g entirely burned down, a theatre
only built last year. It was the work of an incendiary, and the damage
is estimated at more than 100,000 pounds sterling; so there is not a
single Italian theatre in London at this moment. Now, my dear angelic
lady, I have a little fault to find with you. How often have I
reiterated my request to have my symphony in E minor, of which I sent
you the theme, copied out on small paper, and sent to me by post? Long
have I sighed for it, and if I do not get it by the end of next month
I shall lose twenty guineas. Herr v. Kees writes that the copy may
possibly arrive in London three months hence, or three years, for there
is no chance of a courier being sent off at present. I also told Herr v.
Kees in the same letter to take charge of this, and if he could not do
so, I ventured to transfer the commission to you, flattering myself that
my urgent request would certainly be fulfilled by your kindness. I also
desired Herr v. Kees to repay you the cost of the postage you paid for
his packet. Kindest and most charming Frau v. Genzinger, I once more beg
you to see to this matter, for it is really a work of mercy, and when we
meet I will explain my reasons, respectfully kiss your fair hands, and
repay my debt with gratitude. The celebration you mention in honour of
my poor abilities touched me deeply, but still not so profoundly as
if you had considered it more perfect. Perhaps I may supply this
imperfection by another symphony which I will shortly send you; I say
perhaps, because I (or rather my brain) am in truth weary. Providence
alone can repair the deficiency in my powers, and to Him I daily pray
for aid, for without His support I should indeed be a poor creature! And
now, my kind and dear friend, I venture to hope for your indulgence.
Oh yes! your portrait is at this moment before me, and I hear it say,
"Well, for this time, you odious Haydn, I will forgive you, but--but!"
No, no, I mean henceforth strictly to fulfill my duties. I must conclude
for to-day by saying that now, as ever, I am, with the highest esteem,
yours, etc.,

HAYDN.

To Frau v. Genzinger.

LONDON, Feb. 2, 1792.

I have to-day received your kind letter, and also the fantasia, and
sonata a tre. I was, however, rather vexed, on opening the packet, not
to find the long-looked-for symphony in E minor, which I had fully hoped
for, and expected. Dear lady, I entreat you to send it at once, written
on small post paper, and I