Ever since the day you wrote to me the fee for Dr. Weissenbach has been lying there waiting to be given to him. But [I could not take it to him, because,] first of all, I have been unwell and yet at the same time very busy; and, [secondly], I myself wanted most certainly to go to you in order to hand it to you in person – But please let me have just for the present a written statement that you have received the fee of 300 gulden for Dr. Weissenbach. – As the expenses amount to about 5108 gulden, this is the most I have been able to do – The vexations and struggles which all doing and striving in Vienna entail, can not be paid for ! ! ! !
Your friend and servant
Beethoven
You will shortly receive your beautiful song set down in notes. [WoO 144]