269.

TO THE ARCHDUKE RUDOLPH.

Mödling, July 29, 1819.

I heard with deep regret of Y.R.H.'s recent indisposition, and having
received no further reliable information on the subject, I am extremely
uneasy. I went to Vienna to search in Y.R.H.'s library for what was most
suitable to me. The chief object must be to _hit off our idea at once_, and
_in accordance with a high class of art_, unless the object in view should
require different and more _practical_ treatment. On this point the ancient
composers offer the best examples, as most of these possess real artistic
value (though among them the _German Handel_ and Sebastian Bach can alone
lay claim to _genius_); but _freedom_ and _progress_ are our true aim in
the world of art, just as in the great creation at large; and if we moderns
are not so far advanced as our _forefathers_ in _solidity_, still the
refinement of our ideas has contributed in many ways to their enlargement.
My illustrious musical pupil, himself a competitor for the laurels of fame,
must not incur the reproach of _onesidedness, et iterum venturus judicare
vivos et mortuos_. I send you three poems, from which Y.R.H. might select
one to set to music. The Austrians have now learned that the _spirit of
Apollo_ wakes afresh in the Imperial House; I receive from all sides
requests for something of yours. The editor of the "Mode Zeitung" is to
write to Y.R.H. on the subject. I only hope that I shall not be accused of
being _bribed_--to be _at court and yet no courtier_! After that, what is
not credible??!!!

_I met with some opposition from His Excellency the Obersthofmeister[1] in
selecting the music._ It is not worth while to trouble Y.R.H. on the