 Section 9 of Selected Letters of Beethoven. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Selected Letters, Numbers 128 and 130. Good bye, Wang Haoji. Letters 140, 141, and 142. Recording by Victor Kirheil. Letters 145, 148, 149, 150, and 186. Read by Scott Farquhar. Letter number 128. To hear J. Kalka, doctor of Laos in Prague, in the Kingdom of Bohemia, the summer of 1814, a thousand thanks, my esteemed Kalka, at last I meet with a legal representative and man who can both write and think without using a meaning formula. You can scarcely imagine how I long for the end of this affair, as it not only interferes with my domestic expenditure, but it is injurious to me in various ways. You know yourself that the sensitive spirit are now to be affected by miserable anxieties, the much that may render my life happy is thus abstracted from it. Even my inclination and the duty and sign myself to serve suffering humanity by means of my art, I have been obliged to leave me, I must continue to do so. Footnote 1. Write nothing about our monarchs and monarchies, for the newspapers give you every information on these subjects. Footnote 2. The intellectual realm is the most precious in my eyes, and far above all temporal and spiritual monarchies. Write to me, however, what you wish for yourself from my poor musical capabilities that I made, insofar as it lies in my power, supply something for your own musical sense and feeling. Do you now require all the papers connected with the Kingsky case? If so, I will send them to you, as they contain most important testimony, which indeed, I believe you read one with me. Think on me and do not forget that you represented this interested artist in a position to an eagerly family. How gladly do men withhold from the poor artist in one respect whether they pay him or not, and there is no longer a loose with whom an artist can invite himself to feast on a brochure. Strike, my dear friend, to serve with the heartiest steps of justice, I will never feel myself elevated high, and in having moments revel in my artistic sphere, circumstances drag me down again, none more than these two lousies. You too have your disagreeable moments, though with the views and the capabilities I know you to possess, especially in your profession. I could scarcely have believed this. Still, I must recall your attention to myself. I have drunk to the tracks a cup of bitter sorrow, and already earned Marty Dominar through my beloved artistic disciples and colleagues. I beg you to think on me every day, and imagine it to be an entire world, for it is really asking rather to match of you to think of so humble an individual as myself. I am with the highest esteem and friendship, you are beating, not with them, Beethoven. Footnote 1. He supported the consented brother and his wife and child. Footnote 2. At the Vienna Congress, Beethoven was received with much distinction by the potentist present. End of Letter Number 128 Letter Number 130 to Dr. Kalka Vienna, August 22, 1814 You have shown a feeling for harmony, and you can resolve a great disorder in my life, which causes me much discomfort in the more pleasing melody, if you will. I shortly expect to hear something of what you understand is likely to happen, as I eagerly anticipate the result of this most ingested fear with the kinskis. When the princess was here, she seemed to be well disposed towards me. Still, I do not know how it will end. In the meantime, I must restrict myself in everything and wait with the entire confidence what is rightfully my own and illegally devolved on me. And though enforcing occurrences caused the change in this matter, still, to witnesses recently bore testimony to the wish of the deceased prince, that my appointed salary in Bacchus Ato should be paid in low sunshine, making up the original sum, and the prince himself gave me sixty gold decades on account of my claim. Should the affair turn out badly for me by the conduct of the kinskis family, I will publish it in every newspaper to their disgrace. If there had been an error, and the facts had been told to him in all their truth, just as I narrated them, I am convinced that he would once adopt the word and deeds of his predecessor. Has Dr. Wolf, the previous advocate, shown you the papers, or shall I make you acquainted with them? As I am by no means sure that this letter will reach you safely, I defer sending you the piano 14 arrangement of my opera Fidelio, which is ready to be dispatched. I hope, in accordance with your usual friendliness, soon to hear from me, I am also writing to Dr. Wolf, who certainly does not treat anyone wolfishly, in order now to arouse his passion, so that he may have compassion on me, and neither take my purse nor my life. I am, with esteem, your true friend, that with them battlefield. End of letter number, 130. Letter number, 140. To Ercauca. Vienna. January 11th, 1815. My good worthy K. I received Baron Pasqualati's letter today, by which I perceive that you wish me to defer any fresh measures. In the meantime, all the necessary papers are lodged with Pasqualati, so be so good as to inform him that you must delay taking any further steps. Tomorrow, the council is to be held here, and you and P shall learn the result, probably tomorrow evening. Meanwhile, I wish you to look through the paper I sent to the court, through Pasqualati, and read the appendix carefully. You will then see that Wolf and others have not given you correct information. One thing is certain, that there are sufficient proofs for anyone who wishes to be convinced. How could it ever occur to me to think of written legal testimony, with such a man as Kinski, whose integrity and generosity were everywhere acknowledged? I remain, with the warmest affection and esteem, in haste, your friend, be. End of letter number, 140. Letter number, 141. 1815. My dear and esteemed K, what can I think, or say, or feel? Has for W, it seems to me that he not only showed his weak points, but gave himself no trouble to conceal them. It is impossible that he can have drawn up his statement, in accordance with all the actual evidence he had. The order on the treasury about the rate of exchange was given by Kinski previous to his consent to pay me my salary in Einlosungschein, as the documents prove. Indeed, it is only necessary to examine the date to show this, so the first instruction is of importance. The speciish facti proved that I was more than six months absent from Vienna. As I was not anxious to get the money, I allowed the affair to stand over, so the prince thus forgot to recall his former order to the treasury. But that he neither forgot his promise to me, nor to Warnhagen, in my behalf, is evident by the testimony of Erfann Oliva, to whom shortly before his departure from Hens, and indeed into another world, he repeated his promise, making an appointment to see him when he should return to Vienna, in order to arrange the matter with the treasury, which, of course, was prevented by his untimely death. The testimony of the officer of Warnhagen is accompanied by a document he being at present with the Russian army, in which he states that he is prepared to take his oath on the affair. The evidence of Erfann Oliva is also to the effect that he is willing to confirm his evidence by oath before the court. As I have sent away the testimony of Colonel Count Bentheim, I am not sure of its tenor, but I believe the count also says that he is prepared at any time to make an affidavit on the matter in court. And I am myself ready to swear before the court that Prince Kinski said to me in Prague, he thought it only fair to me that my salary should be paid in Einlosungschein, these were his own words. He gave me himself 60 gold dukets in Prague, on account good for about 600 Florians, as, owing to my state of health, I could remain no longer and set off for top lids. The prince's word was sacred in my eyes, never having heard anything of him to induce me either to bring two witnesses with me or to ask him for any written bledge. I see from all this that Dr. Wolf has miserably mismanaged the business and has not made you sufficiently acquainted with the papers. Now has to the step I have just taken. The Archduke Rudolf asked me sometimes whether the Kinski affair was yet terminated. Having probably heard something of it, I told him that it looked very bad as I knew nothing, absolutely nothing of the matter. He offered to write himself but desired me to add a memorandum and also to make him acquainted with all the papers connected with the Kinski case. After having informed himself on the affair, he wrote to the Oberst Burgrav and enclosed my letter to him. The Oberst Burgrav answered both the duke and myself immediately. In the letter to me he said that I was to present a petition to the Provincial Court of Justice in Prague along with all the proofs once it would be forwarded to him and that he would do his utmost to further my cause. He also wrote in the most polite terms to the Archduke. Indeed, he expressly said that he was truly cognizant of the late Prince Kinski's intentions with regard to me and this affair and that I might present a petition. The Archduke instantly sent for me and desired me to prepare the document and to show it to him. He also thought that I ought to solicit payment in a losing shine, as there was ample proof if not in strictly legal form of the intentions of the Prince and no one could doubt that if he had survived he would have adhered to his promise. If he were this lady heir he would demand no other proofs than those already furnished. I sent this paper to Baron Pascualati who is kindly to present it himself to the court. Not till after the affair had gone so far did Dr. Adlerburg receive a letter from Dr. Wolf in which he mentioned that he had made a claim for 1500 Florence. As we have come so far as 1500 Florence with the Oberst Burghrave we may possibly get on to 1800 Florence. I do not esteem this any favor for the late Prince was one of those who urged me most to refuse a salary of 600 gold dukes per annum offered to me from Westphalia and he said at the time he was resolved I should have no chance of eating hams in Westphalia. Another summons to Naples somewhat later I equally declined and I am entitled to demand a fair compensation for the loss I incurred. If the salary were to be paid in banknotes what should I get? Not for 100 Florence in Conventions Guild in lieu of such a salary as 600 dukes. There are ample proofs for those who wish to act justly and what does the unlosing shine now amount to? It is even at this moment no equivalent for what I refused. This affair was pompously announced in all the newspapers while I was nearly reduced to beggary. The intentions of the Prince are evident and in my opinion the family are bound to act in accordance with them unless they wish to be disgraced. Besides, the revenues have rather increased than diminished by the death of the Prince so there is no sufficient ground for curtailing my salary. I am sorry to say yesterday but I am too weary at this moment to write all that I feel towards you. I can only commend my case to your sagacity. It appears that the Oberst Burgriff is the chief person so what he wrote to the Archduke must be kept a profound secret for it might not be advisable that anyone should know of it but you