. 23, 1817.

MY DEAR AND VALUED DOROTHEA CECILIA,--

You have no doubt often misjudged me, from my apparently forbidding manner;
much of this arose from circumstances, especially in earlier days, when my
nature was less understood than at present. You know the manifestations of
those self-elected apostles who promote their interests by means very
different from those of the true Gospel. I did not wish to be included in
that number. Receive now what has been long intended for you,[2] and may it
serve as a proof of my admiration of your artistic talent, and likewise of
yourself! My not having heard you recently at Cz---- [Czerny's] was owing
to indisposition, which at last appears to be giving way to returning
health.

I hope soon to hear how you get on at St. Polten [where her husband's
regiment was at that time quartered], and whether you still think of your
admirer and friend,

L. VAN BEETHOVEN.

My kindest regards to your excellent husband.

[Footnote 1: It was admitted that she played Beethoven's compositions with
the most admirable taste and feeling. Mendelssohn thought so in 1830 at
Milan, and mentions it in his _Letters from Italy and Switzerland_.]

[Footnote 2: Undoubtedly the Sonata dedicated to her, Op. 101.]

221.

TO ZMESKALL.

DEAR Z.,--

I introduce to your notice the bearer of this, young Bocklet, who is a very
clever violin-player. If you can be of any service to him through your
acquaintances, do your best for him, especially as he is warmly recommended
to me from Prague.[1]

As ever, your true friend,

BEETHOVEN.

[Footnote 1: Carl Maria Bocklet, a well-known and distinguished pianist in
Vienna. He told me himself that he came for the first time to Vienna in
1817, where he stayed six weeks. On April 8th he gave a violin concert in
the _Kleine Redoutensaale_. He brought a letter of introduction to
Beethoven, from his friend Dr. Berger in Prague.]

222.

TO STEINER & CO.

The Lieutenant-General is desired to afford all aid and help to the young
artist Bocklet from Prague. He is the bearer of this note, and a virtuoso
on the violin. We hope that our command will be obeyed, especially as we
subscribe ourselves, with the most vehement regard, your

GENERALISSIMUS.

223.

TO G. DEL RIO.

I only yesterday read your letter attentively at home. I am prepared to
give up Carl to you at any moment, although I think it best not to do so
till after the examination on Monday; but I