F. Liszt
339. To Camille Saint-Saens
Very dear Friend and Confrere,
I refused to suspect that there could be any ill-will against you at Budapest. Nevertheless I think it is strange and most unjust that your dramatic and symphonic works have not yet taken the place which is due to them in Hungary. I have explained myself clearly about them several times, but the theater menage, and even that of the Philharmonic Concerts, is formed outside of my influence. They are quite ready to accord me a general consideration, with the exception of arranging particular cases otherwise than I wished. For many people doubtful profits and manoeuvres contrary to their dignity exercise an irresistible attraction. The idea of honor seems to them too troublesome.
I shall not desist in the least from my conscientious propaganda of your 'Henry VIII' and other of your works. The new theater at Budapest will open (at the end of September) with the 'Roi St. Etienne', [King Stephen] a grand Hungarian Opera by Erkel (senior). After that Baron Podmaniczky, the Intendant, has promised to give a new Opera by Goldmark, also Hungarian in subject, and another by Delibes. The "Henry VIII." should appear somewhere between these three. Its performance at Prague will determine that at Vienna, which will be soon, I hope. His Excellency Baron Hoffmann, the Intendant of the Imperial Theaters in Vienna, told me that he would send his artistic and musical conductor (at the Opera), M. Jahn, to Prague. It depends on the opinion of this person whether "Henry VIII." is given at Vienna.
When you come again to Weimar you are sure to be received there with sympathy, gratitude and sincere admiration by your old attached friend,
F. Liszt
Weimar, May 18th, 1884
Thanks for the photograph. You will find it well placed here near a charming bust. The Court and town of Weimar keep their affectionate and kind sentiments towards you.
340. To Walter Bache