Wagner's Letters

Richard Wagner to Emil Heckel

June 15, 1872 · Fantaisie, near Bayreuth

Overview

Forwarding a letter from Carl Brandt in answer to Heckel's recommendation of a scene-painter, Wagner says it is too early to engage the two bandsmen Heckel has offered and promises the Mannheimers a reminder of Bayreuth soon. He signs himself 'Insignificance'.

Letter

Dearest Friend,

You see — what Brandt writes me! Don't be cross with me, but — you will see that I took note of your request, and made inquiries of my adviser! As to the bandsmen, it surely is a wee bit early. Children, children! I've other lambs to tend first!

For the present the Call has been just what you write about it!

In a little while the Mannheimers also shall get a reminder of Bayreuth and my

Insignificance,
which most heartily commends itself to you and the five Righteous.

Source: Letters of Richard Wagner to Emil Heckel, with a Brief History of the Bayreuth Festivals, trans. William Ashton Ellis (Grant Richards, 1899), No. 27