me the score of my Mass,[1] being in
urgent need of it; but I repeat that no public use is to be made of it
until I can let you know _how_ and _when_. It will be at first performed
under my direction, with the addition of several new pieces composed
expressly for it, which I will with pleasure send to you afterwards. There
are certain conventionalities which must be observed, especially as I am so
dependent on foreign connections, for Austria does not furnish me with the
means of existence, and gives me nothing but vexation. I will soon appoint
a day for you to visit Carl.

I remain, sir, with the highest esteem, yours,

BEETHOVEN.

[Footnote 1: This letter seems to be addressed to Diabelli, who in the
summer of 1824 begged the loan of the Mass in D for a few days, but
neglected to return it.]

382.

TO PROBST,--LEIPZIG.

Vienna, July 3, 1824

SIR,--

Overwhelmed with work and concerts, it is only now in my power to inform
you that the works you wished to have are finished and transcribed, and can
be delivered at any time to Herr Gloeggl [music publisher in Vienna]. I
therefore request you will transmit the 100 Viennese ducats to Herr Gloeggl,
and let me know when you have done so. I must conclude for to-day, and
defer the pleasure of writing further till another opportunity. I am, with
esteem, yours obediently,

BEETHOVEN.[1]

[Footnote 1: Probst answered the letter as follows:--

"August 18, 1824.

"The many gossiping reports about the differences between you and a
publisher here in a similar transaction are the cause, I frankly own, of my
wishing first to see your manuscript. The piracy in engraving, so universal
in Austria, often prevents the German publisher paying the price for a work
which it merits; and even at this moment in Vienna, with regard to your
compositions [Schindler mentions three songs with pianoforte accompaniment,
six _bagatelles_, and a grand overture], I can see that the birds of prey
are on the watch to rob me of them under the shelter of the law."

On one of these letters Beethoven writes in pencil, "Do not listen to
gossip; I have no time at this moment to enter on the subject, but I have
all the proofs in my own hands; more of this hereafter."]

383.

TO T. HASLINGER.[1]

MY VERY WORTHY FRIEND,--

Have the goodness to send me the Rochlitz article on the Beethoven works,
and we will return it to you forthwith by the flying, driving, riding, or
migrating post.

You