Our dear Hedwig [The daughter of E. von Liszt, who studied a whole summer under Liszt in Weimar.] has not been forgotten. Immediately on arriving here I ordered Overbeck's edifying drawings for her, "The Seven Sacraments," a serious study of which, as well as of the commentary, is to be highly recommended. The work is published at Ratisbon; my bookseller here is wont to do business in Tempo moderato molto commodo. He kept me waiting, and I had to go to Belgium (on the 30th of April). I only received the above-mentioned work here yesterday, and send it you today together with the "Ave Maria" for Harmonium and Meyer's excellent "Manual of Universal Knowledge." Eduard and Hedwig may extend their knowledge by means of it.
My Belgian week—from May 1st to 8th, Brussels and Antwerp—was of the pleasantest. Enclosed are the moderate articles (on the performance of "St. Elizabeth") by the Brussels Schelle and Hanslick [In the "Independance Belge">[—Eduard Fetis, the son of the renowned and meritorious author of the many-volumed "Biographic universelle des Musiciens" and of the "Universal History of Music." Thirty years ago I said to that same Fetis somewhat arrogantly, nay almost insolently: "My aspirations are directed not merely towards obtaining articles, but rather towards acquiring a durable position in the History of Art."
Till the beginning of July will remain in Weimar
Yours most cordially,
F. Liszt
P.S.—The arrival of the "Kaiser Virginia" has just been announced to me. Please send me the little bill.
298. To Camille Saint-Saens
Very Dear Friend,
I am still quite struck with wonder at your "Predication aux oiseaux de St. Francois." ["St. Francis preaching to the birds." Composed by Liszt for pianoforte alone. (Roszavolgyi.)] You use your organ as an orchestra in an incredible way, as only a great composer and a great performer, like yourself, could do. The most proficient organists in all countries have only to take off their hats to you.
I am sending you by this post a parcel of things of mine for organ. If you should find an opportunity at Brussels of producing the Introduction to St. Elizabeth, it would, under your fingers, have the effect I intended.