Friend Remenyi, whom I do not need now to introduce to you, will be the bearer of these lines to you. He has delighted and captivated every one here, the Court as well as the public, and this is verily no small matter, for in Weimar we are accustomed to the most distinguished violin-virtuosos. I requested him to tell you how grateful I feel to you for your idea of a concert of Liszt's compositions.
But, in order to avoid every appearance of indiscretion or forwardness, I consider it well and advisable to keep exclusively to the Elizbeth on this occasion.
Hold fast, therefore, to two points:
a. all parts of the Elizabeth to be filled by native talent. b. Critics to be worried only with this one work.
[At the performance of the Elizabeth in the "ausserordentlichen Gesellschafts-Concert" (Company's special concert) on April 4th, 1869, Liszt met with a genuine triumph. Herbeck writes: "After every number, and at the end of every part, there was no end to the calls for Liszt." The performance was repeated on April 11th, and received with even greater enthusiasm.]
I have also requested Remenyi to ask you about the apartments I shall require. My stay in Vienna will be limited to eight or ten days, which I should like to spend in as quiet and peaceable a way as possible, and not within the circle of disturbing visitors.
With sincere esteem and friendly attachment yours,
F. Liszt
Weimar, January 27th, 1869
84. To E. Repos