excusing his tardy reply, explaining that he is prevented by a thousand obligations from doing those things which he would rather do, namely writing to his friends, and composing; Liszt also thanks him for the volume he has sent him, and compliments him on his observations on his songs, particularly regarding "Am Rhein" and "Über allen Gipfeln", which have touched the core of his being and which persuade him that, despite his feeble talent, he does not offer a bad path for others to ascend so that they might shine more brightly ("...Vous avez trouvé quelques accents sympathiques dans mes Lieder, et les relevez avec un sens poétique et d'une finesse d'observation musicale et psychologique des plus rares...")

3 pages, 8vo (17.5 x 11cm), Villa d'Este, 21 June 1874, some browning along folds

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing where appropriate.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

In this letter Liszt mentions his setting of one of the most perfect lyrics in the German language, Goethe's "Über allen Gipfeln".