I have still to + write to my cousin. + </p> + <p> + <br />71. + </p> + <p> + Mannheim, Nov. 4, 1777. + </p> + <p> + I am at Cannabich's every day, and mamma went with me there to-day. He is + a very different man from what he formerly was, [FOOTNOTE: Mozart had been + at his house, when a boy, with his father.] and the whole orchestra say + the same. He is very fond of me. He has a daughter who plays the piano + very nicely, and in order to make him still more friendly towards me I am + working just now at a sonata for her, which is finished all but the Rondo. + When I had completed the first allegro and andante, I took it to him + myself and played it over; you can't think what applause this sonata + receives. There chanced to be some of the musicians there at the moment—young + Danner, Lang, who plays the French horn, and the hautboy-player, whose + name I forget, but who plays remarkably well, and has a pleasing delicate + tone [Ramm]. I made him a present of a concerto for the hautboy; it is + being copied in Cannabich's room. The man is wild with delight. I played + him the concerto to-day at Cannabich's, and THOUGH KNOWN TO BE MINE it + pleased very much. No one said that it was NOT WELL COMPOSED, because + people here don't understand these things. They ought to apply to the + Archbishop; he would soon put them on the right scent. [FOOTNOTE: The + Archbishop never was satisfied with any of the compositions that Mozart + wrote for his concerts, but invariably had some fault to find with them.] + I played all my six sonatas to-day at Cannabich's. Herr Kapellmeister + Holzbauer went with me to-day to Count Savioli's. Cannabich was there at + the time. Herr Holzbauer said to the Count in Italian that I wished to + have the honor of playing before his Serene Highness the Elector. "I was + here fifteen years ago," said I, "but now I am older and more advanced, + and I may say in music also"—"Oh!" said the Count, "you are"—I + have no idea whom he took me for, as Cannabich interrupted him, but I + affected not to hear, and entered into conversation with the others. Still + I observed that he was speaking of me very earnestly. The Count then said + to me, "I hear that you play the piano very tolerably?" I bowed. + </p> + <p> + I must now tell you about the music here. On Saturday, All-Saints' day, I + attended high mass. The orchestra is very good and numerous. On each side + ten or eleven violins, four tenors, two hautboys, two flutes, and two + clarionets, two corni, four violoncellos, four bassoons, and four double + basses, besides trumpets and kettle-drums. This should give fine music, + but I would not venture to produce one of my masses here. Why? From their + being short? No, everything is liked short. From their church style? By no + means; but solely because NOW in Mannheim, under present circumstances, it + is necessary to write chiefly for the instruments, for nothing can + possibly be conceived worse than the voices here. Six soprani, six alti, + six tenori, and six bassi, to twenty violins and twelve bassi, are in the + same proportion as 0 to 1. Is it not so, Herr Bullinger? It proceeds from + this:—The Italians are miserably represented: they have only two + musici here, and they are already old. This race is dying out. These + soprano singers, too, would prefer singing counter-tenor; for they can no + longer take the high notes. The few boys they have are wretched. The tenor + and bass just like our singers at funerals. Vogler, who lately conducted + the mass, is barren and frivolous—a man who imagines he can do a + great deal, and does very little. The whole orchestra dislike him. To-day, + Sunday, I heard a mass of Holzbauer's, which is now twenty-six years old, + but excellent. He writes very well, and has a good church style, arranges + the vocal parts as well as the instrumental, and writes good fugues. They + have two organists here; it would be worth while to come to Mannheim on + purpose to hear them—which I had a famous opportunity of doing, as + it is the custom here for the organist to play during the whole of the + Benedictus. I heard the second organist first, and then the other. In my + opinion the second is preferable to the first; for when I heard the + former, I asked, "Who is that playing on the organ?" "Our second + organist." "He plays miserably." When the other began, I said, "Who may + that be?" "Our first organist." "Why, he plays more miserably still." I + believe if they were pounded together, something even worse would be the + result. It is enough to kill one with laughing to look at these gentlemen. + The second at the organ is like a child trying to lift a millstone. You + can see his anguish in his face. The first wears spectacles. I stood + beside him at the organ and watched him with the intention of learning + something from him; at each note he lifts his hands entirely off the keys. + What he believes to be his forte is to play in six parts, but he mostly + makes fifths and octaves. He often chooses to dispense altogether with his + right hand when there is not the slightest need to do so, and plays with + the left alone; in short, he fancies that he can do as he will, and that + he is a thorough master of his organ. + </p> + <p> + Mamma sends her love to you all; she cannot possibly write, for she has + still to say her officium. We came home very late from the grand opera + rehearsal. I must go to-morrow after high mass to the illustrious + Electress; she is resolved absolument to teach me to knit filee. I am very + eager about this, as she and the Elector wish that I should knit in public + next Thursday at the great gala concert. The young Princess here, who is a + child compared with the Electress, knits very prettily. The Zweenbruck and + his Zwobrucken (Deux Ponts) arrived here at eight o'clock. A propos, mamma + and I earnestly beg you, dear papa, to send our charming cousin a + souvenir; we both regretted so much having nothing with us, but we + promised to write to you to send her something. We wish two things to be + sent—a double neckerchief in mamma's name, like the one she wears, + and in mine some ornament; a box, or etui, or anything you like, only it + must be pretty, for she deserves it. [FOOTNOTE: The father was still in + possession of many of the ornaments and jewels presented to these children + during their artistic tours.] She and her father took a great deal of + trouble on our account, and wasted much time on us. My cousin took the + receipts for me at my concert. Addio! + </p> + <p> + <br />72. + </p> + <p> + Mannheim, Nov. 5, 1777. + </p> + <p> + My dear Coz—Buzz,— + </p> + <p> + I have safely received your precious epistle—thistle, and from it I + perceive—achieve, that my aunt—gaunt, and you—shoe, are + quite well—bell. I have to-day a letter—setter, from my papa—ah-ha, + safe in my hands—sands. I hope you also got—trot, my Mannheim + letter—setter. Now for a little sense—pence. The prelate's + seizure—leisure, grieves me much—touch, but he will, I hope, + get well—sell. You write—blight, you will keep—cheap, + your promise to write to me—he-he, to Augsburg soon—spoon. + Well, I shall be very glad—mad. You further write, indeed you + declare, you pretend, you hint, you vow, you explain, you distinctly say, + you long, you wish, you desire, you choose, command, and point out, you + let me know and inform me that I must send you my portrait soon—moon. + Eh, bien! you shall have it before long—song. Now I wish you good + night—tight. + </p> + <p> + The 5th.—Yesterday I conversed with the illustrious Electress; and + to-morrow, the 6th, I am to play in the gala concert, and afterwards, by + desire of the Princess, in their private apartments. Now for something + rational! I beg of you—why not?—I beg of you, my very dear + cousin—why not?—when you write to Madame Tavernier in Munich, + to convey a message from me to the two Demoiselles Freysinger—why + not? odd enough! but why not?—and I humbly ask pardon of Madlle. + Josepha—I mean the youngest, and pray why not? why should I not ask + her pardon? strange! but I don't know why I should not, so I do ask her + pardon very humbly—for not having yet sent the sonata I promised + her, but I mean to do so as soon as possible. Why not? I don't know why + not. I can now write no more—which makes my heart sore. To all my + kind friends much love—dove. Addio! Your old young, till death—breath, + </p> + <p> + WOLFGANG AMADE ROSENCRANZ. + </p> + <p> + Miennham, eht ht5 rebotoc, 7771. + </p> + <p> + <br />73. + </p> + <p> + Mannheim, Nov. 8, 1777. + </p> + <p> + This forenoon, at Herr Cannabich's, I wrote the Rondo of the sonata for + his daughter; so they would not let me leave them all day. The Elector and + the Electress, and the whole court, are very much pleased with me. Both + times I played at the concert, the Elector and she stood close beside me + at the piano. After the music was at an end, Cannabich managed that I + should be noticed by the court. I kissed the Elector's hand, who said, "I + think it is now fifteen years since you were here?" "Yes, your Highness, + it is fifteen years since I had that honor." "You play inimitably." The + Princess, when I kissed her hand, said, "Monsieur, je vous assure, on ne + peut pas jouer mieux." + </p> + <p> + Yesterday I went with Cannabich to pay the visit mamma already wrote to + you about [to Duke Carl Theodor's children], and there I conversed with + the Elector as if he had been some kind friend. He is a most gracious and + good Prince. He said to me, "I hear you wrote an opera at Munich" ["La + finta Giardiniera"]? "Yes, your Highness, and, with your gracious + permission, my most anxious wish is to write an opera here; I entreat you + will not quite forget me. I could also write a German one, God be + praised!" said I, smiling. "That may easily be arranged." He has one son + and three daughters, the eldest of whom and the young Count play the + piano. The Elector questioned me confidentially about his children. I + spoke quite honestly, but without detracting from their master. Cannabich + was entirely of my opinion. The Elector, on going away, took leave of me + with much courtesy. + </p> + <p> + After dinner to-day I went, at two o'clock, with Cannabich to Wendling's, + the flute-player, where they were all complaisance. The daughter, who was + formerly the Elector's favorite, plays the piano very prettily; afterwards + I played. I cannot describe to you the happy mood I was in. I played + extempore, and then three duets with the violin, which I had never in my + life seen, nor do I now know the name of the author. They were all so + delighted that I—was desired to embrace the ladies. No hard task + with the daughter, for she is very pretty. + </p> + <p> + We then went again to the Elector's children; I played three times, and + from my heart too,—the Elector himself each time asking me to play. + He seated himself each time close to me and never stirred. I also asked a + certain Professor there to give me a theme for a fugue, and worked it out. + </p> + <p> + Now for my congratulations! + </p> + <p> + My very dearest papa,—I cannot write poetically, for I am no poet. I + cannot make fine artistic phrases that cast light and shadow, for I am no + painter; I can neither by signs nor by pantomime express my thoughts and + feelings, for I am no dancer; but I can by tones, for I am a musician. So + to-morrow, at Cannabich's, I intend to play my congratulations both for + your name-day and birthday. Mon tres-cher pere, I can only on this day + wish for you, what from my whole heart I wish for you every day and every + night—health, long life, and a cheerful spirit. I would fain hope, + too, that you have now less annoyance than when I was in Salzburg; for I + must admit that I was the chief cause of this. They treated me badly, + which I did not deserve, and you naturally took my part, only too + lovingly. I can tell you this was indeed one of the principal and most + urgent reasons for my leaving Salzburg in such haste. I hope, therefore, + that my wish is fulfilled. I must now close by a musical congratulation. I + wish that you may live as many years as must elapse before no more new + music can be composed. Farewell! I earnestly beg you to go on loving me a + little, and, in the mean time, to excuse these very poor congratulations + till I open new shelves in my small and confined knowledge-box, where I + can stow away the good sense which I have every intention to acquire. + </p> + <p> + <br />74. + </p> + <p> + Mannheim, Nov. 13, 1777. + </p> + <p> + We received your last two letters, and now I must answer them in detail. + Your letter desiring me to inquire about Becke's parents [in Wallerstein, + No. 68] I did not get till I had gone to Mannheim, so too late to comply + with your wish; but it never would have occurred to me to do so, for, in + truth, I care very little about him. Would you like to know how I was + received by him? Well and civilly; that is, he asked where I was going. I + said, most probably to Paris. He then gave me a vast deal of advice, + saying he had recently been there, and adding, "You will make a great deal + by giving lessons, for the piano is highly prized in Paris." He also + arranged that I should dine at the officers' table, and promised to put me + in the way of speaking to the Prince. He regretted very much having at + that moment a sore throat, (which was indeed quite true,) so that he could + not go out with me himself to procure me some amusement. He was also sorry + that he could have no music in honor of me, because most of the musical + people had gone that very day on some pedestrian excursion to—Heaven + knows where! At his request I tried his piano, which is very good. He + often said Bravo! I extemporized, and also played the sonatas in B and D. + In short, he was very polite, and I was also polite, but grave. We + conversed on a variety of topics—among others, about Vienna, and + more particularly that the Emperor [Joseph II.] was no great lover of + music. He said, "It is true he has some knowledge of composition, but of + nothing else. I can still recall (and he rubbed his forehead) that when I + was to play before him I had no idea what to play; so I began with some + fugues and trifles of that kind, which in my own mind I only laughed at." + I could scarcely resist saying, "I can quite fancy your laughing, but + scarcely so loud as I must have done had I heard you!" He further said + (what is the fact) that the music in the Emperor's private apartments is + enough to frighten the crows. I replied, that whenever I heard such music, + if I did not quickly leave the room it gave me a headache. "Oh! no; it has + no such effect on me; bad music does not affect my nerves, but fine music + never fails to give me a headache." I thought to myself again, such a + shallow head as yours is sure to suffer when listening to what is beyond + its comprehension. + </p> + <p> + Now for some of our news here. I was desired to go yesterday with + Cannabich to the Intendant, Count Savioli, to receive my present. It was + just what I had anticipated—a handsome gold watch. Ten Carolins + would have pleased me better just now, though the watch and chain, with + its appendages, are valued at twenty Carolins. Money is what is most + needed on a journey; and, by your leave, I have now five watches. Indeed, + I have serious thoughts of having a second watch-pocket made, and, when I + visit a grandee, to wear two watches, (which is indeed the fashion here,) + that no one may ever again think of giving me another. I see from your + letter that you have not yet read Vogler's book. [FOOTNOTE: Ton + Wissenschaft und Ton Kunst.] I have just finished it, having borrowed it + from Cannabich. His history is very short. He came here in a miserable + condition, performed on the piano, and composed a ballet. This excited the + Elector's compassion, who sent him to Italy. When the Elector was in + Bologna, he questioned Father Valoti about Vogler. "Oh! your Highness, he + is a great man," &c., &c. He then asked Father Martini the same + question. "Your Highness, he has talent; and by degrees, when he is older + and more solid, he will no doubt improve, though he must first change + considerably." When Vogler came back he entered the Church, was + immediately appointed Court Chaplain, and composed a Miserere which all + the world declares to be detestable, being full of false harmony. Hearing; + that it was not much commended, he went to the Elector and complained that + the orchestra played badly on purpose to vex and annoy him; in short, he + knew so well how to make his game (entering into so many petty intrigues + with women) that he became Vice-Capellmeister. He is a fool, who fancies + that no one can be better or more perfect than himself. The whole + orchestra, from the first to the last, detest him. He has been the cause + of much annoyance to Holzbauer. His book is more fit to teach arithmetic + than composition. He says that he can make a composer in three weeks, and + a singer in six months; but we have not yet seen any proof of this. He + despises the greatest masters. To myself he spoke with contempt of Bach + [Johann Christian, J. Sebastian's youngest son, called the London Bach], + who wrote two operas here, the first of which pleased more than the + second, Lucio Silla. As I had composed the same opera in Milan, I was + anxious to see it, and hearing from Holzbauer that Vogler had it, I asked + him to lend it to me. "With all my heart," said he; "I will send it to you + to-morrow without fail, but you won't find much talent in it." Some days + after, when he saw me, he said with a sneer, "Well, did you discover + anything very fine—did you learn anything from it? One air is rather + good. What are the words?" asked he of some person standing near. "What + air do you mean?" "Why, that odious air of Bach's, that vile—oh! + yes, pupille amate. He must have written it after a carouse of punch." I + really thought I must have laid hold of his pigtail; I affected, however, + not to hear him, said nothing, and went away. He has now served out his + time with the Elector. + </p> + <p> + The sonata for Madlle. Rosa Cannabich is finished. Last Sunday I played + the organ in the chapel for my amusement. I came in while the Kyrie was + going on, played the last part, and when the priest intoned the Gloria I + made a cadence, so different, however, from what is usually heard here, + that every one looked round in surprise, and above all Holzbauer. He said + to me, "If I had known you were coming, I would have put out another mass + for you." "Oh!" said I, "to puzzle me, I suppose?" Old Toeschi and + Wendling stood all the time close beside me. I gave them enough to laugh + at. Every now and then came a pizzicato, when I rattled the keys well; I + was in my best humor. Instead of the Benedictus here, there is always a + voluntary, so I took the ideas of the Sanctus and worked them out in a + fugue. There they all stood making faces. At the close, after Ita missa + est, I played a fugue. Their pedal is different from ours, which at first + rather puzzled me, but I soon got used to it. I must now conclude. Pray + write to us still at Mannheim. I know all about Misliweczeck's sonatas + [see No. 64], and played them lately at Munich; they are very easy and + agreeable to listen to. My advice is that my sister, to whom I humbly + commend myself, should play them with much expression, taste, and fire, + and learn them by heart. For these are sonatas which cannot fail to please + every one, are not difficult to commit to memory, and produce a good + effect when played with precision. + </p> + <p> + <br />75. + </p> + <p> + Mannheim, Nov. 13, 1777. + </p> + <p> + Potz Himmel! Croatians, demons, witches, hags, and cross batteries! Potz + Element! air, earth, fire, and water! Europe, Asia, Africa, and America! + Jesuits, Augustines, Benedictines, Capucins, Minorites, Franciscans, + Dominicans, Carthusians, and Knights of the Cross! privateers, canons + regular and irregular, sluggards, rascals, scoundrels, imps, and villains + all! donkeys, buffaloes, oxen, fools, blockheads, numskulls, and foxes! + What means this? Four soldiers and three shoulder-belts! Such a thick + packet and no portrait! [FOOTNOTE: The "Basle" (his cousin) had promised + him her portrait. She sent it subsequently to Salzburg, where it still + hangs in the Mozarteum.] I was so anxious about it—indeed, I felt + sure of getting it, having yourself written long ago to say that I should + have it soon, very soon. Perhaps you doubt my keeping my promise [about + the ornaments—see No. 71], but I cannot think this either. So pray + let me have the likeness as quickly as you can; and I trust it is taken as + I entreated—in French costume. + </p> + <p> + How do I like Mannheim? As well as I can any place where my cousin is not. + I hope, on the other hand, that you have at all events received my two + letters—one from Hohenaltheim, and one from Mannheim—this, + such as it is, being the third from here, but making the fourth in all. I + must conclude, for we are just going to dinner, and I am not yet dressed. + Love me as I love you, and then we shall never cease loving each other. + Adieu! J'espere que vous aurez deja pris quelque lection dans la langue + francaise, et je ne doute point que—ecoutez!—que vous aurez + bientot le francais mieux que moi; car il y a certainement deux ans que je + n'ai pas ecrit un mot de cette langue. Encore adieu! Je vous baise les + mains. + </p> + <p> + <br />76. + </p> + <p> + Mannheim, Nov. 14-16, 1777. + </p> + <p> + I, Johannes, Chrysostomus, Amadeus, Wolfgangus, Sigismundus, Mozart, plead + guilty to having both yesterday and the day before (and very often + besides) stayed away from home till twelve o'clock at night, from ten + o'clock till the aforesaid hour, I being in the presence and company of M. + Cannabich, his wife and daughter, the Herrn Schatzmeister, Ramm, and Lang, + making doggerel rhymes with the utmost facility, in thought and word, but + not in deed. I should not, however, have conducted myself in so reckless a + manner if our ringleader, namely, the so-called Lisel (Elisabeth + Cannabich), had not inveigled and instigated me to mischief, and I am + bound to admit that I took great pleasure in it myself. I confess all + these my sins and shortcomings from the depths of my heart; and in the + hope of often having similar ones to confess, I firmly resolve to amend my + present sinful life. I therefore beg for a dispensation if it can be + granted; but, if not, it is a matter of indifference to me, for the game + will go on all the same. Lusus enim suum habet ambitum, says the pious + singer Meissner, (chap. 9, p. 24,) and also the pious Ascenditor, patron + of singed coffee, musty lemonade, milk of almonds with no almonds in it, + and, above all, strawberry ice full of lumps of ice, being himself a great + connoisseur and artist in these delicacies. + </p> + <p> + The sonata I composed for Madlle. Cannabich I intend to write out as soon + as possible on small paper, and to send it to my sister. I began to teach + it to Madlle. Rose three days ago, and she has learned the allegro. The + andante will give us most trouble, for it is full of expression, and must + be played with accuracy and taste, and the fortes and pianos given just as + they are marked. She is very clever, and learns with facility. Her right + hand is very good, but the left is unhappily quite ruined. I must say that + I do really feel very sorry for her, when I see her laboring away till she + is actually panting for breath; and this not from natural awkwardness on + her part, but because, being so accustomed to this method, she cannot play + in any other way, never having been shown the right one. I said, both to + her mother and herself, that if I were her regular master I would lock up + all her music, cover the keys of the piano with a handkerchief, and make + her exercise her right and left hand, at first quite slowly in nothing but + passages and shakes, &c., until her hands were thoroughly trained; and + after that I should feel confident of making her a genuine pianiste. They + both acknowledged that I was right. It is a sad pity; for she has so much + genius, reads very tolerably, has great natural aptitude, and plays with + great feeling. + </p> + <p> + Now about the opera briefly. Holzbauer's music [for the first great German + operetta, "Gunther von Schwarzburg"] is very beautiful, but the poetry is + not worthy of such music. What surprises me most is, that so old a man as + Holzbauer should still have so much spirit, for the opera is incredibly + full of fire. The prima donna was Madame Elisabeth Wendling, not the wife + of the flute-player, but of the violinist. She is in very delicate health; + and, besides, this opera was not written for her, but for a certain Madame + Danzi, who is now in England; so it does not suit her voice, and is too + high for her. Herr Raaff, in four arias of somewhere about 450 bars, sang + in a manner which gave rise to the remark that his want of voice was the + principal cause of his singing so badly. When he begins an air, unless at + the same moment it recurs to your mind that this is Raaff, the old but + once so renowned tenor, I defy any one not to burst out laughing. It is a + fact, that in my own case I thought, if I did not know that this is the + celebrated Raaff, I should be bent double from laughing, but as it is—I + only take out my handkerchief to hide a smile. They tell me here that he + never was a good actor; that people went to hear, but not to see him. He + has by no means a pleasing exterior. In this opera he was to die, singing + in a long, long, slow air; and he died laughing! and towards the end of + the aria his voice failed him so entirely that it was impossible to stand + it! I was in the orchestra next Wendling the flute-player, and as he had + previously criticized the song, saying it was unnatural to sing so long + before dying, adding, "I do think he will never die!" I said in return, + "Have a little patience; it will soon be all over with him, for I can hear + he is at the last gasp!" "And I too," said he, laughing. The second + singer, Madlle. Strasserin, sang very well, and is an admirable actress. + </p> + <p> + There is a national stage here, which is permanent like that at Munich; + German operettas are sometimes given, but the singers in them are + wretched. Yesterday I dined with the Baron and Baroness von Hagen, + Oberstjagermeister here. Three days ago I called on Herr Schmalz, a + banker, to whom Herr Herzog, or rather Nocker and Schidl, had given me a + letter. I expected to have found a very civil good sort of man. When I + gave him the letter, he read it through, made me a slight bow, and said + nothing. At last, after many apologies for not having sooner waited on + him, I told him that I had played before the Elector. "Really!" Altum + silentium. I said nothing, he said nothing. At last I began again: "I will + no longer intrude on you. I have the honor to"—Here he interrupted + me. "If I can be of any service to you, I beg"—"Before I leave this + I must take the liberty to ask you"—"Not for money?" "Yes, if you + will be so good as to"—"Oh! that I can't do; there is nothing in the + letter about money. I cannot give you any money, but anything else"—"There + is nothing else in which you can serve me—nothing whatever. I have + the honor to take my leave." I wrote the whole history yesterday to Herr + Herzog in Augsburg. We must now wait here for the answer, so you may still + write to us at Mannheim. I kiss your hand, and am your young brother and + father, as in your last letter you say "I am the old man and son." To-day + is the 16th when I finish this, or else you will not know when it was sent + off. "Is the letter ready?" "Yes, mamma, here it is!" + </p> + <p> + <br />77. + </p> + <p> + Mannheim, Nov. 20, 1777. + </p> + <p> + The gala began again yesterday [in honor of the Elector's name-day]. I + went to hear the mass, which was a spick-and-span new composition of + Vogler's. Two days ago I was present at the rehearsal in the afternoon, + but came away immediately after the Kyrie. I never in my life heard + anything like it; there is often false harmony, and he rambles into the + different keys as if he wished to drag you into them by the hair of your + head; but it neither repays the trouble, nor does it possess any + originality, but is only quite abrupt. I shall say nothing of the way in + which he carries out his ideas. I only say that no mass of Vogler's can + possibly please any composer (who deserves the name). For example, I + suddenly hear an idea which is NOT BAD. Well, instead of remaining NOT + BAD, no doubt it soon becomes good? Not at all! it becomes not only BAD, + but VERY BAD, and this in two or three different ways: namely, scarcely + has the thought arisen when something else interferes to destroy it; or he + does not finish it naturally, so that it may remain good; or it is not + introduced in the right place; or it is finally ruined by bad + instrumentation. Such is Vogler's music. + </p> + <p> + Cannabich composes far better than when we knew him in Paris, but what + both mamma and I remarked here at once in the symphonies is, that one + begins just like another, always slow and unisono. I must now, dear papa, + write you something about the Holy Cross in Augsburg, which I have always + forgotten to do. I met with a great many civilities there, and the Prelate + is the most good-natured man in the world—a kind, worthy old + simpleton, who may be carried off at any moment, for his breath fails + sadly. He recently—in fact, the very day we left—had an attack + of paralysis. He, and the Dean and Procurator, begged us when we came back + to Augsburg to drive straight to the Holy Cross. The Procurator is as + jolly as Father Leopold at Seeon. [FOOTNOTE: A cloister in Lower Bavaria, + that Wolfgang often visited with his father, as they had a dear friend + there, Father Johannes.] My cousin told me beforehand what kind of man he + was, so we soon became as well acquainted as if we had known each other + for twenty years. I lent him the mass in F, and the first of the short + masses in C, and the offertorium in counterpoint in D minor. My fair + cousin has undertaken to be custodian of these. I got back the offertorium + punctually, having desired that it should be returned first. They all, and + even the Prelate, plagued me to give them a litany, De venerabili. I said + I had not got it with me. I really was by no means sure; so I searched, + but did not find it. They gave me no peace, evidently thinking that I only + wished to evade their request; so I said, "I really have not the litany + with me; it is at Salzburg. Write to my father; it is his affair. If he + chooses to give it to you, well and good; if not, I have nothing to do + with it." A letter from the Deacon to you will therefore probably soon + make its appearance. Do just as you please, but if you do send him one, + let it be the last in E flat; they have voices enough for anything, and a + great many people will be assembled at that time; they even write for them + to come from a distance, for it is their greatest festival. Adieu! + </p> + <p> + <br />78. + </p> + <p> + Mannheim, Nov. 22, 1777. + </p> + <p> + THE first piece of information that I have to give you is, that my + truthful letter to Herr Herzog in Augsburg, puncto Schmalzii, has had a + capital effect. He wrote me a very polite letter in return, expressing his + annoyance that I should have been received so uncourteously by detto + Schmalz [melted butter]; so he herewith sent me a sealed letter to detto + Herr Milk, with a bill of exchange for 150 florins on detto Herr Cheese. + You must know that, though I only saw Herr Herzog once, I could not resist + asking him to send me a draft on Herr Schmalz, or to Herrn Butter, Milk, + and Cheese, or whom he would—a ca! This joke has succeeded; it is no + good making a poor mouth! + </p> + <p> + We received this forenoon (the 21st) your letter of the 17th. I was not at + home, but at Cannabich's, where Wendling was rehearsing a concerto for + which I have written the orchestral accompaniments. To-day at six o'clock + the gala concert took place. I had the pleasure of hearing Herr Franzl + (who married a sister of Madame Cannabich's) play a concerto on the + violin; he pleased me very much. You know that I am no lover of mere + difficulties. He plays difficult music, but it does not appear to be so; + indeed, it seems as if one could easily do the same, and this is real + talent. He has a very fine round tone, not a note wanting, and everything + distinct and well accentuated. He has also a beautiful staccato in bowing, + both up and down, and I never heard such a double shake as his. In short, + though in my opinion no WIZARD, he is a very solid violin-player.—I + do wish I could conquer my confounded habit of writing crooked. + </p> + <p> + I am sorry I was not at Salzburg when that unhappy occurrence took place + about Madame Adlgasserin, so that I might have comforted her; and that I + would have done—particularly being so handsome a woman. [Footnote: + Adlgasser was the organist of the cathedral. His wife was thought very + stupid. See the letter of August 26, 1781.] I know already all that you + write to me about Mannheim, but I never wish to say anything prematurely; + all in good time. Perhaps in my next letter I may tell you of something + VERY GOOD in your eyes, but only GOOD in mine; or something you will think + VERY BAD, but I TOLERABLE; possibly, too, something only TOLERABLE for + you, but VERY GOOD, PRECIOUS, and DELIGHTFUL for me! This sounds rather + oracular, does it not? It is ambiguous, but still may be divined. + </p> + <p> + My regards to Herr Bullinger; every time that I get a letter from you, + usually containing a few lines from him, I feel ashamed, as it reminds me + that I have never once written to my best and truest friend, from whom I + have received so much kindness and civility. But I cannot try to excuse + myself. I only beg of him to do so for me as far as possible, and to + believe that, as soon as I have a little leisure, I will write to him—as + yet I have had none; for from the moment I know that it is even possible + or probable that I may leave a place, I have no longer a single hour I can + call my own, and though I have now a glimmer of hope, still I shall not be + at rest till I know how things are. One of the oracle's sayings must come + to pass. I think it will be the middle one or the last—I care not + which, for at all events it will be something settled. + </p> + <p> + I no doubt wrote to you that Holzbauer's grand opera is in German. If not, + I write it now. The title is "Gunther von Schwarzburg," but not our + worshipful Herr Gunther, barber and councillor at Salzburg! "Rosamunde" is + to be given during the ensuing Carnival, the libretto being a recent + composition of Wieland's, and the music also a new composition of Herr + Schweitzer. Both are to come here. I have already seen some parts of the + opera and tried it over on the piano, but I say nothing about it as yet. + The target you have had painted for me, to be given in my name to the + shooting-match, is first-rate, and the verses inimitable. [Footnote: For + cross-bow practice, attended weekly by a circle of his Salzburg friends. + On the target was represented "the melancholy farewell of two persons + dissolved in tears, Wolfgang and the 'Basle.'"] I have now no more to + write, except that I wish you all a good night's rest, and that you may + all sleep soundly till this letter comes to wake you. Adieu! I embrace + from my heart—cart, my dear sister—blister, and am your + dutiful and attached son, + </p> + <p> + WOLFGANG AMADE MOZART, + </p> + <p> + Knight of the Golden Spur, Member of the great Verona Academy, Bologna—oui, + mon ami! + </p> + <p> + <br />79. + </p> + <p> + Mannheim, Nov. 26, 1777. —MOREOVER, every one acquainted with + Mannheim, even the nobility, advised me to come here. The reason why we + are still in this place is that I have some thoughts of remaining the + winter here, and I am only waiting for an answer from the Elector to + decide my plans. The Intendant, Count Savioli, is a very worthy gentleman, + and I told him to inform the Elector that, this being such severe weather + for travelling, I am willing to remain here to teach the young Count [Carl + Theodor's son]. He promised me to do his best for me, but said that I must + have patience till the gala days were over. All this took place with the + consent and at the SUGGESTION of Cannabich. When I told him that I had + spoken to Savioli and what I had said, he replied he really thought it was + more likely to be brought about than not. Indeed, Cannabich spoke to the + Elector on the subject before the Count did so; and now I must wait to + hear the result. I am going to call on Herr Schmalz to draw my 150 + florins, for my landlord would no doubt prefer the sound of gold to that + of music. I little thought that I should have the gift of a watch here, + [see No. 74,] but such is again the case. I would have been off long ago, + but every one says to me, "Where do you intend to go for the winter? + Travelling is detestable in such weather; stay here." Cannabich also + wishes it very much; so now I have taken steps to do so, and as such an + affair cannot be hurried, I must wait with patience, and I hope soon to be + able to send you good news. I have already two pupils certain, besides the + ARCH ones, who certainly won't give me less than a louis each monthly. + Without these I could not indeed manage to remain. Now let the matter rest + as it is, or as it may be, what avail useless speculations? What is to + occur we do not know; still in so far we do! what God wills! + </p> + <p> + Now for a cheerful allegro—non siete si pegro. [Footnote: "Don't be + so desponding."] If we do leave this, we shall go straight to—where? + To Weilburg, or whatever the name of the place may be, to the Princess, + sister of the Prince of Orange, whom we knew so well at the Hague. There + we shall stay—N. B., so long as we like the officers' table, and no + doubt receive at least six louis-d'or. + </p> + <p> + A few days ago Herr Sterkel came here from Wurzburg. The day before + yesterday, the 24th, I dined with Cannabich's, and again at Oberstjager + von Hagen's, and spent the evening al solito with Cannabich, where Sterkel + joined us, [Footnote: Abbe Sterkel, a favorite composer and virtuoso on + the piano, whom Beethoven, along with Simrock, Ries, and the two Rombergs, + visited in the autumn of 1791, in Aschaffenberg.] and played five duets + [sonatas with violin], but so quick that it was difficult to follow the + music, and neither distinctly nor in time. Every one said the same. + Madlle. Cannabich played my six sonatas, and in fact better than Sterkel. + I must now conclude, for I cannot write in bed, and I am too sleepy to sit + up any longer. + </p> + <p> + <br />80. + </p> + <p> + Mannheim, Nov. 29, 1777. + </p> + <p> + I RECEIVED this morning your letter of the 24th, and perceive that you + cannot reconcile yourself to the chances of good or bad fortune, if, + indeed, the latter is to befall us. Hitherto, we four have neither been + very lucky nor very unlucky, for which I thank God. You make us many + reproaches which we do not deserve. We spend nothing but what is + absolutely necessary, and as to what is required on a journey, you know + that as well or better than we do. No one BUT MYSELF has been the cause of + our remaining so long in Munich; and had I been alone I should have stayed + there altogether. Why were we fourteen days in Augsburg? Surely you cannot + have got my letters from there? I wished to give a concert. They played me + false, so I thus lost eight days. I was absolument determined to go away, + but was not allowed, so strong was the wish that I should give a concert. + I wished to be urged to do so, and I was urged. I gave the concert; this + accounts for the fourteen days. Why did we go direct to Mannheim? This I + answered in my last letter. Why are we still here? How can you suppose + that I would stay here without good cause? But my father, at all events, + should—Well! you shall hear my reasons and the whole course of the + affair; but I had quite resolved not to write to you on the subject until + I could say something decided, (which even yet I cannot do,) on purpose to + avoid causing you care and anxiety, which I always strive to do, for I + knew that uncertain intelligence would only fret you. But when you ascribe + this to my negligence, thoughtlessness, and indolence, I can only regret + your having such an opinion of me, and from my heart grieve that you so + little know your son. I am not careless, I am only prepared for the worst; + so I can wait and bear everything patiently, so long as my honor and my + good name of Mozart remain uninjured. But if it must be so, so let it be. + I only beg that you will neither rejoice nor lament prematurely; for + whatever may happen, all will be well if we only have health; for + happiness exists—merely in the imagination. + </p> + <p> + Last Thursday week I went in the forenoon to wait on Count Savioli, and + asked him if it were possible to induce the Elector to keep me here this + winter, as I was anxious to give lessons to his children. His answer was, + "I will suggest it to the Elector, and if it depends on me, the thing will + certainly be done." In the afternoon I went to Cannabich's, and as I had + gone to Savioli by his advice, he immediately asked me if I had been + there. I told him everything, on which he said, "I should like you very + much to spend the winter with us, but still more to see you in some + permanent situation." I replied, "I could wish nothing better than to be + settled near you, but I don't see how it is possible. You have already two + Capellmeisters, so I don't know what I could have, for I would not be + subordinate to Vogler." "That you would never be," said he. "Here not one + of the orchestra is under the Capellmeister, nor even under the Intendant. + The Elector might appoint you Chamber Court composer; only wait a little, + and I will speak to Count Savioli on the subject." On the Thursday after + there was a grand concert. When the Count saw me, he apologized for not + having yet spoken to the Elector, these being still gala days; but as soon + as they were over (next Monday) he would certainly speak to his Royal + Highness. I let three days pass, and, still hearing nothing whatever, I + went to him to make inquiries. He said, "My good M. Mozart, (this was + yesterday, Friday,) today there was a chasse, so it was impossible for me + to ask the Elector, but to-morrow at this hour I will certainly give you + an answer." I begged him not to forget it. To tell you the truth, when I + left him I felt rather indignant, so I resolved to take with me the + easiest of my six variations of the Fischer minuet, (which I wrote here + for this express purpose,) to present to the young Count, in order to have + an opportunity to speak to the Elector myself. When I went there, you + cannot conceive the delight of the governess, by whom I was most politely + received. When I produced the variations, and said that they were intended + for the young Count, she said, "Oh! that is charming, but I hope you have + something for the Countess also." "Nothing as yet," said I, "but if I stay + here long enough to have time to write something I will do so." "A + propos," said she, "I am so glad that you stay the winter here." "I? I + have not heard a word of it." "That does surprise me; how very odd! for + the Elector told me so himself lately; he said, 'By the by, Mozart remains + here all winter.'" "Well, when he said so, he was the only man who could + say so, for without the Elector I of course cannot remain here;" and then + I told her the whole story. We agreed that I should come the next day + (that is, to-day) at four o'clock, and bring some piece of music for the + Countess. She was to speak to the Elector before I came; and I should be + certain to meet him. I went today, but he had not been there at all; but I + shall go again to-morrow. I have written a Rondo for the Countess. Have I + not then sufficient cause to stay here and await the result? As this + important step is finally taken, ought I at this moment to set off? I have + now an opportunity of speaking to the Elector myself. I shall most + probably spend the winter here, for I am a favorite with his Royal + Highness, who thinks