Anton Schindler, Brief an Ignaz Moscheles in London, Wien, 22. Februar 1827, Autograph

Schindler encloses a letter of his own with the letter Beethoven sent to Moscheles (W 27). He explains in detail why Beethoven is looking for financial support. He talks about Beethoven's health which is not going to improve. Schindler blames nephew Karl (the meanest person) and brother Johann for Beethoven's poor state. The responsible doctors Malfatti and Wawruch had also ascribed the illness to the terrible emotions Beethoven suffered from.

Moscheles shall make sure that Beethoven, in financial distress because of his illness, receives money from London. Except for Schindler, who is spending most of his time helping Beethoven, hardly anyone cares for the ailing composer. The transferring of the funds shall be made under the conditions that only Beethoven would receive the money, thereby avoiding the possibility that he could give it to his nephew once again out of plain generosity.

Schindler is asking for confidentiality as Beethoven should not become aware of his actual state. The composer is still convinced of being able to travel to England soon. As soon as Moscheles receives a positive answer from the Philharmonic Society he shall contact Beethoven to bring him the good news. (FG)