With Capellmeister Dorn I had several conversations about the
whole matter some months ago, and I am convinced that he will not
consider Wagner's condition of my undisguised participation in
the performance of his works at Berlin to be an unfair demand. It
is of course natural that you, sir, are "not inclined to accept
any obligation which would reflect on the dignity and the
capability of the institution as well as on the authority of the
intendant." Such an intention is, indeed, very far from my mind.
You add, sir, "I expect the confidence of the composer in myself
and the Royal Theatre." This point also has been settled, and is
wholly beyond question or discussion; but as Wagner has
commissioned me to be his substitute at Berlin and has advised
you of his resolution, I must, in the interest of the cause and
of my position, decline to be reduced gradually to the part of
the fifth whist-player, who, according to the proverb, occupies
a very inconvenient position "under the table." In consequence I
am obliged to ask you, sir, either to agree to the arrangement
contained in my last letter, and, in your capacity of intendant
of the Royal Theatre, to approve of my participation in the
rehearsals and performance of Wagner's works at Berlin, according
to his clearly expressed wish, or else to leave the whole matter
in its actual STATUS QUO.

With the highest esteem, I am, sir,

Your obedient servant,

F. LISZT.