In July and August 1822 the Leipzig publisher Peters had paid a total of 360 florins for three Lieder, four marches and four bagatelles. He had not, however, received any compositions in return, even though Beethoven had claimed he could deliver them immediately. This letter by the composer was obviously written following a reminder from Peters (which no longer survives), in which the latter accused him of defaulting.
With all the usual excuses (Beethoven often promised his publishers more than he could deliver, giving ill health and changes of address as reasons for not keeping his promises) he continues to put off Peters. He has sufficient bagatelles for piano available, even more than the four already paid for. He also tells him of a mass (op. 123) which is not yet completed but which is up for sale.
