however, must be carried on so far as possible independent of his mother,
for the future as well as the present we must act as I have arranged.

I am, with esteem, your attached friend,

L. V. BEETHOVEN.


252.

TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.

Last day of December, 1817.

The old year has nearly passed away, and a new one draws near. May it bring
Y.R.H. no sorrow, but rather may it bestow on you every imaginable
felicity! These are my wishes, all concentrated in the one I have just
expressed. If it be allowable to speak of myself, I may say that my health
is very variable and uncertain. I am unhappily obliged to live at a great
distance from Y.R.H., which shall not, however, prevent my having the
extreme gratification of waiting on you at the first opportunity. I commend
myself to your gracious consideration, though I may not appear to deserve
it. May Heaven, for the benefit of so many whom you befriend, enrich each
day of your life with an especial blessing! I am always, &c., &c.

[K.]


253.