9 July 1912

Dear Illica,

   I am responding herewith to your two letters.

   So Puccini has roused himself, and now you can open up and reveal that there is a subject to be had; God willing that it may it be to his liking, and that this diplomatic correspondence results in another opus from our Giacomo. Because despite everything — and that is to say, despite his unjustified mistrust of me, despite his dark disposition and jealousy toward the young composers of Casa Ricordi, for me he is always — just as he was for poor father — our Giacomo.

   It remains to be seen what surprises await me in the future — whatever they may be, my conscience is clear and calm in the knowledge that I have always equitably managed my feelings of genuine friendship and admiration for Puccini with my responsibilities — neither trifling, nor easy — of collaborating with poor father. Now that I am alone my job is still more difficult and fraught with obstacles; but I am confident I will be able to persevere with absolute serenity.

   Having thus allowed myself to vent my private feelings to you, I recommend we focus on the more important thing, that is to say on Puccini's new work. I await, as you have promised, the idea you have for the Italian libretto, which I will read — for now — in secret. Meanwhile Puccini will respond to your letter and will certainly want to know about the subject — then we'll see what he decides and whether or not I should intervene.

   I found your response to Franchetti's lawyer a bit strong, but correct —on those grounds it seems difficult to reach an agreement with the composer of "Macboulé".

Warmest greetings

from your

Tito Ricordi