_Autograph Music by Handel._--Before me lies a MS. duet in the autograph
of Handel, and also an unfinished "Sonata da Cembalo" by the same
composer. The former piece is thus authenticated by a note written at
the bottom of the last page:
"This duett was given to G. Malchair by Philip Hayes, Mus. Dr.,
with a declaration that it is Mr. Handel's _ohne_ handwriting."
On the wrapper which contains the two pieces is written:
"The two inclosed pieces of music _ware_ given to me by my worthy
friend Dr. Philip Hayes, with an _ashurance_ that they are the
handwriting of the celebrated Mr. Handel. The duett, indeed, has
all the appearance of being the original conception of that
greate man _pen'd_ by himself."
I am desirous of ascertaining from some of your correspondents, better
versed than myself in the soul-stirring music of this noble composer,
whether the duet has been printed; and if so, where it may be found? The
only means of identification which I can supply are these: it is written
in two flats, and the words are--
"Và, và, speme infida pur va non ti credo."