All the same, Tchaikovsky would have been glad of the appointment as affording the one means of remaining longer abroad.
This anxiety as to his future counteracted in some degree the benefit derived from the quiet and solitude of Clarens. To escape from his difficulties Tchaikovsky was obliged to have recourse to the kindness of Nicholas Rubinstein and Nadejda von Meck.
Rubinstein interested himself in the matter of the delegation, and wrote as follows:—
“It has been decided to send you all the money which is left over from the expenses of your classes in monthly instalments. Try to calm yourself; take care of your health, and fear nothing. You are far too highly valued as a musician to be compromised by secondary considerations.”
Tchaikovsky replied, expressing his gratitude and reporting the progress of his opera.
“The first act of Eugene Oniegin will soon be in your hands,” he writes. “I shall be very happy if it pleases you. I composed it with great enthusiasm. A performance at the Conservatoire is just my ideal. The opera is intended for a modest setting and a small theatre.”
From Nicholas Rubinstein to Tchaikovsky.
“Friend Peter,—I am very glad you are getting better and gradually returning to work. I am full of curiosity about Eugene Oniegin. Be so kind as to assign the parts. Even if they have to be changed afterwards, it is important to know your views. Can I also count on the Symphony?
“I have seen Frau von Meck. We talked a great deal about you. I think she will send you another commission, or money direct.”
Rubinstein was not mistaken. Even before she received Tchaikovsky’s letter asking for assistance, Nadejda von Meck had decided to take upon herself the responsibility of his maintenance, and asked him to accept an annual allowance of 6,000 roubles (£600). In reply to his request, which was accompanied by many apologies, she wrote as follows:—