.—. I beg you, dear sirs, to accept my sincere thanks as well as the assurance of my respectful attachment.
F. Liszt
Rome, November 16th, 1863
(Monte Mario, Madonna Del Rosario.)
26. To Dr. Franz Brendel
Dear Friend,
By way of excusing my delay in writing I must tell you at once of an indisposition, which during Christmas week prevented my undertaking any other occupation or amusement than that of keeping in bed. For several weeks after that there were other things, entirely unconnected with musical doings and affairs, which, however, urgently demanded attention. Your admirable New Year's letter I received yesterday. It perfectly confirms my opinion of the state of affairs (as became clear to me long since), and my agreement with you as regards our "Debit and Credit." The latter, unfortunately, does not show the right equilibrium—but must be made to do so. In the first place three points have to be secured; and to save useless explanations between us, I shall describe these in geographical style, under the names of Weimar, Lowenberg, Carlsruhe. They at present embrace and solve all the essential questions: division of work, appointment of suitable persons, procuring adequate means, active organisation of the Musik-Verein, etc., etc. And, granted that you are not deceiving yourself about my very limited influence, my personal presence and intervention would seem indispensable. Still I will not conceal the fact that it is, at least, inconvenient for me to leave Rome even for a short time, and people should not object to my finding more satisfaction in my retirement here than in the barren unpleasantries of a so-called "circle of activity." But if, as you assure me, the question affects the good cause, and I could really be of service to a few dear friends,—well in that case every other consideration shall give way and my willingness be put to the proof. Although it will be very difficult for me to make up my mind to start, I will towards the beginning of June have my passport vise'd for Carlsruhe, in order that I may attend the Musical Festival there, provided that Bulow conducts. In the intervals between the rehearsals and performances we should discuss with active friends the Whys and Wherefores connected with the Musik-Verein which, first of all, requires to be placed on a firm footing. And so far as I can assist in doing this (especially by advocating its cause with our patron and the Hohenzollern princes) it certainly shall be done.
Pohl seems to have put on wrong spectacles if he reads in my letter that I have no greater wish than to return to unique Germany! People may think about it what they please; the positive truth is that I do not bother myself about fools of any species, whether German, French, English, Russian or Italian, but am peacefully industrious in my seclusion here. "Let me rest, let me dream," not indeed beneath blossoming almond trees, as Hoffmann sings, [A song which Liszt set to music] but comforted and at peace under the protection of the Madonna del Rosario who has provided me with this cell. My German friends would certainly be acting much more reasonably were they to come and visit me here, instead of tempting me abroad. However you may assure the rest of my acquaintances that I will not inconvenience them with my presence for any length of time, and that my interference at the Musical Festival in Carlsruhe is only a temporary one and altogether harmless. By the middle of July, at latest, I intend to be back here again, or earlier if possible.
The Pro memoria of the A. D. Musik-Verein, addressed to the Grand Duke, together with the protocol of the audience on the 17th of November, I received through Gille. My thanks and reply I shall send shortly. Likewise also the programme of a very exceptional solemnity which takes place on the 5th February, and which is already engaging my attention in a variety of ways.
In all friendliness,