WAGNER Richard [Leipzig, 1813 - Venice, 1883], German composer. Letter signed, addressed to Oscar Bornemann. 2 pages in-8° in French, stamped envelope enclosed. "Being quite unwell for some days, I am obliged to dictate these lines. I have been deeply touched by your letter, and I am truly sensitive to the expressions of confidence and sympathy that you have given me. I had hoped to be able to be of some help to you, but I find myself reduced to expressing my thanks and my wishes for your future without being able to add any advice of any effectiveness. As I am not in a position to appreciate your musical faculties nor the knowledge you have acquired so far, I can neither encourage you nor discourage you; the only thing I can tell you without bitterness and without detour is that the artistic life is hard, very hard. I have very little time to answer you, however I wanted to do it even though I am both indisposed and preoccupied with several works, so that you know that if your heart has felt the need to express its feelings to me, mine has answered this call.