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

Beethoven tells his publisher that he is disappointed that his hopes of a position with Archduke Rudolph have come to nothing. In 1811 Rudolph had declined his right of succession to the position of Archbishop of Olmütz for private reasons (he probably wanted to enjoy some more time without the burdens of such an office and to continue his studies with Beethoven). The composer had promised himself a great deal from the Archduke's career and hoped to be given a similarly representative and lucrative post at the Archbishop's court.

When Rudolph declined the position, Beethoven's hope for an improvement in his financial situation also died.

Beethoven asks for a copy of op. 83 and enquires as to the progress of the edition of the Lieder from Egmont (which had already appeared in January 1812). He once again orders a copy of Mozart's Requiem and Don Giovanni. Instead of offering payment in money, Breitkopf & Härtel had promised the composer sheet music. As the music dealer Traeg sold Breitkopf & Härtel's music in Vienna, and did not have the scores Beethoven wanted in stock (and apparently was not delivered them), Beethoven turned directly to the publisher in Leipzig.

Beethoven promises to set the texts to music which the publisher has sent. At the same time he asks when his Mass op. 86 will be "presented to the pious Catholics".