278.
TO HERR ARTARIA,--VIENNA.
Oct. 1, 1819.
MOST EXCELLENT AND MOST VIRTUOUS OF VIRTUOSI, AND NO HUMBUG!
While informing you of all sorts of things from which we hope you will draw the best conclusions, we request you to send us six (say 6) copies of the Sonata in B flat major, and also six copies of the variations on the Scotch songs, as the author's right. We beg you to forward them to Steiner, in Pater Noster Gässel, whence they will be sent to us with some other things.
In the hope that you are conducting yourself with all due propriety and decorum, we are your, &c.,
B----.
279.
A SKETCH WRITTEN BY BEETHOVEN,--
Corrected by Artaria's Bookkeeper, Wuister.
1819.
Having heard from Herr B. that Y.R. Highness [the Archduke Rudolph] has written a most masterly work, we wish to be the first to have the great honor of publishing Y.R. Highness's composition, that the world may become acquainted with the admirable talents of so illustrious a Prince. We trust Y. Royal Highness will comply with our respectful solicitation.