* * * * *
DÜSSELDORF, Nov. 25, 1833.
DEAR MRS. MOSCHELES,--Should this piece of paper have turned red by the
time Klingemann arrives, it will but reflect my blushes. But when once a
man has become callous, he is no longer amenable to kindness and
friendliness; callous he remains, and keeps on sinning to his heart’s
content. And that, I am sorry to say, is my case. And this does not even
pretend to be the answer to your most kind letter, but my own act of
accusation, bearing witness that I really received your letter, and
nevertheless remained deaf and dumb,
[Illustration: 11. Card of Invitation filled in by Mendelssohn. (See
page 70.)]
and that you would be quite justified in not even reading all this. The
truth is, that since I have got used to this place, I feel quite at home
and settled in it. I am working a good deal for myself and for the outer
world, and that, in other words, means that I am happy. This I ought to
have described to you at full length, but could not (perhaps Klingemann
can do so verbally), and so kept silent; but towards Christmas I mean to
send you some new compositions and a letter as well, and then Moscheles
must give me his opinion of the music, according to his promise. He will
by that time have conducted my Overture in F, and will report about it,
so that I shall have a letter in spite of my sins. Now, that is being
hardened indeed! Better change the subject.
Herewith is the book of Songs formally made over to you, your heirs,
executors, and assigns; if Klingemann doesn’t give it up, he is worse
than a _gazzo-ladro_. I do intend sending you a proper book of
manuscript songs at Christmas; but you won’t believe me, so I’ll set
about writing it first.
And how about Moscheles’s four-hand Sonata?
After all, this is but a note, and I ought to conclude by saying: “I am
truly sorry I cannot dine with you this day week, because I have a
previous engagement at Mrs. Anderson’s.”
All love to Emily and Serena, and every good wish for your welfare.
Should little Felix show his content by saying “Ba!” or otherwise prove
his friendly disposition, you must tell him about his godfather, and
give him his love. Now farewell, and fare ever well.
Yours,