You have no doubt received the arrangement of the Quintet [Op. 104, see No. 238] and the Sonata [Op. 106]. See that both, especially the Quintet, be engraved without loss of time. There is no such hurry about the Sonata, though I should like it to appear within two or three months. Never having received the previous letter to which you allude, I had no scruple in disposing of both works here; but for Germany only. It will be at any rate three months before the Sonata appears here, but you must make haste with the Quintet. As soon as you forward me a check for the money, I will send an authority to the publisher, securing him the exclusive right to these works for England, Scotland, Ireland, France, &c., &c.
You shall receive by the next post the Tempi of the Sonata marked in accordance with Maelzel's metronome. Prince Paul Esterhazy's courier, De Smidt, took the Quintet and the Sonata with him. You shall also have my portrait by the next opportunity, as I understand that you really wish for it.
Farewell! Continue your regard for me,
Your friend,
BEETHOVEN.
All sorts of pretty compliments to your pretty wife!!! From me!!!!
261.
TO RIES.
Vienna, April 16, 1819.
DEAR RIES,--
Here are the Tempi of the Sonata.
1st Allegro, Allegro (alone), erase the assai. Maelzel's metronome