highly of me, and knows what I can do. I hope to be + able to give you good news in my next letter. I entreat you once more + neither to rejoice nor to be uneasy too soon, and not to confide the + affair to any one except Herr Bullinger and my sister. I send my sister + the allegro and the andante of the sonata I wrote for Madlle. Cannabich. + The Rondo will follow shortly; the packet would have been too heavy had I + sent it with the others. You must be satisfied with the original, for you + can more easily get it copied for six kreutzers a sheet than I for + twenty-four. Is not that dear? Adieu! Possibly you have heard some stray + bits of this sonata; for at Cannabich's it is sung three times a day at + least, played on the piano and violin, or whistled—only sotto voce, + to be sure. + </p> + <p> + <br />81. + </p> + <p> + Mannheim, Dec. 3, 1777. + </p> + <p> + I CAN still write nothing certain about my fate here. Last Monday, after + going three days in succession to my ARCH pupils, morning and afternoon, I + had the good fortune at last to meet the Elector. We all, indeed, thought + that I had again come in vain, as it was so late in the day, but at length + we saw him coming. The governess made the Countess seat herself at the + piano, and I placed myself beside her to give her a lesson, and it was + thus the Elector found us on entering. We rose, but he desired us to + continue the lesson. When she had finished playing, the governess + addressed him, saying that I had written a beautiful Rondo. I played it, + and it pleased him exceedingly. At last he said, "Do you think that she + will be able to learn it?" "Oh! yes," said I; "I only wish I had the good + fortune to teach it to her myself." He smiled, and said, "I should also + like it; but would it not be prejudicial to her to have two masters?" "Oh, + no! your Highness," said I; "it all depends on whether she has a good or a + bad one. I hope your Highness will place trust and confidence in me." "Oh, + assuredly," said he. The governess then said, "M. Mozart has also written + these variations on the Fischer minuet for the young Count." I played + them, and he seemed to like them much. He now began to jest with the + Countess. I thanked him for his present of a watch. He said, "I must + reflect on your wish; how long do you intend to remain here?" My answer + was, "As long as your Highness commands me to do so;" and then the + interview was at an end. I went there again this morning, and was told + that the Elector had repeated yesterday, "Mozart stays here this winter." + Now I am fairly in for it; so you see I must wait. + </p> + <p> + I dined to-day (for the fourth time) with Wendling. Before dinner, Count + Savioli came in with Capellmeister Schweitzer, who arrived yesterday + evening. Savioli said to me, "I spoke again yesterday to the Elector, but + he has not yet made up his mind." I answered, "I wish to say a few words + to you privately;" so we went to the window. I told him the doubt the + Elector had expressed, and complained of the affair dragging on so long, + and said how much I had already spent here, entreating him to persuade the + Elector to engage me permanently; for I fear that he will give me so + little during the winter that it will be impossible for me to remain. "Let + him give me work; for I like work." He said he would certainly suggest it + to him, but this evening it was out of the question, as he was not to go + to court; to-morrow, however, he promised me a decided answer. Now, let + what will happen. If he does not engage me, I shall, at all events, apply + for a sum of money for my travelling expenses, as I have no intention to + make him a present of the Rondo and the variations. I assure you I am very + easy on the subject, because I feel quite certain that, come what may, all + will go right. I am entirely submissive to the will of God. + </p> + <p> + Your letter of the 27th arrived yesterday, and I hope you received the + allegro and andante of the sonata. I now enclose the Rondo. Schweitzer is + a good, worthy, upright man, dry and candid like our Haydn; only his mode + of speaking is more polished. There are some very beautiful things in his + new opera, and I don't doubt that it will prove a great success. "Alceste" + is much liked, and yet it is not half so fine as "Rosamunde." Being the + first German operetta no doubt contributed very much to its popularity; + but now—N. B., on minds chiefly attracted by novelty—it + scarcely makes the same impression. Herr Wieland, whose poetry it is, is + also to come here this winter. That is a man I should indeed like to see. + Who knows? Perhaps I may. When you read this, dear papa, please God, all + will be settled. + </p> + <p> + If I do stay here, I am going to Paris during Lent with Herr Wendling, + Herr Ramm, the hautboy-player, who plays admirably, and Ballet-master + Cauchery. Wendling assures me I shall never regret it; he has been twice + in Paris, and has only just returned from there. He says, "It is, in fact, + the only place where either real fame or money is to be acquired. You are + a man of genius; I will put you on the right path. You must write an opera + seria and comique, an oratorio, and every kind of thing. Any one who + composes a couple of operas in Paris receives a certain sum yearly. There + is also the Concert Spirituel and the Academie des Amateurs, where you get + five louis-d'or for a symphony. If you teach, the custom is three + louis-d'or for twelve lessons; and then you get your sonatas, trios, and + quartets published by subscription. Cannabich and Toeschi send a great + part of their music to Paris." Wendling is a man who understands + travelling. Write me your opinion of this scheme, I beg; it seems to me + both wise and profitable. I shall travel with a man who knows all the ins + and outs of Paris (as it now is) by heart, for it is very much changed. I + should spend very little—indeed, I believe not one half of what I do + at present, for I should only have to pay for myself, as mamma would stay + here, and probably with the Wendlings. + </p> + <p> + On the 12th of this month, Herr Ritter, who plays the bassoon beautifully, + sets off for Paris. If I had been alone, this would have been a famous + opportunity for me; indeed, he spoke to me himself about it. Ramm + (hautboy-player) is a good, jolly, worthy man, about thirty-five, who has + travelled a great deal, so has much experience. The first and best + musicians here like me very much, and respect me too. They always call me + Herr Capellmeister. I cannot say how much I regret not having at least the + copy of a mass with me, for I should certainly have had it performed, + having lately heard one of Holzbauer's, which is also in our style. If I + had only a copy of the Misericordias! But so it is, and it can't be helped + now. I would have had one transcribed here, but copying does cost so much. + Perhaps I should not have got as much for the mass itself as I must have + paid for the copy. People here are by no means so very liberal. + </p> + <p> + <br />82. + </p> + <p> + Mannheim, Dec. 6, 1777. + </p> + <p> + I CAN tell you nothing certain yet. I begin to be rather tired of this + joke; I am only curious to know the result. Count Savioli has spoken three + times to the Elector, and the answer was invariably a shrug of the + shoulders, and "I will give you an answer presently, but—I have not + yet made up my mind." My kind friends here quite agree with me in thinking + that this hesitation and reserve are rather a favorable omen than the + reverse. For if the Elector was resolved not to engage me, he would have + said so at once; so I attribute the delay to Denari siamo un poco + scrocconi [we are a little stingy of our money]. Besides, I know for + certain that the Prince likes me; a buon canto, so we must wait. I may now + say that it will be very welcome to me if the affair turns out well; if + not, I shall much regret having lingered here so long and spent so much + money. At all events, whatever the issue may be, it cannot be an evil one + if it be the will of God; and my daily prayer is that the result may be in + accordance with it. You have indeed, dear papa, rightly guessed the chief + cause of Herr Cannabich's friendship for me. There is, however, another + small matter in which he can make use of me—namely, he is obliged to + publish a collection of all his ballets arranged for the piano. Now, he + cannot possibly write these out himself in such a manner that the work may + be correct and yet easy. For this purpose I am very welcome to him; (this + was the case already with one of his contredanses.) He has been out + shooting for the last week, and is not to return till next Tuesday. Such + things contribute, indeed, very much to our good friendship; but, + independent of this, he would at least never be inimical to me, for he is + very much changed. When a man comes to a certain age, and sees his + children grown up, he then no doubt thinks a little differently. His + daughter, who is fifteen, and his eldest child, is a very pretty, pleasing + girl. She has great good sense for her age, and an engaging demeanor; she + is rather grave and does not talk much, but what she does say is always + amiable and good-natured. She caused me most indescribable pleasure + yesterday, by playing my sonata in the most admirable manner. The andante + (which must not be played QUICK) she executed with the greatest possible + feeling; and she likes to play it. You know that I finished the first + allegro when I had been only two days here, and that I had then only seen + Madlle. Cannabich once. Young Danner asked me how I intended to compose + the andante. "Entirely in accordance with Madlle. Rose's character," said + I. When I played it, it seemed to please much. Danner mentioned afterwards + what I had said. And it is really so; she is just what the andante is. + To-day I dined for the sixth time with Wendling, and for the second time + in the company of Herr Schweitzer. To-morrow, by way of a change, I dine + there again; I actually have my board there. I must now go to bed, so I + wish you good-night. + </p> + <p> + I have this moment returned from Wendling's, and as soon as I have posted + this letter I am going back there, for the opera is to be rehearsed in + camera caritatis, as it were. I am going to Cannabich's afterwards, at + half-past six o'clock, to give my usual daily music-lesson. A propos, I + must correct a statement of mine. I said yesterday that Madlle. Cannabich + was fifteen; it seems, however, that she is only just thirteen. Our kind + regards to all our friends, especially to Herr Bullinger. + </p> + <p> + <br />83. + </p> + <p> + Mannheim, Dec. 10, 1777. + </p> + <p> + ALL is at an end, for the present, with the Elector. I went to the court + concert the day before yesterday, in the hope of getting an answer. Count + Savioli evidently wished to avoid me; but I went up to him. When he saw me + he shrugged his shoulders. "What!" said I, "still no answer?" "Pardon me!" + said he, "but I grieve to say nothing can be done." "Eh, bien!" said I, + "the Elector might have told me so sooner!" "True," said he, "but he would + not even now have made up his mind, if I had not driven him to it by + saying that you had already stayed here too long, spending your money in a + hotel." "Truly, that is what vexes me most of all," I replied; "it is very + far from pleasant. But, at all events, I am very much indebted to you, + Count, (for he is not called "your Excellency,") for having taken my part + so zealously, and I beg you will thank the Elector from me for his + gracious, though somewhat tardy information; and I can assure him that, + had he accepted my services, he never would have had cause to regret it." + "Oh!" said he, "I feel more convinced of that than perhaps you think." + When I told Herr Wendling of the final decision, he colored and said, + quite indignantly, "Then we must find the means; you must, at least, + remain here for the next two months, and after that we can go together to + Paris. To-morrow Cannabich returns from shooting, and then we can talk + further on the subject." I left the concert immediately, and went straight + to Madame Cannabich. On my way thither, Herr Schatzmeister having come + away from the concert with me, I told him all about it, as he is a good + worthy man and a kind friend of mine. You cannot conceive how angry he + was. When we went into Madame Cannabich's house, he spoke first, saying, + "I bring you a man who shares the usual happy fate of those who have to do + with courts." "What!" said Madame, "so it has all come to nothing?" I told + her the whole, and in return they related to me numbers of similar things + which had occurred here. When Madlle. Rose (who was in the third room from + us, busy with the linen) had finished, she came in and said to me, "Do you + wish me to begin now?" as it was the hour for her lesson. "I am at your + orders," said I. "Do you know," said she, "that I mean to be very + attentive to-day?" "I am sure you will," answered I, "for the lessons will + not continue much longer." "How so? What do you mean?—Why?" She + turned to her mamma, who told her. "What!" said she, "is this quite + certain? I cannot believe it." "Yes—yes; quite certain," said I. She + then played my sonata, but looked very grave. Do you know, I really could + not suppress my tears; and at last they had all tears in their eyes—mother, + daughter, and Schatzmeister, for she was playing the sonata at the moment, + which is the favorite of the whole family. "Indeed," said Schatzmeister, + "if the Herr Capellmeister (I am never called anything else here) leaves + us, it will make us all weep." I must say that I have very kind friends + here, for it is under such circumstances that we learn to know them; for + they are so, not only in words but in deeds. Listen to this! The other day + I went, as usual, to dine with Wendling, when he said to me, "Our Indian + friend (a Dutchman, who lives on his own means, and is an amateur of all + the fine arts, and a great friend and admirer of mine) is certainly an + excellent fellow. He will give you twenty florins to write for him three + little easy short concertos, and a couple of quattros for a leading flute. + Cannabich can get you at least two pupils, who will play well; and you + could write duets for the piano and violin, and publish them by + subscription. Dinner and supper you will always have with us, and lodgings + you have at the Herr Hofkammerrath's; so all this will cost you nothing. + As for your mother, we can easily find her a cheap lodging for these two + months, till you have had time to write about the matter to your father, + when she will leave this for Salzburg and we for Paris." Mamma is quite + satisfied; so all that is yet wanting is your consent, of which I feel so + sure that, if the time for our journey were now come, I would set off for + Paris without waiting for your reply; for I could expect nothing else from + a sensible father, hitherto so anxious for the welfare of his children. + Herr Wendling, who sends you his compliments, is very intimate with our + dear friend Grimm, who, when he was here, spoke a great deal about me to + Wendling; this was when he had just come from us at Salzburg. As soon as I + receive your answer to this letter, I mean to write to him, for a stranger + whom I met at dinner to-day told me that Grimm was now in Paris. As we + don't leave this till the 8th of March, I beg you, if possible, to try to + procure for me, either through Herr Mesmer at Vienna, or some one else, a + letter to the Queen of France, if it can be done without much difficulty; + if not, it does not much matter. It would be better if I could have one—of + that there is no doubt; this is also the advice of Herr Wendling. I + suppose what I am now writing must appear very strange to you, because you + are in a city where there are only stupid enemies, and weak and simple + friends, whose dreary daily bread at Salzburg is so essential to them, + that they become flatterers, and are not to be depended on from day to + day. Indeed, this was why I wrote you nothing but childish nonsense, and + jokes, and folly; I wished to await the event here, to save you from + vexation, and my good friends from blame; for you very unwarrantably + accuse them of working against me in an underhand way, which they + certainly never did. Your letters obliged me to relate the whole affair to + you. I entreat you most earnestly not to distress yourself on the subject; + God has willed it so. Reflect also on this most undoubted truth, that we + cannot do all we wish. We often think that such and such a thing would be + very good, and another equally bad and evil, and yet if these things came + to pass, we should sometimes learn that the very reverse was the case. + </p> + <p> + I must now go to bed. I shall have plenty of work to do during the two + months of my stay,—three concertos, two quartets, five or six duets + for the piano, and I also have thoughts of composing a new grand mass, and + dedicating it to the Elector. Adieu! I will write to Prince Zeill next + post-day to press forward matters in Munich; if you would also write to + him, I should be very glad. But short and to the point—no cringing! + for that I cannot bear. It is quite certain that he can do it if he likes, + for all Munich told me so [see Nos. 56 and 60]. + </p> + <p> + <br />84. + </p> + <p> + Mannheim, Dec. 14, 1777. + </p> + <p> + I CAN only write a few words, as I did not get home till four o'clock, + when I had a lesson to give to the young lady of the house. It is now + nearly half-past five, so time to close my letter. I will ask mamma to + write a few days beforehand, so that all our news may not be of the same + date, for I can't easily do this. The little time that I have for writing + must be devoted to composition, for I have a great deal of work before me. + I entreat you to answer me very soon as to my journey to Paris. I played + over my concertone on the piano to Herr Wendling, who said it was just the + thing for Paris; if I were to play that to Baron Bach, he would be in + ecstasies. Adieu! + </p> + <p> + <br />85. + </p> + <p> + [A P.S. TO A LETTER FROM HIS MOTHER.] + </p> + <p> + Mannheim, Dec. 18, 1777. + </p> + <p> + IN the greatest haste and hurry! The organ that was tried to-day in the + Lutheran church is very good, not only in certain registers, but in its + whole compass. [Footnote: The mother writes: "A Lutheran of degree called + on us to-day, and invited Wolfgang, with all due politeness, to try their + new organ."] Vogler played on it. He is only a juggler, so to speak; as + soon as he wishes to play in a majestic style, he becomes dull. Happily + this seems equally tedious to himself, so it does not last long; but then, + what follows? only an incomprehensible scramble. I listened to him from a + distance. He began a fugue, in chords of six notes, and presto. I then + went up to him, for I would far rather see than hear him. There were a + great many people present, and among the musicians Holzbauer, Cannabich, + Toeschi, &c. + </p> + <p> + A quartet for the Indian Dutchman, that true benefactor of man, will soon + be finished. A propos, Herr told me that he had written to you by the last + post. Addio! I was lately obliged to direct the opera with some violins at + Wendling's, Schweitzer being unwell. + </p> + <p> + <br />86. + </p> + <p> + Mannheim, Dec. 20, 1777. + </p> + <p> + I WISH you, dearest papa, a very happy new-year, and that your health, so + precious in my eyes, may daily improve, for the benefit and happiness of + your wife and children, the satisfaction of your true friends, and for the + annoyance and vexation of your enemies. I hope also that in the coming + year you will love me with the same fatherly tenderness you have hitherto + shown me. I on my part will strive, and honestly strive, to deserve still + more the love of such an admirable father. I was cordially delighted with + your last letter of the 15th of December, for, thank God! I could gather + from it that you are very well indeed. We, too, are in perfect health, God + be praised! Mine is not likely to fail if constant work can preserve it. I + am writing this at eleven at night, because I have no other leisure time. + We cannot very well rise before eight o'clock, for in our rooms (on the + ground-floor) it is not light till half-past eight. I then dress quickly; + at ten o'clock I sit down to compose till twelve or half-past twelve, when + I go to Wendling's, where I generally write till half-past one; we then + dine. At three o'clock I go to the Mainzer Hof (an hotel) to a Dutch + officer, to give him lessons in galanterie playing and thorough bass, for + which, if I mistake not, he gives me four ducats for twelve lessons. At + four o'clock I go home to teach the daughter of the house. We never begin + till half past four, as we wait for lights. At six o'clock I go to + Cannabich's to instruct Madlle. Rose. I stay to supper there, when we + converse and sometimes play; I then invariably take a book out of my + pocket and read, as I used to do at Salzburg. I have already written to + you the pleasure your last letter caused me, which is quite true; only one + thing rather vexed me, the inquiry whether I had not perchance forgotten + to go to confession. I shall not say anything further on this. Only allow + me to make you one request, which is, not to think so badly of me. I like + to be merry, but rest assured that I can be as serious as any one. Since I + quitted Salzburg (and even in Salzburg) I have met with people who spoke + and acted in a way that I should have felt ashamed to do, though they were + ten, twenty, and thirty years older than myself. I implore of you + therefore once more, and most earnestly, to have a better opinion of me. + </p> + <p> + <br />87. + </p> + <p> + Mannheim, Dec. 27, 1777. + </p> + <p> + A PRETTY sort of paper this! I only wish I could make it better; but it is + now too late to send for any other. You know, from our previous letters, + that mamma and I have a capital lodging. It never was my intention that + she should live apart from me; in fact, when the Hofkammerrath Serrarius + so kindly offered me his house, I only expressed my thanks, which is by no + means saying yes. The next day I went to see him with Herr Wendling and M. + de Jean (our worthy Dutchman), and only waited till he should himself + begin the subject. At length he renewed his offer, and I thanked him in + these words: "I feel that it is a true proof of friendship on your part to + do me the honor to invite me to live in your house; but I regret that + unfortunately I cannot accept your most kind proposal. I am sure you will + not take it amiss when I say that I am unwilling to allow my mother to + leave me without sufficient cause; and I certainly know no reason why + mamma should live in one part of the town and I in another. When I go to + Paris, her not going with me would be a considerable pecuniary advantage + to me, but here for a couple of months a few gulden more or less do not + signify." + </p> + <p> + By this speech my wish was entirely fulfilled,—that is, that our + board and lodging do not at all events make us poorer. I must go up-stairs + to supper, for we have now chatted till half-past ten o'clock. I lately + went with my scholar, the Dutch officer, M. de la Pottrie, into the + Reformed church, where I played for an hour and a half on the organ. It + came right from my heart too. We—that is, the Cannabichs, Wendlings, + Serrariuses, and Mozarts—are going to the Lutheran Church, where I + shall amuse myself gloriously on the organ. I tried its tone at the same + rehearsal that I wrote to you about, but played very little, only a + prelude and a fugue. + </p> + <p> + I have made acquaintance with Herr Wieland. He does not, however, know me + as I know him, for he has heard nothing of me as yet. I had not at all + imagined him to be what I find him. He speaks in rather a constrained way, + and has a childish voice, his eyes very watery, and a certain pedantic + uncouthness, and yet at times provokingly condescending. I am not, + however, surprised that he should choose to behave in this way at + Mannheim, though no doubt very differently at Weimar and elsewhere, for + here he is stared at as if he had fallen from the skies. People seem to be + so ceremonious in his presence, no one speaks, all are as still as + possible, striving to catch every word he utters. It is unlucky that they + are kept so long in expectation, for he has some impediment in his speech + which causes him to speak very slowly, and he cannot say six words without + pausing. Otherwise he is, as we all know, a man of excellent parts. His + face is downright ugly and seamed with the small-pox, and he has a long + nose. His height is rather beyond that of papa. + </p> + <p> + You need have no misgivings as to the Dutchman's 200 florins. I must now + conclude, as I should like to compose for a little time. One thing more: I + suppose I had better not write to Prince Zeill at present. The reason you + no doubt already know, (Munich being nearer to Salzburg than to Mannheim,) + that the Elector is at the point of death from small-pox. This is certain, + so there will be a struggle there. Farewell! As for mamma's journey home, + I think it could be managed best during Lent, by her joining some + merchants. This is only my own idea; but what I do feel quite sure of is, + that whatever you think right will be best, for you are not only the Herr + Hofcapellmeister, but the most rational of all rational beings. If you + know such a person as papa, tell him I kiss his hands 1000 times, and + embrace my sister from my heart, and in spite of all this scribbling I am + your dutiful son and affectionate brother. + </p> + <p> + <br />88. + </p> + <p> + Mannheim, Jan. 7, 1778. + </p> + <p> + I HOPE you are both well. I am, thank God! in good health and spirits. You + may easily conceive my sorrow at the death of the Elector of Bavaria. My + sole wish is that our Elector here may have the whole of Bavaria, and + transfer himself to Munich. I think you also would like this. This + forenoon at twelve o'clock, Carl Theodor was proclaimed at court Duke of + Bavaria. At Munich, Count Daun, Oberststallmeister, immediately on the + death of the Prince, received homage in the name of the Elector, and sent + the dragoons to ride all round the environs of the city with trumpets and + kettledrums, and to shout "Long live our Elector, Carl Theodor!" If all + goes well, as I hope it may, Count Daun will receive a very handsome + present. His aid-de-camp, whom he dispatched here with the tidings, (his + name is Lilienau,) got 3000 florins from the Elector. + </p> + <p> + <br />89. + </p> + <p> + Mannheim, Jan 10, 1778 + </p> + <p> + YES, indeed! I also wish that from my heart. [Footnote: In the mother's + letter, she had written, "May God grant us the blessing of peace'" for + there was much talk about the invasion of Bavaria by the Prussians and + Austrians, on account of the succession.] You have already learned my true + desire from my last letter. It is really high time that we should think of + mamma's journey home, for though we have had various rehearsals of the + opera, still its being performed is by no means certain, and if it is not + given, we shall probably leave this on the 15th of February. When that + time arrives, (after receiving your advice on the subject,) I mean to + follow the opinions and habits of my fellow-travellers, and, like them, + order a suit of black clothes, reserving the laced suit for Germany, as it + is no longer the fashion in Paris. In the first place, it is an economy, + (which is my chief object in my Paris journey,) and, secondly, it wears + well and suits both country and town. You can go anywhere with a black + coat. To-day the tailor brought Herr Wendling his suit. The clothes I + think of taking with me are my puce-brown spagnolet coat, and the two + waistcoats. + </p> + <p> + Now for something else. Herr Wieland, after meeting me twice, seems quite + enchanted with me. The last time, after every sort of eulogium, he said, + "It is really fortunate for me having met you here," and pressed my hand. + To-day "Rosamunde" has been rehearsed in the theatre; it is well enough, + but nothing more, for if it were positively bad it could not be performed, + I suppose,—just as some people cannot sleep without lying in a bed! + But there is no rule without an exception, and I have seen an instance of + this; so good night! Now for something more to the purpose. I know for + certain that the Emperor intends to establish a German opera in Vienna, + and is eagerly looking out for a young Capellmeister who understands the + German language, and has genius, and is capable of bringing something new + into the world. Benda at Gotha has applied, but Schweitzer is determined + to succeed. I think it would be just the thing for me, but well paid of + course. If the Emperor gives me 1000 gulden, I will write a German opera + for him, and if he does not choose to give me a permanent engagement, it + is all the same to me. Pray write to every kind friend you can think of in + Vienna, that I am capable of doing credit to the Emperor. If he will do + nothing else, he may at least try me with an opera, and as to what may + occur hereafter I care not. Adieu! I hope you will put the thing in train + at once, or some one may forestall me. + </p> + <p> + <br />90. + </p> + <p> + Mannheim, Jan. 17, 1778. + </p> + <p> + NEXT Wednesday I am going for some days to Kirchheim-Boland, the residence + of the Princess of Orange. I have heard so much praise of her here, that + at last I have resolved to go. A Dutch officer, a particular friend of + mine, [M. de la Pottrie,] was much upbraided by her for not bringing me + with him when he went to offer his new-year's congratulations. I expect to + receive at least eight louis-d'or, for as she has a passionate admiration + of singing, I have had four arias copied out for her. I will also present + her with a symphony, for she has a very nice orchestra and gives a concert + every day. Besides, the copying of the airs will not cost me much, for a + M. Weber who is going there with me has copied them. He has a daughter who + sings admirably, and has a lovely pure voice; she is only fifteen. + [Footnote: Aloysia, second daughter of the prompter and theatrical + copyist, Weber, a brother of Carl Maria von Weber's father.] She fails in + nothing but in stage action; were it not for that, she might be the prima + donna of any theatre. Her father is a downright honest German who brings + up his children well, for which very reason the girl is persecuted here. + He has six children,—five girls and a son. He and his wife and + children have been obliged to live for the last fourteen years on an + income of 200 florins, but as he has always done his duty well, and has + lately provided a very accomplished singer for the Elector, he has now + actually 400 florins. My aria for De' Amicis she sings to perfection with + all its tremendous passages: she is to sing it at Kirchheim-Boland. + </p> + <p> + Now for another subject. Last Wednesday there was a great feast in our + house, [at Hofkammerrath Serrarius's,] to which I was also invited. There + were fifteen guests, and the young lady of the house [Pierron, the "House + Nymph"] was to play in the evening the concerto I had taught her at eleven + o'clock in the forenoon. The Herr Kammerrath and Herr Vogler called on me. + Herr Vogler seems quite determined to become acquainted with me, as he + often importuned me to go to see him, but he has overcome his pride and + paid me the first visit. Besides, people tell me that he is now very + different, being no longer so much admired; for at first he was made quite + an idol of here. We went up-stairs together, when by degrees the guests + assembled, and there was no end to talking. After dinner, Vogler sent for + two pianos of his, which were tuned alike, and also his wearisome engraved + sonatas. I had to play them, while he accompanied me on the other piano. + At his urgent request I sent for my sonatas also. N. B.—Before + dinner he had scrambled through my sonata at sight, (the Litzau one which + the young lady of the house plays.) He took the first part prestissimo—the + Andante allegro—and the Rondo more prestissimo still. He played + great part of the bass very differently from the way in which it is + written, inventing at times quite another harmony and melody. It is + impossible to do otherwise in playing at such a pace, for the eyes cannot + see the notes, nor the hands get hold of them. What merit is there in + this? The listeners (I mean those worthy of the name) can only say that + they have SEEN music and piano-playing. All this makes them hear, and + think, and feel as little—as he does. You may easily believe that + this was beyond all endurance, because I could not venture to say to him + MUCH TOO QUICK! besides, it is far easier to play a thing quickly than + slowly; some notes may then be dropped without being observed. But is this + genuine music? In rapid playing the right and left hands may be changed, + and no one either see or hear it; but is this good? and in what does the + art of reading prima vista consist? In this—to play the piece in the + time in which it ought to be played, and to express all the notes and + apoggiaturas, &c., with proper taste and feeling as written, so that + it should give the impression of being composed by the person who plays + it. His fingering also is miserable; his left thumb is just like that of + the late Adlgasser, all the runs downwards with the right hand he makes + with the first finger and thumb! + </p> + <p> + <br />91. + </p> + <p> + Mannheim, Feb. 2 1778. + </p> + <p> + I COULD no delay writing to you till the usual Saturday arrived, because + it was so long since I had the pleasure of conversing with you by means of + my pen. The first thing I mean to write about is how my worthy friends and + I got on at Kirchheim-Boland. It was simply a holiday excursion, and + nothing more. On Friday morning at eight o'clock we drove away from here, + after I had breakfasted with Herr Weber. We had a capital covered coach + which held four; at four o'clock we arrived at Kirchheim-Boland. We + immediately sent a list of our names to the palace. Next morning early, + Herr Concertmeister Rothfischer called on us. He had been already + described to me at Mannheim as a most honorable man, and such I find him + to be. In the evening we went to court, (this was on Saturday,) where + Madlle. Weber sang three airs. I say nothing of her singing, but it is + indeed admirable. I wrote to you lately with regard to her merits; but I + cannot finish this letter without writing further about her, as I have + only recently known her well, so now first discover her great powers. We + dined afterwards at the officers' table. Next day we went some distance to + church, for the Catholic one is rather far away. This was on Sunday. In + the forenoon we dined again with the officers. In the evening there was no + music, because it was Sunday. Thus they have music only 300 times during + the year. In the evening we might have supped at court, but we preferred + being all together at the inn. We would gladly have made them a present + also of the dinners at the officers' table, for we were never so pleased + as when by ourselves; but economy rather entered our thoughts, since we + were obliged to pay heavily enough at the inn. + </p> + <p> + The following day, Monday, we had music again, and also on Tuesday and + Wednesday. Madlle. Weber sang in all thirteen times, and played twice on + the piano, for she plays by no means badly. What surprises me most is, + that she reads music so well. Only think of her playing my difficult + sonatas at sight, SLOWLY, but without missing a single note. I give you my + honor I would rather hear my sonatas played by her than by Vogler. I + played twelve times, and once, by desire, on the organ of the Lutheran + church. I presented the Princess with four symphonies, and received only + seven louis-d'or in silver, and our poor dear Madlle. Weber only five. + This I certainly did not anticipate! I never expected great things, but at + all events I hoped that each of us would at least receive eight + louis-d'or. Basta! We were not, however, losers, for I have a profit of + forty-two florins, and the inexpressible pleasure of becoming better + acquainted with worthy upright Christian people, and good Catholics, I + regret much not having known them long ago. + </p> + <p> + The 4th.—Now comes something urgent, about which I request an + answer. Mamma and I have discussed the matter, and we agree that we do not + like the sort of life the Wendlings lead. Wendling is a very honorable and + kind man, but unhappily devoid of all religion, and the whole family are + the same. I say enough when I tell you that his daughter was a most + disreputable character. Ramm is a good fellow, but a libertine. I know + myself, and I have such a sense of religion that I shall never do anything + which I would not do before the whole world; but I am alarmed even at the + very thoughts of being in the society of people, during my journey, whose + mode of thinking is so entirely different from mine (and from that of all + good people). But of course they must do as they please. I have no heart + to travel with them, nor could I enjoy one pleasant hour, nor know what to + talk about; for, in short, I have no great confidence in them. Friends who + have no religion cannot be long our friends. I have already given them a + hint of this by saying that during my absence three letters had arrived, + of which I could for the present divulge nothing further than that it was + unlikely I should be able to go with them to Paris, but that perhaps I + might come later, or possibly go elsewhere; so they must not depend on me. + I shall be able to finish my music now quite at my ease for De Jean, who + is to give me 200 florins for it. I can remain here as long as I please, + and neither board nor lodging cost me anything. In the meantime Herr Weber + will endeavor to make various engagements for concerts with me, and then + we shall travel together. If I am with him, it is just as if I were with + you. This is the reason that I like him so much; except in personal + appearance, he resembles you in all respects, and has exactly your + character and mode of thinking. If my mother were not, as you know, too + COMFORTABLY LAZY to write, she would say precisely what I do. I must + confess that I much enjoyed my excursion with them. We were pleased and + merry; I heard a man converse just like you; I had no occasion to trouble + myself about anything; what was torn I found repaired. In short, I was + treated like a prince. I am so attached to this oppressed family that my + greatest wish is to make them happy, and perhaps I may be able to do so. + My advice is that they should go to Italy, so I am all anxiety for you to + write to our good friend Lugiati [impresario], and the sooner the better, + to inquire what are the highest terms given to a prima donna in Verona—the + more the better, for it is always easy to accept lower terms. Perhaps it + would be possible to obtain the Ascensa in Venice. I will be answerable + with my life for her singing, and her doing credit to my recommendation. + She has, even during this short period, derived much profit from me, and + how much further progress she will have made by that time! I have no fears + either with regard to her acting. If this plan be realized, M. Weber, his + two daughters, and I, will have the happiness of visiting my dear papa and + dear sister for a fortnight, on our way through Salzburg. My sister will + find a friend and companion in Madlle. Weber, for, like my sister in + Salzburg, she enjoys the best reputation here, owing to the careful way in + which she has been brought up; the father resembles you, and the whole + family that of Mozart. They have indeed detractors, as with us, but when + it comes to the point they must confess the truth; and truth lasts + longest. I should be glad to go with them to Salzburg, that you might hear + her. My air that De' Amicis used to sing, and the bravura aria "Parto m' + affretto," and "Dalla sponda tenebrosa," she sings splendidly. Pray do all + you can to insure our going to Italy together. You know my greatest desire + is—to write operas. + </p> + <p> + I will gladly write an opera for Verona for thirty zecchini, solely that + Madlle. Weber may acquire fame by it; for, if I do not, I fear she may be + sacrificed. Before then I hope to make so much money by visiting different + places that I shall be no loser. I think we shall go to Switzerland, + perhaps also to Holland; pray write to me soon about this. Should we stay + long anywhere, the eldest daughter [Josepha, afterwards Madaine Hofer, for + whom the part of the Queen of the Night in the "Flauto magico" was + written] would be of the greatest use to us; for we could have our own + menage, as she understands cooking. + </p> + <p> + Send me an answer soon, I beg. Don't forget my wish to write an opera; I + envy every person who writes one; I could almost weep from vexation when I + hear or see an aria. But Italian, not German—seria, not buffa! I + have now written you all that is in my heart; my mother is satisfied with + my plan. + </p> + <p> + The mother, however, adds the following postscript:— + </p> + <p> + "No doubt you perceive by the accompanying letter that when Wolfgang makes + new friends he would give his life for them. It is true that she does sing + incomparably; still, we ought not to lose sight of our own interests. I + never liked his being in the society of Wendling and Ramm, but I did not + venture to object to it, nor would he have listened to me; but no sooner + did he know these Webers than he instantly changed his mind. In short, he + prefers other people to me, for I remonstrate with him sometimes, and that + he does not like. I write this quite secretly while he is at dinner, for I + don't wish him to know it." + </p> + <p> + A few days later Wolfgang urges his father still more strongly. + </p> + <p> + <br />92. + </p> + <p> + Mannheim, Feb. 7, 1778. + </p> + <p> + HERR SCHIEDENHOFEN might have let me know long ago through you that his + wedding was soon to take place [see Nos. 7, 10, 19], and I would have + composed a new minuet for the occasion. I cordially wish him joy; but his + is, after all, only one of those money matches, and nothing else! I hope + never to marry in this way; I wish to make my wife happy, but not to + become rich by her means; so I will let things alone, and enjoy my golden + freedom till I am so well off that I can support both wife and children. + Herr Schiedenhofen was forced to choose a rich wife; his title imposed + this on him. The nobility must not marry for love or from inclination, but + from interest, and all kinds of other considerations. It would not at all + suit a grandee to love his wife after she had done her duty, and brought + into the world an heir to the property. But we poor humble people are + privileged not only to choose a wife who loves us, and whom we love, but + we may, can, and do take such a one, because we are neither noble, nor + highborn, nor rich, but, on the contrary, lowly, humble, and poor; we + therefore need no wealthy wife, for our riches being in our heads, die + with us, and these no man can deprive us of unless he cut them off, in + which case we need nothing more. + </p> + <p> + I lately wrote to you my chief reason for not going to Paris with these + people, but another is that I have reflected well on what I have to do in + Paris. I could not get on passably without pupils, which is a kind of work + that does not suit me—of this I have a strong example here. I might + have had two pupils: I went three times to each, but finding one of them + not at home, I never went back. I am willing to give lessons out of + complaisance, especially when I see genius, and inclination and anxiety to + learn; but to be obliged to go to a house at a certain hour, or else to + wait at home, is what I cannot submit to, if I were to gain twice what I + do. I find it impossible, so must leave it to those who can do nothing but + play the piano. I am a composer, and born to become a Kapellmeister, and I + neither can nor ought thus to bury the talent for composition with which + God has so richly endowed me (I may say this without arrogance, for I feel + it