I had got so far in my letter when yours was brought to me.

That is once more a dark, hopeless complaint! To help or to look
on calmly--the one is almost as impossible to me as the other.

After the experiences I have had, and of which I told you only
the smaller part, I can scarcely believe that the King of Saxony
will perform the act of grace desired by us. However, I will try
again. Send me your letter to his Majesty. I hope it will be
placed before him soon and in the best possible way. Our Grand
Duke is for the moment absent, and I shall not be able to see him
before next week. Write to me at once, and concoct your letter
for Dresden, which you must send to me open.

I have looked out for the copyist you require for your
"Nibelungen." It is difficult to find the proper individual who
could undertake such a task. I know several young men who would
willingly try, but they are not sufficiently skilful and
competent. I have sent a message to one of my former friends at
Berlin asking him whether he could place himself at your
disposal. With him you would be quite satisfied. In case my
inquiry leads to a favourable result, I will let you know. You
ask me how I am ...

"When need is highest, God is highest."

Do not be anxious about my indisposition; it will soon be over,
and my legs have to carry me a good way further still.