Page:The history of Mendelssohn's oratorio 'Elijah'.djvu/32

 HISTORY OF MENDELSSOHN'S "ELIJAH."

" All this lies in the future, and at present I am waiting until you have written to me about the first part. Therefore, let me conclude for the present — not my thoughts of you, but my letter, and soon gladden me again with something — not to do — but to enjoy. Good-bye. N.B. — The third letter to you this week ! "

Schubring sent to Mendelssohn a draft sketch for Part II. on November 17, 1838,* saying : —

" Before I set to work I should like to know your idea of the matter. For the rest, I am more and more convinced that you will have to supply the principal part of the text yourself. How is one to know what is running through your mind on this or that occasion? Therefore the words are only set down as hints, suggesting what might be written."

Mendelssohn replied to Schubring in words which show that there was some difference of opinion between them as to the /' plan " of the oratorio. Here is the composer's letter : —

[Mendelssohn to Schubring,]

•' Leipzig, December 6, 1838.!

receive the organ pieces and * Bonifacius,' which I also enclose. Thank you much for the letter and for the manuscripts you have from time to time sent me for * Elijah ' ; they are of the greatest possible use to me, and although I may here and there make some
 * ' Dear Schubring, — Along with this you will

• " Briefwechsel," p. 140 f Ibid., p 146.

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