now more than ever); and this I should do were I to take many pupils, + for it is a most unsettled metier; and I would rather, SO TO SPEAK, + neglect the piano than composition, for I look on the piano to be only a + secondary consideration, though, thank God! a very strong one too. My + third reason is, that I am by no means sure our friend Grimm is in Paris. + If he is, I can go there at any time with the post-carriage, for a capital + one travels from here to Paris by Strassburg. We intended at all events to + have gone by it. They travel also in this way. Herr Wendling is + inconsolable at my not going with them, but I believe this proceeds more + from self-interest than from friendship. Besides the reason I gave him + (about the three letters that had come during my absence), I also told him + about the pupils, and begged him to procure something certain for me, in + which case I would be only too glad to follow him to Paris, (for I can + easily do so,)—above all, if I am to write an opera, which is always + in my thoughts; but French rather than German, and Italian rather than + French or German. The Wendlings, one and all, are of opinion that my + compositions would please much in Paris. I have no fears on the subject, + for, as you know, I can pretty well adapt or conform myself to any style + of composition. Shortly after my arrival I composed a French song for + Madlle. Gustel (the daughter), who gave me the words, and she sings it + inimitably. I have the pleasure to enclose it for you. It is sung every + day at Wendling's, for they are quite infatuated with it. + </p> + <p> + <br />93. + </p> + <p> + Mannheim, Feb. 14, 1778. + </p> + <p> + I PERCEIVE by your letter of the 9th of February that you have not yet + received my last two letters. Wendling and Kamm leave this early to-morrow + morning. If I thought that you would be really displeased with me for not + going to Paris with them, I should repent having stayed here; but I hope + it is not so. The road to Paris is still open to me. Wendling has promised + to inquire immediately about Herr Grimm, and to send me information at + once. With such a friend in Paris, I certainly shall go there, for no + doubt he will bring something to bear for me. The main cause of my not + going with them is, that we have not been able to arrange about mamma + returning to Augsburg. The journey will not cost much, for there are + vetturini here who can be engaged at a cheap rate. By that time, however, + I hope to have made enough to pay mamma's journey home. Just now I don't + really see that it is possible. Herr de Jean sets off to-morrow for Paris, + and as I have only finished two concertos and three quartets for him, he + sent me 96 florins (having made a mistake of four florins, thinking this + sum the half of the 200); he must, however, pay me in full, for such was + the agreement I made with Wendling, and I can send him the other pieces. + It is not surprising that I have been unable to finish them, for I never + have a single quiet hour here. I can only write at night, so I cannot rise + early; besides, one is not always disposed to work. I could, to be sure, + scrawl away all day, but a thing of this kind goes forth to the world, and + I am resolved not to have cause to be ashamed of my name on the + title-page. Moreover, you know that I become quite obtuse when obliged to + write perpetually for an instrument that I cannot bear; so from time to + time I do something else, such as duets for the piano and violin, and I + also worked at the mass. Now I have begun the pianoforte duets in good + earnest, in order to publish them. If the Elector were only here, I would + very quickly finish the mass; but what must be must be! + </p> + <p> + I am very grateful to you, dear papa, for your fatherly letter; I will + preserve it as a treasure, and always refer to it. Pray do not forget + about my mother's journey from Augsburg to Salzburg, and let me know the + precise day; and I beg you will also remember the arias I mentioned in my + last letter. If I recollect rightly, there are also some cadenzas which I + once jotted down, and at all events an aria cantabile with coloraturas? I + wish to have these first, for they will serve as exercises for Madlle. + Weber. I have just taught her an andantino cantabile of Bach's. Yesterday + there was a concert at Cannabich's, where from first to last all the music + was of my composition, except the first symphony, which was Cannabich's. + Madlle. Rose played my concerto in B, then Herr Ramm (by way of a change) + played for the fifth time the hautboy concerto dedicated to Ferlendi, + which makes a great sensation here. It is now quite Ramm's cheval de + bataille. Madlle. Weber sang De' Amicis's aria di bravura quite + charmingly. Then I played my old concerto in D, because it is such a + favorite here, and likewise extemporized for half an hour, after which + Madlle. Weber sang De' Amicis's air, "Parto m' affretto;" and, as a + finale, my symphony "Il Re Pastore" was given. I do entreat you urgently + to interest yourself in Madlle. Weber; it would make me so happy if + good-fortune were to attend her. Husband and wife, five children, and a + salary of 450 florins! Don't forget about Italy, and my desire to go + there; you know my strong wish and passion. I hope all may go right. I + place my trust in God, who will never forsake us. Now farewell, and don't + forget all my requests and recommendations. + </p> + <p> + These letters alarmed the father exceedingly, so he wrote a long and very + earnest letter to his son as follows:—"The object of your journey + was to assist your parents, and to contribute to your dear sister's + welfare, but, above all, that you might acquire honor and fame in the + world, which you in some degree did in your boyhood; and now it rests + entirely with you to raise yourself by degrees to one of the highest + positions ever attained by any musician. This is a duty you owe to a kind + Providence in return for the remarkable talents with which He has gifted + you; and it depends wholly on your own good sense and good conduct, + whether you become a commonplace artist whom the world will forget, or a + celebrated Capellmeister, of whom posterity will read hereafter in books,—whether, + infatuated with some pretty face, you one day breathe your last on a straw + sack, your wife and children in a state of starvation, or, after a + well-spent Christian life, die peacefully in honor and independence, and + your family well provided for." He goes on to represent to him how little + he has hitherto fulfilled the object of his journey, and, above all, the + folly of wishing to place so young a girl on the Italian stage as a prima + donna, both time and great training being previously required. Moreover, + it would be quite unworthy of him to wander about the world with + strangers, and to compose at random merely for money. "Get off to Paris + without delay. Take your place by the side of really great people. Aut + Caesar aut nihil. The very idea of Paris should have guarded you from all + passing fancies." + </p> + <p> + To this Wolfgang replies:— + </p> + <p> + <br />94. + </p> + <p> + Mannheim, Feb. 19, 1778. + </p> + <p> + I ALWAYS thought that you would disapprove of my journey with the Webers, + but I never had any such intention—I mean, UNDER PRESENT + CIRCUMSTANCES. I gave them my word of honor to write to you to that + effect. Herr Weber does not know how we stand, and I certainly shall tell + it to no one. I wish my position had been such that I had no cause to + consider any one else, and that we were all independent; but in the + intoxication of the moment I forgot the present impossibility of the + affair, and also to tell you what I had done. The reasons of my not being + now in Paris must be evident to you from my last two letters. If my mother + had not first begun on the subject, I certainly would have gone with my + friends; but when I saw that she did not like it, I began to dislike it + also. When people lose confidence in me, I am apt to lose confidence in + myself. The days when, standing on a stool, I sang Oragna fiaguta fa, + [Footnote: Words sounding like Italian, but devoid of meaning, for which + he had invented a melody. Nissen gives it in his Life of Mozart, p. 35.] + and at the end kissed the tip of your nose, are indeed gone by; but still, + have my reverence, love, and obedience towards yourself ever failed on + that account? I say no more. As for your reproach about the little singer + in Munich [see No. 62], I must confess that I was an ass to write such a + complete falsehood. She does not as yet know even what singing means. It + was true that, for a person who had only learned music for three months, + she sang surprisingly; and, besides, she has a pleasing pure voice. The + reason why I praised her so much was probably my hearing people say, from + morning to night, "There is no better singer in all Europe; those who have + not heard her have heard nothing." I did not venture to disagree with + them, partly because I wished to acquire friends, and partly because I had + come direct from Salzburg, where we are not in the habit of contradicting + any one; but as soon as I was alone I never could help laughing. Why, + then, did I not laugh at her in my letter to you? I really cannot tell. + </p> + <p> + The bitter way in which you write about my merry and innocent intercourse + with your brother's daughter, makes me justly indignant; but as it is not + as you think, I require to give you no answer on the subject. I don't know + what to say about Wallerstein; I was very grave and reserved with Becke, + and at the officers' table also I had a very serious demeanor, not saying + one word to anybody. But let this all pass; you only wrote it in a moment + of irritation [see No. 74]. Your remarks about Madlle. Weber are just; but + at the time I wrote to you I knew quite as well as you that she is still + too young, and must be first taught how to act, and must rehearse + frequently on the stage. But with some people one must proceed step by + step. These good people are as tired of being here as—you know WHO + and WHERE, [meaning the Mozarts, father and son, in Salzburg,] and they + think everything feasible. I promised them to write everything to my + father; but when the letter was sent off to Salzburg, I constantly told + her that she must have a little patience, for she was still rather too + young, &c. They take in all I say in good part, for they have a high + opinion of me. By my advice, Herr Weber has engaged Madlle. Toscani (an + actress) to give his daughter lessons in acting. All you write of Madlle. + Weber is true, except, that she sings like a Gabrielli, [see Nos. 10, 37,] + for I should not at all like her to sing in that style. Those who have + heard Gabrielli say, and must say, that she was only an adept in runs and + roulades; but as she adopted so uncommon a reading, she gained admiration, + which, however, did not last longer than hearing her four times. She could + not please in the long run, for roulades soon become very tiresome, and + she had the misfortune of not being able to sing. She was not capable of + sustaining a breve properly, and having no messa di voce, she could not + dwell on her notes; in short, she sang with skill, but devoid of + intelligence. Madlle. Weber's singing, on the contrary, goes to the heart, + and she prefers a cantabile. I have lately made her practise the passages + in the Grand Aria, because, if she goes to Italy, it is necessary that she + should sing bravuras. The cantabile she certainly will never forget, being + her natural bent. Raaff (who is no flatterer), when asked to give his + sincere opinion, said, "She does not sing like a scholar, but like a + professor." + </p> + <p> + So now you know everything. I do still recommend her to you with my whole + heart, and I beg you will not forget about the arias, cadenzas, &c. I + can scarcely write from actual hunger. My mother will display the contents + of our large money-box. I embrace my sister lovingly. She is not to lament + about every trifle, or I will never come back to her. + </p> + <p> + <br />95. + </p> + <p> + Mannheim, Feb. 22, 1778. + </p> + <p> + I HAVE been now two days confined to the house, and taking antispasmodics, + black powders, and elderflower tea as a sudorific, because I have had a + catarrh, a cold in my head, sore throat, headache, pains in my eyes, and + earache; but, thank God, I am now better, and hope to be able to go out + tomorrow, being Sunday. I got your letter of the 16th and the two unsealed + letters of introduction for Paris. I rejoice that my French song pleases + you [see No. 92]. You must forgive my not writing much this time, but I + really cannot—I am so afraid of bringing back my headache, and, + besides, I feel no inclination to write to-day. It is impossible to write + all we think—at least, I find it to be so. I would rather say it + than write it. My last letter told you the whole thing just as it stands. + Believe what you please of me, only nothing bad. There are people who + think no one can love a poor girl without evil designs. But I am no + Brunetti [a violinist in Salzburg], no Misliweczeck. I am a Mozart; and, + though young, still a high-principled Mozart. Pardon me if, in my + eagerness, I become somewhat excited—which is, I suppose, the term, + though I might rather say, if I write as I feel. I might have said a great + deal on this subject, but I cannot—I feel it to be impossible. Among + my many faults I have also that of believing that those friends who know + me, do so thoroughly. Then many words are not necessary; and if they do + not know me, oh! how could I find words sufficient? It is painful enough + to employ words and letters for such a purpose. This, however, is not at + all meant to apply to you, dearest papa. No! You understand me too well, + and you are too kind to try to deprive any one of his good name. I only + meant it for—you can guess to whom I allude—to people who can + believe such a thing. + </p> + <p> + I have resolved to stay in the house to-day, although Sunday, as it is + snowing heavily. To-morrow I must go out, for our "house-nymph," Madlle. + Pierron, my highly esteemed pupil, who has usually a French concert every + Monday, intends to scramble through my hochgrafliche Litzau concerto. I + also mean, for my sins, to let them give me something to hack away at, and + show that I can do something too prima fista; for I am a regular + greenhorn, and all I can do is to strum a little on the piano! I must now + conclude, being more disposed to-day to write music than letters. Don't + forget the cadenzas and the cantabile. Many thanks for having had the + arias written out so quickly, for it shows that you place confidence in me + when I beg a favor of you. + </p> + <p> + <br />96. + </p> + <p> + Mannheim, Feb. 28, 1778. + </p> + <p> + I HOPE to receive the arias next Friday or Saturday, although in your last + letter you made no further mention of them, so I don't know whether you + sent them off on the 22d by the post-carriage. I hope so, for I should + like to play and sing them to Madlle. Weber. I was yesterday at Raafl's to + take him an aria that I lately wrote for him [Kochel, No. 295]. The words + are—"Se al labbro mio non credi, nemica mia." I don't think they are + by Metastasio. The aria pleased him beyond all measure. It is necessary to + be very particular with a man of this kind. I chose these words expressly, + because he had already composed an aria for them, so of course he can sing + it with greater facility, and more agreeably to himself. I told him to say + honestly if it did not suit his voice or please him, for I would alter it + if he wished, or write another. "Heaven forbid!" said he; "it must remain + just as it is, for nothing can be more beautiful. I only wish you to + curtail it a little, for I am no longer able to sustain my voice through + so long a piece." "Most gladly," I answered, "as much as ever you please; + I made it purposely rather long, for it is always easy to shorten, but not + so easy to lengthen." After he had sung the second part, he took off his + spectacles, and, looking at me deliberately, said, "Beautiful! beautiful! + This second part is quite charming;" and he sang it three times. When I + went away he cordially thanked me, while I assured him that I would so + arrange the aria that he would certainly like to sing it. I think an aria + should fit a singer as accurately as a well-made coat. I have also, for + practice, arranged the air "Non so d' onde viene" which has been so + charmingly composed by Bach. Just because I know that of Bach so well, and + it pleases me and haunts my ear, I wished to try if, in spite of all this, + I could succeed in writing an aria totally unlike the other. And, indeed, + it does not in the very least resemble it. I at first intended this aria + for Raaff; but the beginning seemed to me too high for Raaff's voice, but + it pleased me so much that I would not alter it; and from the orchestral + accompaniment, too, I thought it better suited to a soprano. I therefore + resolved to write it for Madlle. Weber. I laid it aside, and took the + words "Se al labbro" for Raaff. But all in vain, for I could write nothing + else, as the first air always came back into my head; so I returned to it, + with the intention of making it exactly in accordance with Madlle. Weber's + voice. It is andante sostenuto, (preceded by a short recitative,) then + follows the other part, Nel seno destarmi, and after this the sostenuto + again. When it was finished, I said to Madlle. Weber, "Learn the air by + yourself, sing it according to your own taste, then let me hear it, and I + will afterwards tell you candidly what pleases and what displeases me." + </p> + <p> + In the course of a couple of days I went to see her, when she sang it for + me and accompanied herself, and I was obliged to confess that she had sung + it precisely as I could have wished, and as I would have taught it to her + myself. This is now the best aria that she has, and will insure her + success whereever she goes. [Footnote: This wonderfully beautiful aria is + appended to my Life of Mozart.—Stuttgart, Bruckmaun, 1863.] + Yesterday at Wendling's I sketched the aria I promised his wife [Madame + Wendling was a fine singer], with a short recitative. The words were + chosen by himself from "Didone": "Ah non lasciarmi no." She and her + daughter quite rave about this air. I promised the daughter also some + French ariettes, one of which I began to-day. I think with delight of the + Concert Spirituel in Paris, for probably I shall be desired to compose + something for it. The orchestra is said to be good and numerous, so my + favorite style of composition can be well given there—I mean + choruses, and I am very glad to hear that the French place so much value + on this class of music. The only fault found with Piccini's [Gluck's + well-known rival] new opera "Roland" is that the choruses are too meagre + and weak, and the music also a little monotonous; otherwise it was + universally liked. In Paris they are accustomed to hear nothing but + Gluck's choruses. Only place confidence in me; I shall strive with all my + might to do honor to the name of Mozart. I have no fears at all on the + subject. + </p> + <p> + My last letters must have shown you HOW THINGS ARE, and WHAT I REALLY + MEANT. I do entreat of you never to allow the thought to cross your mind + that I can ever forget you, for I cannot bear such an idea. My chief aim + is, and always will be, to endeavor that we may meet soon and happily, but + we must have patience. You know even better than I do that things often + take a perverse turn, but they will one day go straight—only + patience! Let us place our trust in God, who will never forsake us. I + shall not be found wanting; how can you possibly doubt me? Surely it + concerns me also to work with all my strength, that I may have the + pleasure and the happiness (the sooner the better, too) of embracing from + my heart my dearest and kindest father. But, lo and behold! nothing in + this world is wholly free from interested motives. If war should break out + in Bavaria, I do hope you will come and join me at once. I place faith in + three friends—and they are powerful and invincible ones—namely, + God, and your head and mine. Our heads are, indeed, very different, but + each in its own way is good, serviceable, and useful; and in time I hope + mine may by degrees equal yours in that class of knowledge in which you at + present surpass me. Farewell! Be merry and of good cheer! Remember that + you have a son who never intentionally failed in his filial duty towards + you, and who will strive to become daily more worthy of so good a father. + </p> + <p> + After these frank confessions, which would, he knew, restore the previous + good understanding between him and his father, Mozart's genuine good heart + was so relieved and lightened, that the natural balance of his mind, which + had for some weeks past been entirely destroyed, was speedily restored, + and his usual lively humor soon began to revive. Indeed, his old delight + in doggerel rhymes and all kinds of silly puns seems to return. He + indulges fully in these in a letter to his Basle (cousin), which is + undoubtedly written just after the previous one. + </p> + <p> + <br />97. + </p> + <p> + Mannheim, Feb. 28, 1778. + </p> + <p> + MADEMOISELLE, MA TRES-CHERE COUSINE,— + </p> + <p> + You perhaps think or believe that I must be dead? Not at all! I beg you + will not think so, for how could I write so beautifully if I were dead? + Could such a thing be possible? I do not attempt to make any excuses for + my long silence, for you would not believe me if I did. But truth is + truth; I have had so much to do that though I have had time to think of my + cousin, I have had no time to write to her, so I was obliged to let it + alone. But at last I have the honor to inquire how you are, and how you + fare? If we soon shall have a talk? If you write with a lump of chalk? If + I am sometimes in your mind? If to hang yourself you're inclined? If + you're angry with me, poor fool? If your wrath begins to cool?—Oh! + you are laughing! VICTORIA! I knew you could not long resist me, and in + your favor would enlist me. Yes! yes! I know well how this is, though I'm + in ten days off to Paris. If you write to me from pity, do so soon from + Augsburg city, so that I may get your letter, which to me would be far + better. + </p> + <p> + Now let us talk of other things. Were you very merry during the Carnival? + They are much gayer at Augsburg at that time than here. I only wish I had + been there that I might have frolicked about with you. Mamma and I send + our love to your father and mother, and to our cousin, and hope they are + well and happy; better so, so better! A propos, how goes on your French? + May I soon write you a French letter? from Paris, I suppose? + </p> + <p> + Now, before I conclude, which I must soon do because I am in haste, + (having just at this moment nothing to do,) and also have no more room, as + you see my paper is done, and I am very tired, and my fingers tingling + from writing so much, and lastly, even if I had room, I don't know what I + could say, except, indeed, a story which I have a great mind to tell you. + So listen! It is not long since it happened, and in this very country too, + where it made a great sensation, for really it seemed almost incredible, + and, indeed, between ourselves, no one yet knows the result of the affair. + So, to be brief, about four miles from here—I can't remember the + name of the place, but it was either a village or a hamlet, or something + of that kind. Well, after all, it don't much signify whether it was called + Triebetrill or Burmsquick; there is no doubt that it was some place or + other. There a shepherd or herdsman lived, who was pretty well advanced in + years, but still looked strong and robust; he was unmarried and + well-to-do, and lived happily. But before telling you the story, I must + not forget to say that this man had a most astounding voice when he spoke; + he terrified people when he spoke! Well! to make my tale as short as + possible, you must know that he had a dog called Bellot, a very handsome + large dog, white with black spots. Well! this shepherd was going along + with his sheep, for he had a flock of eleven thousand under his care, and + he had a staff in his hand, with a pretty rose-colored topknot of ribbons, + for he never went out without his staff; such was his invariable custom. + Now to proceed; being tired, after having gone a couple of miles, he sat + down on a bank beside a river to rest. At last he fell asleep, when he + dreamt that he had lost all his sheep, and this fear awoke him, but to his + great joy he saw his flock close beside him. At length he got up again and + went on, but not for long; indeed, half an hour could scarcely have + elapsed, when he came to a bridge which was very long, but with a parapet + on both sides to prevent any one falling into the river. Well; he looked + at his flock, and as he was obliged to cross the bridge, he began to drive + over his eleven thousand sheep. Now be so obliging as to wait till the + eleven thousand sheep are all safely across, and then I will finish the + story. I already told you that the result is not yet known; I hope, + however, that by the time I next write to you, all the sheep will have + crossed the bridge; but if not, why should I care? So far as I am + concerned, they might all have stayed on this side. In the meantime you + must accept the story so far as it goes; what I really know to be true I + have written, and it is better to stop now than to tell you what is false, + for in that case you would probably have discredited the whole, whereas + now you will only disbelieve one half. + </p> + <p> + I must conclude, but don't think me rude; he who begins must cease, or the + world would have no peace. My compliments to every friend, welcome to kiss + me without end, forever and a day, till good sense comes my way; and a + fine kissing that will be, which frightens you as well as me. Adieu, ma + chere cousine! I am, I was, I have been, oh! that I were, would to heavens + I were! I will or shall be, would, could, or should be—what?—A + blockhead! W. A. M. + </p> + <p> + <br />98. + </p> + <p> + Mannheim, March 7, 1778. + </p> + <p> + I have received your letter on the 26th February, and am much obliged to + you for all the trouble you have taken about the arias, which are quite + accurate in every respect. "Next to God comes papa" was my axiom when a + child, and I still think the same. You are right when you say that + "knowledge is power"; besides, except your trouble and fatigue, you will + have no cause for regret, as Madlle. Weber certainly deserves your + kindness. I only wish that you could hear her sing my new aria which I + lately mentioned to you,—I say, hear her sing it, because it seems + made expressly for her; a man like you who really understands what + portamento in singing means, would certainly feel the most intense + pleasure in hearing her. When I am happily settled in Paris, and our + circumstances, please God, improved, and we are all more cheerful and in + better humor, I will write you my thoughts more fully, and ask you to do + me a great kindness. I must now tell you I was so shocked that tears came + to my eyes, on reading in your last letter that you are obliged to go + about so shabbily dressed. My very dearest papa, this is certainly not my + fault; you know it is not. We economize in every possible way here; food + and lodging, wood and light, cost us nothing, which is all we could hope + for. As for dress, you are well aware that, in places where you are not + known, it is out of the question to be badly dressed, for appearances must + be kept up. + </p> + <p> + My whole hopes are now centred in Paris, for German princes are all + niggards. I mean to work with all my strength, that I may soon have the + happiness of extricating you from your present distressing circumstances. + </p> + <p> + <br />99. + </p> + <p> + Mannheim, March. 11, 1778. + </p> + <p> + I HAVE duly received your letter of the 26th February, and learn from it + with great joy that our best and kindest of all friends, Baron Grimm [the + well-known Encyclopedist, with whom Mozart had become acquainted during + his last visit to France], is now in Paris. The vetturino has offered to + convey us to Paris by Metz (which, as you probably know, is the shortest + route) for eleven louis-d'or. If to-morrow he agrees to do it for ten, I + shall certainly engage him, and perhaps at eleven, for even then it will + be the cheapest way for us, which is the main point, and more convenient + too, for he will take our carriage—that is, he will place the body + on wheels of his own. The convenience is great, as we have so many small + packages that we can stow away quite comfortably in our own carriage, + which we cannot do in the DILIGENCE, and besides we shall be alone and + able to talk as we like. But I do assure you that if, after all, we go in + the DILIGENCE, my sole annoyance is the bore of not being able to say what + we choose and wish, though, as it is very necessary that we should take + the cheapest conveyance, I am still rather disposed to do so. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0004" id="link2H_4_0004"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + THIRD PART.—PARIS.—MARCH 1778 TO JANUARY 1779. + </h2> + <p> + <br />100. + </p> + <p> + Paris, March 24, 1778. + </p> + <p> + YESTERDAY (Monday, the 23d), at four o'clock in the afternoon, we arrived + here, thank God! safely, having been nine days and a half on our journey. + We thought we really could not have gone through with it; in my life I + never was so wearied. You may easily imagine what it was to leave Mannheim + and so many dear kind friends, and then to travel for ten days, not only + without these friends, but without any human being—without a single + soul whom we could associate with or even speak to. Now, thank Heaven! we + are at our destination, and I trust that, with the help of God, all will + go well. To-day we are to take a fiacre and go in quest of Grimm and + Wendling. Early to-morrow I intend to call on the Minister of the + Palatinate, Herr von Sickingen, (a great connoisseur and passionate lover + of music, and for whom I have two letters from Herr von Gemmingen and M. + Cannabich.) Before leaving Mannheim I had the quartet transcribed that I + wrote at Lodi one evening in the inn there, and also the quintet and the + Fischer variations for Herr von Gemmingen [author of the "Deutsche + Hausvater"], on which he wrote me a most polite note, expressing his + pleasure at the souvenir I had left him, and sending me a letter to his + intimate friend Herr von Sickingen, adding, "I feel sure that you will be + a greater recommendation to the letter than the letter can possibly be to + you;" and, to repay the expense of writing out the music, he sent me three + louis-d'or; he also assured me of his friendship, and requested mine in + return. I must say that all those who knew me, Hofrathe, Kammerrathe, and + other high-class people, as well as all the court musicians, were very + grieved and reluctant to see me go; and really and truly so. + </p> + <p> + We left on Saturday, the 14th, and on the previous Thursday there was an + afternoon concert at Cannabich's, where my concerto for three pianos was + given. Madlle. Rose Cannabich played the first, Madlle. Weber the second, + and Madlle. Pierron Serrarius (our "house-nymph") the third. We had three + rehearsals of the concerto, and it went off well. Madlle. Weber sang three + arias of mine, the "Aer tranquillo" from the "Re Pastore," [Footnote: A + festal opera that Mozart had composed in 1775, in honor of the visit of + the Archduke Maximilian Francis to Salzburg.] and the new "Non so d' onde + viene." With this last air my dear Madlle. Weber gained very great honor + both for herself and for me. All present said that no aria had ever + affected them like this one; and, indeed, she sang it as it ought to be + sung. The moment it was finished, Cannabich exclaimed, "Bravo! bravissimo + maestro! veramente scritta da maestro!" It was given for the first time on + this occasion with instruments. I should like you to have heard it also, + exactly as it was executed and sung there, with such precision in time and + taste, and in the pianos and fortes. Who knows? you may perhaps still hear + her. I earnestly hope so. The members of the orchestra never ceased + praising the aria and talking about it. + </p> + <p> + I have many kind friends at Mannheim (both highly esteemed and rich) who + wished very much to keep me there. Well! where I am properly paid, I am + content to be. Who can tell? it may still come to pass. I wish it may; and + thus it ever is with me—I live always in hope. Herr Cannabich is an + honorable, worthy man, and a kind friend of mine. He has only one fault, + which is, that although no longer very young, he is rather careless and + absent,—if you are not constantly before his eyes, he is very apt to + forget all about you. But where the interests of a real friend are in + question, he works like a horse, and takes the deepest interest in the + matter; and this is of great use, for he has influence. I cannot, however, + say much in favor of his courtesy or gratitude; the Webers (for whom I + have not done half so much), in spite of their poverty and obscurity, have + shown themselves far more grateful. Madame Cannabich and her daughter + never thanked me by one single word, much less thought of offering me some + little remembrance, however trifling, merely as a proof of kindly feeling; + but nothing of the sort, not even thanks, though I lost so much time in + teaching the daughter, and took such pains with her. She can now perfectly + well perform before any one; as a girl only fourteen, and an amateur, she + plays remarkably well, and for this they have to thank me, which indeed is + very well known to all in Mannheim. She has now neatness, time, and good + fingering, as well as even shakes, which she had not formerly. They will + find that they miss me much three months hence, for I fear she will again + be spoiled, and spoil herself; unless she has a master constantly beside + her, and one who thoroughly understands what he is about, she will do no + good, for she is still too childish and giddy to practise steadily and + carefully alone. [Footnote: Rosa Cannabich became, indeed, a remarkable + virtuoso. C L. Junker mentions her, even in his musical almanac of 1783, + among the most eminent living artists.] + </p> + <p> + Madlle. Weber paid me the compliment kindly to knit two pairs of mits for + me, as a remembrance and slight acknowledgment. M. Weber wrote out + whatever I required gratis, gave me the music-paper, and also made me a + present of Moliere's Comedies (as he knew that I had never read them), + with this inscription:—"Ricevi, amico, le opere di Moliere, in segno + di gratitudine, e qualche volta ricordati di me." [Footnote: "Accept, my + dear friend, Moliere's works as a token of my gratitude; and sometimes + think of me."] And when alone with mamma he said, "Our best friend, our + benefactor, is about to leave us. There can be no doubt that your son has + done a great deal for my daughter, and interested himself much about her, + and she cannot be too thankful to him." [Footnote: Aloysia Weber became + afterwards Madame Lange. She had great fame as a singer. We shall hear + more of her in the Vienna letters.] The day before I set off, they would + insist on my supping with them, but I managed to give them two hours + before supper instead. They never ceased thanking me, and saying they only + wished they were in a position to testify their gratitude, and when I went + away they all wept. Pray forgive me, but really tears come to my eyes when + I think of it. Weber came down-stairs with me, and remained standing at + the door till I turned the corner and called out Adieu! + </p> + <p> + In Paris he at once plunged into work, so that his love-affair was for a + time driven into the background. Compositions for the Concert Spirituel, + for the theatre, and for dilettanti, as well as teaching and visits to + great people, occupied him. His mother writes: "I cannot describe to you + how much Wolfgang is beloved and praised here. Herr Wendling had said much + in his favor before he came, and has presented him to all his friends. He + can dine daily, if he chooses, with Noverre [the famed ballet-master], and + also with Madame d'Epinay" [Grimm's celebrated friend]. The mother herself + scarcely saw him all day, for on account of their small close apartment, + he was obliged to compose at Director Le Gros's house. She had (womanlike) + written to the father about the composition of a Miserere. Wolfgang + continues the letter, more fully explaining the matter. + </p> + <p> + <br />101. + </p> + <p> + Paris, April 5, 1778. + </p> + <p> + I MUST now explain more, clearly what mamma alludes to, as she has written + rather obscurely. Capellmeister Holzbauer has sent a Miserere here, but as + the choruses at Mannheim are weak and poor, whereas here they are strong + and good, his choruses would make no effect. M. Le Gros (Director of the + Concert Spirituel) requested me therefore to compose others; Holzbauer's + introductory chorus being retained. "Quoniam iniquitatem meam," an + allegro, is the first air by me. The second an adagio, "Ecce enim in + iniquitatibus." Then an allegro, "Ecce enim veritatem dilexisti" to the + "ossa humiliata." Then an andante for soprano, tenor, and bass Soli; "Cor + mundum," and "Redde mihi," allegro to "ad se convertentur." I also + composed a recitative for a bass air, "Libera me de sanguinibus," because + a bass air of Holzbauer's follows. The "sacrificium Deo spiritus" being an + aria andante for Raaff, with a hautboy and a bassoon solo obligato. I have + added a short recitative with hautboy and bassoon, for here recitative is + much liked. "Benigne fac" to "muri Jerusalem" andante moderate. Chorus. + Then "Tunc acceptabis" to "super altare," allegro and tenor solo (Le Gros) + and chorus. Finis. [None of this music is known.] + </p> + <p> + I must say that I am right glad to have done with this task, for it is + really detestable not to be able to write at home, and to be hurried into + the bargain; but now, God be praised! it is finished, and I hope it will + make some effect. M. Gussec, whom you no doubt know, when he saw my first + chorus, said to Le Gros (I was not present) that it was charming, and + could not fail to be successful, that the words were so well arranged, + and, above all, admirably set to music. He is a kind friend of mine, but + very reserved. I am not merely to write an act for an opera, but an entire + one in two acts. The poet has already completed the first act. Noverre + [ballet-master], with whom I dine as often as I please, managed this, and + indeed suggested the idea. I think it is to be called "Alexander and + Roxana." Madame Jenome is also here. I am about to compose a sinfonie + concertante,—flute, Wendling; oboe, Ramm; French horn, Punto; and + bassoon, Ritter. Punto plays splendidly. I have this moment returned from + the Concert Spirituel. Baron Grimm and I often give vent to our wrath at + the music here; N.B.—when tete-a-tete, for in public we call out + "Bravo! bravissimo!" and clap our hands till our fingers tingle. + </p> + <p> + <br />102. + </p> + <p> + Paris, May 1, 1778. + </p> + <p> + THE little violoncellist Zygmatofsky and his unprincipled father are here. + Perhaps I may already have written you this; I only mention it cursorily, + because I just remember that I met him at a house which I must now tell + you about. I mean that of the Duchesse de Chabot. M. Grimm gave me a + letter to her, so I drove there, the purport of the letter being chiefly + to recommend me to the Duchesse de Bourbon, who when I was last here + [during Mozart's first visit to Paris] was in a convent, and to introduce + me afresh to her and recall me to her memory. A week elapsed without the + slightest notice of my visit, but as eight days previously she had + appointed me to call on her, I kept my engagement and went. I waited half + an hour in a large room without any fire, and as cold as ice. At last the + Duchess came in, and was very polite, begging me to make allowances for + her piano, as none of her instruments were in good order, but I might at + least try it. I said that I would most gladly play something, but at this + moment it was impossible, as my fingers were quite benumbed from the cold, + so I asked her at all events to take me to a room where there was a fire. + "Oh! oui, Monsieur, vous avez raison"—was her answer. She then + seated herself, and drew for a whole hour in company with several + gentlemen, all sitting in a circle round a large table, and during this + time I had the honor to wait. The windows and doors were open, so that not + only my hands, but my body and my feet were cold, and my head also began + to ache. Moreover, there was altum silentium, and I really did not know + what to do from cold, headache, and weariness. I again and again thought + to myself, that if it were not on M. Grimm's account I would leave the + house at once. At last, to cut matters short, I played on the wretched, + miserable piano. What however vexed me most of all was, that the Duchess + and all the gentlemen did not cease drawing for a single moment, but + coolly continued their occupation; so I was left to play to the chairs and + tables, and the walls. My patience gave way under such unpropitious + circumstances. I therefore began the Fischer variations, and after playing + one half of them I rose. Then came eulogiums without end. I, however, said + all that could be said—which was, that I could do myself no justice + on such a piano, but I should be very glad to fix some other day to play, + when a better instrument might be found. But the Duchess would not hear of + my going away; so I was obliged to wait till her husband came in, who + placed himself beside me and listened to me with great attention, while, + as for me, I became unconscious of all cold and all headache, and, in + spite of the wretched piano, played as I CAN play when I am in the right + mood. Give me the best piano in Europe, and listeners who understand + nothing, or don't wish to understand, and who do not sympathize with me in + what I am playing, I no longer feel any pleasure. I afterwards told all + this to M. Grimm. + </p> + <p> + You write to me that I ought to pay a good many visits in order to make + new acquaintances, and to renew former ones. This is, however, impossible, + from the distances being so great, and it is too muddy to go on foot, for + really the mud in Paris is beyond all description. To go in a carriage + entails spending four or five livres a day, and all for nothing; it is + true the people say all kinds of civil things, but there it ends, as they + appoint me to come on such and such a day, when I play, and hear them + exclaim, "Oh! c'est un prodige, c'est inconcevable, c'est etonnant!" and + then, Adieu! At first I spent money enough in driving about, and to no + purpose, from not finding the people at home. Unless you lived here, you + could not believe what an annoyance this is. Besides, Paris is much + changed; the French are far from being as polite as they were fifteen + years ago; their manner now borders on rudeness, and they are odiously + self-sufficient. + </p> + <p> + I must proceed to give you an account of the Concert Spirituel. By the by, + I must first briefly tell you that my chorus-labors were in a manner + useless, for Holzbauer's Miserere was too long in itself, and did not + please, so they gave only two of my choruses instead of four, and chose to + leave out the best; but this was of no great consequence, for many there + were not aware that any of the music was by me, and many knew nothing at + all about me. Still, at the rehearsal great approbation was expressed, and + I myself (for I place no great reliance on Parisian praise) was very much + satisfied with my choruses. With regard to the sinfonie concertante there + appears to be a hitch, and I believe that some unseen mischief is at work. + It seems that I have enemies here also; where have I not had them? But + this is a good sign. I was obliged to write the symphony very hurriedly, + and worked very hard at it. The four performers were and are perfectly + enchanted with the piece. Le Gros had it for the last four days to be + copied, but I invariably saw it lying in the same place. Two days ago I + could not find it, though I searched carefully among the music; and at + last I discovered it hidden away. I took no notice, but said to Le Gros, + "A propos, have you given my sinfonie to be copied?" "No; I forgot all + about it." As, of course, I have no power to compel him to have it + transcribed and performed, I said nothing; but I went to the concert on + the two days when the sinfonie was to have been performed, when Ramm and + Punto came to me in the greatest rage to ask me why my sinfonie + concertante was not to be given. "I don't know. This is the first I hear + of it. I cannot tell." Ramm was frantic, and abused Le Gros in the + music-room in French, saying how very unhandsome it was on his part, etc. + I alone was to be kept in the dark! If he had even made an excuse—that + the time was too short, or something of the kind!