Dear Ries,
You will see from this enclosure how disgracefully he has behaved. Please make the contents of this document known everywhere and, acting as my authorized agent, have it printed, if necessary, i.e. as soon as M[aelzel] shows the slightest sign of wishing to appear in public with this work – I hear that you are very well and I am heartily delighted at the news. Meanwhile Heaven has sent me no small share of sorrows, but – a rainbow resembling hope is now appearing – All good wishes. I trust that at any rate you will believe me rather than Herr M[aelzel], since, so far as I know, I have always given you good reason to find me truthful –
All good wishes. Do write once again to your true friend
Beethoven