ever present with me is shown by the following copies of some novelties,[1]
which have been lying finished by me for some time for Y.R.H., but I
resolved not to forward them till I could at the same time send the Mass.
The latter now only requires binding, when it shall be respectfully
delivered to Y.R.H. by myself. Sincerely rejoiced at the hope of soon
personally waiting on Y.R.H., I remain, with devoted homage, yours till
death.

[K.]

[Footnote 1: The _novelties_ which Beethoven sends to the Archduke are:--

Six _bagatelles_ for the pianoforte, Op. 126 (composed in 1821).
Sonata for pianoforte in E major " 109 ( " " ?1821).
" " " A flat major " 110 ( " " 1821).]


305.

TO F. RIES,--LONDON.

Vienna, April 6, 1822.

MY DEAREST AND BEST RIES,--

Having been again in bad health during the last ten months, I have hitherto
been unable to answer your letter. I duly received the 26l. sterling, and
thank you sincerely; I have not, however, yet got the sonata you dedicated
to me. My greatest work is a _Grand Mass_ that I have recently written. As
time presses, I can only say what is most urgent. What would the