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+Project Gutenberg's The Letters of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Vol.1.
+#4 in our series by Mozart
+
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+Title: The Letters of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, V.1.
+
+Author: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
+        Translated by Lady Wallace
+
+Release Date: March, 2004 [EBook #5307]
+[Yes, we are more than one year ahead of schedule]
+[This file was first posted on June 27, 2002]
+[Date last updated: August 13, 2005]
+
+Edition: 10
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ASCII
+
+*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK LETTERS OF MOZART ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by John Mamoun <mamounjo@umdnj.edu>, Charles Franks and 
+the Online Distributed Proofreading Team.
+
+
+
+
+THE LETTERS OF WOLFGANG AMADEUS MOZART. (1769-1791.)
+TRANSLATED, FROM THE COLLECTION OF LUDWIG NOHL, BY LADY WALLACE.
+WITH A PORTRAIT AND FACSIMILE
+IN TWO VOLUMES. VOL. I.
+New York and Philadelphia: 1866.
+
+
+
+TABLE OF CONTENTS
+
+   PREFACE
+   THE LETTERS OF W.A. MOZART, VOLUME I
+
+      FIRST PART: ITALY/VIENNA/MUNICH 1770-1776
+      SECOND PART: MUNICH/AUGSBURG/MANNHEIM SEPT. 1777-MARCH 1778
+      THIRD PART: PARIS MARCH 1778-JANUARY 1779
+      FOURTH PART: MUNICH/IDOMENEO NOVEMBER 1780-JANUARY 1781
+
+   CONTENTS OF VOLUME I. [LETTERS LISTED BY DATE]
+
+
+
+PREFACE
+
+
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+It now only remains for me to give some words of explanation as
+to the method I have pursued in editing them.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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!
+
+LUDWIG NOHL.
+
+MUNICH, October 1, 1864.
+
+
+
+FIRST PART
+ITALY, VIENNA, MUNICH.
+1770 TO 1776.
+
+
+
+PART I.
+
+
+
+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).
+
+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.
+
+[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.]
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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:--
+
+
+
+1.
+
+Salzburg, 1769.
+
+MY DEAR YOUNG LADY,--
+
+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.
+
+[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.]
+
+"Cuperem scire, de qua causa, a quam plurimis adolescentibus
+ottium usque adeo oestimetur, ut ipsi se nec verbis, nec
+verberibus ad hoc sinant abduci."
+
+[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."]
+
+WOLFGANG MOZART.
+
+
+
+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.
+
+
+
+2.
+
+Verona, Jan. 1770.
+
+MY VERY DEAREST SISTER,--
+
+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.
+
+Portez-vous bien, et aimez-moi toujours.
+
+
+
+3.
+
+Milan, Jan. 26, 1770.
+
+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."
+
+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."
+
+WOLFGANG DE MOZART,
+
+Noble of Hohenthal and attached to the Exchequer.
+
+
+
+4.
+
+Milan, Feb. 10, 1770.
+
+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.
+
+DE MORZANTINI.
+
+
+
+5.
+
+Milan, Feb. 17, 1770.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+6.
+
+Milan, Carnival, Erchtag.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+7.
+
+Milan, March 3, 1770.
+
+CARA SORELLA MIA,--
+
+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!
+
+
+
+8.
+
+Bologna, March 24, 1770.
+
+Oh, you busy creature!
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+[Here, Mozart illustrates with about 20 measures of music]
+
+
+
+9.
+
+Rome, April 14, 1770.
+
+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.
+
+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
+
+WOLFGANG MOZART
+
+was lifted up!
+
+
+
+10.
+
+Rome, April 21, 1770.
+
+CARA SORELLA MIA,--
+
+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.
+
+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."
+
+
+
+11.
+
+Rome, April 25, 1770.
+
+CARA SORELLA MIA,--
+
+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.
+
+WOLFGANGO in Germania. AMADEO MOZART in Italia.
