For instance, the equanimity with which these people listened to the singing of a wearisome duet thirty seconds after the close of the “Eroica” was an altogether new experience for me; everyone assured me that no one was in the least scandalized by it – and the duet was applauded just like the symphony! This by the way” – I placed all my hopes of satisfaction in my dealings with the orchestra, which is very devoted to me, and in the hope of a fine performance for its own sake. In particular I counted very much on being allowed two rehearsals for the next concert, as I hoped it would give me the opportunity of getting the orchestra really well in hand. But yesterday’s first rehearsal dashed that hope as it showed me that two rehearsals are too few for my purpose. I had to pass over many important points and I see that I shall never be able to make up in just one more rehearsal, so I shall have to be satisfied with no more than a relatively good performance of the Ninth Symphony.