in Pasqualati. You have sufficient cause on looking through the papers to show how improperly Dr. Wolf has conducted the affair and I on your friendship to act as you think best for my interests. Rest assured of my warmest thanks and pray excuse my writing more today for a thing of this kind is very fatiguing, more so than the greatest musical undertaking. My heart has found something for you to which yours will respond and this you shall soon receive. Do not forget me, poor tormented creature that I am and act for me and effect for me all that is possible. With highest team, your true friend, Beethoven. End of letter number 141 Letter number 142 to Erkauke, Vienna January 14 1815 My good and worthy K. The long letter I enclosed was written when we were disposed to claim that 1800 Florence. The last quality's last letter, however, again made me waver and Dr. Adelsberg advised me to adhere to the steps already taken. But as Dr. Wolf writes that he has offered in your name to accept 1500 Florence a year I beg you will at least make every effort to get that sum. For this purpose I send you the long letter written before we received Baron P. as you may discover in it many reasons for demanding at least the 1500 Florence. The Archduke too has written a second time to the Oberst-Burghraff and we may conclude from this previous reply that he will certainly exert himself and that we shall at all events succeed in getting the 1500 Florence. Farewell, I cannot write another syllable. Such things exhaust me. May your friendship accelerate this affair. If it ends badly, then I must leave Vienna because I could not possibly live on my income. For here things have come to such a pass that everything has risen to the highest price and that price must be paid. The last two concerts I gave cost me 1508 Florence. And had it not been for the Empress's munificent present I should scarcely have derived any profit whatever. Your faithful friend Beethoven End of letter number 142 Herr Kalka Vienna February 24, 1815 My much esteemed K I have repeatedly thanked you through Baron Pasqualati for your friendly exertions on my behalf and I now beg to express one thousand thanks myself. The intervention of the Archduke could not be very palatable to you and perhaps has prejudiced you against me. You have already done all that was possible when the Archduke interfered. If this had been the case sooner and we had not employed that one-sided or many-sided or weak-sided Dr. Wolff then, according to the assurances of the Oberst Bukraff himself, the affair might have had a still more favourable result. I shall therefore ever and always be grateful to you for your services. The court now deduct the sixty-ducats I mentioned of my own accord and to which the late Prince never eluded either to his treasurer or anyone else. Where truth could injure me it has been accepted and so why reject it when it could have benefited me? How unfair! Baron Pasqualati requires information from you on various points. I am again very tired today, having been obliged to discuss many things with poor P. Such matters exhaust me more than the greatest efforts in composition. It is a new field the soil of which I ought not to be required to till. This painful business has cost me many tears and much sorrow. The time draws near when Princess Kinski must be written to. Now I must conclude. How rejoiced shall I be when I can write you the pure revisions of my heart once more and this I mean to do as soon as I am extricated from all these troubles. Pray accept again my heart felt thanks for all that you have done for me and continue your regard for your attached friend Beethoven. End of Letter Number 145 Letter Number 148 Tuher Calca, Vienna April 8th, 1815 It seems scarcely admissible to be on the friendly terms on which I consider myself with you and yet to be on such unfriendly ones that we should live close to each other and never meet. Footnote 1 You write to Tavu Oh, you humbug, said I. No, no, it is really too bad. I should like to thank you 9000 times for all your efforts on my behalf and to reproach you 20,000 that you came and went as you did. So all is a delusion. Friendship, kingdom, empire all is only a vapor which every breeze wafts into a different form. Perhaps I may go to toplets but it is not certain. I might take advantage of that opportunity to let the people of Prague hear something. But thank you. If indeed you still think of me at all. As the affair with Lopkovits is now almost come to a close we may write Feny though it far from fine is for me. Baron Pascualati will no doubt soon call on you again. He also has taken much trouble on my account. Yes, indeed. It is easy to talk of justice but to obtain it from others is no easy matter. In what way can I be of service to you in my own art? Say whether you prefer my celebrating the monologue of a fugitive king or the perjury of a usurper or the true friends who though near neighbors never saw each other. In the hope of soon hearing from you for being now so far as Sunder it is easier to hold intercourse than when nearer I remain with highest esteem your ever devoted friend Ludwig von Beethoven. Footnote one Kalka evidently had been recently in Vienna without visiting Beethoven. End of letter number 148 Letter number 149 Tuher Kalka 1815 My dear and worthy K I have just received from the syndic buyer in R the good news that you told him yourself about Prince F.K. As for the rest you shall be perfectly satisfied. I take the liberty to ask you again to look after my interests with the Kinski family and I so join the necessary receipt for this purpose. See number 144 Perhaps some other way may be found though it does not as yet occur to me by means of which I need not importune the future. On the 15th of October, 1815 I was attacked by an inflammatory cold from the consequences of which I still suffer and my art likewise but it is to be hoped that I shall now gradually recover and at all events be able once more to display the riches of my little realm of sweet sounds. Yet I am very poor in all else owing to the times to poverty of spirit or what? Farewell, everything around disposes us to profound silence but this shall not be the case as to the bond of friendship and soul that unites us. I loudly proclaim myself now as ever your loving friend and admirer Beethoven. End of letter number 149 letter number 150 to Herr Kalka, 1815 my most worthy friend my second letter follows that of yesterday May 2 Pasqualati tells me today after the lapse of a month and six days that the house of Balabene is too high and mighty to assist me in this matter I must therefore appeal to your insignificance as I myself do not hesitate to be so mean as to serve other people my house rent amounts 550 florins and must be paid out of the sum in question as soon as the newly engraved piano forte pieces appear you shall receive copies and also of the battle forgive me forgive me my generous friend some other means must be found to forward this affair with due promptitude in haste your friend and admirer Beethoven. End of letter number 150 letter number 186 to Herr Kalka Baden September 16th 1816 my worthy K I send you here with the receipt according to your request and beg that you will kindly arrange that I should have the money by the 1st of October and without any deduction which has hitherto been the case I also particularly beg you will not assign the money to Baron P. I will tell you why when we meet for the present let this remain between ourselves send it either direct to myself or if it must come through another person do not let it be Baron P. it would be best for the future as the house rent is paid here for the great house belonging to Kinski that my money should be paid at the same time this is only my own idea the terse you heard of will soon be engraved which is infinitely favorable to all written music you shall therefore receive an engraved copy and likewise some more of my unruly offspring in the meantime I beg that you will see only what is truly good in them and look with an indulgent eye on the human frailties of these poor innocents besides I am full of cares being in reality father to my late brother's child indeed I might have ushered into the world a second part of the flauto magico having also been brought into contact with a queen of the night I embrace you from my heart and hope soon in so far to succeed that you may owe some thanks to my muse my dear worthy Kalka I ever am your truly attached friend Beethoven End of letter number 186 End of section 9 of selected letters of Beethoven as compiled and with footnotes by Dr. Ludwig Knowle and translated by Lady Grace Wallace section 10 of selected letters of Beethoven this is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org recording by Robert Scott selected letters number 151 by Ludwig von Beethoven as compiled and with footnotes by Dr. Ludwig Knowle and translated by Lady Grace Wallace letter number 151 to Mr. Solomon London footnote 1 Vienna June 1 1815 my good fellow countryman to meet you one day in London but many obstacles have intervened to prevent the fulfillment of this wish and as there seems now no chance of such a thing I hope you will not refuse a request of mine which is that you will be so obliging as to apply to some London publisher and offer him the following works of mine Grand Trio for piano violin and violin cello Opus 97 80 Ducats Piano Fort Sonata with violin accompaniment Opus 96 60 Ducats Grand Symphony in A one of my very best a short symphony in F the 8th Quartet for two violins viola and violin cello minor Opus 95 Grand Opera in Score 30 Ducats Cantata with choruses and solos the glorious moment 30 Ducats Scoring of the Battle of Victoria and Wellington's Victory 80 Ducats also the Piano Fort arrangement of the same if not already published I am told here is the case I have named the prices of some of these works on a scale which I hold to be suitable for England but I leave it to you to say what some should be asked both for these and the others I hear indeed that Kramer is also a publisher note this is John Kramer whose Piano Fort playing was highly estimated by Beethoven but my scholar Rise lately wrote to me that Kramer had not long since publicly expressed his disproval of my works I trust from no motive but that of being of service to art and if so I have no right to object to his doing this if however Kramer should wish to possess any of my pernicious works I shall be as well satisfied with him as with any other publisher but I reserve the right to give these works to be published here so that they may appear at the same moment in London and Vienna perhaps you may also be able to point out to me in what way I can recover from the Prince Regent note afterwards George IV dispenses of transcribing the battle symphony on Wellington's victory at Victoria to be dedicated to him for I have long ago given up all hope of receiving anything from that quarter I have not even been deemed worthy of an answer whether I am to be authorized to dedicate the work to the Prince Regent and when at last I propose to publish it here that it is already appeared in London what a fatality for an author while the English and German papers are filled with accounts of the success of the work as performed at Drury Lane and that theatre drawing great