l composition
which consists of movements fast or slow, sad
or playful, according to the varying mood of
the composer.

Where was the scene? In Bonn in Prussia.

When? On a moonlight winter's evening.

Who were the two persons? Beethoven and the
writer.

Notice that these three important facts are all
told briefly at the beginning.

Why had the writer called on the musician? He
wished to take him for a walk and afterwards
take him home with him to supper.

Had he any reason except the desire for
Beethoven's company? Yes, Beethoven's health
was not good, his hearing was becoming
impaired, and the writer evidently thought he
needed rest and recreation. These circumstances
led to an important result.

What happened next? In passing through a narrow
street, Beethoven heard some one playing his
"Sonata in F".

What were his feelings? Surprise to hear it in
such a place and delight at the excellence of
the playing.

How did he show his feelings? By exclamations,
questions, and short sentences.

What is told in the next three paragraphs? They
describe a conversation.

Who are speaking? A brother and sister.

What are they saying? The sister is lamenting
that she cannot "go to the concert at Cologne"
and her brother reminds her of their poverty.
Then she wishes that "for once in her life" she
"could hear some really good music".

What happens next? Beethoven decides to enter
the house.

How does the writer impress this fact on the
reader? By giving the argument between himself
and Beethoven.

What were the latter's reasons? The player had
"feeling, genius, understanding", and these
qualities are so rarely found that Beethoven
could not neglect them.

Explain these terms. The player showed refined
feeling in her interpretation of the music,
genius in her skill on the piano, and thorough
understanding of the composer's purposes in the
composition.

Was it only for his own pleasure that the
composer entered? No, he wished to give
pleasure to one who could so well appreciate
his work.