Even this barbarous Baden is becoming enlightened, and now instead of gutten Brunn, people write guten Brun.  But tell me what are they about in Paternoster Street?

I am, with all esteem for yourself, but with none for the barbarian
Paternoster-Gaessel,

Your devoted, incomparativo,

B——­N.

Paternoster-Gaessel primus will no doubt, like Mephistopheles, emit fiery flames from his jaws.

381.

TO M. DIABELLI.

SIR,—­

Pray forgive my asking you to send me the score of my Mass,[1] being in urgent need of it; but I repeat that no public use is to be made of it until I can let you know how and when.  It will be at first performed under my direction, with the addition of several new pieces composed expressly for it, which I will with pleasure send to you afterwards.  There are certain conventionalities which must be observed, especially as I am so dependent on foreign connections, for Austria does not furnish me with the means of existence, and gives me nothing but vexation.  I will soon appoint a day for you to visit Carl.

I remain, sir, with the highest esteem, yours,

BEETHOVEN.

[Footnote 1:  This letter seems to be addressed to Diabelli, who in the summer of 1824 begged the loan of the Mass in D for a few days, but neglected to return it.]

382.

TO PROBST,—­LEIPZIG.

Vienna, July 3, 1824

SIR,—­

Overwhelmed with work and concerts, it is only now in my power to inform you that the works you wished to have are finished and transcribed, and can be delivered at any time to Herr Gloeggl [music publisher in Vienna].  I therefore request you will transmit the 100 Viennese ducats to Herr Gloeggl, and let me know when you have done so.  I must conclude for to-day, and defer the pleasure of writing further till another opportunity.  I am, with esteem, yours obediently,

BEETHOVEN.[1]

[Footnote 1:  Probst answered the letter as follows:—­

“August 18, 1824.

“The many gossiping reports about the differences between you and a publisher here in a similar transaction are the cause, I frankly own, of my wishing first to see your manuscript.  The piracy in engraving, so universal in Austria, often prevents the German publisher paying the price for a work which it merits; and even at this moment in Vienna, with regard to your compositions [Schindler mentions three songs with pianoforte accompaniment, six bagatelles, and a grand overture], I can see that the birds of prey are on the watch to rob me of them under the shelter of the law.”

On one of these letters Beethoven writes in pencil, “Do not listen to gossip; I have no time at this moment to enter on the subject, but I have all the proofs in my own hands; more of this hereafter.”]

383.

TO T. HASLINGER.[1]