at the Urspringers’.  His name is Kymli.  He is a most kind, amiable man, well-principled, honorable, and a good Christian; one proof of which is the friendship between him and Raaff.  Now comes the best evidence of Raaff’s regard for me, and the sincere interest he takes in my welfare:  it is, that he imparts his intentions rather to those whom he can trust than to those more immediately concerned, being unwilling to promise without the certainty of a happy result.  This is what Kymli told me.  Raaff asked him to call on me and to show me his portrait, to see me often, and to assist me in every way, and to establish an intimate friendship with me.  It seems he went to him every morning, and repeatedly said to Kymli, “I was at Herr Mozart’s again yesterday evening; he is, indeed, a wonderful little fellow; he is an out-and-outer, and no mistake!” and was always praising me.  He told Kymli everything, and the whole Mannheim story—­in short, all.  The fact is, that high-principled, religious, and well-conducted people always like each other.  Kymli says I may rest assured that I am in good hands.  “Raaff will certainly do all he can for you, and he is a prudent man who will set to work cleverly; he will not say that it is your wish, but rather your due.  He is on the best footing with the Oberststallmeister.  Rely on it, he will not be beat; only you must let him go his own way to work.”  One thing more.  Father Martini’s letter to Raaff, praising me, must have been lost.  Raaff had, some time since, a letter from him, but not a word about me in it.  Possibly it is still lying in Mannheim; but this is unlikely, as I know that, during his stay in Paris, all his letters have been regularly forwarded to him.  As the Elector justly entertains a very high opinion of the Padre Maestro, I think it would be a good thing if you would be so kind as to apply to him to write again about me to Raaff; it might be of use, and good Father Martini would not hesitate to do a friendly thing twice over for me, knowing that he might thus make my fortune.  He no doubt would express the letter in such a manner that it could be shown, if need be, to the Elector.  Now enough as to this; my wish for a favorable issue is chiefly that I may soon have the happiness of embracing my dear father and sister.  Oh! how joyously and happily we shall live together!  I pray fervently to God to grant me this favor; a new leaf will at last be turned, please God!  In the fond hope that the day will come, and the sooner the better, when we shall all be happy, I mean, in God’s name, to persevere in my life here, though so totally opposed to my genius, inclinations, knowledge, and sympathies.  Believe me, this is but too true,—­I write you only the simple truth.  If I were to attempt to give you all my reasons, I might write my fingers off and do no good.  For here I am, and I must do all that is in my power.  God grant that I may not thus impair my talents; but I hope it will not continue long enough for that.  God grant it!  By the