it, and also for the one in the kitchen,—­2 florins 12 kreutzers for the two.  The key I will not pay for, as I found none; on the contrary, the door was fastened or nailed up when I came, and remained in the same condition till I left; there never was a key, so of course neither I myself, nor those who preceded me, could make use of one.  Perhaps it is intended to make a collection, in which case I am willing to put my hand in my pocket.

LUDWIG VAN BEETHOVEN.

409.

TO HERR VON SCHLEMMER.[1]

SIR,—­

It strikes me as very remarkable that Carl cannot be persuaded to go into good society, where he might amuse himself in a creditable manner.  This almost leads me to suspect that he possibly finds recreations, both in the evening and at night, in less respectable company.  I entreat you to be on your guard as to this, and on no pretext whatever to allow him to leave the house at night, unless you receive a written request from me to that effect, by Carl.  He once paid a visit, with my sanction, to Herr Hofrath Breuning.  I strongly recommend this matter to your attention; it is far from being indifferent, either to you or to me; so I would once more urge you to practise the greatest vigilance.

I am, sir,

Your obedient

BEETHOVEN.

[Footnote 1:  In 1825, his nephew lived with Schlemmer in the Alleengasse, close to the Karlskirche.]

410.

TO HIS NEPHEW.

Frau Schlemmer is to receive, or has already received, her money by our housekeeper.  Some letters must be written to-morrow.  Let me know what time would suit you best?  Your

UNCLE.

I left my pocket-handkerchief with you.

411.[1]

MY DEAR SON,—­

I have this moment got your letter.  I still feel very weak and solitary, and only read the horrid letter I enclose!  I send you 25 florins to buy the books at once, and you can spend the surplus when you require to do so.  Pray bring me back Reisser’s note.[2] On Saturday, the 14th of May, I will send a carriage into town to fetch you here; the charge is as yet very reasonable.  The old woman is to inquire what hour will suit you best; you can set off at any time before six in the evening, so that you need neglect nothing.  Perhaps I may come myself, and then your shirts might be purchased; in which case it would be as well if you were to be at liberty by four o’clock; but if I do not come, which is very possible, drive straight here at five or six o’clock in the evening.  You will not thus feel so much fatigued, and you can leave this again on Monday, if nothing is neglected by the delay.  You can take the money with you for the Correpetitor.  Are you aware that this affair of the Correpetitor, including board and lodging, amounts to 2000 florins a year?  I can write no more to-day, I can scarcely guide my pen.  Show this letter to Reisser.

Your affectionate