—but he never said + a syllable. I believe the real cause to be Cambini, an Italian maestro; + for at our first meeting at Le Gros's, I unwittingly took the wind out of + his sails. He composes quintets, one of which I heard at Mannheim; it was + very pretty, so I praised it, and played the beginning to him. Ritter, + Ramm, and Punto were all present, and gave me no peace till I agreed to + continue, and to supply from my own head what I could not remember. I + therefore did so, and Cambini was quite excited, and could not help + saying, "Questa e una gran testa!" Well, I suppose after all he did not + quite relish this, [The symphony in question has also entirely + disappeared.] + </p> + <p> + If this were a place where people had ears to hear or hearts to feel, and + understood just a little of music, and had some degree of taste, these + things would only make me laugh heartily, but as it is (so far as music is + concerned) I am surrounded by mere brute beasts. But how can it be + otherwise? for in all their actions, inclinations, and passions, they are + just the same. There is no place in the world like Paris. You must not + think that I exaggerate when I speak in this way of the music here; refer + to whom you will, except to a Frenchman born, and (if trustworthy) you + will hear the same. But I am now here, and must endure it for your sake. I + shall be grateful to Providence if I get away with my natural taste + uninjured. I pray to God every day to grant me grace to be firm and + steadfast here, that I may do honor to the whole German nation, which will + all redound to His greater honor and glory, and to enable me to prosper + and make plenty of money, that I may extricate you from your present + emergencies, and also to permit us to meet soon, and to live together + happily and contentedly; but "His will be done in earth as it is in + heaven." I entreat you, dearest father, in the meantime, to take measures + that I may see Italy, in order to bring me to life again. Bestow this + great happiness upon me, I implore you! I do hope you will keep up your + spirits; I shall cut my way through here as I best can, and trust I shall + get off safely. Adieu! + </p> + <p> + <br />103. + </p> + <p> + Paris, May 14, 1778. + </p> + <p> + I HAVE already so much to do that I don't know how I am to manage when + winter comes. I think I wrote to you in my last letter that the Duc de + Guines, whose daughter is my pupil in composition, plays the flute + inimitably, and she the harp magnificently; she has a great deal of talent + and genius, and, above all, a wonderful memory, for she plays all her + pieces, about 200 in number, by heart. She, however, doubts much whether + she has any genius for composition, especially as regards ideas or + invention; but her father (who, entre nous, is rather too infatuated about + her) declares that she certainly has ideas, and that she is only diffident + and has too little self-reliance. Well, we shall see. If she acquires no + thoughts or ideas, (for hitherto she really has none whatever,) it is all + in vain, for God knows I can't give her any! It is not the father's + intention to make her a great composer. He says, "I don't wish her to + write operas, or arias, or concertos, or symphonies, but grand sonatas for + her instrument and for mine." I gave her to-day her fourth lesson on the + rules of composition and harmony, and am pretty well satisfied with her. + She made a very good bass for the first minuet, of which I had given her + the melody, and she has already begun to write in three parts; she can do + it, but she quickly tires, and I cannot get her on, for it is impossible + to proceed further as yet; it is too soon, even if she really had genius, + but, alas! there appears to be none; all must be done by rule; she has no + ideas, and none seem likely to come, for I have tried her in every + possible way. Among other things it occurred to me to write out a very + simple minuet, and to see if she could not make a variation on it. Well, + that utterly failed. Now, thought I, she has not a notion how or what to + do first. So I began to vary the first bar, and told her to continue in + the same manner, and to keep to the idea. At length this went tolerably + well. When it was finished, I told her she must try to originate something + herself—only the treble of a melody. So she thought it over for a + whole quarter of an hour, AND NOTHING CAME. Then I wrote four bars of a + minuet, saying to her, "See what an ass I am! I have begun a minuet, and + can't even complete the first part; be so very good as to finish it for + me." She declared this was impossible. At last, with great difficulty, + SOMETHING CAME, and I was only too glad that ANYTHING AT ALL CAME. I told + her then to complete the minuet—that is, the treble only. The task I + set her for the next lesson was to change my four bars, and replace them + by something of her own, and to find out another beginning, even if it + were the same harmony, only changing the melody. I shall see to-morrow + what she has done. + </p> + <p> + I shall soon now, I think, receive the poetry for my two-act opera, when I + must first present it to the Director, M. de Vismes, to see if he will + accept it; but of this there can be no doubt, as it is recommended by + Noverre, to whom De Vismes is indebted for his situation. Noverre, too, is + soon to arrange a new ballet, for which I am to write the music. Rudolf + (who plays the French horn) is in the royal service here, and a very kind + friend of mine; he understands composition thoroughly, and writes well. He + has offered me the place of organist at Versailles if I choose to accept + it: the salary is 2000 livres a year, but I must live six months at + Versailles and the remaining six in Paris, or where I please. I don't, + however, think that I shall close with the offer; I must take the advice + of good friends on the subject. 2000 livres is no such very great sum; in + German money it may be so, but not here. It amounts to 83 louis-d'or 8 + livres a year—that is, 915 florins 45 kreutzers of our money, (which + is certainly a considerable sum,) but only to 383 ecus 2 livres, and that + is not much, for it is frightful to see how quickly a dollar goes here! I + am not at all surprised that so little is thought of a louis-d'or in + Paris, for it does not go far. Four dollars, or a louis-d'or, which are + the same, are gone in no time. Adieu! + </p> + <p> + <br />104. + </p> + <p> + Paris, May 29, 1778. + </p> + <p> + I AM pretty well, thank God! but still I am often puzzled to know what to + make of it all. I feel neither hot nor cold, and don't take much pleasure + in anything. What, however, cheers and strengthens me most is the thought + that you, dearest papa, and my dear sister, are well; that I am an honest + German, and though I cannot SAY, I may at all events THINK what I please, + and, after all, that is the chief thing. Yesterday I was for the second + time at Count Sickingen's, ambassador from the Elector Palatine; (I dined + there once before with Wendling and Ramm.) I don't know whether I told you + what a charming man he is, and a great connoisseur and devoted lover of + music. I passed eight hours quite alone with him. The whole forenoon, and + afternoon too, till ten o'clock at night, we were at the piano, playing + all kind of music, praising, admiring, analyzing, discussing, and + criticizing. He has nearly thirty scores of operas. I must not forget to + tell you that I had the satisfaction of seeing your "School for the + Violin" translated into French; I believe it is about eight years since + the translation appeared. I have just returned from a music-shop where I + went to buy a sonata of Schobert's for one of my pupils, and I mean to go + again soon to examine the book more closely, that I may write to you about + it minutely, for to-day I have not time to do this. + </p> + <p> + <br />105. + </p> + <p> + Paris, June 12, 1778. + </p> + <p> + I MUST now write something that concerns our Raaff. [Footnote: Mozart + wrote the part of Idomeneo for Raaff in the year 1781.] You no doubt + remember that I did not write much in his favor from Mannheim, and was by + no means satisfied with his singing—in short, that he did not please + me at all. The cause, however, was that I can scarcely say I really heard + him at Mannheim. The first time was at the rehearsal of Holzbauer's + "Gunther," when he was in his every-day clothes, his hat on his head, and + a stick in his hand. When he was not singing, he stood looking like a + sulky child. When he began to sing the first recitative, it went tolerably + well, but every now and then he gave a kind of shriek, which I could not + bear. He sang the arias in a most indolent way, and yet some of the notes + with too much emphasis, which is not what I like. This has been an + invariable habit of his, which the Bernacchi school probably entails; for + he is a pupil of Bernacchi's. At court, too, he used to sing all kinds of + airs which, in my opinion, by no means suited his voice; so he did not at + all please me. When at length he made his debut here in the Concert + Spirituel, he sang Bach's scena, "Non so d' onde viene" which is, besides, + my great favorite, and then for the first time I really heard him sing, + and he pleased me—that is, in this class of music; but the style + itself, the Bernacchi school, is not to my taste. He is too apt to fall + into the cantabile. I admit that, when he was younger and in his prime, + this must have made a great impression and taken people by surprise; I + could like it also, but there is too much of it, and it often seems to me + positively ludicrous. What does please me in him is when he sings short + pieces—for instance, andantinos; and he has likewise certain arias + which he gives in a manner peculiar to himself. Let each occupy his proper + place. I fancy that bravura singing was once his forte, which is even + still perceptible in him, and so far as age admits of it he has a good + chest and a long breath; and then his andantino! His voice is fine and + very pleasing; if I shut my eyes and listen to him, I think his singing + very like Meissner's, only Raaff's voice seems to me more agreeable. I + speak of the present time, for I never heard either in his best days. I + can therefore only refer to their style or method of singing, for this a + singer always retains. Meissner, as you know, had the bad habit of + purposely making his voice tremble at times,—entire quavers and even + crotchets, when marked sostenuto,—and this I never could endure in + him. Nothing can be more truly odious; besides, it is a style of singing + quite contrary to nature. The human voice is naturally tremulous, but only + so far as to be beautiful; such is the nature of the voice, and it is + imitated not only on wind instruments, but on stringed instruments, and + even on the piano. But the moment the proper boundary is passed it is no + longer beautiful, because it becomes unnatural. It seems to me then just + like an organ when the bellows are panting. Now Raaff never does this,—in + fact, he cannot bear it. Still, so far as a genuine cantabile goes, + Meissner pleases me (though not altogether, for he also exaggerates) + better than Raaff. In bravura passages and roulades, Raaff is indeed a + perfect master, and he has such a good and distinct articulation, which is + a great charm; and, as I already said, his andantinus and canzonetti are + delightful. He composed four German songs, which are lovely. He likes me + much, and we are very intimate; he comes to us almost every day. I have + dined at least six times with Count von Sickingen, and always stay from + one o'clock till ten. Time, however, flies so quickly in his house that it + passes quite imperceptibly. He seems fond of me, and I like very much + being with him, for he is a most friendly, sensible person, possessing + excellent judgment and a true insight into music, I was there again to-day + with Raaff. I took some music with me, as the Count (long since) asked me + to do so. I brought my newly completed symphony, with which, on Corpus + Christi day, the Concert Spirituel is to commence. The work pleased them + both exceedingly, and I am also well satisfied with it. Whether it will be + popular here, however, I cannot tell, and, to say the truth, I care very + little about it. For whom is it to please? I can answer for its pleasing + the few intelligent Frenchmen who may be there; as for the numskulls—why, + it would be no great misfortune if they were dissatisfied. I have some + hope, nevertheless, that even the dunces among them may find something to + admire. Besides, I have been careful not to neglect le premier coup + d'archet; and that is sufficient. All the wiseacres here make such a fuss + on that point! Deuce take me if I can see any difference! Their orchestra + begins all at one stroke, just as in other places. It is too laughable! + Raaff told me a story of Abaco on this subject. He was asked by a + Frenchman, in Munich or elsewhere,—"Monsieur, vous avez ete a + Paris?" "Oui." "Est-ce que vous etiez au Concert Spirituel?" "Oui." "Que + dites-vous du premier coup d'archet? avez-vous entendu le premier coup + d'archet?" "Oui, j'ai entendu le premier et le dernier." "Comment le + dernier? que veut dire cela?" "Mais oui, le premier et le dernier; et le + dernier meme m'a donne plus de plaisir." [Footnote: The imposing + impression produced by the first grand crash of a numerous orchestra, + commencing with precision, in tutti, gave rise to this pleasantry.] A few + days afterwards his kind mother was taken ill. Even in her letters from + Mannheim she often complained of various ailments, and in Paris also she + was still exposed to the discomfort of cold dark lodgings, which she was + obliged to submit to for the sake of economy; so her illness soon assumed + the worst aspect, and Mozart experienced the first severe trial of his + life. The following letter is addressed to his beloved and faithful + friend, Abbe Bullinger, tutor in Count Lodron's family in Salzburg. + </p> + <p> + (Private.) 106. + </p> + <p> + Paris, July 3, 1778. + </p> + <p> + MY VERY DEAR FRIEND,— + </p> + <p> + Mourn with me! This has been the most melancholy day of my life; I am now + writing at two o'clock in the morning. I must tell you that my mother, my + darling mother, is no more. God has called her to Himself; I clearly see + that it was His will to take her from us, and I must learn to submit to + the will of God. The Lord giveth, and the Lord taketh away. Only think of + all the distress, anxiety, and care I have endured for the last fourteen + days. She died quite unconscious, and her life went out like a light. She + confessed three days before, took the sacrament, and received extreme + unction. The last three days, however, she was constantly delirious, and + to-day, at twenty minutes past five o'clock, her features became + distorted, and she lost all feeling and perception. I pressed her hand, I + spoke to her, but she did not see me, she did not hear me, and all feeling + was gone. She lay thus till the moment of her death, five hours after, at + twenty minutes past ten at night. There was no one present but myself, + Herr Heiner, a kind friend whom my father knows, and the nurse. It is + quite impossible for me to describe the whole course of the illness + to-day. I am firmly convinced that she must have died, and that God had so + ordained it. All I would ask of you at present is to act the part of a + true friend, by preparing my father by degrees for this sad intelligence. + I have written to him by this post, but only that she is seriously ill; + and now I shall wait for your answer and be guided by it. May God give him + strength and courage! My dear friend, I am consoled not only now, but have + been so for some time past. By the mercy of God I have borne it all with + firmness and composure. When the danger became imminent, I prayed to God + for only two things—a happy death for my mother, and strength and + courage for myself; and our gracious God heard my prayer and conferred + these two boons fully on me. I entreat you, therefore, my best friend, to + watch over my father for me; try to inspire him with courage, that the + blow may not be too hard and heavy on him when he learns the worst. I + also, from my heart, implore you to comfort my sister. Pray go straight to + them, but do not tell them she is actually dead—only prepare them + for the truth. Do what you think best, say what you please; only act so + that my mind may be relieved, and that I may not have to dread another + misfortune. Support and comfort my dear father and my dear sister. Answer + me at once, I entreat. Adieu! Your faithful + </p> + <p> + W. A. M. + </p> + <p> + <br />107. + </p> + <p> + Paris, July 3, 1778. + </p> + <p> + MONSIEUR MON TRES-CHER PERE,— + </p> + <p> + I have very painful and sad news to give you, which has, in fact, been the + cause of my not having sooner replied to your letter of the 11th. My + dearest mother is very ill. She has been bled according to her usual + custom, which was indeed very necessary; it did her much good, but a few + days afterwards she complained of shivering and feverishness; then + diarrhoea came on and headache. At first we only used our home remedies, + antispasmodic powders; we would gladly have had recourse to the black + powder, but we had none, and could not get it here. As she became every + moment worse, could hardly speak, and lost her hearing, so that we were + obliged to shout to her, Baron Grimm sent his doctor to see her. She is + very weak, and still feverish and delirious. They do give me some hope, + but I have not much. I hoped and feared alternately day and night for + long, but I am quite reconciled to the will of God, and hope that you and + my sister will be the same. What other resource have we to make us calm? + More calm, I ought to say; for altogether so we cannot be. Whatever the + result may be, I am resigned, knowing that it comes from God, who wills + all things for our good, (however unaccountable they may seem to us;) and + I do firmly believe (and shall never think otherwise) that no doctor, no + man living, no misfortune, no casualty, can either save or take away the + life of any human being—none but God alone. These are only the + instruments that He usually employs, but not always; we sometimes see + people swoon, fall down, and be dead in a moment. When our time does come, + all means are vain,—they rather hurry on death than retard it; this + we saw in the case of our friend Hefner. I do not mean to say by this that + my mother will or must die, or that all hope is at an end; she may recover + and be restored to health, but only if the Lord wills it thus. After + praying to God with all my strength for health and life for my darling + mother, I like to indulge in such consolatory thoughts, and, after doing + so, I feel more cheerful and more calm and tranquil, and you may easily + imagine how much I require comfort. Now for another subject. Let us put + aside these sad thoughts, and still hope, but not too much; we must place + our trust in the Lord, and console ourselves by the thought that all must + go well if it be in accordance with the will of the Almighty, as he knows + best what is most profitable and beneficial both for our temporal and + spiritual welfare. + </p> + <p> + I have composed a symphony for the opening of the Concert Spirituel, which + was performed with great applause on Corpus Christi day. I hear, too, that + there is a notice of it in the "Courrier de l'Europe," and that it has + given the greatest satisfaction. I was very nervous during the rehearsal, + for in my life I never heard anything go so badly. You can have no idea of + the way in which they scraped and scrambled through my symphony twice + over; I was really very uneasy, and would gladly have had it rehearsed + again, but so many things had been tried over that there was no time left. + I therefore went to bed with an aching heart and in a discontented and + angry spirit. Next day I resolved not to go to the concert at all; but in + the evening, the weather being fine, I made up my mind at last to go, + determined that if it went as badly as at the rehearsal, I would go into + the orchestra, take the violin out of the hands of M. La Haussaye, the + first violin, and lead myself. I prayed to God that it might go well, for + all is to His greater honor and glory; and ecce, the symphony began, Raaff + was standing beside me, and just in the middle of the allegro a passage + occurred which I felt sure must please, and there was a burst of applause; + but as I knew at the time I wrote it what effect it was sure to produce, I + brought it in once more at the close, and then rose shouts of "Da capo!" + The andante was also liked, but the last allegro still more so. Having + observed that all last as well as first allegros here begin together with + all the other instruments, and generally unisono, mine commenced with only + two violins, piano for the first eight bars, followed instantly by a + forte; the audience, as I expected, called out "hush!" at the soft + beginning, and the instant the forte was heard began to clap their hands. + The moment the symphony was over I went off in my joy to the Palais Royal, + where I took a good ice, told over my beads, as I had vowed, and went + home, where I am always happiest, and always shall be happiest, or in the + company of some good, true, upright German, who, so long as he is + unmarried, lives a good Christian life, and when he marries loves his + wife, and brings up his children properly. + </p> + <p> + I must give you a piece of intelligence that you perhaps already know—namely, + that the ungodly arch-villain Voltaire has died miserably like a dog—just + like a brute. This is his reward! You must long since have remarked that I + do not like being here, for many reasons, which, however, do not signify + as I am actually here. I never fail to do my very best, and to do so with + all my strength. Well, God will make all things right. I have a project in + my head, for the success of which I daily pray to God. If it be His + almighty will, it must come to pass; but, if not, I am quite contented. I + shall then at all events have done my part. When this is in train, and if + it turns out as I wish, you must then do your part also, or the whole work + would be incomplete. Your kindness leads me to hope that you will + certainly do so. Don't trouble yourself by any useless thoughts on the + subject; and one favor I must beg of you beforehand, which is, not to ask + me to reveal my thoughts more clearly till the time comes. It is very + difficult at present to find a good libretto for an opera. The old ones, + which are the best, are not written in the modern style, and the new ones + are all good for nothing; for poetry, which was the only thing of which + France had reason to be proud, becomes every day worse, and poetry is the + only thing which requires to be good here, for music they do not + understand. There are now two operas in aria which I could write, one in + two acts, and the other in three. The two-act one is "Alexandra et + Roxane," but the author of the libretto is still in the country; the one + in three acts is "Demofonte" (by Metastasio). It is a translation + interspersed with choruses and dancing, and specially adapted to the + French stage. But this one I have not yet got a sight of. Write to me + whether you have Schroter's concertos in Salzburg, or Hullmandell's + sonatas. I should like to buy them to send to you. Both of them are + beautiful. With regard to Versailles, it never was my intention to go + there. I asked the advice of Baron Grimm and other kind friends on the + point, and they all thought just as I did. The salary is not much, and I + should be obliged to live a dreary life for six months in a place where + nothing is to be gained, and my talents completely buried. Whoever enters + the king's service is forgotten in Paris; and then to become an organist! + A good appointment would be most welcome to me, but only that of a + Capellmeister, and a well-paid one too. + </p> + <p> + Now, farewell! Be careful of your health; place your trust in God, and + then you will find consolation. My dearest mother is in the hands of the + Almighty. If He still spares her to us, as I wish He may, we will thank + Him for this blessing, but if He takes her to Himself, all our anguish, + misery, and despair can be of no avail. Let us rather submit with firmness + to His almighty will, in the full conviction that it will prove for our + good, as he does nothing without a cause. Farewell, dearest papa! Do what + you can to preserve your health for my sake. + </p> + <p> + <br />108. + </p> + <p> + Paris, July 9, 1778. + </p> + <p> + I HOPE you are prepared to receive with firmness most melancholy and + painful intelligence. My last letter of the 3d must have shown you that no + good news could be hoped for. That very same day, the 3d, at twenty + minutes past ten at night, my mother fell asleep peacefully in the Lord; + indeed, when I wrote to you she was already in the enjoyment of heavenly + bliss, for all was then over. I wrote to you in the night, and I hope you + and my dear sister will forgive me for this slight but very necessary + deception; for, judging of your grief and sorrow by my own, I could not + prevail on myself to startle you suddenly by such dreadful intelligence; + but I hope you have now summoned up courage to hear the worst, and that, + after at first giving way to natural and only too just anguish and tears, + you will eventually submit to the will of God, and adore His inscrutable, + unfathomable, and all-wise providence. You can easily conceive what I have + had to endure, and what courage and fortitude I required to bear with + composure seeing her become daily worse and worse; and yet our gracious + God bestowed this boon on me. I have, indeed, suffered and wept, but what + did it avail? So I strove to be comforted, and I do hope, my dear father, + that my dear sister and you will do likewise. Weep, weep, as you cannot + fail to weep, but take comfort at last; remember that God Almighty has + ordained it, and how can we rebel against Him? Let us rather pray to Him + and thank Him for His goodness, for she died a happy death. Under these + heart-rending circumstances there were three things that consoled me—my + entire and steadfast submission to the will of God, and the sight of her + easy and blessed death, which made me feel that in a moment she had become + so happy; for how far happier is she now than we are! Indeed, I would fain + at that moment have gone with her. From this wish and longing proceeded my + third source of consolation—namely, that she is not lost to us + forever, that we shall see her again, and live together far more happily + and blessedly than in this world. The time as yet we know not, but that + does not disturb me; when God wills it I am ready. His heavenly and holy + will has been fulfilled. Let us therefore pray a pious Vater unser for her + soul, and turn our thoughts to other matters, for there is a time for + everything. + </p> + <p> + I write this in the house of Madame d'Epinay and M. Grimm, with whom I now + live; I have a pretty little room with a very agreeable prospect, and am + as happy as it is possible to be under my present circumstances. It will + be a great aid in restoring my tranquillity, to hear that my dear father + and sister submit with calmness and fortitude to the will of God, and + trust Him with their whole heart, in the entire belief that He orders all + for the best. My dearest father, do not give way! My dearest sister, be + firm! You do not as yet know your brother's kind heart, because he has not + yet had an opportunity to prove it. Remember, my loved ones both, that you + have a son and a brother anxious to devote all his powers to make you + happy, knowing well that the day must come when you will not be hostile to + his wish and his desire,—not certainly such as to be any discredit + to him,—and that you will do all that lies in your power to make him + happy. Oh! then we shall all live together as peacefully, honorably, and + contentedly as it is possible to do in this world, and at last in God's + good time all meet again above—the purpose for which we were + destined and created. + </p> + <p> + I received your last letter of the 29th, and see with pleasure that you + are both, thank God! in good health. I could not help laughing heartily at + Haydn's tipsy fit. Had I been there, I certainly should have whispered in + his ear "Adlgasser!" It is really disgraceful in so clever a man to render + himself incapable by his own folly of performing his duties at a festival + instituted in honor of God; when the Archbishop too and his whole court + were present, and the church full of people, it was quite + abominable.[Footnote: The father had written, "Haydn (organist of the + church of the Holy Trinity) played the organ in the afternoon at the + Litany, and the Te Deum laudamus, but in such a dreadful manner that we + were quite startled, and thought he was about to undergo the fate of the + deceased Adlgasser [who was seized with paralysis when playing the organ] + It turned out, however, that he was only rather intoxicated, so his head + and hands did not agree"] This is one of my chief reasons for detesting + Salzburg—those coarse, slovenly, dissipated court musicians, with + whom no honest man of good breeding could possibly live! instead of being + glad to associate with them, he must feel ashamed of them. It is probably + from this very cause that musicians are neither loved nor respected with + us. If the orchestra were only organised like that at Mannheim! I wish you + could see the subordination that prevails there—the authority + Cannabich exercises; where all is done in earnest. Cannabich, who is the + best director I ever saw, is both beloved and feared by his subordinates, + who, as well as himself, are respected by the whole town. But certainly + they behave very differently, have good manners, are well dressed (and do + not go to public-houses to get drunk). This can never be the case in + Salzburg, unless the Prince will place confidence either in you or me and + give us full powers, which are indispensable to a conductor of music; + otherwise it is all in vain. In Salzburg every one is master—so no + one is master. If I were to undertake it, I should insist on exercising + entire authority. The Grand Chamberlain must have nothing to say as to + musical matters, or on any point relating to music. Not every person in + authority can become a Capellmeister, but a Capellmeister must become a + person of authority. + </p> + <p> + By the by, the Elector is again in Mannheim. Madame Cannabich and also her + husband correspond with me. If what I fear were to come to pass, and it + would be a sad pity if it did,—namely, that the orchestra were to be + much diminished,—I still cherish one hope. You know that there is + nothing I desire more than a good appointment,—good in reputation, + and good in money,—no matter where, provided it be in a Catholic + country. You fenced skilfully indeed with Count Stahremberg [FOOTNOTE: A + prebendary of Salzburg, to whom the father had "opened his heart," and + told him all that had occurred in Salzburg. Wolfgang's reinstatement in + his situation was being negotiated at the time.] throughout the whole + affair; only continue as you have begun, and do not allow yourself to be + deluded; more especially be on your guard if by any chance you enter into + conversation with that silly goose—-; [FOOTNOTE: He probably alludes + to the Archbishop's sister, Countess Franziska von Walles, who did the + honors of her brother's court, and who, no doubt, also interfered in this + matter.] I know her, and believe me, though she may have sugar and honey + on her lips, she has gall and wormwood in her head and in her heart. It is + quite natural that the whole affair should still be in an unsettled state, + and many things must be conceded before I could accept the offer; and even + if every point were favorably adjusted, I would rather be anywhere than at + Salzburg. But I need not concern myself on the matter, for it is not + likely that all I ask should be granted, as I ask a great deal. Still it + is not impossible; and if all were rightly organized, I would no longer + hesitate, but solely for the happiness of being with you. If the + Salzburgers wish to have me, they must comply with my wishes, or they + shall never get me. + </p> + <p> + So the Prelate of Baumburg has died the usual prelatical death; but I had + not heard that the Prelate of the Holy Cross [in Augsburg] was also dead. + I grieve to hear it, for he was a good, honest, upright man. So you had no + faith in Deacon Zeschinger [see No. 68] being made prelate? I give you my + honor I never conjectured anything else; indeed, I do not know who else + could have got it; and what better prelate could we have for music? + </p> + <p> + My friend Raaff leaves this to-morrow; he goes by Brussels to + Aix-la-Chapelle and Spa, and thence to Mannheim, when he is to give me + immediate notice of his arrival, for we mean to correspond. He sends + numerous greetings to you and to my sister. You write that you have heard + nothing for a very long time of my pupil in composition; very true, but + what can I say about her? She will never be a composer; all labor is vain + with her, for she is not only vastly stupid, but also vastly lazy. + </p> + <p> + I had previously answered you about the opera. As to Noverre's ballet, I + only wrote that he might perhaps arrange a new one. He wanted about one + half to complete it, and this I set to music. That is, six pieces are + written by others, consisting entirely of old trumpery French airs; the + symphony and contre-danses, and about twelve more pieces, are contributed + by me. This ballet has already been given four times with great applause. + I am now positively determined to write nothing more without previously + knowing what I am to get for it: but this was only a friendly act towards + Noverre. Herr Wendling left this last May. If I were to see Baron Bach, I + must have very good eyes, for he is not here but in London. Is it possible + that I did not tell you this? You shall find that, in future, I will + answer all your letters minutely. It is said that Baron Bach will soon + return here; I should be glad of that for many reasons, especially because + at his house there will be always opportunity to try things over in good + earnest. Capellmeister Bach will also soon be here; I believe he is + writing an opera. The French are, and always will be, downright donkeys; + they can do nothing themselves, so they must have recourse to foreigners. + I talked to Piccini at the Concert Spirituel; he is always most polite to + me and I to him when we do by chance meet. Otherwise I do not seek much + acquaintance, either with him or any of the other composers; they + understand their work and I mine, and that is enough. I already wrote to + you of the extraordinary success my symphony had in the Concert Spirituel. + If I receive a commission to write an opera, I shall have annoyance + enough, but this I shall not much mind, being pretty well accustomed to it—if + only that confounded French language were not so detestable for music! It + is, indeed, too provoking; even German is divine in comparison. And then + the singers—but they do not deserve the name, for they do not sing, + but scream and bawl with all their might through their noses and throats. + I am to compose a French oratorio for the ensuing Lent, to be given at the + Concert Spirituel. M. Le Gros (the director) is amazingly well-disposed + towards me. You must know that (though I used to see him every day) I have + not been near him since Easter; I felt so indignant at his not having my + symphony performed. I was often in the same house visiting Raaff, and thus + passed his rooms constantly. His servants often saw me, when I always sent + him my compliments. It is really a pity he did not give the symphony—it + would have been a good hit; and now he has no longer the opportunity to do + so, for how seldom are four such performers to be found together! One day, + when I went to call on Raaff, I was told that he was out, but would soon + be home; so I waited. M. Le Gros came into the room and said, "It is + really quite a marvel to have the pleasure of seeing you once more." "Yes; + I have a great deal to do." "I hope you will stay and dine with us + to-day?" "I regret that I cannot, being already engaged." "M. Mozart, we + really must soon spend a day together." "It will give me much pleasure." A + long pause; at length, "A propos, are you disposed to write a grand + symphony for me for Corpus Christi day?" "Why not?" "May I then rely on + this?" "Oh, yes! if I may, with equal confidence, rely on its being + performed, and that it will not fare like the sinfonie concertante." This + opened the flood-gates; he excused himself in the best way he could, but + did not find much to say. In short, the symphony [Kochel, No. 297] was + highly approved of; and Le Gros is so satisfied with it that he says it is + his very best symphony. The andante, however, has not the good fortune to + please him; he declares that it has too many modulations, and is too long. + He derives this opinion from the audience forgetting to clap their hands + as loudly, and to be as vociferous, as at the end of the first and last + movements. But this andante is a great favorite WITH MYSELF, as well as + with all connoisseurs, amateurs, and the greater part of those who heard + it. It is the exact reverse of what Le Gros says, for it is both simple + and short. But in order to satisfy him (and no doubt some others) I have + written a fresh one. Each good in its own way—each having a + different character. The last pleases me the best. The first good + opportunity I have, I will send you this sinfonie concertante, and also + the "School for the Violin," some pieces for the piano, and Vogler's book + ("Ton Wissenschaft und Kunst"), and then I hope to have your opinion of + them. On August 15th, Ascension Day, my sinfonie, with the new andante, is + to be performed for the second time. The sinfonie is in Re, the andante in + Sol, for here one must not say in D or in G. Le Gros is now all for me. + </p> + <p> + Take comfort and pray without ceasing; this is the only resource we have. + I hope you will cause a holy mass to be said in Maria Plain and in + Loretto. I have done so here. As for the letter to Herr Bahr, I don't + think it is necessary to send it to me; I am not as yet acquainted with + him; I only know that he plays the clarionet well, but is in other + respects no desirable companion, and I do not willingly associate with + such people; no credit is derived from them, and I really should feel + positively ashamed to give him a letter recommending me to him—even + if he could be of service to me; but it so happens that he is by no means + in good repute here. Many do not know him at all. Of the two Staunitz, the + junior only is here [Mannheim composer]. The elder of the two (the + veritable Hafeneder composer) is in London. They are wretched scribblers, + gamblers, and drunkards, and not the kind of people for me. The one now + here has scarcely a coat to his back. By the by, if Brunetti should ever + be dismissed, I would be glad to recommend a friend of mine to the + Archbishop as first violin; he is a most worthy man, and very steady. I + think he is about forty years of age, and a widower; his name is + Rothfischer. He is Concertmeister at Kirchheim-Boland, with the Princess + of Nassau-Weilberg [see No. 91]. Entre nous, he is dissatisfied, for he is + no favorite with his Prince—that is, his music is not. He urged me + to forward his interests, and it would cause me real pleasure to be of use + to him, for never was there such a kind man. + </p> + <p> + <br />109. + </p> + <p> + Paris, July 18, 1778. + </p> + <p> + I HOPE you got my last two letters. Let us allude no more to their chief + purport. All is over; and were we to write whole pages on the subject, we + could not alter the fact. + </p> + <p> + The principal object of this letter is to congratulate my dear sister on + her name-day. I think I wrote to you that M. Raaff had left this, but that + he is my very true and most particular friend, and I can entirely depend + on his regard. I could not possibly write to you, because I did not myself + know that he had so much affection for me. Now, to write a story properly, + one ought to begin from the beginning. I ought to tell you, first, that + Raaff lodged with M. Le Gros. It just occurs to me that you already know + this; but what am I to do? It is written, and I can't begin the letter + again, so I proceed. When he arrived, we happened to be at dinner. This, + too, has nothing to do with the matter; it is only to let you know that + people do dine in Paris, as elsewhere. When I went home I found a letter + for me from Herr Weber, and the bearer of it was Raaff. If I wished to + deserve the name of a historian, I ought here to insert the contents of + this letter; and I can with truth say that I am very reluctant to decline + giving them. But I must not be too prolix; to be concise is a fine thing, + which you can see by my letter. The third day I found him at home and + thanked him; it is always advisable to be polite. I no longer remember + what we talked about. An historian must be unusually dull who cannot + forthwith supply some falsehood—I mean some romance. Well! we spoke + of the fine weather; and when we had said our say, we were silent, and I + went away. Some days after—though what day it was I really forget, + but one day in the week assuredly—I had just seated myself, at the + piano of course; and Ritter, the worthy Holzbeisser, was sitting beside + me. Now, what is to be deduced from that? A great deal. Raaff had never + heard me at Mannheim except at a concert, where the noise and uproar was + so great that nothing could be heard; and HE had such a miserable piano + that I could not have done myself any justice on it. Here, however, the + instrument was good, and I saw Raaff sitting opposite me with a + speculative air; so, as you may imagine, I played some preludes in the + Fischietti method, and also played a florid sonata in the style and with + the fire, spirit, and precision of Haydn, and then a fugue with all the + skill of Lipp, Silber, and Aman. [Footnote: Fischietti was Capellmeister + in Salzburg; Michael Haydn and Lipp, organists.] My fugue-playing has + everywhere gained me the greatest applause. When I had quite finished, + (Raaff all the time calling out Bravo! while his countenance showed his + true and sincere delight,) I entered into conversation with Ritter, and + among other things said that I by no means liked being here; adding, "The + chief cause of this is music; besides, I can find no resources here, no + amusement, no agreeable or sociable intercourse with any one,—especially + with ladies, many of whom are disreputable, and those who are not so are + deficient in good breeding." Ritter could not deny that I was right. Raaff + at last said, smiling, "I can quite believe it, for M. Mozart is not + WHOLLY here to admire the Parisian beauties; one half of him is elsewhere—where + I have just come from." This of course gave rise to much laughing and + joking; but Raaff presently said, in a serious tone, "You are quite right, + and I cannot blame you; she deserves it, for she is a sweet, pretty, good + girl, well educated, and a superior person with considerable talent." This + gave me an excellent opportunity strongly to recommend my beloved Madlle. + Weber to him; but there was no occasion for me to say much, as he was + already quite fascinated by her. He promised me, as soon as he returned to + Mannheim, to give her lessons, and to interest himself in her favor. I + ought, by rights, to insert something here, but I must first finish the + history of our friendship; if there is still room, I may do so. He was in + my eyes only an every-day acquaintance, and no more; but I often sat with + him in his room, so by degrees I began to place more confidence in him, + and at last told him all my Mannheim history,—how I had been + bamboozled and made a fool of, adding that perhaps I might still get an + appointment there. He neither said yes nor no; and on every occasion when + I alluded to it he seemed each time more indifferent and less interested + in the matter. At last, however, I thought I remarked more complacency in + his manner, and he often, indeed, began to speak of the affair himself. I + introduced him to Herr Grimm and to Madame d'Epinay. On one occasion he + came to me and said that he and I were to dine with Count Sickingen some + day soon; adding, "The Count and I were conversing together, and I said to + him, 'A propos, has your Excellency heard our Mozart?' 