+
+Roma caput mundi il 25 Aprile anno 1770
+    nell' anno venture 1771.
+
+[Footnote: "DEAREST SISTER,--"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.
+
+"WOLFGANGO in Germany.
+
+"AMADEO MOZART in Italy.
+
+"Rome, mistress of the world: April 25, 1770."]
+
+
+
+12.
+
+Naples, May 19, 1770.
+
+CARA SORELLA MIA,--
+
+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."]
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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
+
+Your W. M.
+
+
+
+13.
+
+Naples, May 29, 1770.
+
+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.
+
+[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."]
+
+
+
+14.
+
+Naples, June 5, 1770.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+15.
+
+Naples, June 16, 1770.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+16.
+
+Rome, July 7, 1770.
+
+CARA SORELLA MIA,--
+
+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,
+
+CHEVALIER DE MOZART.
+
+[He had received from the Pope the cross of the Order of the
+Golden Spur.]
+
+
+
+17.
+
+Bologna, July 21, 1770.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+18.
+
+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.
+
+[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."]
+
+My landlady at Rome made me a present of the "Thousand and One
+Nights" in Italian; it is most amusing to read.
+
+
+
+19.
+
+Bologna, August 4, 1770.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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!
+
+
+
+20.
+
+Bologna, August 21, 1770.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+21.
+
+Bologna, Sept. 8, 1770.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+22.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+23.
+
+Bologna, Sept. 29, 1770.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+24.
+
+Bologna, Oct. 6, 1770.
+
+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.
+
+[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.]
+
+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.
+
+
+
+25.
+
+Milan, Oct. 20, 1770.
+
+MY DEAR MAMMA,--
+
+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.
+
+
+
+26.
+
+Milan, Oct. 27, 1770.
+
+MY VERY DEAREST SISTER,--
+
+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.
+
+
+
+27.
+
+Milan, Nov. 3, 1770.
+
+MY VERY DEARLY LOVED SISTER,--
+
+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,
+
+W. M.,
+
+whose fingers are weary from writing.
+
+
+
+28.
+
+Milan, Dec. 1, 1770.
+
+DEAREST SISTER,--
+
+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,
+
+WOLFGANG MOZART.
+
+
+
+29.
+
+MY DARLING SISTER,--
+
+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,
+
+Always and ever your attached brother.
+
+
+
+30.
+
+Venice, Feb 15, 1771
+
+MY VERY DEAR SISTER,--
+
+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!
+
+[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!"]
+
+
+
+31.
+
+Venice, Feb. 20, 1771.
+
+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!
+
+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.
+
+
+
+32.
+
+Verona, August 18, 1771.
+
+DEAREST SISTER,--
+
+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?
+
+[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.]
+
+
+
+33.
+
+Milan, August 23, 1771.
+
+MY VERY DEAR SISTER,--
+
+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!
+
+WOLFGANG.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+34.
+
+Milan, August 31, 1771.
+
+MY DEAREST SISTER,--
+
+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.
+
+
+
+35.
+
+Milan, Sept. 13, 1771.
+
+DEAR SISTER,--
+
+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.
+
+
+
+36.
+
+Milan, Sept. 21, 1771.
+
+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.]
+
+
+
+37.
+
+Milan, Oct. 5, 1771.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+38.
+
+Milan, Oct. 26, 1771.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+39.
+
+Milan, Nov. 2, 1771.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+40.
+
+Milan, Nov. 24, 1771.
+
+DEAREST SISTER,--
+
+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!
+
+
+
+41.
+
+Milan, Nov. 30, 1771.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+42.
+
+Bologna, Oct. 28, 1772.
+
+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!
+
+
+
+43.
+
+Milan, Nov. 7, 1772.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+44.
+
+CARISSIMA SORELLA,--
+
+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.
+
+[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."]
+
+
+
+45.
+
+Milan, Nov. 21, 1772.
+
+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:--
+
+"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."
+
+
+
+46.
+
+Milan, Nov. 28, 1772.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+47.
