If the intrigues are already matured, say so frankly (and naturally), and you will find one who will always be true to the good cause.  The lodging A. was again advertised in the paper on Tuesday; could you not have arranged about this?  You might at all events have done so through some one else, or by writing, if you were at all indisposed.  I should much prefer not moving, if I were not compelled to do so.  You know my mode of living here, and it is far worse in this cold stormy weather.  My continued solitude only still further enfeebles me, and really my weakness often amounts to a swoon.  Oh! do not further grieve me, for the scythe of Death will grant me no long delay!

If I could find a good lodging in the Alleengasse, I would at once engage it.

423.

Tuesday Morning.

MY DEAR SON,—­

The two patterns, one placed at the top and the other below, each 21 florins, seem to me the best; the landlord can advise you.  For the trousers 88—­4-1/2.  I enclose 62 florins W.W. 30 kreutzers.  Give me an exact account of how you spend this money, for it was hard to earn; still it is not worth while, for the sake of a florin a yard, not to select the best material; so choose, or get some one to choose for you, the best of the two at 21 florins.  Order the highest quality for your trousers also; remember you ought never to wear your best clothes at home; no matter who comes, you need never be well dressed in the house.[1] The moment you come home change your good clothes, and be at your ease in those set aside for the purpose.  Farewell.  Your attached

FATHER.

P.S.  The creature went off yesterday and has not returned; we shall see how this turns out.  The old beast was determined to be off, being like a restless wild animal devoid of purpose or reason.  May Heaven have pity on me!  The new cooking began yesterday.

[Footnote 1:  See Weber’s narrative in his Biography, Vol.  II. 510.  “The square Cyclopean figure was attired in a shabby coat with torn sleeves.”]

424.

TO HIS NEPHEW.

Baden, June 15.

MY DEAR SON,—­

I hope you received the 62 florins 30 kreutzers.  If you wish to order trousers of the same cloth, do so.  You probably chose that at 25 florins, and on such occasions the best quality should not be rejected for the sake of a couple of florins.  You may also order two pairs of trousers of the gray cloth.  You must let me know the amount of the tailor’s bill, &c., &c., which shall be paid by me.  “Let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth.”  Such is the sentiment of noble-minded men.  You have, alas! only yourself to blame for my being forced to draw your attention to this.  Do not forget to call on Riess (??).  May Aurora not only awaken you but speed your industry.

Now for my every-day household matters.  The maid came indeed, but is not to remain; in the mean time I have spoken pretty plainly to the old woman, so far as it is possible to speak to such people.