'No; but I should + like very much both to see and to hear him, for they write me most + astonishing things about him from Mannheim.' 'When your Excellency does + hear him, you will see that what has been written to you is rather too + little than too much.' 'Is it possible?' 'Beyond all doubt, your + Excellency.'" Now, this was the first time that I had any reason to think + Raaff interested in me. Then it went on increasing, and one day I asked + him to come home with me; and after that he often came of his own accord, + and at length every day. The day after he left this, a good-looking man + called on me in the forenoon with a picture, and said, "Monsieur, je viens + de la part de ce Monsieur," showing me a portrait of Raaff, and an + admirable likeness. Presently he began to speak German; and it turned out + that he was a painter of the Elector's, whom Raaff had often mentioned to + me, but always forgot to take me to see him. I believe you know him, for + it must be the very person Madame Urspringer, of Mayence, alludes to in + her letter, because he says he often met us at the Urspringers'. His name + is Kymli. He is a most kind, amiable man, well-principled, honorable, and + a good Christian; one proof of which is the friendship between him and + Raaff. Now comes the best evidence of Raaff's regard for me, and the + sincere interest he takes in my welfare: it is, that he imparts his + intentions rather to those whom he can trust than to those more + immediately concerned, being unwilling to promise without the certainty of + a happy result. This is what Kymli told me. Raaff asked him to call on me + and to show me his portrait, to see me often, and to assist me in every + way, and to establish an intimate friendship with me. It seems he went to + him every morning, and repeatedly said to Kymli, "I was at Herr Mozart's + again yesterday evening; he is, indeed, a wonderful little fellow; he is + an out-and-outer, and no mistake!" and was always praising me. He told + Kymli everything, and the whole Mannheim story—in short, all. The + fact is, that high-principled, religious, and well-conducted people always + like each other. Kymli says I may rest assured that I am in good hands. + "Raaff will certainly do all he can for you, and he is a prudent man who + will set to work cleverly; he will not say that it is your wish, but + rather your due. He is on the best footing with the Oberststallmeister. + Rely on it, he will not be beat; only you must let him go his own way to + work." One thing more. Father Martini's letter to Raaff, praising me, must + have been lost. Raaff had, some time since, a letter from him, but not a + word about me in it. Possibly it is still lying in Mannheim; but this is + unlikely, as I know that, during his stay in Paris, all his letters have + been regularly forwarded to him. As the Elector justly entertains a very + high opinion of the Padre Maestro, I think it would be a good thing if you + would be so kind as to apply to him to write again about me to Raaff; it + might be of use, and good Father Martini would not hesitate to do a + friendly thing twice over for me, knowing that he might thus make my + fortune. He no doubt would express the letter in such a manner that it + could be shown, if need be, to the Elector. Now enough as to this; my wish + for a favorable issue is chiefly that I may soon have the happiness of + embracing my dear father and sister. Oh! how joyously and happily we shall + live together! I pray fervently to God to grant me this favor; a new leaf + will at last be turned, please God! In the fond hope that the day will + come, and the sooner the better, when we shall all be happy, I mean, in + God's name, to persevere in my life here, though so totally opposed to my + genius, inclinations, knowledge, and sympathies. Believe me, this is but + too true,—I write you only the simple truth. If I were to attempt to + give you all my reasons, I might write my fingers off and do no good. For + here I am, and I must do all that is in my power. God grant that I may not + thus impair my talents; but I hope it will not continue long enough for + that. God grant it! By the by, the other day an ecclesiastic called on me. + He is the leader of the choir at St. Peter's, in Salzburg, and knows you + very well; his name is Zendorff; perhaps you may not remember him? He + gives lessons here on the piano—in Paris. N. B., have not you a + horror of the very name of Paris? I strongly recommend him as organist to + the Archbishop; he says he would be satisfied with three hundred florins. + Now farewell! Be careful of your health, and strive to be cheerful. + Remember that possibly you may ere long have the satisfaction of tossing + off a good glass of Rhenish wine with your son—your truly happy son. + Adieu! + </p> + <p> + <br />20th.—Pray forgive my being so late in sending you my + congratulations, but I wished to present my sister with a little prelude. + The mode of playing it I leave to her own feeling. This is not the kind of + prelude to pass from one key to another, but merely a capriccio to try + over a piano. My sonatas [Kochel, Nos. 301-306] are soon to be published. + No one as yet would agree to give me what I asked for them, so I have been + obliged at last to give in, and to let them go for 15 louis-d'or. It is + the best way too to make my name known here. As soon as they appear I will + send them to you by some good opportunity (and as economically as + possible) along with your "School for the Violin," Vogler's book, + Hullmandel's sonatas, Schroter's concertos, some of my pianoforte sonatas, + the sinfonie concertante, two quartets for the flute, and a concerto for + harp and flute [Kochel, No. 298, 299]. + </p> + <p> + Pray, what do you hear about the war? For three days I was very depressed + and sorrowful; it is, after all, nothing to me, but I am so sensitive that + I feel quickly interested in any matter. I heard that the Emperor had been + defeated. At first it was reported that the King of Prussia had surprised + the Emperor, or rather the troops commanded by Archduke Maximilian; that + two thousand had fallen on the Austrian side, but fortunately the Emperor + had come to his assistance with forty thousand men, but was forced to + retreat. Secondly, it was said that the King had attacked the Emperor + himself, and entirely surrounded him, and that if General Laudon had not + come to his relief with eighteen hundred cuirassiers, he would have been + taken prisoner; that sixteen hundred cuirassiers had been killed, and + Laudon himself shot dead. I have not, however, seen this in any newspaper, + but to-day I was told that the Emperor had invaded Saxony with forty + thousand troops. Whether the news be true I know not. This is a fine + griffonage, to be sure! but I have not patience to write prettily; if you + can only read it, it will do well enough. A propos, I saw in the papers + that, in a skirmish between the Saxons and Croats, a Saxon captain of + grenadiers named Hopfgarten had lost his life, and was much lamented. Can + this be the kind, worthy Baron Hopfgarten whom we knew at Paris with Herr + von Bose? I should grieve if it were, but I would rather he died this + glorious death than have sacrificed his life, as too many young men do + here, to dissipation and vice. You know this already, but it is now worse + than ever. + </p> + <p> + N. B. I hope you will be able to decipher the end of the prelude; you need + not be very particular about the time; it is the kind of thing that may be + played as you feel inclined. I should like to inflict twenty-five stripes + on the sorry Vatel's shoulders for not having married Katherl. Nothing is + more shameful, in my opinion, than to make a fool of an honest girl, and + to play her false eventually; but I hope this may not be the case. If I + were her father, I would soon put a stop to the affair. + </p> + <p> + <br />110. + </p> + <p> + Paris, July 31, 1778. + </p> + <p> + I HOPE you have got my two letters of the 11th and 18th. Meantime I have + received yours of the 13th and 20th. The first brought tears of sorrow to + my eyes, as I was reminded by it of the sad death of my darling mother, + and the whole scene recurred vividly to me. Never can I forget it while I + live. You know that (though I often wished it) I had never seen any one + die, and the first time I did so it was fated to be my own mother! My + greatest misery was the thoughts of that hour, and I prayed earnestly to + God for strength. I was heard, and strength was given to me. Melancholy as + your letter made me, still I was inexpressibly happy to find that you both + bear this sorrow as it ought to be borne, and that my mind may now be at + ease about my beloved father and sister. As soon as I read your letter, my + first impulse was to throw myself on my knees, and fervently to thank our + gracious God for this blessing. I am now comparatively happy, because I + have no longer anything to dread on account of the two persons who are + dearest to me in this world; had it been otherwise, such a terrible + misfortune would have utterly overwhelmed me. Be careful therefore of your + precious health for my sake, I entreat, and grant to him who flatters + himself that he is now what you love most in the world the joy and + felicity soon to embrace you. + </p> + <p> + Your last letter also caused my tears to flow from joy, as it convinced me + more than ever of your fatherly love and care. I shall strive with all my + might still more to deserve your affection. I thank you for the powder, + but am sure you will be glad to hear that I do not require to use it. + During my dear mother's illness it would have been very useful, but now, + thank God! I am perfectly well and healthy. At times I have fits of + melancholy, but the best way to get rid of them is by writing or receiving + letters, which always cheers me; but, believe me, these sad feelings never + recur without too good cause. You wish to have an account of her illness + and every detail connected with it; that you shall have; but I must ask + you to let it be short, and I shall only allude to the principal facts, as + the event is over, and cannot, alas! now be altered, and I require some + space to write on business topics. + </p> + <p> + In the first place, I must tell you that NOTHING could have saved my + mother. No doctor in the world could have restored her to health. It was + the manifest will of God; her time was come, and God chose to take her to + Himself. You think she put off being bled too long? it may be so, as she + did delay it for a little, but I rather agree with the people here, who + dissuaded her from being bled at all. The cause of my mother's illness was + internal inflammation. After being bled she rallied for some days, but on + the 19th she complained of headache, and for the first time stayed in bed + the whole day. On the 20th she was seized first with shivering and then + with fever, so I gave her an anti-spasmodic powder. I was at that time + very anxious to send for another doctor, but she would not allow me to do + so, and when I urged her very strongly, she told me that she had no + confidence in any French medical man. I therefore looked about for a + German one. I could not, of course, go out and leave her, but I anxiously + waited for M. Heina, who came regularly every day to see us; but on this + occasion two days passed without his appearing. At last he came, but as + our doctor was prevented paying his usual visit next day, we could not + consult with him; in fact, he did not come till the 24th. The previous + day, when I had been expecting him so eagerly, I was in great trouble, for + my mother suddenly lost her sense of hearing. The doctor, an old German + about seventy, gave her rhubarb in wine. I could not understand this, as + wine is usually thought heating; but when I said so, every one exclaimed, + "How can you say so? Wine is not heating, but strengthening; water is + heating." And all the time the poor invalid was longing for a drink of + fresh water. How gladly would I have complied with her wish! My dear + father, you cannot conceive what I went through, but nothing could be + done, except to leave her in the hands of the physician. All that I could + do with a good conscience, was to pray to God without ceasing, that He + would order all things for her good. I went about as if I had altogether + lost my head. I had ample leisure then to compose, but I was in such a + state that I could not have written a single note. The 25th the doctor did + not come; on the 26th he visited her again. Imagine my feelings when he + all at once said to me, "I fear she will scarcely live through the night; + she may die at any moment. You had better see that she receives the + sacrament." So I hurried off to the end of the Chaussee d'Antin, and went + on beyond the Barriere to find Heina, knowing that he was at a concert in + the house of some count. He said that he would bring a German priest with + him next morning. On my way back I looked in on Madame d'Epinay and M. + Grimm for a moment as I passed. They were distressed that I had not spoken + sooner, as they would at once have sent their doctor. I did not tell them + my reason, which was, that my mother would not see a French doctor. I was + hard put to it, as they said they would send their physician that very + evening. When I came home, I told my mother that I had met Herr Heina with + a German priest, who had heard a great deal about me and was anxious to + hear me play, and that they were both to call on me next day. She seemed + quite satisfied, and though I am no doctor, still seeing that she was + better I said nothing more. I find it impossible not to write at full + length—indeed, I am glad to give you every particular, for it will + be more satisfactory to you; but as I have some things to write that are + indispensable, I shall continue my account of the illness in my next + letter. In the mean time you must have seen from my last letter, that all + my darling mother's affairs and my own are in good order. When I come to + this point, I will tell you how things were arranged. Heina and I + regulated everything ourselves. + </p> + <p> + Now for business. Do not allow your thoughts to dwell on what I wrote, + asking your permission not to reveal my ideas till the proper time + arrived. Pray do not let it trouble you. I cannot yet tell you about it, + and if I did, I should probably do more harm than good; but, to + tranquillize you, I may at least say that it only concerns myself. Your + circumstances will be made neither better nor worse, and until I see you + in a better position I shall think no more about the matter. If the day + ever arrives when we can live together in peace and happiness, (which is + my grand object),—when that joyful time comes, and God grant it may + come soon!—then the right moment will have arrived, and the rest + will depend on yourself. Do not, therefore, discompose yourself on the + subject, and be assured that in every case where I know that your + happiness and peace are involved, I shall invariably place entire + confidence in you, my kind father and true friend, and detail everything + to you minutely. If in the interim I have not done so, the fault is not + solely mine. [FOOTNOTE: He had evidently in his thoughts, what was indeed + manifest in his previous letters, a speedy marriage with his beloved + Aloysia.] M. Grimm recently said to me, "What am I to write to your + father? What course do you intend to pursue? Do you remain here, or go to + Mannheim?" I really could not help laughing: "What could I do at Mannheim + now? would that I had never come to Paris! but so it is. Here I am, and I + must use every effort to get forward." "Well," said he, "I scarcely think + that you will do much good here." "Why? I see a number of wretched + bunglers who make a livelihood, and why, with my talents, am I to fail? I + assure you that I like being at Mannheim, and wish very much to get some + appointment there, but it must be one that is honorable and of good + repute. I must have entire certainty on the subject before I move a step." + "I fear," said he, "that you are not sufficiently active here—you + don't go about enough." "Well," said I, "that is the hardest of all for me + to do." Besides, I could go nowhere during my mother's long illness, and + now two of my pupils are in the country, and the third (the Duke de + Guines's daughter) is betrothed, and means no longer to continue her + lessons, which, so far as my credit is concerned, does not distress me + much. It is no particular loss to me, for the Duke only pays me what every + one else does. Only imagine! I went to his house every day for two hours, + being engaged to give twenty-four lessons, (but it is the custom here to + pay after each twelve lessons.) They went into the country, and when they + came back ten days afterwards, I was not apprised of it; had I not by + chance inquired out of mere curiosity, I should not have known that they + were here. When I did go, the governess took out her purse and said to me, + "Pray excuse my only paying you at present for twelve lessons, for I have + not enough money." This is a noble proceeding! She then gave me three + louis-d'or, adding, "I hope you are satisfied; if not, I beg you will say + so." M. le Duc can have no sense of honor, or probably thinks that I am + only a young man and a thick-headed German, (for this is the way in which + the French always speak of us,) and that I shall be quite contented. The + thick-headed German, however, was very far from being contented, so he + declined receiving the sum offered. The Duke intended to pay me for one + hour instead of two, and all from economy. As he has now had a concerto of + mine for harp and flute, for the last four months, which he has not yet + paid me for, I am only waiting till the wedding is over to go to the + governess and ask for my money. What provokes me most of all is that these + stupid Frenchmen think I am still only seven years old, as they saw me + first when I was that age. This is perfectly true, for Madame d'Epinay + herself told me so quite seriously. I am therefore treated here like a + beginner, except by the musicians, who think very differently; but most + votes carry the day! + </p> + <p> + After my conversation with Grimm, I went the very next day to call on + Count Sickingen. He was quite of my opinion that I ought to have patience + and wait till Raaff arrives at his destination, who will do all that lies + in his power to serve me. If he should fail, Count Sickingen has offered + to procure a situation for me at Mayence. In the mean time my plan is to + do my utmost to gain a livelihood by teaching, and to earn as much money + as possible. This I am now doing, in the fond hope that some change may + soon occur; for I cannot deny, and indeed at once frankly confess, that I + shall be delighted to be released from this place. Giving lessons is no + joke here, and unless you wear yourself out by taking a number of pupils, + not much money can be made. You must not think that this proceeds from + laziness. No! it is only quite opposed to my genius and my habits. You + know that I am, so to speak, plunged into music,—that I am occupied + with it the whole day,—that I like to speculate, to study, and to + reflect. Now my present mode of life effectually prevents this. I have, + indeed, some hours at liberty, but those few hours are more necessary for + rest than for work. + </p> + <p> + I told you already about the opera. One thing is certain—I must + compose a great opera or none. If I write only smaller ones, I shall get + very little, for here everything is done at a fixed price, and if it + should be so unfortunate as not to please the obtuse French, it is all up + with it. I should get no more to write, have very little profit, and find + my reputation damaged. If, on the other hand, I write a great opera, the + remuneration is better, I am working in my own peculiar sphere, in which I + delight, and I have a greater chance of being appreciated, because in a + great work there is more opportunity to gain approval. I assure you that + if I receive a commission to write an opera, I have no fears on the + subject. It is true that the devil himself invented their language, and I + see the difficulties which all composers have found in it. But, in spite + of this, I feel myself as able to surmount these difficulties as any one + else. Indeed, when I sometimes think in my own mind that I may look on my + opera as a certainty, I feel quite a fiery impulse within me, and tremble + from head to foot, through the eager desire to teach the French more fully + how to know, and value, and fear the Germans. Why is a great opera never + intrusted to a Frenchman? Why is it always given to a foreigner? To me the + most insupportable part of it will be the singers. Well, I am ready. I + wish to avoid all strife, but if I am challenged I know how to defend + myself. If it runs its course without a duel, I should prefer it, for I do + not care to wrestle with dwarfs. + </p> + <p> + God grant that some change may soon come to pass! In the mean time I shall + certainly not be deficient in industry, trouble, and labor. My hopes are + centred on the winter, when every one returns from the country. My heart + beats with joy at the thought of the happy day when I shall once more see + and embrace you. + </p> + <p> + The day before yesterday my dear friend Weber, among other things, wrote + to me that the day after the Elector's arrival it was publicly announced + that he was to take up his residence in Munich, which came like a + thunder-clap on Mannheim, wholly, so to say, extinguishing the universal + illumination by which the inhabitants had testified their joy on the + previous day. The fact was also communicated to all the court musicians, + with the addition that each was at liberty to follow the court to Munich + or to remain in Mannheim, (retaining the same salaries,) and in a + fortnight each was to give a written and sealed decision to the Intendant. + Weber, who is, as you know, in the most miserable circumstances, wrote as + follows:—"I anxiously desire to follow my gracious master to Munich, + but my decayed circumstances prevent my doing so." Before this occurred + there was a grand court concert, where poor Madlle. Weber felt the fangs + of her enemies; for on this occasion she did not sing! It is not known who + was the cause of this. Afterwards there was a concert at Herr von + Gemmingen's, where Count Seeau also was. She sang two arias of mine, and + was so fortunate as to please, in spite of those Italian scoundrels [the + singers of Munich], those infamous charlatans, who circulated a report + that she had very much gone off in her singing. When her songs were + finished, Cannabich said to her, "Mademoiselle, I hope you will always + continue to fall off in this manner; tomorrow I will write to M. Mozart in + your praise." One thing is certain; if war had not already broken out, the + court would by this time have been transferred to Munich. Count Seeau, who + is quite determined to engage Madlle. Weber, would have left nothing + undone to insure her coming to Munich, so that there was some hope that + the family might have been placed in better circumstances; but now that + all is again quiet about the Munich journey, these poor people may have to + wait a long time, while their debts daily accumulate. If I could only help + them! Dearest father, I recommend them to you from my heart. If they could + even for a few years be in possession of 1000 florins! + </p> + <p> + <br />111. + </p> + <p> + To HERR BULLINGER. + </p> + <p> + Paris, August 7, 1778. + </p> + <p> + MY VERY DEAR FRIEND,— + </p> + <p> + Allow me above all to thank you most warmly for the proof of friendship + you gave me by your interest in my dear father—first in preparing, + and then kindly consoling him for his loss [see No. 106]. You played your + part admirably. These are my father's own words. My kind friend, how can I + sufficiently thank you? You saved my father for me. I have you to thank + that I still have him. Permit me to say no more on the subject, and not to + attempt to express my gratitude, for I feel too weak and incompetent to do + so. My best friend, I am forever your debtor; but patience! It is too true + that I am not yet in a position to repay what I owe you, but rely on it + God will one day grant me the opportunity of showing by deeds what I am + unable to express by words. Such is my hope; till that happy time, + however, arrives, allow me to beg you to continue your precious and valued + friendship to me, and also to accept mine afresh, now and forever; to + which I pledge myself in all sincerity of heart. It will not, indeed, be + of much use to you, but not on that account less sincere and lasting. You + know well that the best and truest of all friends are the poor. The rich + know nothing of friendship, especially those who are born to riches, and + even those whom fate enriches often become very different when fortunate + in life. But when a man is placed in favorable circumstances, not by + blind, but reasonable good fortune and merit, who during his early and + less prosperous days never lost courage, remaining faithful to his + religion and his God, striving to be an honest man and good Christian, + knowing how to value his true friends,—in short, one who really + deserves better fortune,—from such a man no ingratitude is to be + feared. + </p> + <p> + I must now proceed to answer your letter. You can be under no further + anxiety as to my health, for you must have ere this received three letters + from me. The first, containing the sad news of my mother's death, was + enclosed, my dear friend, to you. You must forgive my silence on the + subject, but my thoughts recur to it constantly. You write that I should + now think only of my father, tell him frankly all my thoughts, and place + entire confidence in him. How unhappy should I be if I required this + injunction! It was expedient that you should suggest it, but I am happy to + say (and you will also be glad to hear it) that I do not need this advice. + In my last letter to my dear father, I wrote to him all that I myself know + up to this time, assuring him that I would always keep him minutely + informed of everything, and candidly tell him my intentions, as I place + entire faith in him, being confident of his fatherly care, love, and + goodness. I feel assured that at a future day he will not deny me a + request on which my whole happiness in life depends, and which (for he + cannot expect anything else from me) will certainly be quite fair and + reasonable. My dear friend, do not let my father read this. You know him; + he would only fancy all kinds of things, and to no purpose. + </p> + <p> + Now for our Salzburg affair. You, my dear friend, are well aware how I do + hate Salzburg, not only on account of the injustice shown to my father and + myself there, which was in itself enough to make us wish to forget such a + place, and to blot it out wholly from our memory. But do not let us refer + to that, if we can contrive to live respectably there. To live respectably + and to live happily, are two very different things; but the latter I never + could do short of witchcraft,—it would indeed be supernatural if I + did,—so this is impossible, for in these days there are no longer + any witches. Well, happen what may, it will always be the greatest + possible pleasure to me to embrace my dear father and sister, and the + sooner the better. Still I cannot deny that my joy would be twofold were + this to be elsewhere, for I have far more hope of living happily anywhere + else. Perhaps you may misunderstand me, and think that Salzburg is on too + small a scale for me. If so, you are quite mistaken. I have already + written some of my reasons to my father. In the mean time, let this one + suffice, that Salzburg is no place for my talent. In the first place, + professional musicians are not held in much consideration; and, secondly, + one hears nothing. There is no theatre, no opera there; and if they really + wished to have one, who is there to sing? For the last five or six years + the Salzburg orchestra has always been rich in what is useless and + superfluous, but very poor in what is useful and indispensable; and such + is the case at the present moment. Those cruel French are the cause of the + band there being without a Capellmeister. [FOOTNOTE: The old + Capellmeister, Lolli, had died a short time previously.] I therefore feel + assured that quiet and order are now reigning in the orchestra. This is + the result of not making provision in time. Half a dozen Capellmeisters + should always be held in readiness, that, if one fails, another can + instantly be substituted. But where, at present, is even ONE to be found? + And yet the danger is urgent. It will not do to allow order, quiet, and + good-fellowship to prevail in the orchestra, or the mischief would still + further increase, and in the long run become irremediable. Is there no + ass-eared old periwig, no dunderhead forthcoming, to restore the concern + to its former disabled condition? I shall certainly do my best in the + matter. To-morrow I intend to hire a carriage for the day, and visit all + the hospitals and infirmaries, to see if I can't find a Capellmeister in + one of them. Why were they so improvident as to allow Misliweczeck to give + them the slip, and he so near too? [See No. 64.] He would have been a + prize, and one not so easy to replace,—freshly emerged, too, from + the Duke's Clementi Conservatorio. He was just the man to have awed the + whole court orchestra by his presence. Well, we need not be uneasy: where + there is money there are always plenty of people to be had. My opinion is + that they should not wait too long, not from the foolish fear that they + might not get one at all,—for I am well aware that all these + gentlemen are expecting one as eagerly and anxiously as the Jews do their + Messiah,—but simply because things cannot go on at all under such + circumstances. It would therefore be more useful and profitable to look + out for a Capellmeister, there being NONE at present, than to write in all + directions (as I have been told) to secure a good female singer. + </p> + <p> + [FOOTNOTE: In order the better to conciliate Wolfgang, Bullinger had been + desired to say that the Archbishop, no longer satisfied with Madlle. + Haydn, intended to engage another singer; and it was hinted to Mozart, + that he might be induced to make choice of Aloysia Weber; (Jahn, ii. 307.) + Madlle. Haydn was a daughter of Lipp, the organist, and sent by the + Archbishop to Italy to cultivate her voice. She did not enjoy a very good + reputation.] + </p> + <p> + I really can scarcely believe this. Another female singer, when we have + already so many, and all admirable! A tenor, though we do not require one + either, I could more easily understand—but a prima donna, when we + have still Cecarelli! It is true that Madlle. Haydn is in bad health, for + her austere mode of life has been carried too far. There are few of whom + this can be said. I wonder that she has not long since lost her voice from + her perpetual scourgings and flagellations, her hair-cloth, unnatural + fasts, and night-prayers! But she will still long retain her powers, and + instead of becoming worse, her voice will daily improve. When at last, + however, she departs this life to be numbered among the saints, we still + have five left, each of whom can dispute the palm with the other. So you + see how superfluous a new one is. But, knowing how much changes and + novelty and variety are liked with us, I see a wide field before me which + may yet form an epoch. [FOOTNOTE: Archbishop Hieronymus, in the true + spirit of Frederick the Great, liked to introduce innovations with an + unsparing hand; many, however, being both necessary and beneficent.] Do + your best that the orchestra may have a leg to stand on, for that is what + is most wanted. A head they have [the Archbishop], but that is just the + misfortune; and till a change is made in this respect, I will never come + to Salzburg. When it does take place, I am willing to come and to turn + over the leaf as often as I see V. S. [volti subito] written. Now as to + the war [the Bavarian Succession]. So far as I hear, we shall soon have + peace in Germany. The King of Prussia is certainly rather alarmed. I read + in the papers that the Prussians had surprised an Imperial detachment, but + that the Croats and two Cuirassier regiments were near, and, hearing the + tumult, came at once to their rescue, and attacked the Prussians, placing + them between two fires, and capturing five of their cannon. The route by + which the Prussians entered Bohemia is now entirely cut up and destroyed. + The Bohemian peasantry do all the mischief they can to the Prussians, who + have besides constant desertions among their troops; but these are matters + which you must know both sooner and better than we do. But I must write + you some of our news here. The French have forced the English to retreat, + but it was not a very hot affair. The most remarkable thing is that, + friends and foes included, only 100 men were killed. In spite of this, + there is a grand jubilation here, and nothing else is talked of. It is + also reported that we shall soon have peace. It is a matter of + indifference to me, so far as this place is concerned; but I should indeed + be very glad if we were soon to have peace in Germany, for many reasons. + Now farewell! Your true friend and obedient servant, + </p> + <p> + WOLFGANG ROMATZ. + </p> + <p> + <br />112. + </p> + <p> + St. Germains, August 27, 1778. + </p> + <p> + I WRITE to you very hurriedly; you will see that I am not in Paris. Herr + Bach, from London [Johann Christian], has been here for the last + fortnight. He is going to write a French opera, and is only come for the + purpose of hearing the singers, and afterwards goes to London to complete + the opera, and returns here to put it on the stage. You may easily imagine + his joy and mine when we met again; perhaps his delight may not be quite + as sincere as mine, but it must be admitted that he is an honorable man + and willing to do justice to others. I love him from my heart (as you + know), and esteem him; and as for him, there is no doubt that he praises + me warmly, not only to my face, but to others also, and not in the + exaggerated manner in which some speak, but in earnest. Tenducci is also + here, Bach's dearest friend, and he expressed the greatest delight at + seeing me again. I must now tell you how I happen to be at St. Germains. + The Marechal de Noailles lives here, as you no doubt know, (for I am told + I was here fifteen years ago, though I don't remember it.) Tenducci is a + great favorite of his, and as he is exceedingly partial to me, he was + anxious to procure me this acquaintance. I shall gain nothing here, a + trifling present perhaps, but at the same time I do not lose, for it costs + me nothing; and even if I do not get anything, still I have made an + acquaintance that may be very useful to me. I must make haste, for I am + writing a scena for Tenducci, which is to be given on Sunday; it is for + pianoforte, hautboy, horn, and bassoon, the performers being the + Marechal's own people—Germans, who play very well. I should like to + have written to you long since, but just as I had begun the letter (which + is now lying in Paris) I was obliged to drive to St. Germains, intending + to return the same day, and I have now been here a week. I shall return to + Paris as soon as I can, though I shall not lose much there by my absence, + for I have now only one pupil, the others being in the country. I could + not write to you from here either, because we were obliged to wait for an + opportunity to send a letter to Paris. I am quite well, thank God, and + trust that both of you are the same. You must have patience—all goes + on slowly; I must make friends. France is not unlike Germany in feeding + people with encomiums, and yet there is a good hope that, by means of your + friends, you may make your fortune. One lucky thing is, that food and + lodging cost me nothing. When you write to the friend with whom I am + staying [Herr Grimm], do not be too obsequious in your thanks. There are + some reasons for this which I will write to you some other time. The rest + of the sad history of the illness will follow in the next letter. You + desire to have a faithful portrait of Rothfischer? He is an attentive, + assiduous director, not a great genius, but I am very much pleased with + him, and, best of all, he is the kindest creature, with whom you can do + anything—if you know how to set about it, of course. He directs + better than Brunetti, but is not so good in solo-playing. He has more + execution, and plays well in his way, (a little in the old-fashioned + Tartini mode,) but Brunetti's style is more agreeable. The concertos which + he writes for himself are pretty and pleasant to listen to, and also to + play occasionally. Who can tell whether he may not please? At all events, + he plays a thousand million times better than Spitzeger, and, as I already + said, he directs well, and is active in his calling. I recommend him to + you heartily, for he is the most good-natured man! Adieu! + </p> + <p> + <br />113. + </p> + <p> + Paris, Sept. 11, 1778. + </p> + <p> + I HAVE received your three letters. I shall only reply to the last, being + the most important. When I read it, (Heina was with me and sends you his + regards,) I trembled with joy, for I fancied myself already in your arms. + True it is (and this you will yourself confess) that no great stroke of + good fortune awaits me; still, when I think of once more embracing you and + my dear sister, I care for no other advantage. This is indeed the only + excuse I can make to the people here, who are vociferous that I should + remain in Paris; but my reply invariably is, "What would you have? I am + content, and that is everything; I have now a place I can call my home, + and where I can live in peace and quiet with my excellent father and + beloved sister. I can do what I choose when not on duty. I shall be my own + master, and have a certain competency; I may leave when I like, and travel + every second year. What can I wish for more?" The only thing that disgusts + me with Salzburg, and I tell you of it just as I feel it, is the + impossibility of having any satisfactory intercourse with the people, and + that musicians are not in good repute there, and—that the Archbishop + places no faith in the experience of intelligent persons who have seen the + world. For I assure you that people who do not travel (especially artists + and scientific men) are but poor creatures. And I at once say that if the + Archbishop is not prepared to allow me to travel every second year, I + cannot possibly accept the engagement. A man of moderate talent will never + rise above mediocrity, whether he travels or not, but a man of superior + talents (which, without being unthankful to Providence, I cannot deny that + I possess) deteriorates if he always remains in the same place. If the + Archbishop would only place confidence in me, I could soon make his music + celebrated; of this there can be no doubt. I also maintain that my journey + has not been unprofitable to me—I mean, with regard to composition, + for as to the piano, I play it as well as I ever shall. One thing more I + must settle about Salzburg, that I am not to take up the violin as I + formerly did. I will no longer conduct with the violin; I intend to + conduct, and also accompany airs, with the piano. It would have been a + good thing to have got a written agreement about the situation of + Capellmeister, for otherwise I may have the honor to discharge a double + duty, and be paid only for one, and at last be superseded by some + stranger. My dear father, I must decidedly say that I really could not + make up my mind to take this step were it not for the pleasure of seeing + you both again; I wish also to get away from Paris, which I detest, though + my affairs here begin to improve, and I don't doubt that if I could bring + myself to endure this place for a few years, I could not fail to succeed. + I am now pretty well known—that is, the people all know ME, even if + I don't know them. I acquired considerable fame by my two symphonies; and + (having heard that I was about to leave) they now really want me to write + an opera, so I said to Noverre, "If you will be responsible for its BEING + PERFORMED as soon as it is finished, and will name the exact sum that I am + to receive for it, I will remain here for the next three months on + purpose," for I could not at once decline, or they would have thought that + I distrusted myself. This was not, however, done; and I knew beforehand + that they could not do it, for such is not the custom here. You probably + know that in Paris it is thus:—When the opera is finished it is + rehearsed, and if these stupid Frenchmen do not think it good it is not + given, and the composer has had all his trouble for nothing; if they + approve, it is then put on the stage; as its popularity increases, so does + the rate of payment. There is no certainty. I reserve the discussion of + these matters till we meet, but I must candidly say that my own affairs + begin to prosper. It is no use trying to hurry matters—chi va piano, + va sano. My complaisance has gained me both friends and patrons; were I to + write you all, my fingers would ache. I will relate it to you personally + and place it clearly before you. M. Grimm may be able to help CHILDREN, + but not grown-up people; and—but no, I had better not write on the + subject. Yet I must! Do not imagine that he is the same that he was; were + it not for Madame d'Epinay, I should be no longer in this house. And he + has no great cause to be so proud of his good deeds towards me, for there + were four houses where I could have had both board and lodging. The worthy + man does not know that, if I had remained in Paris, I intended to have + left him next month to go to a house that, unlike his, is neither stupid + nor tiresome, and where a man has not constantly thrown in his face that a + kindness has been done him. Such conduct is enough to cause me to forget a + benefit, but I will be more generous than he is. I regret not remaining + here only because I should have liked to show him that I do not require + him, and that I can do as much as his Piccini, although I am only a + German! The greatest service he has done me consists in fifteen louis-d'or + which he lent me bit by bit during my mother's life and at her death. Is + he afraid of losing them? If he has a doubt on the subject, then he + deserves to be kicked, for in that case he must mistrust my honesty (which + is the only thing that can rouse me to rage) and also my talents; but the + latter, indeed, I know he does, for he once said to me that he did not + believe I was capable of writing a French opera. I mean to repay him his + fifteen louis-d'or, with thanks, when I go to take leave of him, + accompanied