[...] Really, I have almost recovered my old elasticity, though unluckily my immediate and impatient exertions tend somewhat to overtax the strength of a convalescent. [...] I have not yet finished the orchestration of the new scene between Tannhäuser and Venus; the first dance scene is still missing, and, up to now, I have no idea how I shall carry it out. Moreover, there is this absorbing Paris in which I live like a hermit, yet cannot prevent others from taking an interest in me, and to these I cannot be actually offensive. And, after all, it does sometimes happen that one wants a companion!
Well, a delay has occurred in the rehearsals of Tannhäuser, because of my illness of nearly six weeks; yet I still count on the last week in January, particularly if by some miracle I should get my composition done in time. [...]
[...] My authority is unquestioned, and is stronger than ever now, as the Princess Metternich (who becomes more and more devoted to me) and Walewski are especially friendly. [...]
Source: Letters of Richard Wagner, Vol. 2, selected and ed. Wilhelm Altmann, trans. M. M. Bozman (J. M. Dent & Sons, 1927), No. 480