16.I.1914

Dear Giordano,

   Riccardo came to me and we spoke at length of the noted affair — for now the conclusion is as follows:

   He would largely be favorable to a cooperative arrangement with Casa Ricordi, but he is sure that Sig. Edoardo would be against it — and he has little desire to broach the subject with him.

   In response to my declaration that, in any case, you want to leave Casa Sonzogno, Riccardo said that for "Madame Sans-Gêne" there is a binding contract — and that you are free thereafter to do as you please.

   I insisted at length, and with valid arguments, why Riccardo should present the proposal to his uncle — but it was unclear whether he would do it or not; you, who know him better than I do, are aware of his reluctance to address things in well-defined and unequivocal terms.

   I will telephone him in a few days in search of further news, but for your part it would be better not to remain idle but rather to turn up the pressure, even directly with Sig. Edoardo if you can.

   But if they absolutely refuse to budge, what can be done? It seems to me that the situation is anything but easy to untangle, all the more so because Riccardo told me you also signed the contract with the Metropolitan, which stipulates a date for the consignment of the opera — is this true?

   Keep me informed of how you proceed, just as I will let you know if I have anything new to report.

   It remains my steadfast hope to find a way for the Marescialla to come and inhabit via Berchet; and with this hope I send you my cordial greetings, remaining as always

yours warmly

Tito Ricordi

Maestro

Umberto Giordano

Villa Fedora

Baveno