[...] My dear Anders, things could be a whole lot better! I have found fame and recognition in good measure, but unfortunately no income. Germany has so far proved to be a land accursed - a place which drives men to starvation. How could I ever manage here if I did not have a regular appointment?! -
My plans are therefore once again turning towards Paris: it is the only prospect, as far as my external circumstances are concerned, which promises release from my present predicament. It is highly likely, my dear friend, that I shall be seeing you again in Paris: I pray to God that it be soon! very soon! As soon as the vocal score of my new opera is finished, I shall send you all 3 of my operas.
I am not recommending my niece to Schlesinger since I really do not know what use he could be to her: in any case he’s a lecherous old goat and could easily kick up a stink. If she were ever to need him, I assume you will be able to recommend her?
Adieu, my good and dear old friend! I pray to God that it will not be long before we see each other again!
Yours,
Richard Wagner.
Source: Selected Letters of Richard Wagner, trans. and ed. Stewart Spencer and Barry Millington (W. W. Norton & Company, 1988), No. 71