Dear Friend!
In reply to your letter of today, I inform you herewith that I have conversed with Prince George regarding the Wagner performances in Bayreuth, and of course I have been obliged to hear in reply: "How can I subscribe to such an undertaking?" — In spite of my suggesting that we must not expect atonement from the man since he affords us through his works so much endless enjoyment, I dared not come forward again with a plea for subscribing to a share. I hoped, however, to have an opportunity perhaps later to return to the matter. This has not occurred so far.
Should you find the Prince in a good humour some time, then I would advise you really to make an attempt. We have time after time been enthusiastic over Wagner's music, but I believe (entre nous soit dit) that "Peter's pence" will be supported before Wagner will!
You have seen for yourself how I proposed you, in connexion with the unfortunate student-casualties. Now try to find some way of giving yourself some recreation soon.
In old faithful friendship,
Your
Aglarni
Source: The Letters of Richard Wagner to Anton Pusinelli, trans. and ed. Elbert Lenrow (Alfred A. Knopf, 1932), No. 104