My dear Mr. Stürmer!
I can't possibly enjoy the heartfelt satisfaction given to me here without thinking of you who obliged me so much by your friendship. In a few words only, let me tell you that I was fortunate enough to hear my Lohengrin here for the first time yesterday and this in a performance that carried me away and made me happy. Along with it I was honored and fêted in a way that has never happened to any composer here, so I am told. I was deeply moved by the fact that such an enthusiasm and persistence of applause was possible. As an artist who has suffered privations and endured ill treatment in an overwhelming degree, I feel compensated and in my heart deeply reconciled. Vienna will become the starting point of my artistic undertakings in future if only on account of its artistic resources. But all the same I cling to my Karlsruhe agreement as the most suitable one, and on my return I'll be able to give you more definite news about all that concerns me. Today I felt urged to make you participate in the joy which has overwhelmed me, remembering with what generosity and kindness you have shared my recent worries. With many thanks and in cordial friendship,
Your
Richard Wagner
Source: Letters of Richard Wagner: The Burrell Collection, ed. John N. Burk (Macmillan, 1950), No. 238