171. To Adelheid von Schorn
Dear Excellent One,
It is not without regret that I have given up the very sincere pleasure of meeting you now at Nuremberg. If you remained there till towards the middle of September I should come and ask you what commissions you have for Rome, where I expect to arrive before the 20th September.
Here we are sailing in the full tide of the marvels of art. Every day, morning and evening, one act of the "Ring des Nibelungen" is rehearsed in Wagner's new theater. The enthusiasm of the whole staff of singers and orchestral players, to the number of about 150, is as sincere as it is abundant, and everything augurs for next year some prodigious performances of the immense and sublime work which royally dominates all contemporary Art, including the former works of Wagner.
Cosima sends you a thousand affectionate messages, and is expecting to see you at the time of the definite succession of the Nibelung-Ring in the month of August 1876. You were present at the laying of the first stone of the monument, and must not be absent at the crowning moment. .—.
Mme. de Schleinitz is staying here a fortnight longer, and is living at the castle. She keeps herself continually at the highest diapason of grace and charm, without ever missing the opportunity of effectually obliging her friends.
A revoir soon, dear and very excellent one; and ever from my heart your devoted
F. Liszt
Bayreuth, August 7th, 1875
I shall be back at Weimar by the 18th August.