receipts from it the author has not one friendly line to show not even payment for the cost of copying the work and is thus deprived of it footnote two for if it be true that the piano fort arrangement is soon to be published by a German publisher copied from the London one then I lose both my fame and my honourarium the well-known generosity of your character leads me to hope that you will take some interest in the matter and actively exert yourself the inferior paper money of this country is now reduced to one-fifth of its value and I am paid according to this scale after many struggles and considerable loss I at length succeeded in obtaining the full value but at this moment the old paper money has again risen far beyond the fifth part so that it is evident my salary becomes for the second time almost nil and there is no hope of any compensation my whole income is derived from my works if I could rely on a good sale in England it would doubtless be very beneficial to me pray be assured of my boundless gratitude I hope soon very soon to hear from you I am with esteem your sincere friend Ludwig von Beethoven footnote one J.P. Solomon was likewise a native of Bonn and one of the most distinguished violin players of his time he had been capitalmeister to Prince Heinrich of Prussia and then went to London where he was very active in the introduction of German music it was through his agency that Beethoven's connection with Birchall, the music publisher first commenced to whom a number of his letters are addressed footnote two undoubtedly the true reading of these words which in the copy before me are marked as difficult to decipher end of letter number 151 end of section 10 of selected letters of Beethoven as compiled and with footnotes by Dr. Ludwig Null and translated by Lady Grace Wallace recording by Robert Scott June the 18th 2007 section 11 of selected letters of Beethoven this is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org read by Robert Scott selected letters number 162 by Ludwig von Beethoven as compiled and with footnotes by Dr. Ludwig Null and translated by Lady Grace Wallace letter number 162 to Rise Vienna Wednesday November the 22nd 1815 I hasten to apprise you that I have today selected by post the piano fort arrangement of the symphony in A to the care of Messers Coots as the court is absent few indeed almost no carriers go from here moreover the post is the safest way the symphony ought to be brought out about March the precise day I will fix myself so much time I have already been lost on this occasion that I could not give an earlier notice of the period of publication the trio and the violin sonata may be allowed more time and both will be in London a few weeks hence I earnestly entreat you dear Rise to take charge of these matters and also to see that I get the money I require it I have lost me a good deal before all is sent off I have lost 600 florins of my yearly salary at the time of the bank notes there was no loss but then came the Einlosungschein no reduced paper money which deprives me of these 600 florins after entailing on me several years of annoyance and now the total loss of my salary we are at present arrived at a point when the Einlosungschein are even lower than the bank notes ever were I pay 1000 florins for house rent you may thus conceive all the misery caused by paper money my poor unhappy brother note Carl von Beethoven his father in Vienna is just dead note November 15th 1815 he had a bad wife for some years past he has been suffering from consumption and from my wish to make his life less irksome I may compute what I gave him at 10,000 florins note Weiner Varum this indeed does not seem much Englishman, but it is a great deal for a poor German or rather Austrian the unhappy man was latterly much changed and I must say I lament him from my heart though I rejoice to think I left nothing undone that could contribute to his comfort tell Mr. Birchall that he is to repay the postage of my letters to you and Mr. Solomon and also yours to me he may deduct this from the sum he owes me I am anxious that those who work for me shall lose as little as possible by it quote Wellington's victory at Vittoria end quote footnote one to follow must have arrived long ago through the Messers, Coots Mr. Birchall need not send payment till he is in possession of all the works only do not delay letting me know when the day is fixed for publication of the Piano Fort arrangement for today I only further earnestly recommend my affairs to your care I shall be equally at your service at any time Farewell, dear Rise your friend Beethoven footnote one quote this is also to be the title of the Piano Fort arrangement note by Beethoven end of letter 162 end of section 11 of selected letters of Beethoven as compiled and with footnotes by Dr. Ludwig Null and translated by Lady Grace Wallace recording by Robert Scott June the 29th 2007 section 12 of selected letters of Beethoven this is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org recording by Gesino selected letters numbers 212 213 and 214 by Ludwig van Beethoven as compiled and with footnotes by Dr. Ludwig Null and translated by Lady Grace Wallace letter number 212 to SR Steiner music publisher Vienna highest born most admirable and marvellous Lieutenant General footnote Beethoven styled himself Generalissimus Herr Arsteiner Lieutenant General and his partner Tobias Haslinger adjutant and adjutant general end of footnote we beg you to give us banknotes for 24 gold do-cats at yesterday's rate of exchange and to send them to us this evening or tomorrow in order that we may forthwith remit and transmit them you should be glad and happy if you trust worthy adjutant were to bring me these as I have something particular to say to him he must forget all his resentment like a good Christian we acknowledge his merits and do not contest his demerits in short and once for all we wish to see him this evening would suit us best we have the honour to remain most astounding Lieutenant General you devoted Generalissimus end of letter number 212 letter number 213 to Lieutenant General von Steiner Private Publicandum after due consideration and by the advice of our council we have determined and decreed that henceforth on all our works published with German titles the word Pianoforte is to be replaced by that of Hammerklavier and our worthy Lieutenant General his adjutant and all whom it may concern are charged with the execution of this order instead of Pianoforte Hammerklavier such is our will and pleasure given on the 23rd of January 1817 by the Generalissimus Manu Propria end of letter number 213 letter number 214 to Steiner the following dedication occurred to me of my new Sonata Sonata for the Pianoforte or Hammerklavier composed and dedicated to Frau Baronin Dorothea Erdmann Neh Grauman by Ludwig van Beethoven if the title is already engraved I have the following proposals to make with that I pay for one title I mean that it should be at my expense reserved for another new Sonata of mine for which purpose the mines of the Lieutenant General or Plano Titolo Lieutenant General and First Chancellor of State must be opened to usher it into the light of day the title is to be previously shown to a good linguist Hammerklavier is certainly German and so is the device honor to whom honor is due how is it then that I have as yet received the rewards of the carrying out of my orders which however have no doubt been attended to ever and always you're attached amicus at amicum de amico and be I beg you will observe the most profound silence about the dedication as I wish you to be a surprise end of letter number 214 end of section 12 of selected letters of Beethoven as compiled and with footnotes by Dr. Ludwig Null and translated by Lady Grace Wallace recording by Gesine in October 2007 as compiled and with footnotes by Dr. Ludwig Null and translated by Lady Grace Wallace letter number 281 petition to the magistracy footnote 1 October 30th, 1819 gentlemen my brother Carl von Beethoven died on November 5th, 1815 leaving a boy 12 years old his son Carl in his will by clause 5 bequeathed to me the guardianship of the boy and in the Codysil B he expressed a wish that his widow Johanna should have a share in this duty adding that for the sake of his child he recommended her to submit to my guidance this explicit declaration of the father added to my legal claim I being the nearest relative, clause 198 entitles me clearly to the guardianship of my nephew Carl von Beethoven and the court of justice by their decree E under existing circumstances the guardianship to the exclusion moreover of Beethoven's widow a journey on business having compelled me to be for some time absent I did not object to an official guardian supplying my place for the time which was effected by the nomination of the town sequestrator Herr Nussbach being now however finally settled here and the welfare of the boy very precious to me both love and duty demand that I should resume my rights especially as this talented lad is coming to an age when greater care and expense must be bestowed on his education on which his whole future prospects depend this duty ought not to be confided to any woman far less to his mother who possesses neither the will nor the power to adopt those measures indispensable to a manly and suitable education I am the more anxious to reclaim my guardianship of Carl as I understand that in consequence of want of means to defray the expenses of the school where I placed him he is to be removed and his mother wishes him to live with her in order herself to spend his trifling provision and thus save the one half of her pension which according to the decree she is bound to apply to his use I have hitherto taken a paternal charge of my nephew and I intend to do the same in future at my own expense being resolved that the hopes of his deceased father and the expectations I have formed for this clever boy shall be fulfilled by his becoming an able man and a good citizen with this view I accordingly request that the highly respected magistrates whom I now address will be pleased to annul the town sequestered her noose box interim office and forthwith transfer to me the sole guardianship of my nephew Carl von Beethoven footnote 2 Ludwig von Beethoven footnote 1 evidently drawn up by his advocate Dr. Bach from Beethoven's notes footnote 2 the magisterial degree of November 4th in 19 was adverse to Beethoven and letter number 281 and of section 13 of selected letters of Beethoven as compiled and with footnotes by Dr. Ludwig Null and translated by Lady Grace Wallace recording by Stephen H. Wilson Belkridge Maryland Prometheus.libson.com Prometheus Radio Theater www.prometheusradiotheater.com section 14 of selected letters of Beethoven this is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org recording by Stephen H. Wilson selected letters number 287 by Ludwig von Beethoven as compiled and with footnotes by Dr. Ludwig Null and translated by Lady Grace Wallace letter number 287 by Ludwig von Beethoven letter number 287 to the Royal and Imperial High Court of Appeal January 7th, 1820 gentlemen on the plea of the Decree A I sought to have transferred to myself the guardianship of my nephew Carl V. Beethoven but was referred by the magistracy to the previous decision on my consequent