Prades. - Was very happy to see Engelbert [Röntgen] again after so many years: he is just the same as always. Hopes that Lugano will be a good place for Engelbert and his wife; the surroundings are very beautiful, and there is decent music there, which he could influence, perhaps he could direct an orchestra. Has been busy with the organisation of the 1955 [Prades] Festival; the programme is not totally fixed yet but he thinks half will be Bach, with the cantatas played by the Bach Group of New York, the violin sonatas by Menuhin, the cello suites by himself and the concertos for piano by Serkin, Horszowski and Istomin. Thinks of dedicating the other half of the festival to chamber music by Schubert and Brahms. All this promised joy, though, is obscured by the sad things in life, particularly the grave state of health of Madame Capdevila.
Prades. - Thanks her for her letter of condolence [on the death of Francesca Capdevila]: he has lost a most noble and faithful companion. The book of conversations [with Josep Corredor, see 2/10] is a great success in the German and French editions; the English translation, by André Mangeot, is ready and will be brought out soon by Hutchinson and Co. Thanks her for her interest, and hopes the book will deserve it.
Vevey. - Very touched by Mrs Trevelyan's letter, which she received while still in London, and thanks her. Is very sorry that she did not see her this time, but since she had no news 'did not dare to write sooner'. Had three concerts and a recording in twelve days, so the time passed very quickly. One of the BBC concerts could have interested Mrs Trevelyan; it was rebroadcast but is sure she will not have been able to listen to it. Peter Rybar said he had suggested the Busoni sonata to the BBC while he was in London, but had had no response; she did not know this so when Szigeti suggested she should play it with him she had no reason to refuse. Much enjoyed the evening, and it went well. Does not know when she will return to London, but will write to Mrs Trevelyan beforehand. Does not think that Casals needs food, as his 'friend' [Francesca Vidal de Capdevila] arranges supplies well, and people send parcels from America; however if Mrs Trevelyan writes, she will certainly give him great pleasure; the 'prospect of winter in that little room in Prades is... distressing' and the situation in Spain 'terribly depressing'. Sends best wishes and hopes very much to see Mrs Trevelyan in England before long.