Wagner, Richard.

concerning a plan to erect a monument for Weber, stating that the return of the composer's ashes is but the foundation stone of this project, discussing the concert Benedict plans to arrange for the benefit of Weber's monument, asking him to arrange this only when the external conditions are as favourable as possible, explaining that the costs for the simple and pomp-free return of Weber's ashes will be met from a fund in Germany, thanking him for his help and expressing his pleasure at getting to know him more closely as a result of this matter ("...und ich erlaube mir daher, Sie darin zu bestätigen, dies Konzert ja erst dann zu Stande bringen zu wollen, wenn die äusseren Umstände sich so günstig wie möglich für ein gutes Resultat gestalten..."), 2 pages, 4to (27 x 21cm), integral autograph address panel, embossed initials to upper right-hand corner of page one ("R.W."), Dresden, 3 September 1844, browning and creasing to leading edge, very slightly affecting text

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."

An early, unpublished letter by Wagner about his great operatic predecessor Weber. This letter, which was originally enclosed with a covering letter of the same date to Max Maria von Weber, the composer's son (at that time, like Benedict, in London), contains details of a plan to raise money for a monument to Weber in connection with the return of his ashes to Germany (Weber had died in London some 18 years earlier). The plan to return Weber's ashes to Dresden was finally realized in December of 1844. Wagner's 'An Webers Grabe' WWV 72, for male chorus was performed after the interment at the Dresden-Friedrichstadt cemetery on 15 December. Benedict (1804-1885), a former pupil of Weber, was at that time engaged as orchestral conductor at the King's Theatre, Drury Lane. See lot 24. Not in Richard Wagner. Sämtliche Briefe.