remonstrance the same result ensued I find myself the more aggrieved by this in as much as not only are my own rights set at naught but even the welfare of my nephew is thus utterly disregarded I am therefore compelled to have recourse to the highest Court of Appeal to lay before them my well founded claim and rightfully to demand that the guardianship of my nephew should be restored to me my reasons are the following first I am entitled to the guardianship of my nephew not only by his father's will but by the law and this the Court of Justice confirmed to the exclusion of the mother when business called me away from Vienna I conceded that Herr Nussbach should act for me ad interim having now however taken up my residence here the welfare of my nephew demands that I should again undertake the office of his guardian second my nephew has arrived at an age when he requires to be trained to a higher degree of cultivation neither his mother nor his present guardian are calculated to guide the boy in the pursuit of his studies the former in the first place because she is a woman and as to her conduct it has been legally proved that to say the least of it she has no creditable testimonials to bring forward footnote one on which account she was expressly prohibited from acting by the Court of Justice how the honorable magistracy could nevertheless appoint her is quite incomprehensible the latter is unfit because on the one hand his office as sequestrator and administrator of houses and lands occupies his time too much to enable him properly to undertake the duties of guardian to the boy and on the other because his previous occupation as a paper manufacturer does not inspire me with any confidence that he possesses the intelligence or judgment indispensable to conduct a scientific education third the welfare of my nephew is dearer to my heart than it can be to anyone else childless and have no relations except this boy who is full of talent and I have good grounds to hope the best for him if properly trained now I am compelled to hear that he has been delayed a whole year by remaining in his previous class from want of means to defray the expense and that his mother intends to remove him from his present school and wishes him to live with her what a misfortune to the boy were he to become a victim to the mismanagement of his mother who would feign squander himself that portion of her pension which she is obliged to devote to the education of her son I have therefore declared in due form to the honorable magistracy that I am myself willing to undertake the expenses of his present school and also to provide the various masters required being rather deaf which is an impediment to conversation I have requested the aid of a colleague and suggested for this purpose Herr Peters, counselor of Prince Lubkowitz in order that a person may forthwith be appointed to superintend education and progress of my nephew that his moral character may one day command esteem and whose requirements may be a sure guarantee to all those who feel an interest in the youth's welfare that he will undoubtedly receive the education and culture necessary to develop his abilities my efforts and wishes have no other aim than to give the boy the best possible education his abilities justifying the brightest hopes and to fulfill the trust placed in my brotherly love by his father the chute is still flexible but if longer neglected it will become crooked and outgrow the gardener's training hand and upright bearing intellect and character be destroyed forever I know no duty more sacred than the education and training of a child the chief duties of a guardian consist in knowing how to appreciate what is good and in adopting a right course then alone has proper attention been devoted to the welfare of his ward posing what is good he neglects his duty indeed keeping in view what is most for the benefit of the boy I do not object to the mother in so far sharing in the duties of a guardian that she may visit her son and see him and be apprised of all the measures adopted for his education but to entrust her with the sole guardianship of the boy without a strict guardian by her side would cause the irrevocable ruin of her son on these cogent grounds I reiterate my well founded solicitation and feel the more confident of a favorable answer as the welfare of my nephew alone guides my steps in this affair footnote 2 Ludwig von Beethoven footnote 1 Schindler states that during these law proceedings the widow of Beethoven's brother had another child footnote 2 the court excluded Carl's mother from all share in his education and from all direct influence over her son restored to Beethoven the full authority of a guardian End of section 14 of Selected Letters of Beethoven as compiled and with footnotes by Dr. Ludwig Null and translated by Lady Grace Wallace Recording by Stephen H. Wilson Elkridge, Maryland Prometheus.libson.com Prometheus Radio Theatre www.prometheusradiotheatre.com 307 of Selected Letters of Beethoven This is a LibriVox recording All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain For more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org Recording by Victor Guerreiro Selected Letters number 306 by Ludwig von Beethoven as compiled and with footnotes by Dr. Ludwig Null and translated by by Lady Grace Wallace. Letter number 306 to Erin Petersen Company, Music Publishers Leipzig, Vienna, June 5th, 1822. Gentlemen, you did me the honor to address a letter to me at a time when I was much occupied. And I have also been extremely unwell for the last five months. I now only reply to the principal points. Although I met Steiner by chance a few days ago and asked him jestingly what he had brought me from Leipzig, he did not make the smallest illusion to your commission or to yourself. He urged me, however, in the very strongest manner to pledge myself to give him the exclusive right of publishing all my works, both present and future. And indeed, to sign a contract to that effect, which I declined. This trait sufficiently proves to you why I often give the preference to other publishers, both home and foreign. I love uprightness and integrity, an am of opinion that no one should drive a hard bargain with artists. For, alas, however brilliant the exterior of fame may appear, an artist does not enjoy the privilege of being the daily guest of Jupiter on Olympus, unhappily commonplace humanity, only too often unpleasantly drags him down from this pure ethereal height. The greatest work I have either to written is a grand mass with choruses and four obligatory voice parts and full orchestra. Several persons have applied to me for this work, and I have been offered 100 Louis d'Or art cash for it. But I demand at least 1,000 Florence C.M., for which some I will also furnish a piano for the arrangement. Variations on a waltz for the piano, they are numerous, 30 dukets in gold, and B, Vienna dukets. With regard to songs, I have several rather important descriptive ones, as for example, a comic aria with full orchestra on Goethe's text, mid-meden ziffertraden, and another aria in the same style, 16 dukets each, furnishing also a piano for the arrangement if required. Also several descriptive songs with piano for the accompaniment, 12 dukets each. Among these is little Italian cantata with recitative. There is also a song with recitative among the German ones. A song with piano for the accompaniment, eight dukets. Analogy, four voices, with the accompaniment of two violins, viola and violoncello, 24 dukets. A derweiss chorus with full orchestra, 20 dukets. Also the following instrumental music, a grand march for full orchestra with piano for the accompaniment, 12 dukets, written for the tragedy of Tarpeia. Romance for the violin, a solo with full orchestra, 15 dukets. Granted set for two oboes and one English horn, which might be arranged for other instruments. 30 dukets. Four military marches with Turkish music, when applied for, I will name the sum. Bagatell or minor piano 40 solos, the prize to be fixed when required. The above works are all completed. Solo piano 40 sonata, 40 dukets, which could soon be delivered. Quartet for two violins, tenor and violoncello, 50 dukets. This will also soon be ready. I am by no means so anxious about these, however, as about a full and complete edition of my works, being desirous to edit them during my lifetime. I have indeed received many proposals on this subject, but accompanied by stipulations to which I could scarcely agree, and which I neither could nor would fulfill. I am willing to undertake in the course of two years or possibly a year or a year and a half with proper assistance to edit and superintend a complete edition of my works and to furnish a new composition in each style, namely a new work in the style of variations, one in the sonata style and so on in every separate class of work that I have ever composed. And for the whole combine, I ask 10,000 Florence C.M. I am no man of business and only wish I were. As it is, I am guided by the offers made to me by different competitors for my works and such a competition is rather strong just now. I request you to say nothing on the subject because as you may perceive from the proceedings of these gentlemen, I am exposed to a great deal of annoyance. When once my works appear published by you, I shall no longer be plagued. I shall be very glad if a connection be established between us, having heard you so well spoken of. You will then also find that I infinitely prefer dealing with one person of your description than with a variety of people of the ordinary stamp. Pray, let me have an immediate answer as I am now on the verge of designing on the publication of various works. If you consider it worthwhile, be so good as to send me a duplicate of the list with which you furnished Ehrsteiner. In the expectation of a speedy reply, I remain with esteem your obedient Ludwig van Beethoven and of letter number 306 and of section 15 of selected letters of Beethoven as compiled and with footnotes by Dr. Ludwig Null and translated by Lady Grace Wallace recording by Victor Geheir. Section 16 of selected letters of Beethoven. This is a LibriVox recording, all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Reading by Scott D. Farquhar. Selected letters number 426 by Ludwig van Beethoven as compiled and with footnotes by Dr. Ludwig Null and translated by Lady Grace Wallace. Letter number 426 to his nephew. I rejoice, my dear son, that you take pleasure in this new sphere and such being the case, you must zealously strive to acquire what is necessary for it. I did not recognize your writing. I indeed look only to the sense and the meaning but you must now attain some outward elegance also. If it is too hard a task for you to come here, give it up. But if you can by any possibility do so, I shall rejoice in my desert home to have a feeling heart near me. If you do come, the housekeeper will settle that you leave Vienna at five o'clock which leaves you ample time for your studies. I embrace you cordially. You're attached, father. P.S. Don't forget to bring the Morgan Blatt and Reese's letter, footnote one. Footnote one, a letter from Reese of this date in the Fischerche Hanschrift is of sufficient interest to be given here at full length. Godisburg, June 9th, 1825. Dearest