by some polite expressions. My poor mother often said to me, + "I don't know why, but he seems to me somehow changed." But I always took + his part, though I secretly felt convinced of the very same thing. He + seldom spoke of me to any one, and when he did, it was always in a stupid, + injudicious, or disparaging way. He was constantly urging me to go to see + Piccini, and also Caribaldi,—for there is a miserable opera buffa + here,—but I always said, "No, I will not go a single step," &c. + In short, he is of the Italian faction; he is insincere himself, and + strives to crush me. This seems incredible, does it not? But still such is + the fact, and I give you the proof of it. I opened my whole heart to him + as a true friend, and a pretty use he made of this! He always gave me bad + advice, knowing that I would follow it; but he only succeeded in two or + three instances, and latterly I never asked his opinion at all, and if he + did advise me to do anything, I never did it, but always appeared to + acquiesce, that I might not subject myself to further insolence on his + part. + </p> + <p> + But enough of this; we can talk it over when we meet. At all events, + Madame d'Epinay has a better heart. The room I inhabit belongs to her, not + to him. It is the invalid's room—that is, if any one is ill in the + house, he is put there; it has nothing to recommend it except the view,—only + four bare walls, no chest of drawers—in fact, nothing. Now you may + judge whether I could stand it any longer. I would have written this to + you long ago, but feared you would not believe me. I can, however, no + longer be silent, whether you believe me or not; but you do believe me, I + feel sure. I have still sufficient credit with you to persuade you that I + speak the truth. I board too with Madame d'Epinay, and you must not + suppose that he pays anything towards it, but indeed I cost her next to + nothing. They have the same dinner whether I am there or not, for they + never know when I am to be at home, so they can make no difference for me; + and at night I eat fruit and drink one glass of wine. All the time I have + been in their house, now more than two months, I have not dined with them + more than fourteen times at most, and with the exception of the fifteen + louis-d'or, which I mean to repay with thanks, he has no outlay whatever + on my account but candles, and I should really be ashamed of myself more + than of him, were I to offer to supply these; in fact I could not bring + myself to say such a thing. This is my nature. Recently, when he spoke to + me in such a hard, senseless, and stupid way, I had not nerve to say that + he need not be alarmed about his fifteen louis-d'or, because I was afraid + of offending him; I only heard him calmly to the end, when I asked whether + he had said all he wished—and then I was off! He presumes to say + that I must leave this a week hence—IN SUCH HASTE IS HE. I told him + it was impossible, and my reasons for saying so. "Oh! that does not + matter; it is your father's wish." "Excuse me, in his last letter he wrote + that he would let me know in his next when I was to set off." "At all + events hold yourself in readiness for your journey." But I must tell you + plainly that it will be impossible for me to leave this before the + beginning of next month, or at the soonest the end of the present one, for + I have still six arias to write, which will be well paid. I must also + first get my money from Le Gros and the Duc de Guines; and as the court + goes to Munich the end of this month, I should like to be there at the + same time to present my sonatas myself to the Electress, which perhaps + might bring me a present. I mean to sell my three concertos to the man who + has printed them, provided he gives me ready money for them; one is + dedicated to Jenomy, another to Litzau; the third is in B. I shall do the + same with my six difficult sonatas, if I can; even if not much, it is + better than nothing. Money is much wanted on a journey. As for the + symphonies, most of them are not according to the taste of the people + here; if I have time, I mean to arrange some violin concertos from them, + and curtail them; in Germany we rather like length, but after all it is + better to be short and good. In your next letter I shall no doubt find + instructions as to my journey; I only wish you had written to me alone, + for I would rather have nothing more to do with Grimm. I hope so, and in + fact it would be better, for no doubt our friends Geschwender and Heina + can arrange things better than this upstart Baron. Indeed, I am under + greater obligations to Heina than to him, look at it as you will by the + light of a farthing-candle. I expect a speedy reply to this, and shall not + leave Paris till it comes. I have no reason to hurry away, nor am I here + either in vain or fruitlessly, because I shut myself up and work, in order + to make as much money as possible. I have still a request, which I hope + you will not refuse. If it should so happen, though I hope and believe it + is not so, that the Webers are not in Munich, but still at Mannheim, I + wish to have the pleasure of going there to visit them. It takes me, I + own, rather out of my way, but not much—at all events it does not + appear much to me. I don't believe, after all, that it will be necessary, + for I think I shall meet them in Munich; but I shall ascertain this + to-morrow by a letter. If it is not the case, I feel beforehand that you + will not deny me this happiness. My dear father, if the Archbishop wishes + to have a new singer, I can, by heavens! find none better than her. He + will never get a Teyberin or a De' Amicis, and the others are assuredly + worse. I only lament that when people from Salzburg flock to the next + Carnival, and "Rosamunde" is given, Madlle. Weber will not please, or at + all events they will not be able to judge of her merits as they deserve, + for she has a miserable part, almost that of a dumb personage, having only + to sing some stanzas between the choruses. She has one aria where + something might be expected from the ritournelle; the voice part is, + however, alla Schweitzer, as if dogs were yelping. There is only one air, + a kind of rondo in the second act, where she has an opportunity of + sustaining her voice, and thus showing what she can do. Unhappy indeed is + the singer who falls into Schweitzer's hands; for never while he lives + will he learn how to write for the voice. When I go to Salzburg I shall + certainly not fail to plead zealously for my dear friend; in the mean time + you will not neglect doing all you can in her favor, for you cannot cause + your son greater joy. I think of nothing now but the pleasure of soon + embracing you. Pray see that everything the Archbishop promised you is + made quite secure, and also what I stipulated, that my place should be at + the piano. My kind regards to all my friends, and to Herr Bullinger in + particular. How merry shall we be together! I have all this already in my + thoughts, already before my eyes. Adieu! + </p> + <p> + <br />114. + </p> + <p> + Nancy, Oct. 3, 1778. + </p> + <p> + PRAY excuse my not having told you of my journey previous to leaving + Paris. But I really cannot describe to you the way in which the whole + affair was hurried forward, contrary to my expectations, wish, or will. At + the very last moment I wanted to send my luggage to Count Sickingen's, + instead of to the bureau of the diligence, and to remain some days longer + in Paris. This, I give you my honor, I should at once have done had I not + thought of you, for I did not wish to displease you. We can talk of these + matters better at Salzburg. But one thing more—only fancy how Herr + Grimm deceived me, saying that I was going by the diligence, and should + arrive at Strassburg in five days; and I did not find out till the last + day that it was quite another carriage, which goes at a snail's pace, + never changes horses, and is ten days on the journey. You may easily + conceive my rage; but I only gave way to it when with my intimate friends, + for in his presence I affected to be quite merry and pleased. When I got + into the carriage, I received the agreeable information that we should be + travelling for twelve days. So this is an instance of Grimm's good sense! + It was entirely to save money that he sent me by this slow conveyance, not + adverting to the fact that the expense would amount to the same thing from + the constant living at inns. Well, it is now past. What vexed me most in + the whole affair was his not being straightforward with me. He spared his + own money, but not mine, as he paid for my journey, but not for my board. + If I had stayed eight or ten days longer in Paris, I could have paid my + own journey, and made it comfortably. + </p> + <p> + I submitted to this conveyance for eight days, but longer I could not + stand it—not on account of the fatigue, for the carriage was well + hung, but from want of sleep. We were off every morning at four o'clock, + and thus obliged to rise at three. Twice I had the satisfaction of being + forced to get up at one o'clock in the morning, as we were to set off at + two. You know that I cannot sleep in a carriage, so I really could not + continue this without the risk of being ill. I would have taken the post, + but it was not necessary, for I had the good fortune to meet with a person + who quite suited me—a German merchant who resides in Paris, and + deals in English wares. Before getting into the carriage we exchanged a + few words, and from that moment we remained together. We did not take our + meals with the other passengers, but in our own room, where we also slept. + I was glad to meet this man, for, being a great traveller, he understands + it well. He also was very much disgusted with our carriage; so we proceed + to-morrow by a good conveyance, which does not cost us much, to + Strassburg. You must excuse my not writing more, but when I am in a town + where I know no one, I am never in a good humor; though I believe that if + I had friends here I should like to remain, for the town is indeed + charming—handsome houses, spacious streets, and superb squares. + </p> + <p> + I have one request to make, which is to give me a large chest in my room + that I may have all my things within my reach. I should like also to have + the little piano that Fischietti and Rust had, beside my writing-table, as + it suits me better than the small one of Stein. I don't bring many new + things of my own with me, for I have not composed much. I have not yet got + the three quartets and the flute concerto I wrote for M. de Jean; for when + he went to Paris he packed them in the wrong trunk, so they are left at + Mannheim. I can therefore bring nothing finished with me except my sonatas + [with violin]; M. Le Gros purchased the two overtures from me and the + sinfonie concertante, which he thinks exclusively his own; but this is not + the case, for I have it still fresh in my head, and mean to write it out + again as soon as I am at home. + </p> + <p> + The Munich company of comedians are, I conclude, now acting? [in + Salzburg.] Do they give satisfaction? Do people go to see them? I suppose + that, as for the operettas, the "Fischermadchen" ("La Pescatrice" of + Piccini), or "Das Bauernmadchen bei Hof" ("La Contadina in Corte," by + Sacchini), will be given first? The prima donna is, no doubt, Madlle. + Keiserin, whom I wrote to you about from Munich. I have heard her, but do + not know her. At that time it was only her third appearance on any stage, + and she had only learned music three weeks [see No. 62]. Now farewell! I + shall not have a moment's peace till I once more see those I love. + </p> + <p> + <br />115. + </p> + <p> + Strassburg, Oct. 15, 1778. + </p> + <p> + I GOT your three letters safely, but could not possibly answer them + sooner. What you write about M. Grimm, I, of course, know better than you + can do. That he was all courtesy and civility I do not deny; indeed, had + this not been the case, I would not have stood on such ceremony with him. + All that I owe M. Grimm is fifteen louis-d'or, and he has only himself to + blame for their not being repaid, and this I told him. But what avails any + discussion? We can talk it over at Salzburg. I am very much obliged to you + for having put my case so strongly before Father Martini, and also for + having written about me to M. Raaff. I never doubted your doing so, for I + am well aware that it rejoices you to see your son happy and pleased, and + you know that I could never be more so than in Munich; being so near + Salzburg, I could constantly visit you. That Madlle. Weber, or rather MY + DEAR WEBERIN, should now receive a salary, and justice be at last done to + her merits, rejoices me to a degree natural in one who feels such deep + interest in all that concerns her. I still warmly recommend her to you; + though I must now, alas! give up all hope of what I so much wished,—her + getting an engagement in Salzburg,—for the Archbishop would never + give her the salary she now has. All we can now hope for is that she may + sometimes come to Salzburg to sing in an opera. I had a hurried letter + from her father the day before they went to Munich, in which he also + mentions this news. These poor people were in the greatest distress about + me, fearing that I must be dead, a whole month having elapsed without any + letter from me, (owing to the last one being lost;) an idea that was + confirmed by a report in Mannheim that my poor dear mother had died of a + contagious disease. So they have been all praying for my soul. The poor + girl went every day for this purpose into the Capuchin church. Perhaps you + may laugh at this? I did not; on the contrary, I could not help being much + touched by it. + </p> + <p> + To proceed. I think I shall certainly go by Stuttgart to Augsburg, because + I see by your letter that nothing, or at least not much, is to be made in + Donaueschingen; but I will apprise you of all this before leaving + Strassburg. Dearest father, I do assure you that, were it not for the + pleasure of soon embracing you, I would never come to Salzburg; for, with + the exception of this commendable and delightful impulse, I am really + committing the greatest folly in the world. Rest assured that these are my + own thoughts, and not borrowed from others. When my resolution to leave + Paris was known, certain facts were placed before me, and the sole weapons + I had to contend against or to conquer these, were my true and tender love + for my kind father, which could not be otherwise than laudable in their + eyes, but with the remark that if my father had known my present + circumstances and fair prospects, (and had not got different and false + impressions by means of a kind friend,) he certainly would not have + written to me in such a strain as to render me wholly incapable of + offering the least resistance to his wish; and in my own mind I thought, + that had I not been exposed to so much annoyance in the house where I + lived, and the journey come on me like a sudden thunder-clap, leaving me + no time to reflect coolly on the subject, I should have earnestly besought + you to have patience for a time, and to let me remain a little longer in + Paris. I do assure you that I should have succeeded in gaining fame, + honor, and wealth, and been thus enabled to defray your debts. But now it + is settled, and do not for a moment suppose that I regret it; but you + alone, dearest father, you alone can sweeten the bitterness of Salzburg + for me; and that you will do so, I feel convinced. I must also candidly + say that I should arrive in Salzburg with a lighter heart were it not for + my official capacity there, for this thought is to me the most intolerable + of all. Reflect on it yourself, place yourself in my position. At Salzburg + I never know how I stand; at one time I am everything, at another + absolutely nothing. I neither desire SO MUCH nor SO LITTLE, but still I + wish to be SOMETHING—if indeed I am something! In every other place + I know what my duties are. Elsewhere those who undertake the violin stick + to it,—the same with the piano, &c., &c. I trust this will + be regulated hereafter, so that all may turn out well and for my happiness + and satisfaction. I rely wholly on you. + </p> + <p> + Things here are in a poor state; but the day after to-morrow, Saturday the + 17th, I MYSELF ALONE, (to save expense,) to please some kind friends, + amateurs, and connoisseurs, intend to give a subscription concert. If I + engaged an orchestra, it would with the lighting cost me more than three + louis-d'or, and who knows whether we shall get as much? My sonatas are not + yet published, though promised for the end of September. Such is the + effect of not looking after things yourself, for which that obstinate + Grimm is also to blame. They will probably be full of mistakes, not being + able to revise them myself, for I was obliged to devolve the task on + another, and I shall be without my sonatas in Munich. Such an occurrence, + though apparently a trifle, may often bring success, honor, and wealth, + or, on the other hand, misfortune. + </p> + <p> + <br />116. + </p> + <p> + Strassburg, Oct. 20, 1778. + </p> + <p> + You will perceive that I am still here, by the advice of Herr Frank and + other Strassburg magnates, but I leave this to-morrow. In my last letter I + mentioned that on the 17th I was to give a kind of sample of a concert, as + concerts here fare worse than even at Salzburg. It is, of course, over. I + played quite alone, having engaged no musicians, so that I might at least + lose nothing; briefly, I took three louis-d'or. The chief receipts + consisted in the shouts of Bravo! and Bravissimo! which echoed on every + side. Prince Max of Zweibrucken also honored the concert by his presence. + I need not tell you that every one was pleased. I intended then to pursue + my journey, but was advised to stay till the following Saturday, in order + to give a grand concert in the theatre. I did so, and, to the surprise, + indignation, and disgrace of all the Strassburgers, my receipts were + exactly the same. The Director, M. de Villeneuve, abused the inhabitants + of this most detestable town in the most unmeasured terms. I took a little + more money, certainly, but the cost of the band (which is very bad, but + its pay very good), the lighting, printing, the guard at the door, and the + check-takers at the entrances, &c., made up a considerable sum. Still + I must tell you that the applause and clapping of hands almost deafened + me, and made my ears ache; it was as if the whole theatre had gone crazy. + Those who were present, loudly and publicly denounced their + fellow-citizens, and I told them all that if I could have reasonably + supposed so few people would have come, I would gladly have given the + concert gratis, merely for the pleasure of seeing the theatre well filled. + And in truth I should have preferred it, for, upon my word, I don't know a + more desolate sight than a long table laid for fifty, and only three at + dinner. Besides, it was so cold; but I soon warmed myself, for, to show + the Strassburg gentlemen how little I cared, I played a very long time for + my own amusement, giving a concerto more than I had promised, and, at the + close, extemporizing. It is now over, but at all events I gained honor and + fame. + </p> + <p> + I have drawn on Herr Scherz for eight louis-d'or, as a precaution, for no + one can tell what may happen on a journey; and I HAVE is better than I + MIGHT HAVE HAD. I have read the fatherly well-meaning letter which you + wrote to M. Frank when in such anxiety about me. [Footnote: "Your sister + and I confessed, and took the Holy Communion," writes the father, "and + prayed to God fervently for your recovery. Our excellent Bullinger prays + daily for you also."] When I wrote to you from Nancy, not knowing myself, + you of course could not know, that I should have to wait so long for a good + opportunity. Your mind may be quite at ease about the merchant with whom I + am travelling; he is the most upright man in the world, takes more care of + me than of himself, and, entirely to oblige me, is to go with me to + Augsburg and Munich, and possibly even to Salzburg. We actually shed tears + when we think that we must separate. He is not a learned man, but a man of + experience, and we live together like children. When he thinks of his wife + and family whom he has left in Paris, I try to comfort him, and when I + think of my own people he speaks comfort to me. + </p> + <p> + On the 31st of October, my name-day, I amused myself (and, better still, + others) for a couple of hours. At the repeated entreaties of Herr Frank, + de Berger, &c., &c., I gave another concert, by which, after + paying the expenses, (not heavy this time,) I actually cleared a + louis-d'or! Now you see what Strassburg is! I wrote at the beginning of + this letter that I was to leave this on the 27th or 28th, but it proved + impossible, owing to a sudden inundation here, when the floods caused + great damage. You will probably see this in the papers. Of course + travelling was out of the question, which was the only thing that induced + me to consent to give another concert, being obliged to remain at all + events. + </p> + <p> + To-morrow I go by the diligence to Mannheim. Do not be startled at this. + In foreign countries it is expedient to follow the advice of those who + know from experience what ought to be done. Most of the strangers who go + to Stuttgart (N.B., by the diligence) do not object to this detour of + eight hours, because the road is better and also the conveyance. I must + now, dearest father, cordially wish you joy of your approaching name-day. + My kind father, I wish you from my heart all that a son can wish for a + good father, whom he so highly esteems and dearly loves. I thank the + Almighty that He has permitted you again to pass this day in the enjoyment + of perfect health, and implore from Him the boon, that during the whole of + my life (and I hope to live for a good many years to come) I may be able + to congratulate you every year. However strange, and perhaps ridiculous, + this wish may seem to you, I do assure you it is both sincere and + well-intended. + </p> + <p> + I hope you received my last letter from Strassburg. I wish to write + nothing further of M. Grimm, but it is entirely owing to his stupidity in + pressing forward my departure so much, that my sonatas are not yet + engraved, or at all events that I have not got them, and when I do I shall + probably find them full of mistakes. If I had only stayed three days + longer in Paris, I could have revised them myself and brought them with + me. The engraver was desperate when I told him that I could not correct + them, but must commission someone else to do so. Why? Because, being + resolved not to be three days longer in the same house with Grimm, I told + him that on account of the sonatas I was going to stay with Count + Sickingen, when he replied, his eyes sparkling with rage, "If you leave my + house before you leave Paris, I will never in my life see you again. In + that case do not presume ever to come near me, and look on me as your + bitterest enemy." Self-control was indeed very necessary. Had it not been + for your sake, who knew nothing about the matter, I certainly should have + replied, "Be my enemy; by all means be so. You are so already, or you + would not have prevented me putting my affairs in order here, which would + have enabled me to keep my word, to preserve my honor and reputation, and + also to make money, and probably a lucky hit; for if I present my sonatas + to the Electress when I go to Munich, I shall thus keep my promise, + probably receive a present, and make my fortune besides." But as it was, I + only bowed, and left the room without saying a syllable. Before quitting + Paris, however, I said all this to him, but he answered me like a man + totally devoid of sense, or rather like a malicious man who affects to + have none. I have written twice to Herr Heina, but have got no answer. The + sonatas ought to have appeared by the end of September, and M. Grimm was + to have forwarded the promised copies immediately to me, so I expected to + have found them in Strassburg; but M. Grimm writes to me that he neither + hears nor sees anything of them, but as soon as he does they are to be + forwarded, and I hope to have them ere long. + </p> + <p> + Strassburg can scarcely do without me. You cannot think how much I am + esteemed and beloved here. People say that I am disinterested as well as + steady and polite, and praise my manners. Every one knows me. As soon as + they heard my name, the two Herrn Silbermann and Herr Hepp (organist) came + to call on me, and also Capellmeister Richter. He has now restricted + himself very much; instead of forty bottles of wine a day, he only drinks + twenty! I played publicly on the two best organs that Silbermann has here, + in the Lutheran and New Churches, and in the Thomas Church. If the + Cardinal had died, (and he was very ill when I arrived,) I might have got + a good situation, for Herr Richter is seventy-eight years of age. Now + farewell! Be cheerful and in good spirits, and remember that your son is, + thank God! well, and rejoicing that his happiness daily draws nearer. Last + Sunday I heard a new mass of Herr Richter's, which is charmingly written. + </p> + <p> + <br />117. + </p> + <p> + Mannheim, November 12, 1778. + </p> + <p> + I arrived here safely on the 6th, agreeably surprising all my kind + friends. God be praised that I am once more in my beloved Mannheim! I + assure you, if you were here you would say the same. I am living at Madame + Cannabich's, who, as well as her family and all my good friends here, was + quite beside herself with joy at seeing me again. We have not yet done + talking, for she tells me of all the events and changes that have taken + place during my absence. I have not been able to dine once at home since I + came, for people are fighting to have me; in a word, just as I love + Mannheim, so Mannheim loves me; and, though of course I don't know it + positively, still I do think it possible that I may get an appointment + here. But HERE, not in Munich, for my own belief is that the Elector will + soon once more take up his residence in Mannheim, for he surely cannot + long submit to the coarseness of the Bavarian gentlemen. You know that the + Mannheim company is in Munich. There they hissed the two best actresses, + Madame Toscani and Madame Urban. There was such an uproar that the Elector + himself leant over his box and called out, "Hush!" To this, however, no + one paid any attention; so he sent down Count Seeau, who told some of the + officers not to make such a noise, as the Elector did not like it; but the + only answer he got was, that they had paid their money, and no man had a + right to give them any orders. But what a simpleton I am! You no doubt + have heard this long ago through our.... + </p> + <p> + I have now something to say. I may PERHAPS make forty louis-d'or here. To + be sure, I should have to stay six weeks, or at most two months, in + Mannheim. Seiler's company is here, whom you no doubt already know by + reputation. Herr von Dalberg is the director. He will not hear of my + leaving this till I have written a duodrama for him, and indeed I did not + long hesitate, for I have often wished to write this style of drama. I + forget if I wrote to you about it the first time that I was here. Twice at + that time I saw a similar piece performed, which afforded me the greatest + pleasure; in fact, nothing ever surprised me so much, for I had always + imagined that a thing of this kind would make no effect. Of course you + know that there is no singing in it, but merely recitation, to which the + music is a sort of obligato recitativo. At intervals there is speaking + while the music goes on, which produces the most striking effect. What I + saw was Benda's "Medea." He also wrote another, "Ariadne auf Naxos," and + both are truly admirable. You are aware that of all the Lutheran + Capellmeisters Benda was always my favorite, and I like those two works of + his so much that I constantly carry them about with me. Conceive my joy at + now composing the very thing I so much wished! Do you know what my idea + is?—that most operatic recitatives should be treated in this way, + and the recitative only occasionally sung WHEN THE WORDS CAN BE THOROUGHLY + EXPRESSED BY THE MUSIC. An Academie des Amateurs is about to be + established here, like the one in Paris, where Herr Franzl is violin + leader, and I am at this moment writing a concerto for violin and piano. I + found my dear friend Raaff still here, but he leaves this on the 8th. He + has sounded my praises here, and shown sincere interest in me, and I hope + he will do the same in Munich. Do you know what that confounded fellow + Seeau said here?—that my opera buffa had been hissed at Munich! + Fortunately he said so in a place where I am well known; still, his + audacity provokes me; but the people, when they go to Munich, will hear + the exact reverse. A whole flock of Bavarians are here, among others + Fraulein de Pauli (for I don't know her present name). I have been to see + her because she sent for me immediately. Oh! what a difference there is + between the people of the Palatinate and those of Bavaria! What a language + it is! so coarse! and their whole mode of address! It quite annoys me to + hear once more their hoben and olles (haben and alles), and their + WORSHIPFUL SIR. Now good-bye! and pray write to me soon. Put only my name, + for they know where I am at the post-office. I am so well known here that + it is impossible a letter for me can be lost. My cousin wrote to me, and + by mistake put Franconian Hotel instead of Palatine Hotel. The landlord + immediately sent the letter to M. Serrarius's, where I lodged when I was + last here. What rejoices me most of all in the whole Mannheim and Munich + story is that Weber has managed his affairs so well. They have now 1600 + florins; for the daughter has 1000 florins and her father 400, and 200 + more as prompter. Cannabich did the most for them. It is quite a history + about Count Seeau; if you don't know it, I will write you the details next + time. + </p> + <p> + I beg, dearest father, that you will make use of this affair at Salzburg, + and speak so strongly and so decidedly, that the Archbishop may think it + possible I may not come after all, and thus be induced to give me a better + salary, for I declare I cannot think of it with composure. The Archbishop + cannot pay me sufficiently for the slavery of Salzburg. As I said before, + I feel the greatest pleasure at the thought of paying you a visit, but + only annoyance and misery in seeing myself once more at that beggarly + court. The Archbishop must no longer attempt to play the great man with me + as he used to do, or I may possibly play him a trick,—this is by no + means unlikely,—and I am sure that you would participate in my + satisfaction. + </p> + <p> + <br />118. + </p> + <p> + Mannheim, Nov. 24, 1778. + </p> + <p> + MY DEAR BARON VON DALBERG,— + </p> + <p> + I called on you twice, but had not the good fortune to find you at home; + yesterday you were in the house, but engaged, so I could not see you. I + hope you will therefore excuse my troubling you with these few lines, as + it is very important to me to explain myself fully. Herr Baron, you are + well aware that I am not an interested man, particularly when I know that + it is in my power to do a service to so great a connoisseur and lover of + music as yourself. On the other hand, I also know that you certainly would + not wish that I should be a loser on this occasion; I therefore take the + liberty to make my final stipulations on the subject, as it is impossible + for me to remain here longer in uncertainty. I agree to write a monodrama + for the sum of twenty-five louis-d'or, and to stay here for two months + longer to complete everything, and to attend all the rehearsals, &c., + but on this condition, that, happen what may, I am to be paid by the end + of January. Of course I shall also expect free admission to the theatre. + Now, my dear Baron, this is all that I can do, and if you consider, you + will admit that I certainly am acting with great discretion. With regard + to your opera, I do assure you I should rejoice to compose music for it, + but you must yourself perceive that I could not undertake such a work for + twenty-five louis-d'or, as it would be twice the labor of a monodrama + (taken at the lowest rate). The chief obstacle would be your having told + me that Gluck and Schweitzer are partially engaged to write this work. But + were you even to give me fifty louis-d'or, I would still as an honest man + dissuade you from it. An opera without any singers! what is to be done in + such a case? Still, if on this occasion there is a prospect of its being + performed, I will not hesitate to undertake the work to oblige you; but it + is no trifling one—of that I pledge you my word. I have now set + forth my ideas clearly and candidly, and request your decision. + </p> + <p> + <br />119. + </p> + <p> + Mannheim, Dec. 3, 1778. + </p> + <p> + I MUST ask your forgiveness for two things,—first, that I have not + written to you for so long; and secondly, that this time also I must be + brief. My not having answered you sooner is the fault of no one but + yourself, and your first letter to me at Mannheim. I really never could + have believed—but silence! I will say no more on the subject. Lot us + have done with it. Next Wednesday, the 9th, I leave this; I cannot do so + sooner, because, thinking that I was to be here for a couple of months, I + accepted some pupils, and of course wish to make out the twelve lessons. I + assure you that you have no idea what kind and true friends I have here, + which time will prove. Why must I be so brief? Because my hands are more + than full. To please Herr Gemmingen and myself, I am writing the first act + of the melodramatic opera (that I was commissioned to write), but now do + so gratis; I shall bring it with me and finish it at home. You see how + strong my inclination must be for this kind of composition. Of course Herr + von Gemmingen is the poet. The duodrama is called "Semiramis." + </p> + <p> + Next Wednesday I set off, and do you know how I travel? With the worthy + prelate, the Bishop of Kaisersheim. When a kind friend of mine mentioned + me to him, he at once knew my name, expressing the pleasure it would be to + him to have me as a travelling companion. He is (though a priest and + prelate) a most amiable man. I am therefore going by Kaisersheim and not + by Stuttgart; but it is just the same to me, for I am very lucky in being + able to spare my purse a little (as it is slender enough) on the journey. + Be so good as to answer me the following questions. How do the comedians + please at Salzburg? Is not the young lady who sings, Madlle. Keiserin? + Does Herr Feiner play the English horn? Ah! if we had only clarionets too! + You cannot imagine the splendid effect of a symphony with flutes, + hautboys, and clarionets. At my first audience of the Archbishop I shall + tell him much that is new, and also make some suggestions. Oh, how much + finer and better our orchestra might be if the Archbishop only chose! The + chief cause why it is not so, is that there are far too many performances. + I make no objection to the chamber-music, only to the concerts on a larger + scale. + </p> + <p> + A propos, you say nothing of it, but I conclude you have received the + trunk; if not, Herr von Grimm is responsible for it. You will find in it + the aria I wrote for Madlle. Weber. You can have no idea of the effect of + that aria with instruments; you may not think so when you see it, but it + ought to be sung by a Madlle. Weber! Pray, give it to no one, for that + would be most unfair, as it was written solely for her, and fits her like + a well-fitting glove. + </p> + <p> + <br />120. + </p> + <p> + Kaisersheim, Dec. 18, 1778. + </p> + <p> + I ARRIVED here safely on Sunday the 13th, God be praised! I travelled in + the most agreeable way, and had likewise the inexpressible pleasure to + find a letter from you here. The reason that I did not forthwith answer it + was, because I wished to give you sure and precise information as to my + departure, for which I had not fixed any time; but I have at length + resolved, as the prelate goes to Munich on the 26th or 27th, to be again + his companion. I must tell you, however, that he does not go by Augsburg. + I lose nothing by this; but if you have anything to arrange or transact + where my presence is wanted, I can at any time, if you wish it, (being so + near,) make a little expedition from Munich. My journey from Mannheim to + this place would have been most agreeable to a man, leaving a city with a + light heart. The prelate and his Chancellor, an honest, upright, and + amiable man, drove together in one carriage, and Herr Kellermeister, + Father Daniel, Brother Anton, the Secretary, and I, preceded them always + half an hour, or an hour. But for me, to whom nothing could be more + painful than leaving Mannheim, this journey was only partly agreeable, and + would not have been at all so, but rather very tiresome, if I had not from + my early youth been so much accustomed to leave people, countries, and + cities, and with no very sanguine hope of soon or ever again seeing the + kind friends I left. I cannot deny, but at once admit, that not only I + myself, but all my intimate friends, particularly the Cannabichs, were in + the most pitiable distress during the last few days after my departure was + finally settled. We felt as if it were not possible for us to part. I set + off at half-past eight o'clock in the morning, and Madame Cannabich did + not leave her room; she neither would nor could take leave of me. I did + not wish to distress her, so left the house without seeing her. My very + dear father, I can safely say that she is one of my best and truest + friends, for I only call those friends who are so in every situation, who, + day and night, think how they can best serve the interests of their + friend, applying to all influential persons, and toiling to secure his + happiness. Now I do assure you such is the faithful portrait of Madame + Cannabich. There may indeed be an alloy of self-interest in this, for + where does anything take place—indeed, how can anything be done in + this world—without some alloy of selfishness? What I like best in + Madame Cannabich is, that she never attempts to deny this. I will tell you + when we meet in what way she told me so, for when we are alone, which, I + regret to say, is very seldom, we become quite confidential. Of all the + intimate friends who frequent her house, I alone possess her entire + confidence; for I alone know all her domestic and family troubles, + concerns, secrets, and circumstances. We were not nearly so well + acquainted the first time I was here, (we have agreed on this point,) nor + did we mutually under stand each other so well; but living in the same + house affords greater facilities to know a person. When in Paris I first + began fully to appreciate the sincere friendship of the Cannabichs, having + heard from a trustworthy source the interest both she and her husband took + in me. I reserve many topics to explain and to discuss personally, for + since my return from Paris the scene has undergone some remarkable + changes, but not in all things. Now as to my cloister life. The monastery + itself made no great impression on me, after having seen the celebrated + Abbey of Kremsmunster. I speak of the exterior and what they call here the + court square, for the most renowned part I have yet to see. What appears + to me truly ridiculous is the formidable military. I should like to know + of what use they are. At night I hear perpetual shouts of "Who goes + there?" and I invariably reply, "Guess!" You know what a good and kind man + the prelate is, but you do not know that I may class myself among his + favorites, which, I believe, does me neither good nor harm, but it is + always pleasant to have one more friend in the world. With regard to the + monodrama, or duodrama, a voice part is by no means necessary, as not a + single note is sung, but entirely spoken; in short, it is a recitative + with instruments, only the actor speaks the words instead of singing them. + If you were to hear it even with the piano, it could not fail to please + you, but properly performed, you would be quite transported. I can answer + for this; but it requires a good actor or actress. + </p> + <p> + I shall really feel quite ashamed if I arrive in Munich without my + sonatas. I cannot understand the delay; it was a stupid trick of Grimm's, + and I have written to him to that effect. He will now see that he was in + rather too great a hurry. Nothing ever provoked me so much. Just reflect + on it. I know that my sonatas were published in the beginning of November, + and I, the author, have not yet got them, therefore cannot present them to + the Electress, to whom they are dedicated. I have, however, taken measures + in the mean time which will insure my getting them. I hope that my cousin + in Augsburg has received them, or that they are lying at Josef Killiau's + for her; so I have written to beg her to send them to me at once. + </p> + <p> + Until I come myself, I commend to your good offices an organist, and also + a good pianist, Herr Demmler, from Augsburg. I had entirely forgotten him, + and was very glad when I heard of him here. He has considerable genius; a + situation in Salzburg might be very useful in promoting his further + success, for all he requires is a good leader in music; and I could not + find him a better conductor than you, dear father, and it would really be + a pity if he were to leave the right path. [See No. 68.] That melancholy + "Alceste" of Schweitzer's is to be performed in Munich. The best part + (besides some of the openings, middle passages, and the finales of some + arias) is the beginning of the recitative "O Jugendzeit," and this was + made what it is by Raaff's assistance; he punctuated it for Hartig (who + plays Admet), and by so doing introduced the true expression into the + aria. The worst of all, however, (as well as the greater part of the + opera,) is certainly the overture. + </p> + <p> + As for the trifles that are not to be found in the trunk, it is quite + natural that under such circumstances something should be lost, or even + stolen. The little amethyst ring I felt I ought to give to the nurse who + attended my dear mother, whose wedding-ring was left on her finger. [A + large blot.] The ink-bottle is so full, and I am too hasty in dipping in + my pen, as you will perceive. As for the watch, you have guessed rightly. + I sold it, but only got five louis-d'or for it, and that in consideration + of the works, which were good; for the shape, as you know, was + old-fashioned and quite out of date. Speaking of watches, I must tell you + that I am bringing one with me—a genuine Parisian. You know what + sort of thing my jewelled watch was—how inferior all the so-called + precious stones were, how clumsy and awkward its shape; but I would not + have cared so much about that, had I not been obliged to spend so much + money in repairing and regulating it, and after all the watch would one + day gain a couple of hours, and next day lose in the same proportion. The + one the Elector gave me did just the same, and, moreover, the works were + even worse and more fragile. I exchanged these two watches and their + chains for a Parisian one which is worth twenty louis-d'or. So now at last + I know what o'clock it is; with my five watches I never got so far as that + before! At present, out of four, I have, at all events, one on which I can + depend. + </p> + <p> + <br />121. + </p> + <p> + Kaisersheim, Dec. 23, 1778. + </p> + <p> + MA TRES-CHERE COUSINE,— + </p> + <p> + I write to you in the greatest haste, and in the deepest sorrow and + remorse, and with the determined purpose to tell you that it is my + intention to set off to-morrow to Munich. I would, I assure you, gladly + have gone to Augsburg, but the prelate was resolved to claim me, for which + you cannot blame me. It is my loss, so don't be cross. I may perhaps make + an escapade from Munich to Augsburg, but this is by no means certain. If + you will be as glad to see me, as I shall be to see you, do come to the + good town of Munich. Be sure you come by the new year, that I may see your + face so dear, and escort you far and near. One thing I very much regret, + which is that I cannot give you house-room, because I am not at an hotel, + but am living with—whom do you think? I should like to know this + myself [with the Webers]. But now Spassus apart. For that very reason, and + for my sake, it would be advisable you should come; perhaps you may have a + great part to play, but at all events come. I can then pay you in my own + mighty person all proper compliments. Now adieu, angel of piety! I await + you with anxiety. Your sincere cousin, + </p> + <p> + W. A. MOZART. + </p> + <p> + P.S.