+
+Milan, Dec. 5, 1772.
+
+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!
+
+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:--
+
+Oh! fly to seek my child so fair Here, and there, and everywhere!
+
+Wolfgang adds:--
+
+
+
+48.
+
+Milan, Dec. 18, 1772.
+
+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),
+
+WOLFGANG.
+
+
+
+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:--
+
+
+
+49.
+
+.... 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.
+
+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.
+
+[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."]
+
+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.
+
+
+
+50.
+
+Vienna, August 14, 1773.
+
+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. S. This is a most sensible production.
+
+
+
+51.
+
+Vienna, August 21, 1773.
+
+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!
+
+GNAGFLOW TRAZOM.
+
+
+
+52.
+
+Vienna, Sept. 15, 1773.
+
+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
+
+Yours, WOLFGANG.
+
+Given from our capital of Vienna.
+
+
+
+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."
+
+
+
+53.
+
+Munich, Dec. 28, 1774.
+
+My Dearest Sister,
+
+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.]
+
+
+
+54.
+
+Munich, Dec. 30, 1774.
+
+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!
+
+Your brother.
+
+
+
+55.
+
+To HIS MOTHER.
+
+Munich, Jan. 11, 1775.
+
+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!
+
+
+
+56.
+
+To HIS MOTHER.
+
+Munich, Jan. 14, 1775.
+
+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].
+
+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:--
+
+
+
+57.
+
+MY DEAR SISTER,
+
+[FOOTNOTE: Nannerl had not yet gone home, but was enjoying the
+Carnival in various masks.]
+
+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.
+
+Your faithful FRANZ v. NASENBLUT.
+
+Milan, May 5, 1756.
+
+
+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:--
+
+
+
+58.
+
+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
+
+umilissmo e devotssmo servitore,
+
+WOLFGANGO AMADEO MOZART.
+
+Salisburgo, 4 Settembre, 1776.
+
+[FOOTNOTE:
+
+To Father Martini.
+
+"Salzburg, Sept. 4, 1776.
+
+"MOST REVEREND AND ESTEEMED FATHER AND MAESTRO,--
+
+"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,
+
+"WOLFGANG AMADEUS MOZART"
+
+
+
+SECOND PART.
+MUNICH, AUGSBURG, MANNHEIM.
+SEPTEMBER 1771 TO MARCH 1778.
+
+
+
+PART II.
+
+
+
+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].
+
+
+
+59.
+
+Wasserburg, Sept. 23, 1777.
+
+Mon Tres-Cher Pere,--
+
+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.
+
+
+
+60.
+
+Munich, Sept. 26, 1777.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+61.
+
+Munich, Sept. 29, 1777.
+
+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.
+
+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."
+
+
+
+62.
+
+Munich, Oct. 2, 1777.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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,
+
+A. W. MOZART.
+
+
+
+63.
+
+Munich, Oct. 6, 1777.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+64.
+
+Munich, Oct. 11, 1777.
+
+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!
+
+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"].
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+65.
+
+Augsburg, Oct. 14, 1777.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+66.
+
+Augsburg, Oct. 17, 1777.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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."
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.]
+
+
+
+67.
+
+Augsburg, Oct. 17, 1777.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+68.
+
+Augsburg, Oct. 23, 1777.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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!
+
+
+
+69.
+
+Augsburg, Oct. 25, 1777.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+
+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!
+
+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:--
+
+
+
+70.
+
+Mannheim, Oct. 30, 1777.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+71.
+
+Mannheim, Nov. 4, 1777.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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!
+
+
+
+72.
+
+Mannheim, Nov. 5, 1777.
+
+My dear Coz--Buzz,--
+
+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.
+
+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,
+
+WOLFGANG AMADE ROSENCRANZ.
+
+Miennham, eht ht5 rebotoc, 7771.
+
+
+
+73.
+
+Mannheim, Nov. 8, 1777.
+
+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."
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+Now for my congratulations!
+
+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.
+
+
+
+74.
