52.

TO ZMESKALL.[1]

March 7, 1809.

It is just what I expected!  As to the blows, that is rather far-fetched.  The story is at least three months’ old, and very different from what he now makes it out to be.  The whole stupid affair was caused by a female huckster and a couple of low fellows.  I lose very little.  He no doubt was corrupted in the very house where I am now living.

[Footnote 1:  [See No. 10.] The notes to Zmeskall generally have the dates written by himself.  This one bears the date March 7, 1809.  In all points connected with domestic life, and especially in household matters and discords, Zmeskall was always a kind and consolatory friend.  Beethoven at that time lived in the same house with Countess Erdoedy. [See No. 74.]]

53.

TO ZMESKALL.

My most excellent, high, and well-born Herr v.  Zmeskall, Court Secretary and Member of the Society of the Single Blessed,—­If I come to see you to-day, ascribe it to the fact that a person wishes to speak to me at your house whom I could not refuse to see.  I come without any card from you, but I hope you will not on that account discard me.

Yours truly—­most truly,

L. V. BEETHOVEN.

54.

TO ZMESKALL.

It seems to me, dear Zmeskall, if war really does break out, when it comes to an end you will be the very man for an appointment in the Peace Legation.  What a glorious office!!!  I leave it entirely to you to do the best you can about my servant, only henceforth Countess Erdoedy must not attempt to exercise the smallest influence over him.  She says she made him a present of twenty-five florins, and gave him five florins a month, solely to induce him to stay with me.  I cannot refuse to believe this trait of generosity, but I do not choose that it should be repeated.  Farewell!  I thank you for your friendship, and hope soon to see you.

Yours ever,

BEETHOVEN.

55.

TO ZMESKALL.[1]

April 16, 1809.

If I cannot come to-day, dear Zmeskall which is very possible, ask Baroness von ——­ [name illegible] to give you the pianoforte part of the Trios, and be so good as to send them and the other parts to me to-day.

In haste, your

BEETHOVEN.

[Footnote 1:  April 16, 1809.  By the Terzetts he no doubt means the Trios, Op. 70, dedicated to Countess Erdoedy.]

56.

TO ZMESKALL.

April 17, 1809.

DEAR Z.,—­

A suitable lodging has just been found out for me, but I need some one to help me in the affair.  I cannot employ my brother, because he only recommends what costs least money.  Let me know, therefore, if we can go together to look at the house.  It is in the Klepperstall.[1]

[Footnote 1:  An der Moelker Bastei.]

57.

TO ZMESKALL.

April 25, 1809.