Wagner's Letters

Mathilde Wesendonck to Richard Wagner

January 13, 1865 · Zurich

Overview

Told by Cosima von Bülow that King Ludwig wishes to collect Wagner's literary manuscripts, Mathilde writes that she cannot send anything from the portfolio in her keeping without his personal wish, encloses a list of its contents for him to choose from, and is glad to hear he is well and has gathered his dear ones round him.

Letter

My Friend,

In a letter received to-day, Frau v. Bülow asks for some of your literary manuscripts which are in my possession. I have looked through the portfolio, but of course I cannot think of sending anything away, unless at your personal wish. As it is hardly possible that you will remember which strayed leaves and leaflets are gathered in my portfolio, I am sending you a list of the whole contents; will you please tell me whether and what I am to forward.

I conclude, of course, that you are aware of the projected publication of your works by his Majesty. I was so very glad to see from the amiable lady's lines that you are well, and have gathered your dear ones round you.

And now with greetings from my heart, and hoping to be affectionately remembered,

Yours Mathilde Wesendonck.

Source: Richard Wagner to Mathilde Wesendonck, trans. William Ashton Ellis (Charles Scribner's Sons, 1905), No. 167

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