Ludwig van Beethoven, Brief an Breitkopf & Härtel in Leipzig, Wien, 28. Januar 1812, Autograph

In a joking manner Beethoven asks his publisher to pass on the enclosed letter. He formulates this as a request, although "it is meant as a legitimate punishment on account of many incorrect editions, wrong titles, neglect etc."

He also asks him once again to send the score of Egmont op. 84 to Goethe, "but not in the usual manner, so that a piece is missing here and there but quite properly".

Beethoven once again complains that despite the changes he desired, an inappropriate text has been added to the Oratorio op. 85. He is surprised, "Oh my god, does one believe in Saxony that the word makes the music?".

Beethoven has not yet exhausted the offer of choosing works by Breitkopf & Härtel from the Viennese salesman Traeg to the value of 50 thalers (he was Breitkopf & Härtel's commission agent in Vienna). The reason being that the scores he wants are not in stock.

Beethoven makes a list of his wishes and asks for Mozart's works to be sent (four operas and the requiem).

Beethoven enquires as to the publication date of the Songs op. 83 and of Egmont op. 84 (op. 83 had already been published in autumn 1811, Egmont appeared between 1811 and May 1812).