Beethoven has heard from Bernard that his sister-in-law Johanna van Beethoven is very ill and does not have enough money for medicine. Although he had bitterly fought her for many years regarding the guardianship for his nephew, Beethoven is very upset about her need and is concerned about her condition. He spontaneously offers Johanna that he will waive the part of her widow's pension to which his nephew is entitled for his upkeep.
The letter was obviously written immediately after Beethoven had heard about Johanna's illness, as it contains expressions of sympathy and concern. However, once Beethoven had heard details about the financial situation of his sister-in-law, he greatly reduced his offer of help and the old reservations against her came to the fore once again (see HCB Br 42 and 44 also BGA 1539).
