P. S. This is a most sensible production.

51.

Vienna, August 21, 1773.

When we contemplate the benefit of time, and yet are not entirely oblivious of the estimation in which we ought to hold the sun, then it is quite certain, Heaven be praised! that I am quite well.  My second proposition is of a very different character.  Instead of sun, let us put moon, and instead of benefit, science; then any one, gifted with a certain amount of reasoning powers, will at once draw the conclusion that—­I am a fool because you are my sister.  How is Miss Bimbles? [the dog.] I beg you will convey all sorts of amiable messages from me to her.  I also send my kind remembrances to M. Kreibich [conductor of the Imperial chamber-music], whom we knew at Presburg and also at Vienna; and very best regards from Her Majesty the Empress, Frau Fischerin, and Prince Kaunitz.  Oidda!

GNAGFLOW Trazom.

52.

Vienna, Sept. 15, 1773.

We are quite well, thank God; on this occasion we have contrived to make time to write to you, although we have so much business to do.  We hope you also are well.  Dr. Niderl’s death grieved us very much.  I assure you we cried a good deal, and moaned and groaned.  Our kind regards to “Alle gute Geister loben Gott den Herrn” [to all good spirits who praise the Lord], and to all our friends.  We graciously remain

Yours, Wolfgang.

Given from our capital of Vienna.

The travellers returned home the end of September, for no situation was to be found in Vienna either; indeed, they did not even give a public concert there.  Wolfgang remained in his native town during the whole of the ensuing year, writing instrumental and church music.  At length he received a commission from the Elector of Bavaria, Maximilian III., to write an opera buffa for the Carnival of 1775,—­“La finta Giardiniera.”

53.

Munich, Dec. 28, 1774.

My Dearest Sister,

I entreat you not to forget, before your journey, [footnote:  Nannerl had also the most eager desire to see the new opera, and the father at last succeeded in getting a lodging for her in the large market place, in the house of a widow, “a black-eyed brunette,” Frau von Durst.] to perform your promise, that is, to make a certain visit.  I have my reasons for this.  Pray present my kind regards in that quarter, but in the most impressive and tender manner—­the most tender; and, oh!——­but I need not be in such anxiety on the subject, for I know my sister and her peculiarly loving nature, and I feel quite convinced that she will do all she can to give me pleasure—­and from self-interest, too—­rather a spiteful hit that! [Nannerl was considered a little selfish by her family.]

54.

Munich, Dec. 30, 1774.