Beethoven, I returned a few days ago from Ikslechappel and feel the greatest pleasure in telling you that your new symphony, the ninth, was executed with the most extraordinary precision and received with the greatest applause. It was a hard nut to crack and the last day I rehearsed the finale alone for three hours, but I in particular and all the others were fully rewarded by the performance. It is a work beside which no other can stand and had you written nothing but this, you would have gained immortality. Wither, will you lead us? As it will interest you to hear something of the performance, I will now briefly describe it. The orchestra and the choruses consisted of 422 persons and many very distinguished people among them. The first day commenced with a new symphony of mine and afterwards handles Alexander's Feast. The second day began with your new symphony followed by the De Vidae Penitente of Mozart, the overture to the Flato Magico and the Mount of Olives. The applause of the public was almost terrific. I had been in Ikslechappel from the 3rd of May on purpose to conduct the rehearsals and as a mark of the satisfaction and enthusiasm of the public I was called forward at the close of the performance when an ode and a laurel crown were presented to me by a lady, a very pretty one too. And at the same moment another poem and a shower of flowers followed from the upper boxes. All was pleasure and contentment and everyone says that this is the finest of the seven Vitsuntidae festivals held here. I cannot sufficiently lament that your other music arrived too late to make use of it. It was indeed utterly impossible to do so. I herewith send you, my dear friend, a check for Forty Louis d'Or on Hepenmeyer and company in Vienna, according to our arrangement and beg you will acknowledge the receipt that I may settle everything relating to Ikslechappel. I am glad that you have not accepted any engagement in England. If you choose to reside there, you must previously take measures to ensure you're finding your account in it. From the theater alone, Rossini got 2,500 pounds. If the English wished to do anything at all remarkable for you, they must combine so that it may be well worth your while to go there. You are sure to receive enough of applause and marks of homage, but you have had plenty of these during your whole life. May all happiness attend you. Dear Beethoven, yours ever. Ferdinand Rees. End of letter number 426. End of section 16 of Selected Letters of Beethoven, as compiled and with footnotes by Dr. Ludwig Noel and translated by Lady Grace Wallace. Recording by Scott D. Farquhar, Baltimore, Maryland. www.splungemusic.com Section 17 of Selected Letters of Beethoven. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Selected Letters numbers 317, 318, 321, 325, 328 through 335, and 337 through 340 by Ludwig van Beethoven. As compiled and with footnotes by Dr. Ludwig Noel and translated by Lady Grace Wallace. Letter number 317 to Schindler. My very best optimus optime. Pray try to hunt out a philanthropist who will advance me some money on a bank share that I may not put the generosity of my friends too much to the task nor myself be placed in difficulty by the delay of this money, for which I have to thank the fine plans and arrangements of my precious brother. You must not let it appear that this money is really wanted. End of letter number 317. Letter number 318 to Schindler. Dear Schindler, don't forget the bank share. It is greatly needed. It would be very annoying to be brought into court. Indeed, I would not be so for the whole world. My brother's conduct is quite worthy of him. The tailor is appointed to come today. Still, I hope to be able to get rid of him before the present by a few polite phrases. End of letter number 318. Letter number 321 to Schindler. Footnote one. Dear Schindler, I am not sure whether the other copy was corrected or not, so I send you this one instead. As to N in S blank, I beg you not to say a word. BL is already very uneasy on the subject. Enhaste your friend Beethoven. Footnote one. We cannot understand what induced Beethoven, who lived in the same house with Schindler, to write to him. But he often did so to persons with whom he could easily have spoken, partly in order to get rid of the matter while it was in his thoughts, and also because he was a great deal from home, that is, going backwards and forwards from one lodging to another, having often several at the same time. End of letter number 321. Letter number 325 to Schindler. Im primis. Papageno, not a word of what I said about prescia. No reliance is to be placed on it. Martin Luther's table-talk alone can be compared to it. I earnestly beg my brother also not to remove the padlock from his lips, and not to allow anything to transpire beyond the Zalsfußtgasse. Footnote one. Finis, inquire of that arch-turl Diabelli when the French copy of the Sonata in C minor, Opus 111, is to be published. I stipulated to have five copies for myself, one of which is to be on fine paper, for the cardinal, note, the Archduke Rudolph. If he attempts any of his usual impertinence on this subject, I will sing him, in person, a base aria in his warehouse, which shall cause it and all the street, note, groban, to ring. Footnote two. Footnote one. Schindler relates, quote, the royal decision, note, to subscribe for a copy of the Mass, was brought to Beethoven by the Chancellor of the Embassy, Hofrat Wehrnhardt. Whether Prince Hatzfeld, note, the Ambassador, made the following offer from his own impulse, or, in consequence of a commission from Berlin, is not known. At all events, the Hofrat put this question in the name of the Prince to the great composer, quote, whether he would be disposed to prefer a royal order to the fifty ducats, and, quote, note, the sum demanded for the Mass. Beethoven replied at once, quote, the fifty ducats, end, quote. Scarcely had the Chancellor left the room when Beethoven, in considerable excitement, indulged in all kinds of sarcastic remarks on the manner in which many of his contemporaries hunted after orders and decorations, these being in his estimation, generally gained at the cost of the sanctity of art, end, quote. Footnote two. Schindler relates that Diabelli had refused to let Beethoven again have the manuscript of the Sonata, which he had repeatedly sent for when in the hands of the engraver in order to correct and improve it. Diabelli, therefore, coolly submitted to all of this abuse of the enraged composer, and wrote to him that he would note down the threatened bass aria and publish it, but would give him the usual gratuity for it, and that Beethoven had better come to see him. On this, Beethoven said no more. This Sonata is dedicated to the Archduke Rudolph and is also published by Schleschender. End of letter number 325. Letter number 328, footnote one. To Schindler. Hetzendorf, 1823. Samothracean vagabond, footnote two. You must hunt out from Schlemmer, note, the copyist, what is still wanting in the Kyrie. Show him the post-script, and so, sattice, no more of such a wretch. Farewell, arrange everything. I am to bind up my eyes at night, and to spare them as much as possible. Otherwise, says Smetna, I shall write little more music in the time to come. Footnote one. Quote, we arrived at Hetzendorf on May 17th, and, quote, is written by Carl in Beethoven's Notebook of 1823, and on this note is written in the Scamp's Hand, Hetzendorf, 1823. Footnote two. Quote, by the word Samothracean, Beethoven alludes to the Samothracean mysteries, partly grounded on music. Their mutual participation in the Beethoven mysteries is intended to be thus indicated. Among the initiated were also Brunswick, Lyschnowski, and Smeskel. End, quote. Note, from a note of Schindler's on the subject. End of letter number 328. Letter number 329, to Schindler. Hetzendorf, 1823, question mark. Pray forward the packet to-day, and inquire this afternoon, if possible, about the housekeeper in the Glockengasse, number 318, Third Etage. She is a widow, understands cookery, and is willing to serve merely for board and lodging, to which, of course, I cannot consent, or only under certain conditions. My present one is too shameful. I cannot invite you here, but be assured of my gratitude. End of letter number 329. Letter number 330, to Schindler, footnote one. Hetzendorf, 1823. I enclose the letter to Herr von Abreuskow. Note, chargé d'affaires of the Russian legation. As soon as I receive the money, I will immediately send you fifty Florence for your trouble, not a word more than is absolutely necessary. I have advertised your house. You can mention, merely as a casual remark at the right moment, that France also remitted the money to you. Never forget that such persons represent majesty itself. Footnote one. Louis VIII sent a gold medal for his subscription copy of the Mass on February 20th, 1824. End of letter number 330. Letter number 331, to Schindler. I beg you will kindly write out the enclosed invitation neatly for me on the paper I send you, for Carl has too much to do. I wish to dispatch it early on Wednesday. I want to know where Grillpartzer lives. Perhaps I may pay him a visit myself. Footnote one. You must have a little patience about the fifty Florence, as yet it is impossible for me to send them, for which you are as much to blame as I am. Footnote one. It is well known that in the winter of 1822 to 23, Beethoven was engaged in the composition of an opera for the Royal Theatre, for which purpose Grillpartzer had given him his Melusina. End of letter number 331. Letter number 332, to Schindler. I send K's, note, Caden's, book, note, libretto. Except the first act, which is rather insipid, it is written in such a masterly style that it does not by any means require a first rate composer. I will not say that on this very account it would be the more suitable for me. Still, if I can get rid of previous engagements, who knows what may or will happen? Please acknowledge the receipt of this. End of letter number 332. Letter number 333, to Schindler. I wish to know about Esther Hazy and also about the post. A letter carrier from the Mallor, note, a place near Hetzendorf, was here. I only hope the message has been properly delivered. Nothing as yet from Dresden. Note, C number 330. I mean to ask you to dine with me a few days hence, for I still suffer from my weak eyes. Today, however, for the first time they seem to improve, but I scarcely dare make any use of them as yet. Your friend, Beethoven. P.S., as with the Tokai, footnote one, it is better adapted for summer than for autumn and also for some fiddler who could respond to its noble fire and yet stand firm as a rock. Footnote one. A musical friend had sent the Maestro six bottles of genuine Tokai, expressing his wish that it might tend to restore his strength. Schindler, he says, wrote to Beethoven at Hetzendorf to tell him of this and received the above answer and the order through frauch-knops to do as he pleased with the wine. He sent one bottle of it to Hetzendorf, but Beethoven at that time had inflamed eyes. End of letter number 333. Letter number 334 to Schindler. I cannot at present accept these tempting invitations, note, from Zontag and Unger. So far as my weak eyes permit I am very busy and when it is fine I go out. I will myself thank these two fair ladies