composer in myself and the Royal Theatre.”  This point also has been settled, and is wholly beyond question or discussion; but as Wagner has commissioned me to be his substitute at Berlin and has advised you of his resolution, I must, in the interest of the cause and of my position, decline to be reduced gradually to the part of the fifth whist-player, who, according to the proverb, occupies a very inconvenient position “under the table.”  In consequence I am obliged to ask you, sir, either to agree to the arrangement contained in my last letter, and, in your capacity of intendant of the Royal Theatre, to approve of my participation in the rehearsals and performance of Wagner’s works at Berlin, according to his clearly expressed wish, or else to leave the whole matter in its actual status quo.

With the highest esteem, I am, sir,

Your obedient servant,

F. Liszt.

Weymar, June 3rd, 1854.

P.S.—­In his last letter Wagner writes that he leaves the pecuniary conditions with regard to Berlin wholly to my decision, and that “Tannhauser” will satisfy him.

Dearest friend,—­Return Hulsen’s letter to me, as I have not taken a copy, and should not like it to fall into other hands.  I hope you will approve of my answer.  The enclosed rough draft you may keep.

I was four days at Hanover.  What will become of me this summer I cannot determine.  As soon as I know, you shall hear.

Have you a copy of the pianoforte score of “Tannhauser” to spare?  Roger, who is here, would like to study the part, and has written and asked for a copy, but hitherto in vain.  I told him that I would let you know, and that I was convinced you would send me a copy for him if possible.  It is said that the edition of Meser in Dresden is sold out, or else I might order one from there.  You might in your next letter write a few lines which, or a copy of which, I could show to Roger.  He is fairly musical, and might make a good effect in the part of Tannhauser.

When will the Musical Festival in Canton Valais take place, and how long shall you stay there?

157.

Again only a few lines in reply, dear Franz.  You of course will not doubt for a moment that I feel sincerely grateful to you for the energy with which you take care of my interest with Hulsen.  Let us “save the soul;” then the body also will fare best.  I return Hulsen’s letter to you.  But I am grieved to give you all this trouble.  Let us expect nothing.  My opinion is that you should not answer him any more.

About the pianoforte score of “Tannhauser” I am writing to Dresden; they must get one somehow and send it to you for Roger.  As you know, I have had Roger in my eye for a long time.  If,—­as I hope he will through you,—­he really learns his task carefully and goes to it with love, I have no doubt that he will be the first Tannhauser to satisfy my intentions entirely.  Greet him very kindly.