Beethoven had already got to know Ignaz von Gleichenstein in 1797, but they only became good friends in 1807. This letter already contains the friendly "Du" form and its tone is trusting. In it Beethoven tells his friend of a dream in which Gleichenstein was so taken by a pair of horses that he forgot everything else.
For a long time Beethoven had been in the habit of having unpleasant everyday tasks performed by friends, which allowed him to devote himself totally to his music. Gleichenstein also carried out services such as these: he had obviously found a new hat for Beethoven. The composer now asks him to take the hat back, as it already has a tear after one day. In addition Beethoven asks him for a copy of Bahrdt's translation of Tacitus. He also tells him of his headaches and complaints.
