It was only an attempt on her side to exasperate you against me; and thus to influence you and obtain more from you, in the same way that she formerly reported to me all sorts of things that you had said about me; but I took no heed of her talk.  On this recent occasion I wished to try whether she might not be improved by a more patient and conciliatory mode of conduct:  I imparted my intention to Herr A.S., but it has utterly failed; and on Sunday I made up my mind to adhere to the former necessary severity, as even during the glimpse she had of Carl, she contrived to inoculate him with some of her venom.  In short, we must be guided by the zodiac, and only allow her to see Carl twelve times a year, and then barricade her so effectually that she cannot smuggle in even a pin, whether he is with you or me, or with a third person.  I really thought that by entirely complying with her wishes, it might have been an incitement to her to improve, and to acknowledge my complete unselfishness.

Perhaps I may see you to-morrow.  Frau S. can order the shoes and stockings and all that Carl requires, and I will remit her the money at once.  I beg that you will always order and buy anything Carl ought to have, without any reference to me, merely informing me of the amount, which I will forthwith discharge, without waiting for the end of the quarter.  I will take care that Carl has a new coat for the next examination.

One thing more.  The mother affects to receive her information from a person in your house.  If you cannot arrange with Czerny to bring Carl home, he must not go at all; “trau, schau, wem!” [trust not till you try.] The only impression that his mother ought to make on Carl is what I have already told him,—­namely, to respect her as his mother, but not to follow her example in any respect; he must be strongly warned against this.

Yours truly,

L. V. BEETHOVEN.

241.

TO ZMESKALL.

Sept. 11, 1817.

DEAR Z.,—­

The answer from London arrived yesterday [see No. 236], but in English.  Do you know any one who could translate it verbally for us?  In haste,

Your

BEETHOVEN.

242.

TO ZMESKALL.

Oct. 20, 1817.

DEAR Z.,—­

The devil himself cannot persuade your Famulus to take away the wine.  Pray forgive my behavior yesterday; I intended to have asked your pardon this very afternoon. In my present condition I require indulgence from every one, for I am a poor unfortunate creature!

In haste, as ever, yours.

243.

TO ZMESKALL.

DEAR Z.,—­

I give up the journey; at least I will not pledge myself on this point.  The matter must be more maturely considered.  In the mean time the work is already sent off to the Prince Regent. If they want me they can have me, and I am still at liberty to say yes! or no!  Liberty!!!! what more can any one desire!!!