Beethoven asks Ries to proofread (according to the BGA apparently the string parts for op. 36). In addition he encloses a letter for Count Browne, in which he asks 50 ducats advance payment for Ries, so that he can buy new clothes for his forthcoming job.
Beethoven reproaches Ries for not turning to him, his friend, much earlier on with regard to his financial need. He tells Ries to ask him if Browne does not pay.
Ferdinand Ries was the son of Beethoven's violin teacher in Bonn. When he came to Vienna in 1801 to have piano lessons with Beethoven, the composer welcomed him with open arms and interceded on behalf of his pupil several times. In return, Ries often helped Beethoven with copying and proofreading or with making arrangements of works. Around April or May 1802 Ries took up the position of pianist for Count Browne-Camus, which Beethoven had organized for him.
