o go on as formerly. I do not wish
to tie myself down for the moment, but to remain free to act as his
interests may dictate.

Carl daily costs me great sacrifices, but I only allude to them on his own
account. I know too well the influence his mother contrives to acquire over
him, for she seems resolved to show herself well worthy of the name of
"Queen of the Night." Besides, she everywhere spreads a report that I do
nothing whatever for Carl, whereas she pays everything!! As we have touched
on this point, I must thank you for your most considerate letter, which in
any event will be of great use to me. Pray ask Herr L.S. to be so kind as
to make my excuses to his brother for not having yet called on him. Partly
owing to business and also to indisposition, it has been nearly impossible
for me to do so. When I think of this oft-discussed affair, I should prefer
going to see him on any other subject. She has not applied to me; so it is
not my business to promote a meeting between her and her son.

With regard to the other matter, I am told that in _this_ case we must have
recourse to compulsion, which will cost me more money, for which I have
chiefly to thank Herr Adlersburg [his advocate]. As Carl's education,
however, must be carried on so far as possible independent of his mother,
for the future as well as the present we must act as I have arranged.

I am, with esteem, your attached friend,

L. V. BEETHOVEN.

252.

TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.

Last day of December, 1817.

The old year has nearly passed away, and a new one draws near. May it bring
Y.R.H. no sorrow, but rather may it bestow on you every imaginable
felicity! These are my wishes, all concentrated in the one I have just
expressed. If it be allowable to speak of myself, I may say that my health
is very variable and uncertain. I am unhappily obliged to live at a great
distance from Y.R.H., which shall not, however, prevent my having the
extreme gratification of waiting on you at the first opportunity. I commend
myself to your gracious consideration, though I may not appear to deserve
it. May Heaven, for the benefit of so many whom you befriend, enrich each
day of your life with an especial blessing! I am always, &c., &c.

[K.]

253.

TO G. DEL RIO.

Jan. 6, 1818.

To prevent any mistake I take the liberty to inform you that it is finally
settled my nephew Carl should leave your excellent institution the end of
this month. My hands are also t