for their amiability. No tidings from Dresden. I shall wait till the end of this month and then apply to a lawyer in Dresden. I will write about Schoblechner to-morrow. End of letter number 334. Letter number 335 to Schindler. June 18th, 1823. You ought to have perfectly well known that I would have nothing to do with the affair in question with regard to my being liberal. I think I have shown you that I am so on principle. Indeed, I suspect you must have observed that I even have gone beyond these principles. Sapiensi sat. Footnote one. Footnote one. Franz Schoblechner, pianist in Vienna, wrote to Beethoven on June 25th, 1823 to ask him for letters of introduction to Leipzig, Dresden, Berlin, and Russia, et cetera. The maestro, however, wrote across the letter, quote, an active fellow requires no other recommendation than from one respectable family to another, end quote, and gave it back to Schindler, who showed it to Schoblechner and no doubt at his desire urged Beethoven to comply with his request. Beethoven, however, did not know Schoblechner and had no very high opinion of him as he played chiefly bravura pieces and besides, on the bills of his concerts, he pompously paraded all his titles, decorations, and as members of various societies, which gave ample subject for many a sarcastic remark on the part of Beethoven. End of letter number 335. Letter number 337 to Schindler. Hetzendorf, July 1st, 1823. I am myself writing to Wocher, note, cabinet courier to Prince Esther Hasey, question mark number 333, and for more speed I send by Carl who chances to be driving in the application to Prince E. It would be so good as to inquire the result. I doubt it's being favourable, not expecting much kindly feeling on his part towards me, judging from former days. Footnote 1. I believe that female influence alone ensures success with him in such matters. At all events I now know by your obliging inquiries how I can safely write to this Schultz. The bad weather and more especially the bad atmosphere prevented my paying her, note, Countess Schafkott, a visit about this affair. Footnote 2. Your Amicus Beethoven. P.S., nothing yet from Dresden. Schlemer, note, the copyist, has just been here again asking for money. I have now advanced him seventy golden. Speculations are for commercial men and not for poor devils like myself. Hitherto the sole fruit of this unlucky speculation, note, a subscription for his mass, are only more debts. You have no doubt seen that the glory is completed. If my eyes were only strong again so that I could resume my writing I should do well enough. Note, written on the cover. Are the variations, note Opus 120, sent off yet to London? Notabene, so far as I can remember it was not mentioned in the application to Prince Estherhazy that the mass was to be delivered in manuscript only. What mischief may ensue from this? I suspect that such was the intention of Her Artaria in proposing to present the mass gratis to the Prince as it would give Artaria an opportunity for the third time to steal one of my works. Walker's attention must be called to this. Of course there is nothing obligatory on Papageno in the matter. Footnote one. Beethoven wrote the mass in C for him in the year 1807 which was by no means satisfactory to the Prince when performed at Eisenstadt in the year following and conducted by Beethoven himself. Footnote two. Schultz, music director at Warnbrunn in Silesia had written a German text for the mass in C. Beethoven also wished to have from him a German translation from the Latin words adapted to the music of the grand mass. Schindler says that the words, quote, prevented my visiting her and, quote, refer to Countess Schafkotch whom Beethoven wished to see on account of Schultz who unhappily died in the ensuing year. His text, however, is given in the Cecilia, 23 through 54. End of letter number 337. Letter number 338 to Pilat, editor of the Austrian Observer. Sir, I shall feel highly honoured if you will be so good as to mention in your esteemed journal my nomination as an honorary member of the Royal Swedish Musical Academy. Although neither vain nor ambitious, still I consider it advisable not wholly to pass over such an occurrence as in practical life we must live and work for others who may often eventually benefit by it. Forgive my intrusion and let me know if I can in any way serve you in return which it would give me much pleasure to do. I am, sir, with high consideration, your obedient Beethoven. End of letter number 338. Letter number 339 to Schindler, Hetzendorf, July, 1823. Most worthy ragamuffin of the Pyrrhus and Brindusium. Give this letter to the editor of the Observer but write the address on it first. Ask him at the same time whether his daughter makes great progress on the piano and if I can be of any use to her by sending her a copy of one of my compositions. I wrote that I was an honorary member. I don't know, however, whether this is correct. Perhaps I ought to have said a corresponding member, neither knowing nor caring much about such things. You had also better say something on the subject to Bernardum Nonsanktum, note, editor of the Viennetsite Shrift. Make inquiries too from Bernard about that nave reprect. Tell him of this queer business and find out from him how he can punish the villain. Ask both these philosophical newspaper scribes whether this may be considered an honorable or dishonorable nomination. End of letter number 339. Letter number 340 to Schindler. Master, flash in the pan and wide of the mark, full of reasons, yet devoid of reason. Everything was ready yesterday for Glazer, note, the copyist. As for you, I shall expect you in Hetzendorf to dinner at half-past two o'clock. If you come later, dinner shall be kept for you. End of letter number 340. End of section 17 of Selected Letters of Beethoven, as compiled and with footnotes by Dr. Ludwig Null and translated by Lady Grace Wallace. Section 18 of Selected Letters of Beethoven. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Selected Letters numbers 341 through 344, 349, 358 through 360, 363, 368, 370 through 374, 400, 467, and 474 by Ludwig van Beethoven. As compiled and with footnotes by Dr. Ludwig Null and translated by Lady Grace Wallace. Letter number 341 to Schindler. Hetzendorf, July 2nd, 1823. Worthy heavy Schindler. The incessant insolence of my landlord from the hour I entered his house up to the present moment compels me to apply for aid to the police. So I beg you will do so for me at once. As to the double winter windows, the housekeeper was desired to see about them and especially to state if they were not necessary after such a violent storm in case of the rain having penetrated into the room. But her report was that the rain had not come in and moreover that it could not possibly do so. In accordance with her statement, I locked the door to prevent this rude man entering my room during my absence, which he had threatened. Say also further what his conduct to you was and that he put up a placard of the lodgings being to let without giving me notice, which besides he has no right to do Tillson James's Day. He is equally unfair in refusing to give up the receipt from St. George's Day Tillson James's as the enclosure shows. I am charged too for lighting of which I know nothing. This detestable lodging, footnote one, without any open stove and the principal flu truly abominable has cost me for extra outlay exclusive of the rent, 259 Florence in order merely to keep me alive while I was there during the winter. It was a deliberate fraud as I never was allowed to see the rooms on the first floor but only those on the second that I might not become aware of their many disagreeable drawbacks. I cannot understand how a flu so destructive to health can be tolerated by the government. You remember the appearance of the walls of your room owing to smoke and the large sum it costs even to lessen in any degree this discomfort although to do away with it wholly was impossible. My chief anxiety at present is that he may be ordered to take down his placard and to give me a receipt for the house rent I have paid but nothing will induce me to pay for the abominable lighting without which it cost me enough actually to preserve my life in such a lodging. My eyes do not yet suffer me to encounter the town atmosphere or I would myself apply in person to the police. You're attached Beethoven. Footnote one, the far gasse in the lime grube where Schindler lived with him. End of letter number 341. Letter number 342 to Schindler. I must have an attested copy of all the writings. I send you 45 Creutzers. How could you possibly accept such proposal from our churlish landlord when accompanied by a threat? Where was your good sense? Where it always is. Tomorrow early I shall send for the variations copy and originals. It is not certain whether the PR comes or not so be so good as to stay at home till eight o'clock. You can come to dinner either today or tomorrow but you must settle which you mean to do as it is not easy for me to provide provisions. Not later than half past two o'clock. The housekeeper will tell you about a lodging in the Landstrasse. It is high time truly. As soon as you hear of anything to be had on the Bastille or the Landstrasse you must at once give me notice. We must find out what room the landlord uses on account of the well. Vale. End of letter number 342. Letter number 343 to Schindler, footnote one. Hetzendorf, 1823. Samoth Thresian vagabond. You were dispatched yesterday to the South Pole whereas we went off to the North Pole a slight difference now equalized by Captain Perry. There were however no mashed potatoes there. Bach, note his lawyer to whom I beg my best regards is requested to say what the lodging in Baden is to cost. We must also try to arrange that Karl should come to me once every fortnight there but cheaply good heavens, poverty and economy. I entrust this matter to you as you have your friends and admirers among the drivers and livery men. If you get this in time you had better go to Bach today so that I may receive his answer tomorrow for noon. It is almost too late now. You might also take that rascal of a copyist by surprise. I don't expect much good from him. He has now had the variations for eight days. Your note friend stroked out. Amicus Beethoven. Footnote one. He no doubt alludes to Captain Perry, the celebrated traveler who wrote an article in the AM Zeitung on the music of the Eskimo. End of letter number 343. Letter number 344 to Schindler. Footnote one. June 1823. Samothracian. Don't trouble yourself to come here till you receive a Hati Sharif. I must say you do not deserve the golden cord. My fast sailing frigate, the worthy and well-born frauch schnapps will call every three or four days to inquire after your health. Farewell. Bring no one whatever with you. Farewell. Footnote one. Schindler says in his biography, quote, these variations, note Opus 120, were completed in June 1823 and delivered to the publisher Diabelli without the usual amount of time bestowed on giving them the finishing touches. And now he set to work at once on the ninth symphony, some jottings of which were already written down. Forthwith all the gay humor that had made him more sociable and in every respect more accessible at once disappeared, all visits were declined, end