I have read your letter with great pleasure, my beloved Countess, and also what you say about the renewal of your friendship for me. It has long been my wish to see you and your beloved children once again. For although I have suffered a great deal, yet I have not lost my former love for children, the beauties of nature and friendship – The trio and everything else that has not been published are most certainly at your service, my dear Countess – As soon as the trio has been copied you shall have it. [Anderson footnote: “Probably Op. 97…”] It was not without sympathy and interest that I frequently enquired after your state of health. But now I will call on you sometime in person and I shall have the pleasure of being able to participate in everything that concerns you – My brother has written to you. I beg you to make Allowances for him, because he is really an unhappy, suffering man [Anderson footnote: “Caspar Carl, who died in November, 1815”] –
The prospect of the coming spring will, I trust, have an excellent influence on your health as well, and perhaps surround you with the happiest of life’s realities – May all that is good be your portion, dear and beloved Countess. I send my greetings to your dear children whom I embrace in spirit – I hope to see you soon –
Your true friend
Ludwig van Beethoven