+
+Mannheim, Nov. 13, 1777.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+75.
+
+Mannheim, Nov. 13, 1777.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+76.
+
+Mannheim, Nov. 14-16, 1777.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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!"
+
+
+
+77.
+
+Mannheim, Nov. 20, 1777.
+
+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.
+
+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!
+
+
+
+78.
+
+Mannheim, Nov. 22, 1777.
+
+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!
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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,
+
+WOLFGANG AMADE MOZART,
+
+Knight of the Golden Spur, Member of the great Verona Academy,
+Bologna--oui, mon ami!
+
+
+
+79.
+
+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!
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+80.
+
+Mannheim, Nov. 29, 1777.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+81.
+
+Mannheim, Dec. 3, 1777.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+82.
+
+Mannheim, Dec. 6, 1777.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+83.
+
+Mannheim, Dec. 10, 1777.
+
+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.
+
+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].
+
+
+
+84.
+
+Mannheim, Dec. 14, 1777.
+
+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!
+
+
+
+85.
+
+[A P.S. TO A LETTER FROM HIS MOTHER.]
+
+Mannheim, Dec. 18, 1777.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+86.
+
+Mannheim, Dec. 20, 1777.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+87.
+
+Mannheim, Dec. 27, 1777.
+
+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."
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+88.
+
+Mannheim, Jan. 7, 1778.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+89.
+
+Mannheim, Jan 10, 1778
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+90.
+
+Mannheim, Jan. 17, 1778.
+
+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.
+
+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!
+
+
+
+91.
+
+Mannheim, Feb. 2 1778.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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 he 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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+The mother, however, adds the following postscript:--
+
+"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."
+
+A few days later Wolfgang urges his father still more strongly.
+
+
+
+92.
+
+Mannheim, Feb. 7, 1778.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+93.
+
+Mannheim, Feb. 14, 1778.
+
+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!
+
+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.
+
+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."
+
+To this Wolfgang replies:--
+
+
+
+94.
+
+Mannheim, Feb. 19, 1778.
+
+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.
+
+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."
+
+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.
+
+
+
+95.
+
+Mannheim, Feb. 22, 1778.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+
+96.
+
+Mannheim, Feb. 28, 1778.
+
+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."
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+97.
+
+Mannheim, Feb. 28, 1778.
+
+MADEMOISELLE, MA TRES-CHERE COUSINE,--
+
+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.
+
+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?
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+98.
+
+Mannheim, March 7, 1778.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+99.
+
+Mannheim, March. 11, 1778.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+THIRD PART
+PARIS.
+MARCH 1778 TO JANUARY 1779.
+
+
+
+PART III.
+
+
+
+100.
+
+Paris, March 24, 1778.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.]
+
+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!
+
+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.
+
+
+
+101.
+
+Paris, April 5, 1778.
+
+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.]
+
+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.
+
+
+
+102.
+
+Paris, May 1, 1778.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.]
+
+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!
+
+
+
+103.
+
+Paris, May 14, 1778.
+
+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.
+
+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!
+
+
+
+104.
+
+Paris, May 29, 1778.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+105.
+
+Paris, June 12, 1778.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+(Private.) 106.
+
+Paris, July 3, 1778.
+
+MY VERY DEAR FRIEND,--
+
+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
+
+W. A. M.
+
+
+
+107.
+
+Paris, July 3, 1778.
+
+MONSIEUR MON TRES-CHER PERE,--
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+108.
+
+Paris, July 9, 1778.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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?
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+109.
+
+Paris, July 18, 1778.
+
+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.
+
+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!
+
+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].
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+110.
+
+Paris, July 31, 1778.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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!
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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!
+
+
+
+111.
+
+To HERR BULLINGER.
+
+Paris, August 7, 1778.
+
+MY VERY DEAR FRIEND,--
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+[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.]
+
+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,
+
+WOLFGANG ROMATZ.
+
+
+
+112.
+
+St. Germains, August 27, 1778.
