Biamonti 676 – Fragment dated September 25, 1817

It is found at the end of a letter to Nanette Streicher, of which the autograph has been lost. It was cited by Thayer–Riemann (Volume IV, page 491) and later by Anderson (Beethoven, Letters I.L.T.E., page 788). Since the fragment has no clef, we offer an interpretation in both clefs.

New Letter Numbering: 1172 (Sieghard Brandenburg)

Beethoven to Nanette Streicher (Nussdorf) [1] September 25, 1817

Despite the wind and rain, I was able to arrive here this morning at 7. In truth, last night I had tried to set out for Nussdorf in the rain, but—water extinguishes fire—I found the servant and likewise the medicine—but not your letter [2]—and I would have very much liked to read your explanations about game in domestic economy. I could still cancel the apartment in Gartnergasse [3], if we were to do the mathematical calculation of the distance of both places from the city—what do you think? etc. etc. Your shoemaker should send me some good black polish that doesn’t stain like the one provided by that swindler, my fidelis; in a few days I will pay in town the bill of 27 florins—if you would be so kind as to send me 25 florins, just for a few days, it would be a great favor. Yesterday I wanted to withdraw money and forgot to take the keys to my box. I would like to read something sensible about game and also about the housekeeper. Please give my regards to your most educated daughter [4].

Tantus quantus lumpus

L. v. Beethoven

 Postscript: We need a supply of dishcloths as a preliminary contribution for the new house.