Beethoven writes to his nephew Karl from Baden, where he is taking the waters. The tone of the letter is a mixture of sentimentality, exhortation and pressure, which Beethoven often used when talking to his nephew. He tells him of the bad state of his health. Instead of only gathering his strength, he must already start work again as he desperately needs money.
He warns his nephew to prepare himself thoroughly for the coming examinations and to be modest. He should at least still wear his old trousers at home, "as my dear son, you are also very dear."
Beethoven gives his address for an answer and tells him of a letter for Schindler, which he wants to send to him via Karl. He does not want to have any personal contact with this "contemptible object".
When Beethoven says goodbye to his nephew, he puts him under a great deal of pressure: "for today I wish that a certain Karl will strive to be live up to my love as well as my concern and will also know to be grateful for this."
