more effective would be the
result. It ought to be appropriate also as an oratorio, for such societies
as those for the benefit of the poor require marks of this kind. Having
been an invalid for some years past, and consequently my position anything
but brilliant, I have had recourse to this scheme. I have written much; but
as to profits, they are nearly _nil_! The more do I look upwards; but both
for his own sake, and that of others, man is obliged to turn his eyes
earthwards; for this, too, is part of the destiny of humanity. I embrace
you, my dear fellow-artist, and am, with sincere esteem,

Your friend,

BEETHOVEN.

[Footnote 1: Zelter was in Vienna in 1819.]

316.

TO F. RIES,--LONDON.

... Manage this as soon as you can for your poor friend. I also expect my
travelling route from you. Things have become quite too bad here, and I am
fleeced worse than ever. If I do not go at all, lo! and behold a _crimen
laesae_!... As it seems that you wish soon to have a dedication from me, I
gladly comply with your request, much more so than with that of any great
man; though, _entre nous_, the devil alone can tell how soon one may fall
into their hands! The dedication to you will be written on the new
symphony; and I hope I shall at length receive yours to me.

B. is to open the letter he took charge of for the King [George IV.], in
which he will see what I have written to His Majesty on the subject of the
"Battle of Vittoria." The tenor of the enclosed is the same; but not a word
as to the mass.[1] Our amiable friend B. must try to get me at least a
battle-axe or a turtle for it! The engraved copy of the score of "The
Battle" must also be presented to the King. This letter will cost you a
good deal [seventeen shillings]; but I beg you will deduct it from your
remittance to me. How much I regret being so troublesome! May God prosper
you!

Say all that is amiable to your wife till I come myself. Beware! you think
me old; but I am a young veteran!

Yours, as ever,

B.

[Footnote 1: On February 24, 1823, Beethoven wrote to the King of England
that, so far back as 1813, he had sent him "Wellington's Victory," but
never had received any communication on the subject; he, therefore, now
sent an engraved copy of the work, which had been intended for him since
1815. He closed the letter by saying: "Convinced of the discrimination and
kindness which your Majesty has always evinced in protecting and
encouraging art and ar