—Write to me forthwith to Munich, Poste Restante, a little note + of twenty-four pages, but do not mention where you are to lodge, that I + may not find you out nor you me. + </p> + <p> + <br />122. + </p> + <p> + Munich, Dec. 29, 1778. + </p> + <p> + I WRITE from the house of M. Becke [flute-player; see No. 60]. I arrived + here safely, God be praised! on the 25th, but have been unable to write to + you till now. I reserve everything till our glad, joyous meeting, when I + can once more have the happiness of conversing with you, for to-day I can + only weep. I have far too sensitive a heart. In the mean time, I must tell + you that the day before I left Kaisersheim I received the sonatas; so I + shall be able to present them myself to the Electress. I only delay + leaving this till the opera [Footnote: Schweitzer's "Alceste." (See No. + 120.)] is given, when I intend immediately to leave Munich, unless I were + to find that it would be very beneficial and useful to me to remain here + for some time longer. In which case I feel convinced, quite convinced, + that you would not only be satisfied I should do so, but would yourself + advise it. I naturally write very badly, for I never learned to write; + still, in my whole life I never wrote worse than this very day, for I + really am unfit for anything—my heart is too full of tears. I hope + you will soon write to me and comfort me. Address to me, Poste Restante, + and then I can fetch the letter myself. I am staying with the Webers. I + think, after all, it would be better, far better, to enclose your letter + to me to our friend Becke. + </p> + <p> + I intend (I mention it to you in the strictest secrecy) to write a mass + here; all my best friends advise my doing so. I cannot tell you what + friends Cannabich and Raaff have been to me. Now farewell, my kindest and + most beloved father! Write to me soon. + </p> + <p> + A happy new-year! More I cannot bring myself to write to-day. This letter + is scrawled hurriedly, quite unlike the others, and betrays the most + violent agitation of mind. During the whole journey there was nothing to + which Mozart looked forward with such joy as once more seeing his beloved + Madlle. Weber in Munich. He had even destined "a great part" for the Basle + (his cousin) in the affair; but he was now to learn that Aloysia had been + faithless to him. Nissen relates: "Mozart, being in mourning for his + mother, appeared dressed, according to the French custom, in a red coat + with black buttons; but soon discovered that Aloysia's feelings towards + him had undergone a change. She seemed scarcely to recognize one for whose + sake she had once shed so many tears. On which Mozart quickly seated + himself at the piano and sang, "Ich lass das Madel gern das mich nicht + will," ["I gladly give up the girl who slights me."] His father, moreover, + was displeased in the highest degree by Wolfgang's protracted absence, + fearing that the Archbishop might recall his appointment; so Wolfgang + became very uneasy lest he should not meet with a kind reception from his + father on his return home." + </p> + <p> + <br />123. + </p> + <p> + Munich, Dec. 31, 1778. + </p> + <p> + I HAVE this instant received your latter from my friend Becke. I wrote to + you from his house two days ago, but a letter such as I never wrote + before; for this kind friend said so much to me about your tender paternal + love, your indulgence towards me, your complaisance and discretion in the + promotion of my future happiness, that my feelings were softened even to + tears. But, from your letter of the 28th, I see only too clearly that Herr + Becke, in his conversation with me, rather exaggerated. Now, distinctly, + and once for all, as soon as the opera ("Alceste") is given, I intend to + leave this, whether the diligence goes the day after or the same night. If + you had spoken to Madame Robinig, I might have travelled home with her. + But be that as it may, the opera is to be given on the 11th, and on the + 12th (if the diligence goes) I set off. It would be more for my interest + to stay here a little longer, but I am willing to sacrifice this to you, + in the hope that I shall have a twofold reward for it in Salzburg. I don't + think your idea about the sonatas at all good; even if I do not get them, + I ought to leave Munich forthwith. Then you advise my not being seen at + court; to a man so well known as I am here such a thing is impossible. But + do not be uneasy. I received my sonatas at Kaisersheim; and, as soon as + they are bound, I mean to present them to the Electress. A. propos, what + do you mean by DREAMS OF PLEASURE? I do not wish to give up dreaming, for + what mortal on the whole compass of the earth does not often dream? above + all DREAMS OF PLEASURE—peaceful dreams, sweet, cheering dreams if + you will—dreams which, if realized, would have rendered my life (now + far rather sad than pleasurable) more endurable. + </p> + <p> + The 1st.—I have this moment received, through a Salzburg vetturino, + a letter from you, which really at first quite startled me. For Heaven's + sake tell me, do you really think that I can at once fix a day for my + journey; or is it your belief that I don't mean to come at all? When I am + so very near, I do think you might be at ease on that point. When the + fellow had explained his route to me, I felt a strong inclination to go + with him, but at present I really cannot; to-morrow or next day I intend + to present the sonatas to the Electress, and then (no matter how strongly + I may be urged) I must wait a few days for a present. Of one thing I give + you my word, that to please you I have resolved not to wait to see the + opera, but intend to leave this the day after I receive the present I + expect. At the same time I confess I feel this to be very hard on me; but + if a few days more or less appear of such importance to you, so let it be. + Write to me at once on this point. The 2d.—I rejoice at the thoughts + of conversing with you, for then you will first comprehend how my matters + stand here. You need have neither mistrust nor misgivings as to Raaff, for + he is the most upright man in the world, though no lover of + letter-writing. The chief cause of his silence, however, is no doubt that + he is unwilling to make premature promises, and yet is glad to hold out + some hope too; besides, like Cannabich, he has worked for me with might + and main. + </p> + <p> + <br />124. + </p> + <p> + Munich, Jan. 8, 1779. + </p> + <p> + [Footnote: The second grand aria that Mozart wrote for Aloysia, bears the + same date.] + </p> + <p> + I HOPE you received my last letter, which I meant to have given to the + vetturino, but having missed him I sent it by post. I have, in the mean + time, got all your letters safely through Herr Becke. I gave him my letter + to read, and he also showed me his. I assure you, my very dear father, + that I am now full of joy at returning to you, (but not to Salzburg,) as + your last letter shows that you know me better than formerly. There never + was any other cause for my long delay in going home but this doubt, which + gave rise to a feeling of sadness that I could no longer conceal; so I at + last opened my heart to my friend Becke. What other cause could I possibly + have? I have done nothing to cause me to dread reproach from you; I am + guilty of no fault; (by a fault I mean that which does not become a + Christian, and a man of honor;) in short, I now rejoice, and already look + forward to the most agreeable and happy days, but only in the society of + yourself and my dear sister. I give you my solemn word of honor that I + cannot endure Salzburg or its inhabitants, (I speak of the natives of + Salzburg.) Their language, their manners, are to me quite intolerable. You + cannot think what I suffered during Madame Robinig's visit here, for it is + long indeed since I met with such a fool; and, for my still further + annoyance, that silly, deadly dull Mosmayer was also there. + </p> + <p> + But to proceed. I went yesterday, with my dear friend Cannabich, to the + Electress to present my sonatas. Her apartments are exactly what I should + like mine one day to be, very pretty and neat, just like those of a + private individual, all except the view, which is miserable. We were there + fully an hour and a half, and she was very gracious. I have managed to let + her know that I must leave this in a few days, which will, I hope, + expedite matters. You have no cause to be uneasy about Count Seeau; I + don't believe the thing will come through his hands, and even if it does, + he will not venture to say a word. Now, once for all, believe that I have + the most eager longing to embrace you and my beloved sister. If it were + only not in Salzburg! But as I have not hitherto been able to see you + without going to Salzburg, I do so gladly. I must make haste, for the post + is just going. + </p> + <p> + My cousin is here. Why? To please me, her cousin; this is, indeed, the + ostensible cause. But—we can talk about it in Salzburg; and, on this + account, I wished very much that she would come with me there. You will + find a few lines, written by her own hand, attached to the fourth page of + this letter. She is quite willing to go; so if it would really give you + pleasure to see her, be so kind as to write immediately to her brother, + that the thing may be arranged. When you see her and know her, she is + certain to please you, for she is a favorite with every one. + </p> + <p> + Wolfgang's pleasantries, in the following; letter to his cousin, show that + his good humor was fully restored. He was received at home with very great + rejoicings, and his cousin soon followed him. + </p> + <p> + <br />125. + </p> + <p> + Salzburg, May 10, 1779. + </p> + <p> + DEAREST, sweetest, most beauteous, fascinating, and charming of all + cousins, most basely maltreated by an unworthy kinsman! Allow me to strive + to soften and appease your just wrath, which only heightens your charms + and winning beauty, as high as the heel of your slipper! I hope to soften + you, Nature having bestowed on me a large amount of softness, and to + appease you, being fond of sweet pease. As to the Leipzig affair, I can't + tell whether it may be worth stooping to pick up; were it a bag of ringing + coin, it would be a very different thing, and nothing less do I mean to + accept, so there is an end of it. + </p> + <p> + Sweetest cousin, such is life! One man has got a purse, but another has + got the money, and he who has neither has nothing; and nothing is even + less than little; while, on the other hand, much is a great deal more than + nothing, and nothing can come of nothing. Thus has it been from the + beginning, is now, and ever shall be; and as I can make it neither worse + nor better, I may as well conclude my letter. The gods know I am sincere. + How does Probst get on with his wife? and do they live in bliss or in + strife? most silly questions, upon my life! Adieu, angel! My father sends + you his uncle's blessing, and a thousand cousinly kisses from my sister. + Angel, adieu! + </p> + <p> + A TENDER ODE. [Footnote: A parody of Klopstock's "Dein susses Bild, + Edone"] + </p> + <p> + TO MY COUSIN. + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + THY sweet image, cousin mine, + Hovers aye before me; Would the form indeed were thine! + How I would adore thee! I see it at the day's decline; I see it + through the pale moonshine, And linger o'er that form divine + + By all the flowers of sweet perfume + I'll gather for my cousin,—By all the wreaths of myrtle-bloom + I'll wreathe her by the dozen,—I call upon that image there To + pity my immense despair, And be indeed my cousin fair +</pre> + <p> + [Footnote: These words are written round the slightly sketched caricature + of a face.] + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_4_0005" id="link2H_4_0005"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + FOURTH PART.—MUNICH.—IDOMENEO.—NOVEMBER 1780 TO JANUARY + 1781. + </h2> + <p> + MOZART now remained stationary at Salzburg till the autumn of 1780, highly + dissatisfied at being forced to waste his youthful days in inactivity, and + in such an obscure place, but still as busy as ever. A succession of grand + instrumental compositions were the fruits of this period: two masses, some + vespers, the splendid music for "Konig Thamos," and the operetta "Zaide" + for Schikaneder. At length, however, to his very great joy, a proposal was + made to him from Munich to write a grand opera for the Carnival of 1781. + It was "Idomeneo, Konig von Greta." At the beginning of November he once + more set off to Munich in order to "prepare an exact fit," on the spot, of + the different songs in the opera for the singers, and to rehearse and + practise everything with them. The Abbate Varesco in Salzburg was the + author of the libretto, in which many an alteration had yet to be made, + and these were all to be effected through the intervention of the father. + </p> + <p> + <br />126. + </p> + <p> + Munich, Nov. 8, 1780. + </p> + <p> + FORTUNATE and pleasant was my arrival here,—fortunate, because no + mishap occurred during the journey; and pleasant, because we had scarcely + patience to wait for the moment that was to end this short but + disagreeable journey. I do assure you it was impossible for us to sleep + for a moment the whole night. The carriage jolted our very souls out, and + the seats were as hard as stone! From Wasserburg I thought I never could + arrive in Munich with whole bones, and during two stages I held on by the + straps, suspended in the air and not venturing to sit down. But no matter; + it is past now, though it will serve me as a warning in future rather to + go on foot than drive in a diligence. + </p> + <p> + Now as to Munich. We arrived here at one o'clock in the forenoon, and the + same evening I called on Count Seeau [the Theatre Intendant], but as he + was not at home I left a note for him. Next morning I went there with + Becke. Seeau has been moulded like wax by the Mannheim people. I have a + request to make of the Abbate [Gianbattista Varesco]. The aria of Ilia in + the second act and second scene must be a little altered for what I + require,—"Se il padre perdei, in te lo ritrovo" This verse could not + be better; but now comes what always appeared unnatural to me,—N.B. + in an aria,—I mean, to speak aside. In a dialogue these things are + natural enough, for a few words can be hurriedly said aside, but in an + aria, where the words must be repeated, it has a bad effect; and even were + this not the case, I should prefer an uninterrupted aria. The beginning + may remain if he chooses, for it is charming and quite a natural flowing + strain, where, not being fettered by the words, I can write on quite + easily; for we agreed to bring in an aria andantino here in concert with + four wind instruments, viz. flute, hautboy, horn, and bassoon; and I beg + that you will let me have the air as soon as possible. + </p> + <p> + Now for a grievance. I have not, indeed, the honor of being acquainted + with the hero Del Prato [the musico who was to sing Idamante], but from + description I should say that Cecarelli is rather the better of the two, + for often in the middle of an air our musico's breath entirely fails; nota + bene, he never was on any stage, and Raaff is like a statue. Now only for + a moment imagine the scene in the first act! But there is one good thing, + which is, that Madame Dorothea Wendling is arci-contentissima with her + scena, and insisted on hearing it played three times in succession. The + Grand Master of the Teutonic Order arrived yesterday. "Essex" was given at + the Court Theatre, and a magnificent ballet. The theatre was all + illuminated. The beginning was an overture by Cannabich, which, as it is + one of his last, I did not know. I am sure, if you had heard it you would + have been as much pleased and excited as I was, and if you had not + previously known the fact, you certainly could not have believed that it + was by Cannabich. Do come soon to hear it, and to admire the orchestra. I + have no more to say. There is to be a grand concert this evening, where + Mara is to sing three airs. Tell me whether it snows as heavily in + Salzburg as here. My kind regards to Herr Schikaneder [impresario in + Salzburg], and beg him to excuse my not yet sending him the aria, for I + have not been able to finish it entirely. + </p> + <p> + <br />127. + </p> + <p> + Munich, Nov. 13, 1780. + </p> + <p> + I WRITE in the greatest haste, for I am not yet dressed, and must go off + to Count Seeau's. Cannabich, Quaglio, and Le Grand, the ballet-master, + also dine there to consult about what is necessary for the opera. + Cannabich and I dined yesterday with Countess Baumgarten, [Footnote: He + wrote an air for her, the original of which is now in the State Library at + Munich.] nee Lerchenteld. My friend is all in all in that family, and now + I am the same. It is the best and most serviceable house here to me, for + owing to their kindness all has gone well with me, and, please God, will + continue to do so. I am just going to dress, but must not omit the chief + thing of all, and the principal object of my letter,—to wish you, my + very dearest and kindest father, every possible good on this your + name-day. I also entreat the continuance of your fatherly love, and assure + you of my entire obedience to your wishes. Countess la Rose sends her + compliments to you and my sister, so do all the Cannabichs and both + Wendling families, Ramm, Eck father and son, Becke, and Herr del Prato, + who happens to be with me. Yesterday Count Seeau presented me to the + Elector, who was very gracious. If you were to speak to Count Seeau now, + you would scarcely recognize him, so completely have the Mannheimers + transformed him. + </p> + <p> + I am ex commissione to write a formal answer in his name to the Abbate + Varesco, but I have no time, and was not born to be a secretary. In the + first act (eighth scene) Herr Quaglio made the same objection that we did + originally,—namely, that it is not fitting the king should be quite + alone in the ship. If the Abbe thinks that he can be reasonably + represented in the terrible storm forsaken by every one, WITHOUT A SHIP, + exposed to the greatest peril, all may remain as it is; but, N. B., no + ship—for he cannot be alone in one; so, if the other mode be + adopted, some generals or confidants (mates) must land from the ship with + him. Then the king might address a few words to his trusty companions, and + desire them to leave him alone, which in his melancholy situation would be + quite natural. + </p> + <p> + The second duet is to be omitted altogether, and indeed with more profit + than loss to the opera; for if you will read the scene it evidently + becomes cold and insipid by the addition of an air or a duet, and very + irksome to the other actors, who must stand, by all the time unoccupied; + besides, the noble contest between Ilia and Idamante would become too + long, and thus lose its whole interest. + </p> + <p> + Mara has not the good fortune to please me. She does too little to be + compared to a Bastardella [see No. 8], (yet this is her peculiar style,) + and too much to touch the heart like a Weber [Aloysia], or any judicious + singer. + </p> + <p> + P.S.—A propos, as they translate so badly here, Count Seeau would + like to have the opera translated in Salzburg, and the arias alone to be + in verse. I am to make a contract that the payment of the poet and the + translator should be made in one sum. Give me an answer soon about this. + Adieu! What of the family portraits? Are they good likenesses? Is my + sister's begun yet? The opera is to be given for the first time on the + 26th of January. Be so kind as to send me the two scores of the masses + that I have with me, and also the mass in B. Count Seeau is to mention + them soon to the Elector; I should like to be known here in this style + also. I have just heard a mass of Gruan's; it would be easy to compose + half a dozen such in a day. Had I known that this singer, Del Prato, was + so bad, I should certainly have recommended Cecarelli. + </p> + <p> + <br />128. + </p> + <p> + Munich, Nov. 15, 1780. + </p> + <p> + The aria is now admirable, but there is still an alteration to be made + recommended by Raaff; he is, however, right, and even were he not, some + courtesy ought to be shown to his gray hairs. He was with me yesterday, + and I played over his first aria to him, with which he was very much + pleased. The man is old, and can no longer show off in an aria like that + in the second art,—"Fuor del mar ho un mare in seno," &c. As, + moreover, in the third act he has no aria, (the one in the first act not + being so cantabile as he would like, owing to the expression of the + words,) he wishes after his last speech, "O Creta fortuinata, O me + felice," to have a pretty aria to sing instead of the quartet; in this way + a superfluous air would be got rid of, and the third act produce a far + better effect. In the last scene also of the second act, Idomeneo has an + aria, or rather a kind of cavatina, to sing between the choruses. For this + it would be better to substitute a mere recitative, well supported by the + instruments. For in this scene, (owing to the action and grouping which + have been recently settled with Le Grand,) the finest of the whole opera, + there cannot fail to be such a noise and confusion in the theatre, that an + aria, would make a very bad figure in this place, and moreover there is a + thunderstorm which is not likely to subside during Raaff's aria! The + effect, therefore, of a recitative between the choruses must be infinitely + better. Lisel Wendling has also sung through her two arias half a dozen + times, and is much pleased with them. I heard from a third person that the + two Wendlings highly praised their arias, and as for Raaff he is my best + and dearest friend. I must teach the whole opera myself to Del Prato. He + is incapable of singing even the introduction to any air of importance, + and his voice is so uneven! He is only engaged for a year, and at the end + of that time (next September) Count Seeau will get another. Cecarelli + might try his chance then serieusement. + </p> + <p> + I nearly forgot the best of all. After mass last Sunday, Count Seeau + presented me, en passant, to H.S.H. the Elector, who was very gracious. He + said, "I am happy to see you here again;" and on my replying that I would + strive to deserve the good opinion of His Serene Highness, he clapped me + on the shoulder, saying, "Oh! I have no doubt whatever that all will go + well—a piano piano si va lontano." + </p> + <p> + Deuce take it! I cannot write everything I wish. Raaff has just left me; + he sends you his compliments, and so do the Cannabichs, and Wendlings, and + Ramm. My sister must not be idle, but practise steadily, for every one is + looking forward with pleasure to her coming here. My lodging is in the + Burggasse at M. Fiat's [where the marble slab to his memory is now + erected]. + </p> + <p> + <br />129. + </p> + <p> + Munich, Nov. 22, 1780. + </p> + <p> + I SEND herewith, at last, the long-promised aria for Herr Schikaneder. + During the first week that I was here I could not entirely complete it, + owing to the business that caused me to come here. Besides, Le Grand, the + ballet-master, a terrible talker and bore, has just been with me, and by + his endless chattering caused me to miss the diligence. I hope my sister + is quite well. I have at this moment a bad cold, which in such weather is + quite the fashion here. I hope and trust, however, that it will soon take + its departure,—indeed, both phlegm and cough are gradually + disappearing. In your last letter you write repeatedly, "Oh! my poor eyes! + I du not wish to write myself blind—half-past eight at night, and no + spectacles!" But why do you write at night, and without spectacles? I + cannot understand it. I have not yet had an opportunity of speaking to + Count Seeau, but hope to do so to-day, and shall give you any information + I can gather by the next post. At present all will, no doubt, remain as it + is. Herr Raaff paid me a visit yesterday morning, and I gave him your + regards, which seemed to please him much. He is, indeed, a worthy and + thoroughly respectable man. The day before yesterday Del Frato sang in the + most disgraceful way at the concert. I would almost lay a wager that the + man never manages to get through the rehearsals, far less the opera; he + has some internal disease. + </p> + <p> + Come in!—Herr Panzacchi! [who was to sing Arbace]. He has already + paid me three visits, and has just asked me to dine with him on Sunday. I + hope the same thing won't happen to me that happened to us with the + coffee. He meekly asks if, instead of se la sa, he may sing se co la, or + even ut, re, mi, fa, sol, la. + </p> + <p> + I am so glad when you often write to me, only not at night, and far less + without spectacles. You must, however, forgive me if I do not say much in + return, for every minute is precious; besides, I am obliged chiefly to + write at night, for the mornings are so very dark; then I have to dress, + and the servant at the Weiser sometimes admits a troublesome visitor. When + Del Prato comes I must sing to him, for I have to teach him his whole part + like a child; his method is not worth a farthing. I will write more fully + next time. What of the family portraits? My sister, if she has nothing + better to do, might mark down the names of the best comedies that have + been performed during my absence. Has Schikaneder still good receipts? My + compliments to all my friends, and to Gilofsky's Katherl. Give a pinch of + Spanish snuff from me to Pimperl [the dog], a good wine-sop, and three + kisses. Do you not miss me at all? A thousand compliments to all—all! + Adieu! I embrace you both from my heart, and hope my sister will soon + recover. [Nannerl, partly owing to her grief in consequence of an + unfortunate love-affair, was suffering from pains in the chest, which + threatened to turn to consumption.] + </p> + <p> + <br />180. + </p> + <p> + Munich, Nov. 24, 1780. + </p> + <p> + I beg you will convey to Madlle. Katharine Gilofsky de Urazowa my + respectful homage. Wish her in my name every possible happiness on her + name-day; above all, I wish that this may be the last time I congratulate + her as Mademoiselle. What you write to me about Count Seinsheim is done + long ago; they are all links of one chain. I have already dined with, him + once, and with Baumgarten twice, and once with Lerchenfeld, father of + Madlle. Baumgarten. Not a single day passes without some of these people + being at Cannabich's. Do not be uneasy, dearest father, about my opera; I + do hope that all will go well. No doubt it will be assailed by a petty + cabal, which will in all probability be defeated with ridicule; for the + most respected and influential families among the nobility are in my + favor, and the first-class musicians are one and all for me. I cannot tell + you what a good friend Cannabich is—so busy and active! In a word, + he is always on the watch to serve a friend. I will tell you the whole + story about Mara. I did not write to you before on the subject, because I + thought that, even if you knew nothing of it, you would be sure to hear + the particulars here; but now it is high time to tell you the whole truth, + for probably additions have been made to the story,—at least, in + this town, it has been told in all sorts of different ways. No one can + know about it better than I do, as I was present, so I heard and witnessed + the whole affair. When the first symphony was over, it was Madame Mara's + turn to sing. I then saw her husband come sneaking in behind her with his + violoncello in his hand; I thought she was going to sing an aria obligato + with violoncello accompaniment. Old Danzi, the first violoncello, also + accompanies well. All at once Toeschi (who is a director, but has no + authority when Cannabich is present) said to Danzi (N. B., his + son-in-law), "Rise, and give Mara your place." When Cannabich saw and + heard this, he called out, "Danzi, stay where you are; the Elector prefers + his own people playing the accompaniments." Then the air began, Mara + standing behind his wife, looking very sheepish, and still holding his + violoncello. The instant they entered the concert-room, I took a dislike + to both, for you could not well see two more insolent-looking people, and + the sequel will convince you of this. The aria had a second part, but + Madame Mara did not think proper to inform the orchestra of the fact + previously, but after the last ritournelle came down into the room with + her usual air of effrontery to pay her respects to the nobility. In the + mean time her husband attacked Cannabich. I cannot write every detail, for + it would be too long; but, in a word, he insulted both the orchestra and + Cannabich's character, who, being naturally very much irritated, laid hold + of his arm, saying, "This is not the place to answer you." Mara wished to + reply, but Cannabich threatened that if he did not hold his tongue he + would have him removed by force. All were indignant at Mara's + impertinence. A concerto by Ramm was then given, when this amiable couple + proceeded to lay their complaint before Count Seeau; but from him, also, + as well as from every one else, they heard that they were in the wrong. At + last Madame Mara was foolish enough to speak to the Elector himself on the + subject, her husband in the mean time saying in an arrogant tone, "My wife + is at this moment complaining to the Elector—an unlucky business for + Cannabich; I am sorry for him." But people only burst out laughing in his + face. The Elector, in reply to Madame Mara's complaint, said, "Madame, you + sang like an angel, although your husband did not accompany you;" and when + she wished to press her grievance, he said, "That is Count Seeau's affair, + not mine." When they saw that nothing was to be done, they left the room, + although she had still two airs to sing. This was nothing short of an + insult to the Elector, and I know for certain that, had not the Archduke + and other strangers been present, they would have been very differently + treated; but on this account Count Seeau was annoyed, so he sent after + them immediately, and they came back. She sang her two arias, but was not + accompanied by her husband. In the last one (and I shall always believe + that Herr Mara did it on purpose) two bars were wanting—N. B., only + in the copy from which Cannabich was playing. When this occurred, Mara + seized Cannabich's arm, who quickly got right, but struck his bow on the + desk, exclaiming audibly, "This copy is all wrong." When the aria was at + an end, he said, "Herr Mara, I give you one piece of advice, and I hope + you will profit by it: never seize the arm of the director of an + orchestra, or lay your account with getting at least half a dozen sound + boxes on the ear." Mara's tone was now, however, entirely lowered; he + begged to be forgiven, and excused himself as he best could. The most + shameful part of the affair was that Mara (a miserable violoncellist, all + here declare) would never have been heard at court at all but for + Cannabich, who had taken considerable trouble about it. At the first + concert before my arrival he played a concerto, and accompanied his wife, + taking Danzi's place without saying a word either to Danzi or any one + else, which was allowed to pass. The Elector was by no means satisfied + with his mode of accompanying, and said he preferred his own people. + Cannabich, knowing this, mentioned to Count Seeau, before the concert + began, that he had no objection to Mara's playing, but that Danzi must + also play. When Mara came he was told this, and yet he was guilty of this + insolence. If you knew these people, you would at once see pride, + arrogance, and unblushing effrontery written on their faces. + </p> + <p> + My sister is now, I hope, quite recovered. Pray do not write me any more + melancholy letters, for I require at this time a cheerful spirit, a clear + head, and inclination to work, and these no one can have who is sad at + heart. I know, and, believe me, deeply feel, how much you deserve rest and + peace, but am I the obstacle to this? I would not willingly be so, and + yet, alas! I fear I am. But if I attain my object, so that I can live + respectably here, you must instantly leave Salzburg. You will say, that + may never come to pass; at all events, industry and exertion shall not be + wanting on my part. Do try to come over soon to see me. We can all live + together. I have a roomy alcove on my first room in which two beds stand. + These would do capitally for you and me. As for my sister, all we can do + is to put a stove into the next room, which will only be an affair of four + or five florins; for in mine we might heat the stove till it is red-hot, + and leave the stove-door open into the bargain, yet it would not make the + room endurable—it is so frightfully cold in it. Ask the Abbate + Varesco if we could not break off at the chorus in the second act, + "Placido e il mare" after Elettra's first verse, when the chorus is + repeated,—at all events after the second, for it is really far too + long. I have been confined to the house two days from my cold, and, + luckily for me, I have very little appetite, for in the long run it would + be inconvenient to pay for my board. I have, however, written a note to + the Count on the subject, and received a message from him that he would + speak to me about it shortly. By heavens! he ought to be thoroughly + ashamed of himself. I won't pay a single kreutzer. + </p> + <p> + <br />131. + </p> + <p> + Munich, Dec. 1, 1780. + </p> + <p> + THE rehearsal went off with extraordinary success; there were only six + violins in all, but the requisite wind-instruments. No one was admitted + but Count Seeau's sister and young Count Seinsheim. This day week we are + to have another rehearsal, with twelve violins for the first act, and then + the second act will be rehearsed (like the first on the previous + occasion). I cannot tell you how delighted and surprised all were; but I + never expected anything else, for I declare I went to this rehearsal with + as quiet a heart as if I had been going to a banquet. Count Seinsheim said + to me, "I do assure you that though I expected a great deal from you, I + can truly say this I did not expect." + </p> + <p> + The Cannabichs and all who frequent their house are true friends of mine. + After the rehearsal, (for we had a great deal to discuss with the Count,) + when I went home with Cannabich, Madame Cannabich came to meet me, and + hugged me from joy at the rehearsal having passed off so admirably; then + came Ramm and Lang, quite out of their wits with delight. My true friend + the excellent lady, who was alone in the house with her invalid daughter + Rose, had been full of solicitude on my account. When you know him, you + will find Ramm a true German, saying exactly what he thinks to your face. + He said to me, "I must honestly confess that no music ever made such an + impression on me, and I assure you I thought of your father fifty times at + least, and of the joy he will feel when he hears this opera." But enough + of this subject. My cold is rather worse owing to this rehearsal, for it + is impossible not to feel excited when honor and fame are at stake, + however cool you may be at first. I did everything you prescribed for my + cold, but it goes on very slowly, which is particularly inconvenient to me + at present; but all my writing about it will not put an end to my cough, + and yet write I must. To-day I have begun to take violet syrup and a + little almond oil, and already I feel relieved, and have again stayed two + days in the house. Yesterday morning Herr Raaff came to me again to hear + the aria in the second act. The man is as much enamored of his aria as a + young passionate lover ever was of his fair one. He sings it the last + thing before he goes to sleep, and the first thing in the morning when he + awakes. I knew already, from a sure source, but now from himself, that he + said to Herr von Viereck (Oberststallmeister) and to Herr von Kastel, "I + am accustomed constantly to change my parts, to suit me better, in + recitative as well as in arias, but this I have left just as it was, for + every single note is in accordance with my voice." In short, he is as + happy as a king. He wishes the interpolated aria to be a little altered, + and so do I. The part commencing with the word era he does not like, for + what we want here is a calm tranquil aria; and if consisting of only one + part, so much the better, for a second subject would have to be brought in + about the middle, which leads me out of my way. In "Achill in Sciro" there + is an air of this kind, "or che mio figlio sei." I thank my sister very + much for the list of comedies she sent me. It is singular enough about the + comedy "Rache fur Rache"; it was frequently given here with much applause, + and quite lately too, though I was not there myself. I beg you will + present my devoted homage to Madlle. Therese von Barisani; if I had a + brother, I would request him to kiss her hand in all humility, but having + a sister only is still better, for I beg she will embrace her in the most + affectionate manner in my name. A propos, do write a letter to Cannabich; + he deserves it, and it will please him exceedingly. What does it matter if + he does not answer you? You must not judge him from his manner; he is the + same to every one, and means nothing. You must first know him well. + </p> + <p> + <br />132. + </p> + <p> + Munich, Dec. 5, 1780. + </p> + <p> + The death of the Empress [Maria Theresa] does not at all affect my opera, + for the theatrical performances are not suspended, and the plays go on as + usual. The entire mourning is not to last more than six weeks, and my + opera will not be given before the 20th of January. I wish you to get my + black suit thoroughly brushed to make it as wearable as possible, and + forward it to me by the first diligence; for next week every one must be + in mourning, and I, though constantly on the move, must cry with the + others. + </p> + <p> + With regard to Raaff's last aria, I already mentioned that we both wish to + have more touching and pleasing words. The word era is constrained; the + beginning good, but gelida massa is again hard. In short, far-fetched or + pedantic expressions are always inappropriate in a pleasing aria. I should + also like the air to express only peace and contentment; and one part + would be quite as good—in fact, better, in my opinion. I also wrote + about Panzacchi; we must do what we can to oblige the good old man. He + wishes to have his recitative in the third act lengthened a couple of + lines, which, owing to the chiaro oscuro and his being a good actor, will + have a capital effect. For example, after the strophe, "Sei la citta del + pianto, e questa reggia quella del duol," comes a slight glimmering of + hope, and then, "Madman that I am! whither does my grief lead me?" "Ah! + Creta tutta io vedo." The Abbato Varesco is not obliged to rewrite the act + on account of these things, for they can easily be interpolated. I have + also written that both I and others think the oracle's subterranean speech + too long to make a good effect. Reflect on this. I must now conclude, + having such a mass of writing to do. I have not seen Baron Lehrbach, and + don't know whether he is here or not; and I have no time to run about. I + may easily not know whether he is here, but he cannot fail to know + positively that I am. Had I been a girl, no doubt he would have come to + see me long ago. Now adieu! + </p> + <p> + I have this moment received your letter of the 4th December. You must + begin to accustom yourself a little to the kissing system. You can + meanwhile practise with Maresquelli, for each time that you come to + Dorothea Wendling's (where everything is rather in the French style) you + will have to embrace both mother and daughter, but—N. B., on the + chin, so that the paint may not be rubbed off. More of this next time. + Adieu! + </p> + <p> + P.S.