Milano 14 Gennaio 1890 [in realtà 1891].
Ferrar, 50 - 2° dra.
Caris.°
In fretta poche righe di risposta alla tua 11 corr/. Per l’
Comunicai a
Ho combinato con
Come puoi credere aspetto ansiosamente decisione
Intanto cordialissimo saluto dal
tuo Aff
Giulio Ricordi
111.
pp. 218-219
CLET001985
Milan, 14 January [forse sbagliata anche questa data? cf. lettera 109 al Conte di Michelena di 11 febbraio] 1890 [actually 1891]
Maestro Cav. Luigi Mancinelli
Ferrar, 50 – 2nd dra.
Madrid
Dearest friend,
Just a few quick lines in response to your letter of the 11th of this month. For Edgar, I can only confirm what I wrote in my last letter to Sig. Conte di Michelena. Note that I have no intention of pressing the terms of our contract and its obligatory application to the current season. I only find it extremely painful that I as publisher, and Puccini as composer, must be harmed in this manner. Because it is useless to imagine things will go otherwise: I have complete faith in the Management’s promise for next season!.. but meanwhile the Maestro is morally and materially ruined! – You know how Italians tend to react! – No one will believe the circumstances and they will flatly claim that Edgar was protested in Madrid! What damage will come to Puccini, I need not tell you, in addition to the toll it will take on his morale. I won’t repeat what I already wrote to Sig. Conte di Michelena: I would only ask that he tell you what I have said, and I make one final plea to you, and to everyone, given that this is a question not only of art and opportunity, but also one of compassion. If you are able to perform a miracle, do it this time!..
I referred your kind words to Burgmein, and he asked that I thank you warmly in his stead. In reading hundreds of letters a day it could be that I overlooked what you wrote to me regarding Chapi. Given what you have told me, I would ask you to see if he is disposed to cede this suite of his – you know more or less our system, which is the same as the English royalty system: could you do me the favor of speaking with him and writing to me?... Thanks for this as well, and thanks for the other information.
I arranged things with Montalti for your cover, which looks like it will be extra-chic!
As you can imagine, I anxiously await the decision for Edgar – hoping that, with the Administration’s sincere support, your most worthy assistance, and the cooperation of the performers, it will be possible to avoid so great a disappointment for me and for Puccini.
Meanwhile, a most cordial greeting from
Yours warmly,
Giulio Ricordi