quote, et cetera. End of letter number 344. Letter number 349 to Schindler. August 1823. You Samothracian villain. Make haste and come for the weather is just right. Better early than late, presto prestissimo. We are to drive from here. Footnote one. Footnote one. Beethoven had apartments in a summer residence of Baron Pronais on his beautiful property at Hetzendorf. Suddenly, however, the maestro, deeply immersed in the ninth symphony, was no longer satisfied with this abode, because, quote, the Baron would persist in making him profound bows every time that he met him, end quote. So with the help of Schindler and Froschnaps, he removed to Baden in August 1823. End of letter number 349. Letter number 358 to Schindler. Baden, September, 1823. Signore Papageno, that your scandalous reports may no longer distress the poor Dresdener, I must tell you that the money reached me today, accompanied by every possible mark of respect to myself. Though I should have been happy to offer you a substantial acknowledgement for the, note, illegible, effaced by Schindler, you have shown me, I cannot yet accomplish to the full extent what I have so much at heart. I hope to be more fortunate some weeks hence. Note, C. number 329. Per il Signore Nobile Papageno, Schindler. End of letter number 358. Letter number 359 to Schindler, 1823. The occurrence that took place yesterday, which you will see in the police reports, is only too likely to attract the notice of the established police to this affair. The testimony of a person whose name is not given entirely coincides with yours. In such a case, private individuals cannot act. The authorities alone are empowered to do so. Footnote one. Yours, Beethoven. Footnote one. Schindler says, quote, Brother Johann, the apothecary, was ill in the summer of 1823, and during that time his disreputable wife visited her lover, an officer, in the barracks, and was often seen walking with him in the most frequented places, besides receiving him in her own house. Her husband, though confined to bed, could see her adorning herself to go in search of amusement with her admirer. Beethoven, who was informed of this scandal from various quarters, appealed vigorously to his brother in the hope of persuading him to separate from his ill-conducted wife, but failed in his attempt, owing to the indolence of this ill-regulated man, end, quote. It was Schindler, too, who prevented Beethoven making any further application to the police. The following note probably refers to this. In his notebook of November, 1823, it's a canon written by Beethoven on his brother Johann and his family, on these words, quote, Fettlümelbankert habentrum fiert, end, quote. No doubt an allusion to the disgraceful incident we have mentioned. Brother Johann's wife had a very lovely daughter before she married him. End of letter number 359. Letter number 360 to Schindler. Wiseacre, I kiss the hem of your garment. End of letter number 360. Letter number 363 to Schindler. 1824, Frau Es, note, schnapps, will provide what is required, so come to dinner today at two o'clock. I have good news to tell you, footnote one, but this is quite entre nous for the brain-eater, note, his brother Johann, must know nothing about it. Footnote one. This no doubt refers to a letter from Prince Galizin, March 11th, 1824, quote. I beg you will be so good as to let me know when I may expect the quartet, which I await with the utmost impatience. If you require money, I request you will draw on Monsieur Stiglitz and company in St. Petersburg for the sum you wish to have and it will be paid to your order, end, quote. End of letter number 363. Letter number 368 to Herr Schindler. Do not come to me till I summon you, no concert. Beethoven. End of letter number 368. Letter number 370 to Schindler, 1824. If you have any information to give me, pray write it down, but seal the note for which purpose you will find wax and a seal on my table. Let me know where Dupont, footnote one, lives, when he is usually to be met with, and whether I could see him alone, or if it is probable that people will be there, and who. I feel far from well, portez-vous bien. I am still hesitating whether to speak to Dupont or write to him, which I cannot do without bitterness. Do not wait dinner for me. I hope you will enjoy it. I do not intend to come being ill from our bad fare of yesterday. A flask of wine is ready for you. Footnote one. Schindler says that on April 24th, 1824, he applied to Dupont, at that time, administrator of the Cantonator Theater, in Beethoven's name, to sanction his giving a grand concert there, allowing him to have the use of the house for the sum of 400 florins C.M. Further, that the conducting of the concert should be entrusted to Umlauf and Schupansich and the solos to Madame Unger and Sontag and to the bass singer, Prysinger. End of letter number 370. Letter number 371. Footnote one. To Schindler. To Schindler. I beg you will come to see me tomorrow, as I have a tale to tell you as sour as vinegar. Dupont said yesterday that he had written to me, though I have not yet got his letter, but he expressed his satisfaction, which is best of all. The chief feat, however, is not yet performed. That which is to be acted in front of the proscenium. Note in Beethoven's writing. Yours from C sharp below to high F, Beethoven. Footnote one, written by his nephew. End of letter number 371. Letter number 372. To Schindler. After six weeks of discussion here, there, and everywhere, I am fairly boiled, stewed, and roasted. What will be the result of this much talked of concert if the prices are not raised? What shall I get in return for all my outlay as the copying alone costs so much? End of letter number 372. Letter number 373. To Schindler. At 12 o'clock today, quote, Indibirna, end, quote, note, and in on the Landstrasse, thirsty and hungry, then to the coffee house, back again here, and straight to Penzing, or I shall lose the lodging. End of letter number 373. Letter number 374. To Schindler. When you write to me, write exactly as I do to you, without any formal address or signature. Vita bravis are slonga. No necessity for details, only the needful. End of letter number 374. Letter number 400. To Schindler. The spring of 1825. I have waited till half past one o'clock, but as the kaput confusum has not come, I know nothing of what is likely to happen. Carl must be off to the university in the Prater, so I am obliged to go, but Carl, who must leave this early, may have his dinner first. I am to be found in the, quote, Vildemann, end, quote, and in in the Prater. To Herr Schindler, Moravian numskull, footnote one. Footnote one, Schindler was a Moravian. End of letter number 400. Letter number 467, to Schindler. The end of February, 1827. When we meet, we can discuss them as chance that has befallen you. I can send you some person without the smallest inconvenience. Do accept my offer. It is at least something. Have you had no letters from Moskiles or Kramer? There will be a fresh occasion for writing on Wednesday, and once more urging my project. If you are still indisposed at that time, one of my people can take the letter and get a receipt from the post office. Vale et fave. I need not assure you of my sympathy with your misfortune. Pray, allow me to supply board for you in the meantime. I offer this from my heart. May heaven preserve you. Your sincere friend, Beethoven. End of letter number 467. Letter number 474, footnote one, to Schindler. March 17th, 1827. Wonderful, wonderful, wonderful. Both the learned gentlemen are defeated and I shall be saved solely by Malfatti's skill. You must come to me for a few minutes without fail this forenoon. Yours, Beethoven. Footnote one. Schindler dates this note, March 17th, 1827, and says that these are the last lines Beethoven ever wrote. They certainly were the last that he wrote to Schindler. On the back of the note, in another writing, probably Schindler's, the receipt is given in pencil for the bath with hay steeped in it, ordered by Malfatti, which the poor, invalid thought had saved his life. The quote learned gentlemen, end quote, are Dr. Wawruch and the surgeon, Zeibert, who had made the punctures. End of letter number 474. End of section 18 of selected letters of Beethoven, as compiled and with footnotes by Dr. Ludwig Null and translated by Lady Grace Wallace. Section 19 of selected letters of Beethoven. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Selected letters, numbers 39, 278 through 280, 295, 296, 298, and 309 by Ludwig von Beethoven, as compiled and with footnotes by Dr. Ludwig Null and translated by Lady Grace Wallace. Letter number 39 to Messers Artaria & Company, footnote one, Vienna, June 1st, 1805. I must inform you that the affair about the new quintet is settled between Count Fries and myself. The count has just assured me that he intends to make you a present of it. It is too late today for a written agreement on the subject, but one shall be signed early in the ensuing week. This intelligence must suffice for the present, and I think I, at all events, deserve your thanks for it. Your obedient servant, Ludwig von Beethoven. Footnote one, the quintet is probably not that in C. Opus 29 dedicated to Count von Fries, previously published in 1803 by Breitkopf and Herthel, C. 27. It is more likely that he alludes to a new quintet which the count had no doubt ordered. End of letter number 39. Letter number 278 to Herr Artaria, Vienna, October 1st, 1819. Most excellent and most virtuous of virtuosi and no humbug. While informing you of all sorts of things from which we hope you will draw the best conclusions, we request you to send us six, say six, copies of the Sonata in B-flat major, and also six copies of the variations on the Scotch songs, as the authors write. We beg you to forward them to Steiner and Patronoster Geisel, once they will be sent to us with some other things. In the hope that you are conducting yourself with all due propriety and decorum, we are your, et cetera, B. End of letter number 278. Letter number 279, a Scotch written by Beethoven, corrected by Artaria's bookkeeper, Wüster, 1819. Having heard from Herr B. that your Royal Highness, the Archduke Rudolf, has written the most masterly work, we wish to be the first to have the great honor of publishing your Royal Highness's composition, that the world may become acquainted with the admirable talents of so illustrious a prince. We trust your Royal Highness will comply with our respectful solicitation. Falstaff, footnote one, ragged rascal. Footnote one, the name Beethoven gave to Artaria's partner, Baldurini. End of letter number 279. Letter number 280 to Artaria, Mödling, October 12th, 1819. Pray forgive me, dear A, for plaguing you as follows. We are coming to town the day after tomorrow and expect to arrive at four o'clock. The two days festival compels us to return the same day as Carl must prepare with his master here for the second examination, these very holidays enabling the tutor to devote more time to him. But I must soon return to town on account of the certificate of Carl's birth, which costs more time and money than I like. I at all times dislike traveling by the diligence and this one has moreover one peculiarity that you may wish to go on what day you please, but it always turns out to be a Friday on which it sets off. And