—Don't forget about my black suit; I must have it, or I shall be + laughed at, which is never agreeable. + </p> + <p> + <br />133. + </p> + <p> + Munich, Dec. 13, 1780. + </p> + <p> + Your last letters seemed to me far too short, so I searched all the + pockets in my black suit to see if I could not find something more. In + Vienna and all the Imperial dominions, the gayeties are to be resumed six + weeks hence,—a very sensible measure, for mourning too long is not + productive of half as much good to the deceased as of injury to the + living. Is Herr Schikaneder to remain in Salzburg? If so, he might still + see and hear my opera. Here people, very properly, cannot comprehend why + the mourning should last for three months, while that for our late Elector + was only six weeks. The theatre, however, goes on as usual. You do not + write to me how Herr Esser accompanied my sonatas—ill, or well? The + comedy, "Wie man sich die Sache deutet," is charming, for I saw it—no, + not saw it, but read it, for it has not yet been performed; besides, I + have been only once in the theatre, having no leisure to go, the evening + being the time I like best to work. If her Grace, the most sensible + gracious Frau von Robinig, does not on this occasion change the period of + her gracious journey to Munich, her Grace will be unable to hear one note + of my opera. My opinion, however, is, that her Grace in her supreme + wisdom, in order to oblige your excellent son, will graciously condescend + to stay a little longer. I suppose your portrait is now begun, and my + sister's also, no doubt. How is it likely to turn out? Have you any answer + yet from our plenipotentiary at Wetzlar? I forget his name—Fuchs, I + think. I mean, about the duets for two pianos. It is always satisfactory + to explain a thing distinctly, and the arias of Esopus are, I suppose, + still lying on the table? Send them to me by the diligence, that I may + give them myself to Herr von Dummhoff, who will then remit them post-free. + To whom? Why, to Heckmann—a charming man, is he not? and a + passionate lover of music. My chief object comes to-day at the close of my + letter, but this is always the case with me. One day lately, after dining + with Lisel Wendling, I drove with Le Grand to Cannabich's (as it was + snowing heavily). Through the window they thought it was you, and that we + had come together. I could not understand why both Karl and the children + ran down the steps to meet us, and when they saw Le Grand, did not say a + word, but looked quite discomposed, till they explained it when we went + up-stairs. I shall write nothing more, because you write so seldom to me—nothing, + except that Herr Eck, who has just crept into the room to fetch his sword + which he forgot the last time he was here, sends his best wishes to + Thresel, Pimperl, Jungfer Mitzerl, Gilofsky, Katherl, my sister, and, last + of all, to yourself. Kiss Thresel for me; a thousand kisses to Pimperl. + </p> + <p> + <br />134. + </p> + <p> + Munich, Dec. 16, 1780. + </p> + <p> + HERR ESSER came to call on me yesterday for the first time. Did he go + about on foot in Salzburg, or always drive in a carriage, as he does here? + I believe his small portion of Salzburg money will not remain long in his + purse. On Sunday we are to dine together at Cannabich's, and there he is + to let us hear his solos, clever and stupid. He says he will give no + concert here, nor does he care to appear at court; he does not intend to + seek it, but if the Elector wishes to hear him,—"Eh, bien! here am + I; it would be a favor, but I shall not announce myself." But, after all, + he may be a worthy fool—deuce take it! cavalier, I meant to say. He + asked me why I did not wear my Order of the Spur. I said I had one in my + head quite hard enough to carry. He was so obliging as to dust my coat a + little for me, saying, "One cavalier may wait upon another." In spite of + which, the same afternoon—from forgetfulness, I suppose—he + left his spur at home, (I mean the outward and visible one,) or at all + events contrived to hide it so effectually that not a vestige of it was to + be seen. In case I forget it again, I must tell you that Madame and + Madlle. Cannabich both complain that their throats are daily becoming + larger owing to the air and water here, which might at last become regular + goitres. Heaven forbid! They are indeed taking a certain powder—how + do I know what? Not that this is its name; at all events, it seems to do + them no good. For their sakes, therefore, I took the liberty to recommend + what we call goitre pills, pretending (in order to enhance their value) + that my sister had three goitres, each larger than the other, and yet at + last, by means of these admirable pills, had got entirely rid of them! If + they can be made up here, pray send me the prescription; but if only to be + had at Salzburg, I beg you will pay ready money for them, and send a few + cwt. of them by the next diligence. You know my address. + </p> + <p> + There is to be another rehearsal this afternoon of the first and second + acts in the Count's apartments; then we shall only have a chamber + rehearsal of the third, and afterwards go straight to the theatre. The + rehearsal has been put off owing to the copyist, which enraged Count + Seinsheim to the uttermost. As for what is called the popular taste, do + not be uneasy, for in my opera there is music for every class, except for + the long-eared. A propos, how goes on the Archbishop? Next Monday I shall + have been six weeks away from Salzburg. You know, dear father, that I only + stay there to oblige you, for, by heavens! if I followed my own + inclinations, before coming here I would have torn up my last diploma; for + I give you my honor that not Salzburg itself, but the Prince and his proud + nobility, become every day more intolerable to me. I should rejoice were I + to be told that my services were no longer required, for with the great + patronage that I have here, both my present and future circumstances would + be secure, death excepted, which no one can guard against, though no great + misfortune to a single man. But anything in the world to please you. It + would be less trying to me if I could only occasionally escape from time + to time, just to draw my breath. You know how difficult it was to get away + on this occasion; and without some very urgent cause, there would not be + the faintest hope of such a thing. It is enough to make one weep to think + of it, so I say no more. Adieu! Come soon to see me at Munich and to hear + my opera, and then tell me whether I have not a right to feel sad when I + think of Salzburg. Adieu! + </p> + <p> + <br />135. + </p> + <p> + Munich, Dec. 19, 1780. + </p> + <p> + THIS last rehearsal has been as successful as the first, and + satisfactorily proved to the orchestra and all those who heard it, their + mistake in thinking that the second act could not possibly excel the first + in expression and novelty. Next Saturday both acts are again to be + rehearsed, but in a spacious apartment in the palace, which I have long + wished, as the room at Count Seeau's is far too small. The Elector is to + be in an adjoining room (incognito) to hear the music. "It must be a + life-and-death rehearsal," said Cannabich to me. At the last one he was + bathed in perspiration. + </p> + <p> + Cannabich, whose name-day this is, has just left me, reproaching me for + discontinuing this letter in his presence. As to Madame Duschek, the thing + is impossible at present, but I will do what I can with pleasure after my + opera is given. I beg you will write to her and say, with my compliments, + that next time she comes to Salzburg we can square accounts. It would + delight me if I could get a couple of cavaliers like old Czernin,—this + would be a little yearly help; but certainly not for less than 100 florins + a year, in which case it might be any style of music they pleased. I trust + that you are now quite recovered; indeed, after the friction performed by + a Barisani Theres, you cannot be otherwise. You have no doubt seen by my + letters that I am well and happy. Who would not feel happy to have + completed such a great and laborious work—and completed it, too, + with honor and renown? Three arias alone are wanting—the last chorus + in the third act, and the overture and ballet; and then—Adieu + partie! + </p> + <p> + One more indispensable remark, and I have done. The scene between father + and son in the first act, and the first scene in the second act between + Idomenco and Arbace, are both too long, and sure to weary the audience, + particularly as in the first the actors are both bad, and in the second + one of them is also very inferior; besides, the whole details are only a + narrative of what the spectators have already seen with their own eyes. + The scenes will be printed just as they are. I only wish the Abbate would + point out to me how not only to curtail them, but very considerably to + curtail them; otherwise I must do it myself, for the scenes cannot remain + as they are—I mean, so far as the music is concerned. I have just + got your letter, which, being begun by my sister, is without a date. A + thousand compliments to Thresel—my future upper and under + nursery-maid to be. I can easily believe that Katherl would gladly come to + Munich, if (independent of the journey) you would allow her to take my + place at meals. Eh! bien. I can contrive it, for she can occupy the same + room with my sister. + </p> + <p> + <br />136. + </p> + <p> + Munich, Dec 27, 1780. + </p> + <p> + I HAVE received the entire opera, Schachtner's letter, your note, and the + pills. As for the two scenes to be curtailed, it was not my own + suggestion, but one to which I consented—my reason being that Raaff + and Del Prato spoil the recitative by singing it quite devoid of all + spirit and fire, and so monotonously. They are the most miserable actors + that ever trod the stage. I had a desperate battle royal with Seeau as to + the inexpediency, unfitness, and almost impossibility of the omissions in + question. However, all is to be printed as it is, which at first he + positively refused to agree to, but at last, on rating him soundly, he + gave way. The last rehearsal was splendid. It took place in a spacious + apartment in the palace. The Elector was also within hearing. On this + occasion it was rehearsed with the whole orchestra, (of course I mean + those who belong to the opera.) After the first act the Elector called out + Bravo! rather too audibly, and when I went into the next room to kiss his + hand he said, "Your opera is quite charming, and cannot fail to do you + honor." As he was not sure whether he could remain for the whole + performance, we played the concerted aria and the thunderstorm at the + beginning of the second act, by his desire, when he again testified his + approbation in the kindest manner, and said, laughing, "Who could believe + that such great things could be hidden in so small a head?" Next day, too, + at his reception, he extolled my opera much. The ensuing rehearsal will + probably take place in the theatre. A propos, Becke told me, a day or two + ago, that he had written to you about the last rehearsal but one, and + among other things had said that Raaff's aria in the second act is not + composed in accordance with the sense of the words, adding, "So I am told, + for I understand Italian too little to be able to judge." I replied, "If + you had only asked me first and written afterwards! I must tell you that + whoever said such a thing can understand very little Italian. The aria is + quite adapted to the words. You hear the mare, and the mare funesto; and + the passages dwell on the minacciar, and entirely express minacciar + (threatening). Moreover, it is the most superb aria in the opera, and has + met with universal approbation." + </p> + <p> + Is it true that the Emperor is ill? Is it true that the Archbishop intends + to come to Munich? Raaff is the best and most upright man alive, but—so + addicted to old-fashioned routine that flesh and blood cannot stand it; so + that it is very difficult to write for him, but very easy if you choose to + compose commonplace arias, as for instance the first one, "Vedromi + intorno." When you hear it, you will say that it is good and pretty, but + had I written it for Zonca it would have suited the words better. Raaff + likes everything according to rule, and does not regard expression. I have + had a piece of work with him about the quartet. The more I think of the + quartet as it will be on the stage, the more effective I consider it, and + it has pleased all those who have heard it on the piano. Raaff alone + maintains that it will not be successful. He said to me confidentially, + "There is no opportunity to expand the voice; it is too confined." As if + in a quartet the words should not far rather be spoken, as it were, than + sung! He does not at all understand such things. I only replied, "My dear + friend, if I were aware of one single note in this quartet which ought to + be altered, I would change it at once; but there is no single thing in my + opera with which I am so pleased as with this quartet, and when you have + once heard it sung in concert you will speak very differently. I took + every possible pains to conform to your taste in your two arias, and + intend to do the same with the third, so I hope to be successful; but with + regard to trios and quartets, they should be left to the composer's own + discretion." On which he said that he was quite satisfied. The other day + he was much annoyed by some words in his last aria—rinvigorir and + ringiovenir, and especially vienmi a rinvigorir—five i's! It is + true, this is very disagreeable at the close of an air. + </p> + <p> + <br />137. + </p> + <p> + Munich, Dec. 30. 1780. + </p> + <p> + A HAPPY New-Year! Excuse my writing much, for I am over head and ears in + my work. I have not quite finished the third act; and as there is no extra + ballet, but only an appropriate divertissement in the opera, I have the + honor to write that music also, but I am glad of it, for now the music + will be all by the same master. The third act will prove at least as good + as the two others,—in fact, I believe, infinitely better, and that + it might fairly be said, finis coronat opus. The Elector was so pleased at + the rehearsal that, as I already wrote to you, he praised it immensely + next morning at his reception, and also in the evening at court. I + likewise know from good authority that, on the same evening after the + final rehearsal, he spoke of my music to every one he conversed with, + saying, "I was quite surprised; no music ever had such an effect on me; it + is magnificent music." The day before yesterday we had a recitative + rehearsal at Wendling's, and tried over the quartet all together. We + repeated it six times, and now it goes well. The stumbling-block was Del + Prato; the wretch can literally do nothing. His voice is not so bad, if he + did not sing from the back of the throat; besides, he has no intonation, + no method, no feeling. He is only one of the best of the youths who sing + in the hope of getting a place in the choir of the chapel. Raaff was glad + to find himself mistaken about the quartet, and no longer doubts its + effect. Now I am in a difficulty with regard to Raaff's last air, and you + must help me out of it. He cannot digest the rinvigorir and ringiovenir, + and these two words make the whole air hateful to him. It is true that + mostrami and vienmi are also not good, but the worst of all are the two + final words; to avoid the shake on the i in the first word rinvigorir, I + was forced to transfer it to the o. Raaff has now found, in the "Natal di + Giove," which is in truth very little known, an aria quite appropriate to + this situation. I think it is the ad libitum aria, "Bell' alme al ciel + diletto" and he wishes me to write music for these words. He says, "No one + knows it, and we need say nothing." He is quite aware that he cannot + expect the Abbate to alter this aria a third time, and he will not sing it + as it is written. I beg you will send me an immediate reply. I shall + conclude, for I must now write with all speed; the composing is finished, + but not the writing out. + </p> + <p> + My compliments to dear Thresel: the maid who waits on me here is also + named Thresel, but, heavens! how inferior to the Linz Thresel in beauty, + virtue, charms—and a thousand other merits! You probably know that + the worthy musico Marquesi, the Marquessius di Milano, has been poisoned + in Naples, but how? He was enamored of a Duchess, whose rightful lover + became jealous, and sent three or four fellows to give him his choice + between drinking poison out of a cup and being assassinated. He chose the + former, but being an Italian poltroon he died ALONE, and allowed his + murderers to live on in peace and quiet. I would at least (in my own room) + have taken a couple with me into the next world, if absolutely obliged to + die myself. Such an admirable singer is a great loss. Adieu! + </p> + <p> + <br />138. + </p> + <p> + Munich, Jan. 3, 1780. + </p> + <p> + MY head and my hands are so fully occupied with my third act, that it + would not be wonderful if I turned into a third act myself, for it alone + has cost me more trouble than the entire opera; there is scarcely a scene + in it which is not interesting to the greatest degree. The accompaniment + of the underground music consists merely of five instruments, namely, + three trombones and two French horns, which are placed on the spot whence + the voice proceeds. The whole orchestra is silent at this part. + </p> + <p> + The grand rehearsal positively takes place on the 20th, and the first + performance on the 22d. All you will both require is to bring one black + dress, and another for every-day wear, when you are only visiting intimate + friends where there is no ceremony, and thus save your black dress a + little; and if my sister likes, one pretty dress also, that she may go to + the ball and the Academie Masquee. + </p> + <p> + Herr von Robinig is already here, and sends his regards to you. I hear + that the two Barisanis are also coming to Munich; is this true? Heaven be + praised that the cut on the finger of the Archbishop was of no + consequence! Good heavens! how dreadfully I was alarmed at first! + Cannabich thanks you for your charming letter, and all his family beg + their remembrances. He told me you had written very humorously. You must + have been in a happy mood. + </p> + <p> + No doubt we shall have a good many corrections to make in the third act + when on the stage; as for instance scene sixth, after Arbace's aria, the + personages are marked, "Idomeneo, Arbace, &c., &c." How can the + latter so instantly reappear on the spot? Fortunately he might stay away + altogether. In order to make the matter practicable, I have written a + somewhat longer introduction to the High Priest's recitative. After the + mourning chorus the King and his people all go away, and in the following + scene the directions are, "Idomeneo kneels down in the Temple." This is + impossible; he must come accompanied by his whole suite. A march must + necessarily be introduced here, so I have composed a very simple one for + two violins, tenor, bass, and two hautboys, to be played a mezza voce, and + during this time the King appears, and the Priests prepare the offerings + for the sacrifice. The King then kneels down and begins the prayer. + </p> + <p> + In Elettra's recitative, after the underground voice has spoken, there + ought to be marked exeunt. I forgot to look at the copy written for the + press to see whether it is there, and whereabouts it comes. It seems to me + very silly that they should hurry away so quickly merely to allow Madlle. + Elettra to be alone. + </p> + <p> + I have this moment received your few lines of January 1st. When I opened + the letter I chanced to hold it in such a manner that nothing but a blank + sheet met my eyes. At last I found the writing. I am heartily glad that I + have got an aria for Raaff, as he was quite resolved to introduce the air + he had discovered, and I could not possibly (N. B., with a Raaff) have + arranged in any other way than by having Varesco's air printed, but + Raaff's sung. I must stop, or I shall waste too much time. Thank my sister + very much for her New-Year's wishes, which I heartily return. I hope we + shall soon be right merry together. Adieu! Remembrances to friends, not + forgetting Ruscherle. Young Eck sends her a kiss, a sugar one of course. + </p> + <p> + <br />139. + </p> + <p> + Munich, Jan. 10, 1780. + </p> + <p> + My greatest piece of news is that the opera is put off for a week. The + grand rehearsal is not to take place till the 27th—N. B., my + birthday—and the opera itself on the 29th. Why? Probably to save + Count Seeau two hundred gulden. I, indeed, am very glad, because we can + now rehearse frequently and more carefully. You should have seen the faces + of the Robinigs when I told them this news. Louisa and Sigmund are + delighted to stay; but Lise, that SNEAKING MISERY, has such a spiteful + Salzburg tongue that it really drives me distracted. Perhaps they may + still remain, and I hope so on Louisa's account. In addition to many other + little altercations with Count Seeau, I have had a sharp contention with + him about the trombones. I call it so, because I was obliged to be + downright rude, or I never should have carried my point. Next Saturday the + three acts are to be rehearsed in private. I got your letter of the 8th, + and read it with great pleasure; the burlesque, too, I like very much. + Excuse my writing more at this time; for, in the first place, as you see, + my pen and ink are bad, and, in the second, I have still a couple of airs + to write for the last ballet. I hope you will send no more such letters as + the last, of only three or four lines. + </p> + <p> + <br />140. + </p> + <p> + Munich, Jan. 18, 1780. + </p> + <p> + PRAY forgive a short letter, for I must go this very moment, ten o'clock + (in the forenoon of course), to the rehearsal. There is to be a recitative + rehearsal for the first time to-day in the theatre. I could not write + before, having been so incessantly occupied with those confounded dances. + Laus Deo, I have got rid of them at last, but only of what was most + pressing. The rehearsal of the third act went off admirably. It was + considered very superior to the second act. The poetry is, however, + thought far too long, and of course the music likewise, (which I always + said it was.) On this account the aria of Idamante, "No la morte io non + pavento" is to be omitted, which was, indeed, always out of place there; + those who have heard it with the music deplore this. Raaff's last air, + too, is still more regretted, but we must make a virtue of necessity. The + prediction of the oracle is still far too long, so I have shortened it; + but Varesco need know nothing of this, because it will all be printed just + as he wrote it. Madame von Robinig will bring with her the payment both + for him and Schachtner. Herr Geschwender declined taking any money with + him. In the meantime say to Varesco in my name, that he will not get a + farthing from Count Seeau beyond the contract, for all the alterations + were made FOR ME and not for the Count, and he ought to be obliged to me + into the bargain, as they were indispensable for his own reputation. There + is a good deal that might still be altered; and I can tell him that he + would not have come off so well with any other composer as with me. I have + spared no trouble in defending him. + </p> + <p> + The stove is out of the question, for it costs too much. I will have + another bed put up in the room that adjoins the alcove, and we must manage + the best way we can. Do not forget to bring my little watch with you. We + shall probably make an excursion to Augsburg, where we could have the + little silly thing regulated. I wish you also to bring Schachtner's + operetta. There are people who frequent Cannabich's house, who might as + well hear a thing of the kind. I must be off to the rehearsal. Adieu! + </p> + <p> + The father and sister arrived on the 25th of January, and the first + performance of the opera took place a few days afterwards; then the family + amused themselves for some little time with the gayeties of the Carnival. + The Archbishop had gone to Vienna; and, desiring to appear in the Imperial + city in the full splendor of a spiritual prince, he had taken with him, in + addition to fine furniture and a large household, some of his most + distinguished musicians. On this account, therefore, Mozart, in the middle + of March, also received the command to go to Vienna. He set off + immediately. + </p> + <p> + END OF VOL. I. + </p> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <a name="link2H_CONT" id="link2H_CONT"> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CONTENTS OF VOLUME I. [LETTERS LISTED BY DATE] + </h2> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + FIRST PART + ITALY VIENNA MUNICH + 1770-1776 +</pre> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + LETTER + + 1. Salzburg, 1769 + 2. Verona, Jan 7, 1770 + 3. Milan, Jan 26, 1770 + 4. Milan, Feb. 10, 1770 + 5. Milan, Feb 17, 1770 + 6. Milan, Carnival, Erchtag, 1770 + 7. Milan, Mar 3, 1770 + 8. Bologna, Mar 24, 1770 + 9. Rome, April 14, 1770 + 10. Rome, April 21, 1770 + 11. Rome, April 25, 1770 + 12. Naples, May 19, 1770 + 13. Naples, May 29, 1770 + 14. Naples, June 5, 1770 + 15. Naples, June 16, 1770 + 16. Rome, July 17, 1770 + 17. Bologna, July 21, 1770 + 18. Bologna, July, 1770 + 19. Bologna, August 4, 1770 + 20. Bologna, August 21, 1770 + 21. Bologna, Sept 8, 1770 + 22. Bologna, Sept 22, 1770 + 23. Bologna, Sept 29, 1770 + 24. Bologna, Oct 6, 1770 + 25. Milan, Oct. 20, 1770 + 26. Milan, Oct. 27, 1770 + 27. Milan, Nov 3, 1770 + 28. Milan, Dec 1, 1770 + 29. Milan, Jan, 1771 + 30. Venice, Feb 15, 1771 + 31. Venice, Feb 20, 1771 + 32. Verona, Aug 18, 1771 + 33. Milan, Aug 23, 1771 + 34. Milan, Aug 31, 1771 + 35. Milan, Sept 13, 1771 + 36. Milan, Sept 21, 1771 + 37. Milan, Oct 5, 1771 + 38. Milan, Oct 26, 1771 + 39. Milan, Nov 2, 1771 + 40. Milan, Nov. 24, 1771 + 41. Milan, Nov 30, 1771 + 42. Bologna, Oct 28, 1772 + 43. Milan, Nov 7, 1772 + 44. Milan, Nov, 1772 + 45. Milan, Nov 21, 1772 + 46. Milan, Nov 28, 1772 + 47. Milan, Dec 5, 1772 + 48. Milan, Dec 18, 1772 + 49. Milan, Jan 23, 1773 + 50. Vienna, Aug 14, 1773 + 51. Vienna, Aug 21, 1773 + 52. Vienna, Sept. 15, 1773 + 53. Munich, Dec. 28, 1774 + 54. Munich, Dec. 30, 1774 + 55. Munich, Jan. 11, 1775 + 56. Munich, Jan. 14, 1775 + 57. Munich, Jan., 1775 + 58. Salzburg, Sept. 4, 1776 +</pre> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + SECOND PART. + MUNICH AUGSBURG MANNHEIM + SEPTEMBER 1777 to MARCH 1778 +</pre> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + 59. Wasserburg, Sept. 23, 1777 + 60. Munich, Sept. 26, 1777 + 61. Munich, Sept. 29, 1777 + 62. Munich, Oct. 2, 1777 + 63. Munich, Oct. 6, 1777 + 64. Munich, Oct. 11, 1777 + 65. Augsburg, Oct. 14, 1777 + 66. Augsburg, Oct. 17, 1777 + 67. Augsburg, Oct. 17, 1777 + 68. Augsburg, Oct. 23, 1777 + 69. Augsburg, Oct. 25, 1777 + 70. Mannheim, Oct. 30, 1777 + 71. Mannheim, Nov. 4, 1777 + 72. Mannheim, Nov. 5 1777 + 73. Mannheim, Nov. 8, 1777 + 74. Mannheim, Nov. 13, 1777 + 75. Mannheim, Nov. 13, 1777 + 76. Mannheim, Nov. 14-16, 1777 + 77. Mannheim, Nov. 20, 1777 + 78. Mannheim, Nov. 22, 1777 + 79. Mannheim, Nov. 26, 1777 + 80. Mannheim, Nov. 29, 1777 + 81. Mannheim, Dec. 3, 1777 + 82. Mannheim, Dec. 6, 1777 + 83. Mannheim, Dec. 10, 1777 + 84. Mannheim, Dec. 14, 1777 + 85. Mannheim, Dec. 18, 1777 + 86. Mannheim, Dec. 20, 1777 + 87. Mannheim, Dec. 27, 1777 + 88. Mannheim, Jan. 7, 1778 + 89. Mannheim, Jan. 10, 1778 + 90. Mannheim, Jan. 17, 1778 + 91. Mannheim, Feb. 2-4, 1778 + 92. Mannheim, Feb. 7, 1778 + 93. Mannheim, Feb. 14, 1778 + 94. Mannheim, Feb. 19, 1778 + 95. Mannheim, Feb. 22, 1778 + 96. Mannheim, Feb. 28, 1778 + 97. Mannheim, end of Feb, 1778 + 98. Mannheim, Mar. 7, 1778 + 99. Mannheim, Mar. 11, 1778 +</pre> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + THIRD PART. + PARIS. + MARCH 1778 to JANUARY 1779 +</pre> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + 100. Paris, Mar. 24, 1778 + 101. Paris, April 5, 1778 + 102. Paris, May 1, 1778 + 103. Paris, May 14, 1778 + 104. Paris, May 29, 1778 + 105. Paris, June 12 1778 + 106. Paris, July 3, 1778 + 107. Paris, July 3, 1778 + 108. Paris, July 9, 1778 + 109. Paris, July 18, 1778 + 110. Paris, July 31, 1778 + 111. Paris, Aug 7, 1778 + 112. St Germains, Aug 27, 1778 + 113. Paris, Sept 11, 1778 + 114. Nancy, Oct 3, 1778 + 115. Strassburg, Oct 15, 1778 + 116. Strassburg, Oct 26, 1778 + 117. Mannheim, Nov 12, 1778 + 118. Mannheim, Nov 24, 1778 + 119. Mannheim, Dec 3, 1778 + 120. Kaisersheim, Dec 18, 1778 + 121. Kaisersheim, Dec 23, 1778 + 122. Munich, Dec 29, 1778 + 123. Munich, Dec 31, 1778 + 124. Munich, Jan 8, 1779 + 125. Salzburg, May 10, 1779 +</pre> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + FOURTH PART + MUNICH IDOMENEO + NOVEMBER 1780 to JANUARY 1781 +</pre> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + 126. Munich, Nov 8, 1780 + 127. Munich, Nov 13, 1780 + 128. Munich, Nov 15, 1780 + 129. Munich, Nov 22, 1780 + 130. Munich, Nov 24, 1780 + 131. Munich, Dec 1, 1780 + 132. Munich, Dec 5, 1780 + 133. Munich, Dec 13, 1780 + 134. Munich, Dec 16, 1780 + 135. Munich, Dec 19, 1780 + 136. Munich, Dec 27, 1780 + 137. Munich, Dec 30, 1780 + 138. Munich, Jan 3, 1781 + 139. Munich, Jan 10, 1781 + 140. Munich, Jan 18, 1781 +</pre> + <div style="height: 6em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + + + + + + + +<pre> + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Letters of Wolfgang Amadeus +Mozart, Vol. 1, by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE LETTERS OF WOLFGANG *** + +***** This file should be named 5307-h.htm or 5307-h.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + http://www.gutenberg.org/5/3/0/5307/ + + +Text file produced by John Mamoun, Charles Franks and the Online +Distributed Proofreading Team + +HTML file produced by David Widger + + +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. Special rules, +set forth in the General Terms of Use part of this license, apply to +copying and distributing Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works to +protect the PROJECT GUTENBERG-tm concept and trademark. Project +Gutenberg is a registered trademark, and may not be used if you +charge for the eBooks, unless you receive specific permission. If you +do not charge anything for copies of this eBook, complying with the +rules is very easy. You may use this eBook for nearly any purpose +such as creation of derivative works, reports, performances and +research. They may be modified and printed and given away--you may do +practically ANYTHING with public domain eBooks. Redistribution is +subject to the trademark license, especially commercial +redistribution. + + + +*** START: FULL LICENSE *** + +THE FULL PROJECT GUTENBERG LICENSE +PLEASE READ THIS BEFORE YOU DISTRIBUTE OR USE THIS WORK + +To protect the Project Gutenberg-tm mission of promoting the free +distribution of electronic works, by using or distributing this work +(or any other work associated in any way with the phrase "Project +Gutenberg"), you agree to comply with all the terms of the Full Project +Gutenberg-tm License available with this file or online at + www.gutenberg.org/license. + + +Section 1. General Terms of Use and Redistributing Project Gutenberg-tm +electronic works + +1.A. By reading or using any part of this Project Gutenberg-tm +electronic work, you indicate that you have read, understand, agree to +and accept all the terms of this license and intellectual property +(trademark/copyright) agreement. If you do not agree to abide by all +the terms of this agreement, you must cease using and return or destroy +all copies of Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works in your possession. +If you paid a fee for obtaining a copy of or access to a Project +Gutenberg-tm electronic work and you do not agree to be bound by the +terms of this agreement, you may obtain a refund from the person or +entity to whom you paid the fee as set forth in paragraph 1.E.8. + +1.B. "Project Gutenberg" is a registered trademark. It may only be +used on or associated in any way with an electronic work by people who +agree to be bound by the terms of this agreement. There are a few +things that you can do with most Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works +even without complying with the full terms of this agreement. See +paragraph 1.C below. There are a lot of things you can do with Project +Gutenberg-tm electronic works if you follow the terms of this agreement +and help preserve free future access to Project Gutenberg-tm electronic +works. See paragraph 1.E below. + +1.C. The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation ("the Foundation" +or PGLAF), owns a compilation copyright in the collection of Project +Gutenberg-tm electronic works. Nearly all the individual works in the +collection are in the public domain in the United States. If an +individual work is in the public domain in the United States and you are +located in the United States, we do not claim a right to prevent you from +copying, distributing, performing, displaying or creating derivative +works based on the work as long as all references to Project Gutenberg +are removed. Of course, we hope that you will support the Project +Gutenberg-tm mission of promoting free access to electronic works by +freely sharing Project Gutenberg-tm works in compliance with the terms of +this agreement for keeping the Project Gutenberg-tm name associated with +the work. You can easily comply with the terms of this agreement by +keeping this work in the same format with its attached full Project +Gutenberg-tm License when you share it without charge with others. + +1.D. The copyright laws of the place where you are located also govern +what you can do with this work. Copyright laws in most countries are in +a constant state of change. If you are outside the United States, check +the laws of your country in addition to the terms of this agreement +before downloading, copying, displaying, performing, distributing or +creating derivative works based on this work or any other Project +Gutenberg-tm work. The Foundation makes no representations concerning +the copyright status of any work in any country outside the United +States. + +1.E. Unless you have removed all references to Project Gutenberg: + +1.E.1. The following sentence, with active links to, or other immediate +access to, the full Project Gutenberg-tm License must appear prominently +whenever any copy of a Project Gutenberg-tm work (any work on which the +phrase "Project Gutenberg" appears, or with which the phrase "Project +Gutenberg" is associated) is accessed, displayed, performed, viewed, +copied or distributed: + +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 + +1.E.2. If an individual Project Gutenberg-tm electronic work is derived +from the public domain (does not contain a notice indicating that it is +posted with permission of the copyright holder), the work can be copied +and distributed to anyone in the United States without paying any fees +or charges. If you are redistributing or providing access to a work +with the phrase "Project Gutenberg" associated with or appearing on the +work, you must comply either with the requirements of paragraphs 1.E.1 +through 1.E.7 or obtain permission for the use of the work and the +Project Gutenberg-tm trademark as set forth in paragraphs 1.E.8 or +1.E.9. + +1.E.3. If an individual Project Gutenberg-tm electronic work is posted +with the permission of the copyright holder, your use and distribution +must comply with both paragraphs 1.E.1 through 1.E.7 and any additional +terms imposed by the copyright holder. Additional terms will be linked +to the Project Gutenberg-tm License for all works posted with the +permission of the copyright holder found at the beginning of this work. + +1.E.4. Do not unlink or detach or remove the full Project Gutenberg-tm +License terms from this work, or any files containing a part of this +work or any other work associated with Project Gutenberg-tm. + +1.E.5. Do not copy, display, perform, distribute or redistribute this +electronic work, or any part of this electronic work, without +prominently displaying the sentence set forth in paragraph 1.E.1 with +active links or immediate access to the full terms of the Project +Gutenberg-tm License. + +1.E.6. You may convert to and distribute this work in any binary, +compressed, marked up, nonproprietary or proprietary form, including any +word processing or hypertext form. However, if you provide access to or +distribute copies of a Project Gutenberg-tm work in a format other than +"Plain Vanilla ASCII" or other format used in the official version +posted on the official Project Gutenberg-tm web site (www.gutenberg.org), +you must, at no additional cost, fee or expense to the user, provide a +copy, a means of exporting a copy, or a means of obtaining a copy upon +request, of the work in its original "Plain Vanilla ASCII" or other +form. Any alternate format must include the full Project Gutenberg-tm +License as specified in paragraph 1.E.1. + +1.E.7. Do not charge a fee for access to, viewing, displaying, +performing, copying or distributing any Project Gutenberg-tm works +unless you comply with paragraph 1.E.8 or 1.E.9. + +1.E.8. You may charge a reasonable fee for copies of or providing +access to or distributing Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works provided +that + +- You pay a royalty fee of 20% of the gross profits you derive from + the use of Project Gutenberg-tm works calculated using the method + you already use to calculate your applicable taxes. The fee is + owed to the owner of the Project Gutenberg-tm trademark, but he + has agreed to donate royalties under this paragraph to the + Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation. Royalty payments + must be paid within 60 days following each date on which you + prepare (or are legally required to prepare) your periodic tax + returns. Royalty payments should be clearly marked as such and + sent to the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation at the + address specified in Section 4, "Information about donations to + the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation." + +- You provide a full refund of any money paid by a user who notifies + you in writing (or by e-mail) within 30 days of receipt that s/he + does not agree to the terms of the full Project Gutenberg-tm + License. You must require such a user to return or + destroy all copies of the works possessed in a physical medium + and discontinue all use of and all access to other copies of + Project Gutenberg-tm works. + +- You provide, in accordance with paragraph 1.F.3, a full refund of any + money paid for a work or a replacement copy, if a defect in the + electronic work is discovered and reported to you within 90 days + of receipt of the work. + +- You comply with all other terms of this agreement for free + distribution of Project Gutenberg-tm works. + +1.E.9. If you wish to charge a fee or distribute a Project Gutenberg-tm +electronic work or group of works on different terms than are set +forth in this agreement, you must obtain permission in writing from +both the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation and Michael +Hart, the owner of the Project Gutenberg-tm trademark. Contact the +Foundation as set forth in Section 3 below. + +1.F. + +1.F.1. Project Gutenberg volunteers and employees expend considerable +effort to identify, do copyright research on, transcribe and proofread +public domain works in creating the Project Gutenberg-tm +collection. Despite these efforts, Project Gutenberg-tm electronic +works, and the medium on which they may be stored, may contain +"Defects," such as, but not limited to, incomplete, inaccurate or +corrupt data, transcription errors, a copyright or other intellectual +property infringement, a defective or damaged disk or other medium, a +computer virus, or computer codes that damage or cannot be read by +your equipment. + +1.F.2. LIMITED WARRANTY, DISCLAIMER OF DAMAGES - Except for the "Right +of Replacement or Refund" described in paragraph 1.F.3, the Project +Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation, the owner of the Project +Gutenberg-tm trademark, and any other party distributing a Project +Gutenberg-tm electronic work under this agreement, disclaim all +liability to you for damages, costs and expenses, including legal +fees. YOU AGREE THAT YOU HAVE NO REMEDIES FOR NEGLIGENCE, STRICT +LIABILITY, BREACH OF WARRANTY OR BREACH OF CONTRACT EXCEPT THOSE +PROVIDED IN PARAGRAPH 1.F.3. YOU AGREE THAT THE FOUNDATION, THE +TRADEMARK OWNER, AND ANY DISTRIBUTOR UNDER THIS AGREEMENT WILL NOT BE +LIABLE TO YOU FOR ACTUAL, DIRECT, INDIRECT, CONSEQUENTIAL, PUNITIVE OR +INCIDENTAL DAMAGES EVEN IF YOU GIVE NOTICE OF THE POSSIBILITY OF SUCH +DAMAGE. + +1.F.3. LIMITED RIGHT OF REPLACEMENT OR REFUND - If you discover a +defect in this electronic work within 90 days of receiving it, you can +receive a refund of the money (if any) you paid for it by sending a +written explanation to the person you received the work from. If you +received the work on a physical medium, you must return the medium with +your written explanation. The person or entity that provided you with +the defective work may elect to provide a replacement copy in lieu of a +refund. If you received the work electronically, the person or entity +providing it to you may choose to give you a second opportunity to +receive the work electronically in lieu of a refund. If the second copy +is also defective, you may demand a refund in writing without further +opportunities to fix the problem. + +1.F.4. Except for the limited right of replacement or refund set forth +in paragraph 1.F.3, this work is provided to you 'AS-IS', WITH NO OTHER +WARRANTIES OF ANY KIND, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO +WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR ANY PURPOSE. + +1.F.5. Some states do not allow disclaimers of certain implied +warranties or the exclusion or limitation of certain types of damages. +If any disclaimer or limitation set forth in this agreement violates the +law of the state applicable to this agreement, the agreement shall be +interpreted to make the maximum disclaimer or limitation permitted by +the applicable state law. The invalidity or unenforceability of any +provision of this agreement shall not void the remaining provisions. + +1.F.6. INDEMNITY - You agree to indemnify and hold the Foundation, the +trademark owner, any agent or employee of the Foundation, anyone +providing copies of Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works in accordance +with this agreement, and any volunteers associated with the production, +promotion and distribution of Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works, +harmless from all liability, costs and expenses, including legal fees, +that arise directly or indirectly from any of the following which you do +or cause to occur: (a) distribution of this or any Project Gutenberg-tm +work, (b) alteration, modification, or additions or deletions to any +Project Gutenberg-tm work, and (c) any Defect you cause. + + +Section 2. Information about the Mission of Project Gutenberg-tm + +Project Gutenberg-tm is synonymous with the free distribution of +electronic works in formats readable by the widest variety of computers +including obsolete, old, middle-aged and new computers. It exists +because of the efforts of hundreds of volunteers and donations from +people in all walks of life. + +Volunteers and financial support to provide volunteers with the +assistance they need are critical to reaching Project Gutenberg-tm's +goals and ensuring that the Project Gutenberg-tm collection will +remain freely available for generations to come. In 2001, the Project +Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation was created to provide a secure +and permanent future for Project Gutenberg-tm and future generations. +To learn more about the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation +and how your efforts and donations can help, see Sections 3 and 4 +and the Foundation information page at www.gutenberg.org + + +Section 3. Information about the Project Gutenberg Literary Archive +Foundation + +The Project Gutenberg Literary Archive Foundation is a non profit +501(c)(3) educational corporation organized under the laws of the +state of Mississippi and granted tax exempt status by the Internal +Revenue Service. The Foundation's EIN or federal tax identification +number is 64-6221541. Contributions to the Project Gutenberg +Literary Archive Foundation are tax deductible to the full extent +permitted by U.S. federal laws and your state's laws. + +The Foundation's principal office is located at 4557 Melan Dr. S. +Fairbanks, AK, 99712., but its volunteers and employees are scattered +throughout numerous locations. Its business office is located at 809 +North 1500 West, Salt Lake City, UT 84116, (801) 596-1887. Email +contact links and up to date contact information can be found at the +Foundation's web site and official page at www.gutenberg.org/contact + +For additional contact information: + Dr. Gregory B. Newby + Chief Executive and Director + gbnewby@pglaf.org + +Section 4. Information about Donations to the Project Gutenberg +Literary Archive Foundation + +Project Gutenberg-tm depends upon and cannot survive without wide +spread public support and donations to carry out its mission of +increasing the number of public domain and licensed works that can be +freely distributed in machine readable form accessible by the widest +array of equipment including outdated equipment. Many small donations +($1 to $5,000) are particularly important to maintaining tax exempt +status with the IRS. + +The Foundation is committed to complying with the laws regulating +charities and charitable donations in all 50 states of the United +States. Compliance requirements are not uniform and it takes a +considerable effort, much paperwork and many fees to meet and keep up +with these requirements. We do not solicit donations in locations +where we have not received written confirmation of compliance. To +SEND DONATIONS or determine the status of compliance for any +particular state visit www.gutenberg.org/donate + +While we cannot and do not solicit contributions from states where we +have not met the solicitation requirements, we know of no prohibition +against accepting unsolicited donations from donors in such states who +approach us with offers to donate. + +International donations are gratefully accepted, but we cannot make +any statements concerning tax treatment of donations received from +outside the United States. U.S. laws alone swamp our small staff. + +Please check the Project Gutenberg Web pages for current donation +methods and addresses. Donations are accepted in a number of other +ways including checks, online payments and credit card donations. +To donate, please visit: www.gutenberg.org/donate + + +Section 5. General Information About Project Gutenberg-tm electronic +works. + +Professor Michael S. Hart was the originator of the Project Gutenberg-tm +concept of a library of electronic works that could be freely shared +with anyone. For forty years, he produced and distributed Project +Gutenberg-tm eBooks with only a loose network of volunteer support. + +Project Gutenberg-tm eBooks are often created from several printed +editions, all of which are confirmed as Public Domain in the U.S. +unless a copyright notice is included. Thus, we do not necessarily +keep eBooks in compliance with any particular paper edition. + +Most people start at our Web site which has the main PG search facility: + + www.gutenberg.org + +This Web site includes information about Project Gutenberg-tm, +including how to make donations to the Project Gutenberg Literary +Archive Foundation, how to help produce our new eBooks, and how to +subscribe to our email newsletter to hear about new eBooks. + + + +</pre> + + </body> +</html> |