+
+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!
+
+
+
+113.
+
+Paris, Sept. 11, 1778.
+
+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.
+
+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!
+
+
+
+114.
+
+Nancy, Oct. 3, 1778.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+115.
+
+Strassburg, Oct. 15, 1778.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+116.
+
+Strassburg, Oct. 20, 1778.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+117.
+
+Mannheim, November 12, 1778.
+
+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....
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+118.
+
+Mannheim, Nov. 24, 1778.
+
+MY DEAR BARON VON DALBERG,--
+
+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.
+
+
+
+119.
+
+Mannheim, Dec. 3, 1778.
+
+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."
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+120.
+
+Kaisersheim, Dec. 18, 1778.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+121.
+
+Kaisersheim, Dec. 23, 1778.
+
+MA TRES-CHERE COUSINE,--
+
+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,
+
+W. A. MOZART.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+122.
+
+Munich, Dec. 29, 1778.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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."
+
+
+
+123.
+
+Munich, Dec. 31, 1778.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+124.
+
+Munich, Jan. 8, 1779.
+
+[Footnote: The second grand aria that Mozart wrote for Aloysia,
+bears the same date.]
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+125.
+
+Salzburg, May 10, 1779.
+
+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.
+
+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!
+
+A TENDER ODE. [Footnote: A parody of Klopstock's "Dein susses
+Bild, Edone"]
+
+TO MY COUSIN.
+
+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
+
+[Footnote: These words are written round the slightly sketched
+caricature of a face.]
+
+
+
+FORTH PART.
+MUNICH.--IDOMENEO.
+NOVEMBER 1780 TO JANUARY 1781.
+
+
+
+PART IV.
+
+
+
+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.
+
+
+
+126.
+
+Munich, Nov. 8, 1780.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+127.
+
+Munich, Nov. 13, 1780.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.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.
+
+
+
+128.
+
+Munich, Nov. 15, 1780.
+
+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 fortuiiata, 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.
+
+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."
+
+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].
+
+
+
+129.
+
+Munich, Nov. 22, 1780.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.]
+
+
+
+180.
+
+Munich, Nov. 24, 1780.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+131.
+
+Munich, Dec. 1, 1780.
+
+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."
+
+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.
+
+
+
+132.
+
+Munich, Dec. 5, 1780.
+
+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.
+
+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!
+
+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.S.--Don't forget about my black suit; I must have it, or I
+shall be laughed at, which is never agreeable.
+
+
+
+133.
+
+Munich, Dec. 13, 1780.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+134.
+
+Munich, Dec. 16, 1780.
+
+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.
+
+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!
+
+
+
+135.
+
+Munich, Dec. 19, 1780.
+
+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.
+
+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!
+
+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.
+
+
+
+136.
+
+Munich, Dec 27, 1780.
+
+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."
+
+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.
+
+
+
+137.
+
+Munich, Dec. 30. 1780.
+
+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.
+
+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!
+
+
+
+138.
+
+Munich, Jan. 3, 1780.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+139.
+
+Munich, Jan. 10, 1780.
+
+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.
+
+
+
+140.
+
+Munich, Jan. 18, 1780.
+
+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.
+
+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!
+
+
+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.
+
+END OF VOL. I.
+
+
+
+CONTENTS OF VOLUME I. [LETTERS LISTED BY DATE]
+
+
+
+FIRST PART
+ITALY VIENNA MUNICH
+1770-1776
+
+
+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
+
+
+
+SECOND PART.
+MUNICH AUGSBURG MANNHEIM
+SEPTEMBER 1777 to MARCH 1778
+
+
+
+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
+
+
+
+THIRD PART.
+PARIS.
+MARCH 1778 to JANUARY 1779
+
+
+
+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
+
+
+
+FOURTH PART
+MUNICH IDOMENEO
+NOVEMBER 1780 to JANUARY 1781
+
+
+
+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
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+End of Project Gutenberg's Letters of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Vol.1.
+
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