8 August 1912

Dear Illica,

   In response to your two letters:

   What Giacomo wrote to you from Munich signifies one thing alone, and it is this: that he and Leonardi are both stuck trying to find any solution other than the one I proposed. And this is because no one in theatrical circles will abide the thought of Leonardi as an associate or equal partner. Imagine that I hadn't immediately thought of the combination with Lusinardi!! but it's as if I had proposed the devil himself. I've agreed with Puccini that we will meet in Milan in early September and that we'll see then — once and for all — what should and can be done with Leonardi.

   I am familiar with Wilde's A Florentine Tragedy, which I read years ago in a French translation. Puccini did in fact mention this subject as well, and he told me that he had asked you [uncertain reading of the text] to put together a first act. But you'll see, dear Illica, that the Florentine Tragedy will also end up drowning in the Arno......even if it's dry. In any case, I'm always ready to read the English text if you think it's useful, and later on to hear the draft of the first act.

   I met with Panizza this morning and immediately broached the subject of Corso. He told me he had barely finished two acts and that to continue his work he would need to go back over the libretto with you. Panizza is leaving now for the country — I don't know where — but he'll be here in early September and the three of us can meet together then.

Warmest greetings

from

your

Tito Ricordi