[...] The most important thing for the moment is that my project for May 22nd should turn out well. I have chosen not to advertise it publicly as yet, as I prefer to get the consent of the musicians and singers first. According to the latest letters received, there seems to be no doubt as to the success of the undertaking. My challenge has been taken up everywhere with enthusiasm, and I have almost too many acceptances from the best musicians in the foremost orchestras of Germany—not less so from the singers.—Well, then, I may reasonably give you the "authority to contract for the labourers to build an orchestra." [...]
Source: Letters of Richard Wagner, Vol. 2, selected and ed. Wilhelm Altmann, trans. M. M. Bozman (J. M. Dent & Sons, 1927), No. 654