1811.
I am disposed to engage a man who has just offered me his services,--a music-copyist. His parents live in Vienna, which might be convenient in many respects, but I first wish to speak to you about the terms; and as you are disengaged to-morrow, which I,
BEETHOVEN.
69.
TO ZMESKALL.
1811.
MOST HIGH-BORN OF MEN!--
We beg you to confer some goose-quills on us; we will in return send you a whole bunch of the same sort, that you may not be obliged to pluck out your own. It is just possible that you may yet receive the Grand Cross of the Order of the Violoncello. We remain your gracious and most friendly of all friends,
BEETHOVEN.
70.
TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.[1]
The Spring of 1811.