Item 91 - Letter from Sophie Weisse to Elizabeth Trevelyan

1 item

Northlands, Englefield Green, Surrey. - Sorry not to have seen or heard from Bessie this autumn; misses her very much and was 'distressed' to hear from Donald [Tovey] that there has been 'some sorrow' in their house. Encourages her not to 'lose the habit' of visiting, even if the concert dates do not suit. Has been very busy with work, and worried about Donald's symphony; this has turned out 'a huge and... beautiful and splendid thing', as far as she can judge, but he has 'only just finished the third movement', all of the finale still needs to be put on paper, 'and he starts for Germany on Friday next!'. Four copyists are already at work on it. He stayed very 'serene and equable' until some 'annoying letters' came a few days ago from Hugh Godley, whose conduct 'as an English gentleman' and as Donald's friend she doubts, and now his appearance worries her. Fears this will always be the case; 'the thought of leaving him truly makes [her] afraid of death'. But the symphony exists, it would not be too terrible even if the performance were be delayed; Donald will recover and she thinks he will finish the opera ["The Bride of Dionysus"] quickly now. Invites Bessie to stay the night on Thursday if the Klinglers stay; has just had a card from [Karl?] Klingler.