Ludwig van Beethoven, Billet an Joseph Karl Bernard, Mödling, Ende August/Anfang September 1819, Autograph

Beethoven briefly informs his friend and legal advisor Bernard that the rumours about Karl's nightly departures from Blöchlinger's boarding school are untrue. He briefly mentions the coming appointment during which he wants to re-apply for an exit permit for his nephew. In 1819 the dispute between Beethoven and his sister-in-law Johanna concerning the guardianship of his nephew and her son took a new turn. Karl had spent some more time with his mother in the spring and her influence had increased. Beethoven disapproved of Johanna van Beethoven and wanted to keep her away from Karl at all costs. It was this desire that made him think of sending Karl abroad to Landshut to continue his education. The Magistratdid not grant an exit permit on account of the mother's objection and so Karl was sent to Blöchlinger's boarding school from June onwards. Blöchlinger had contact with Johanna van Beethoven which made Beethoven very angry with him. This is why he tended to support rumours about Blöchlinger's bad behaviour.