My title to the liquidation of my claim is proved by the testimony of the Herren von Varnhagen and Oliva, to whom H.H. spoke on the subject, reiterating his consent.  I feel convinced that the illustrious heirs and family of this prince will in the same spirit of benevolence and generosity strive to fulfil his intentions.  I therefore confidently place in Y.H.’s hands my respectful petition, viz., “to pay up the arrears of my salary in Einloesung Schein, and to instruct your cashier to transmit me the amount in future, in the same currency.”  Relying on your sense of justice according me a favorable decision, I remain Y.H.’s

Most obedient servant,

LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.

[Footnote 1:  Prince Josef Ferdinand Kinsky, born December, 1781, and killed by a fall from his horse, November 3, 1812.]

95.

TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.

1813.[1]

I have been far from well since last Sunday, but have suffered more in mind than in body.  I beg your forgiveness a thousand times for not having sooner sent my apologies; each day I had the strongest inclination to wait on you, but Heaven knows that in spite of the best will that I always entertain for the best of masters I was unable to do so, distressing as it is to me not to have it in my power to sacrifice all to him for whom I cherish the highest esteem, love, and veneration.  Y.R.H. would perhaps act wisely in making a pause at present with the Lobkowitz concerts; even the most brilliant talent may lose its effect by too great familiarity.

[K.]

[Footnote 1:  Prince Franz Josef Lobkowitz died December 25th, 1816.  His musical meetings were certainly continued till 1813, or longer.]

96.

TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.

1813.[1]

At early dawn to-morrow the copyist shall begin the last movement.  As I am in the mean time writing several other works, I did not hurry myself much with this last movement merely for the sake of punctuality, especially as I must write this more deliberately, with a view to Rode’s[2] playing; we like quick, full-toned passages in our Finales, which do not suit R., and this rather cramps me.  At all events, all is sure to go well next Tuesday.  I very much doubt whether I shall be able to present myself at Y.R.H.’s on that evening, in spite of my zeal in your service; but to make up for this, I mean to come to you to-morrow forenoon and to-morrow afternoon, that I may entirely fulfil the wishes of my illustrious pupil.

[K.]

[Footnote 1:  1813.  January-February.]