though a good Christian, still one Friday in the year is sufficient for me. I beg you will request the leader of the choir, the devil alone knows what the office is, to be so good as to give us Carl's certificate of birth on the afternoon of the same day if possible. He might do so at seven o'clock in the morning at the time we arrive, but he ought to be punctual for Carl is to appear at the examination at half past seven o'clock. So it must be either tomorrow at seven or at all events in the afternoon. We shall call on you tomorrow before seven o'clock to inquire about this with the proviso of a visit later in the day. In haste and asking your pardon, your Elvan Beethoven. End of letter number 280. Letter number 295 to Her Artaria, fall staff and company, Vienna, October 26th, 1820. I politely request that you will hand over to Herr Oliva the sum of 300 florins, which has no doubt already been received by you in full. Having been entirely occupied by removing to my new lodgings, I could not do myself the honor of expressing my thanks to you and Sir John Falstaff in person, your obedient servant Ludwig V Beethoven. End of letter number 295. Letter number 296 to Boulderingi, my very worthy Falstaff. I request with all due civility that you will send me a copy of each of the two works for pianoforte and flute with variations. As for the receipt, you shall have it tomorrow. And I also beg you will forward it forthwith. Give my compliments to Her Artaria and thank him from me for his kind offer of an advance. But as I have received from abroad the money due to me, I do not require to avail myself of his aid. Farewell, knight Falstaff, do not be too dissipated, read the gospel and be converted. We remain your well-affected Beethoven. To Sir John Falstaff, knight, to the care of Her Artaria and company. End of letter number 296. Letter number 298 to Her Artaria and company, Vienna, December 17th, 1820. I thank you warmly for the advance of 150 florins for which I have made out the receipt in the name of his imperial highness, the cardinal. And I beg as I am in danger of losing one of my bank shares that he will advance me another 150 florins, which I pledge myself to repay within three months at latest from the state. As a proof of my gratitude, I engage in this letter to make over to you as your exclusive property, one of my compositions, consisting of two or more movements, without claiming payment for it hereafter. Your ever complacent, Beethoven, LS. End of letter number 298. Letter number 309 to Her Artaria, August 22nd, 1822. Being overwhelmed with work, I can only briefly say that I will always do what I can to repay your blight and kindness to me. With regard to the mass, I have been offered 1,000 florins C.M. for it. My circumstances do not permit me to accept a less sum from you. All that I can do is to give you the preference. Rest assured that I do not ask you one farthing more than others have offered me. Which I can prove to you by written documents. You can consider about this, but I must request you to send me an answer on the subject tomorrow, it being a post day, and my decision expected elsewhere. With regard to the 150 florins for which I am your debtor, I intend to make you a proposal as I stand in great need of the 1,000 florins. I beg you will observe strict secrecy as to the mass. Now, as ever, your grateful friend, Beethoven. End of letter number 309. End of section 19 of Selected Letters of Beethoven. Recording by Sean Dougal, www.electromonkimedia.com. Section 20 of Selected Letters of Beethoven. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Recording by Scott D. Farquhar. Selected Letters, numbers 42, 167, 168, 228, 229, 230, and 255 by Ludwig von Beethoven, as compiled and with footnotes by Dr. Ludwig Noll and translated by Lady Grace Wallace. Letter number 42, Testimonial for C. Czerny. Vienna, December 7, 1805. I, the undersigned, am glad to bear testimony to young Carl Czerny having made the most extraordinary progress on the piano forte, far beyond what might be expected at the age of 14. I consider him deserving of all possible assistance, not only from what I have already referred to, but from his astonishing memory, and more especially from his parents having spent all their means in cultivating the talent of their promising son, Ludwig von Beethoven. End of letter number 42. Letter number 167, to Czerny, footnote one. My dear Czerny, pray give the enclosed to your parents for the dinners the boy had recently at your house. I positively will not accept these gratis. Moreover, I am very far from wishing that your lessons should remain without remuneration. Even those already given must be reckoned up and paid for. Only I beg you to have a little patience for a time, as nothing can be demanded from the widow, and I had and still have heavy expenses to defray. But I borrow from you for the moment only. The boy is to be with you today, and I shall come later. Your friend, Beethoven. Footnote one. Carl Czerny, the celebrated pianist and composer for whom Beethoven wrote a testimonial in 1805, C number 42. He gave lessons to Beethoven's nephew in 1815 and naturally protested against any payment, which gave rise to the expressions on the subject in many of his notes to Czerny, of which there appear to be a great number. End of letter number 167. Letter number 168, to Czerny. Footnote one. Vienna, February 12th, 1816. Dear Czerny, I cannot see you today, but I will call tomorrow being desirous to talk to you. I spoke out so bluntly yesterday that I much regretted it afterwards. But you must forgive this on the part of an author who would have preferred hearing his work as he wrote it, however charmingly you played it. I will, however, amply atone for this by the violoncello sonato. Footnote two. Rest assured that I cherish the greatest regard for you as an artist and I shall always endeavor to prove this. Your true friend, Beethoven. Footnote one. Czerny in the A. M. Zeitung, 1845, relates, on one occasion in 1812 at Schipanzik's concert when playing Beethoven's quintet with wind instruments, I took the liberty in my youthful levity to make many alterations, such as introducing difficulties into the passages, making use of the upper octaves, et cetera, et cetera. Beethoven sternly and deservedly reproached me for this in the presence of Schipanzik, Linka, and the other performers. Footnote two. Opus 69, which Czerny, C. A. M. Zeitung, was to perform with Linka the following week. End of letter number 168. Letter number 228, to Czerny. Dear Czerny, I beg you will treat Carl with as much patience as possible, for though he does not as yet get on quite as you and I could wish, still I fear he will soon do even less, because though I do not want him to know it, he is over fatigued by the injudicious distribution of his lesson hours. Unluckily, it is not easy to alter this, so pray, however strict you may be, show him every indulgence, which will, I am sure, have also a better effect on Carl under such unfavorable circumstances. With respect to his playing with you, when he has finally acquired the proper mode of fingering and plays in right time and gives the notes with tolerable correctness, you must only then first direct his attention to the mode of execution, and when he is sufficiently advanced, do not stop his playing on account of little mistakes, but only point them out at the end of the piece. Although I have myself given very little instruction, I have always followed this system, which quickly forms a musician, and this is, after all, one of the first objects of art and less fatiguing both to master and scholar. In certain passages, like the following, I wish all the fingers to be used and also in similar ones, such as these, so that they may go very smoothly. Such passages can indeed be made to sound very perlée or like a pearl played by fewer fingers, but sometimes we wish for a different kind of jewel. Footnote one. More as to this some other time. I hope that you will receive these suggestions in the same kindly spirit in which they are offered and intended. In any event I am and ever must remain your debtor. May my candor serve as a pledge of my wish to discharge this debt at some future day. Your true friend Beethoven. Footnote one. Carl Cherney relates in the Vienna AM Zeitung of 1845, number 113, as follows. Beethoven came to me usually every day himself with the boy and used to say to me, you must not think that you please me by making Carl play my works. I am not so childish as to wish anything of the kind. Give him whatever you think best. I named Clemente. Yes, yes, said he. Clemente is very good indeed. And added he, laughing, give Carl occasionally what is according to rule, that he may hereafter come to what is contrary to rule. After a hit of this sort, which he introduced into almost every speech, he used to burst into a loud peel of laughter. Having in the earlier part of his career been often reproached by the critics with his irregularities, he was in the habit of alluding to this with gay humor. End of letter number 228. Letter number 229, to Cherney. Dear Cherney. I beg you will say nothing on that particular subject at Guianatasios who dined with us on the day you were so good as to call on me. He requested this himself. I will tell you the reason when we meet. I hope to be able to prove my gratitude for your patience with my nephew that I may not always remain your debtor. In haste, your friend, Beethoven. End of letter number 229. Letter number 230, to Cherney. Dear Cherney. Can you in any way assist the man I now send to you, a piano forte maker and tuner from Baden in selling his instruments? Though small in size, their manufacture is solid. In haste, your friend, Beethoven. End of letter number 230. Letter number 255, to Cherney. My dear good kind, Cherney. Footnote one. I have this moment heard that you are in a position I really never suspected. You might certainly place confidence in me and point out how matters could be made better for you without any pretensions to patronage on my part. As soon as I have a moment to myself, I must speak to you. Rest assured that I highly value you and am prepared to prove this at any moment by deeds. Yours with sincere esteem, L. von Beethoven. Footnote one. Zellner in his Blotterfeier music relates what follows on Cherney's own authority. In 1818, Cherney was requested by Beethoven in a letter which he presented some years ago to Cox, the London music publisher, to play at one of his last concerts in the large Red Duten Sal, his E-flat major concerto Opus 73. Cherney answered, in accordance with the truth, that having gained his livelihood entirely for many years past by giving lessons on the piano for more than 12 hours daily, he had so completely laid aside his piano forte playing that he could not venture to attempt playing the concerto properly within the course of a few days which Beethoven desired, on which he received in the above letter a touching proof of Beethoven's sympathy. He also learned subsequently that Beethoven had exerted himself to procure him a permanent situation. End of letter number 255. End of section 20 of Selected Letters of Beethoven, as compiled and with footnotes by Dr. Ludwig Noll and translated by Lady Grace Wallace. Recording by Scott D. Farquhar. Baltimore, Maryland. www.splunge.