Listen to a translation of Mozart’s letter to his wife Constanze written during her sixth pregnancy while she was away seeking treatment, read by actor Christopher Inman.
In late spring of 1791, Constanze Mozart was in the final stages of her sixth pregnancy in eight years. She developed a painful foot ulcer, for which the sulfur-rich thermal waters of the spa at Baden were prescribed. Like several intimate letters sent during their rare periods of separation, it reveals the warmth, humor, and deep affection of their marriage, as well as his constant concern for Constanze’s health.
Mozart also mentions his student and assistant Franz Xaver Süssmayr, who was caring for Constanze in his absence. He asks that Süssmayr send him the unfinished draft to act I of The Magic Flute, left behind in Baden, so that he could complete the orchestration. It is the earliest mention of the opera in Mozart’s correspondence.
WA Mozart (1756–1791)
Autograph letter to his wife, Constanze
Vienna, July 2, 1791
The Morgan Library & Museum, Heineman MS 152
Ma trés chere Epouse!
I hope that you feel very well indeed; – It went through my mind that you have seldom suffered sickness during pregnancies! – does bathing at the spa perhaps weaken one too much? – I am unwilling to wait for evidence, it is too depressing; – my advice would always be that you should stop at once! – then I would have complete peace of mind.
I would ask you to tell Süssmayer, that clumsy boy, to send me my score of the first act, from the introduction to the finale, so I can do the instrumentation. It would be good if…it leaves with the first coach tomorrow morning…
I am waiting most longingly for news from you, dearest, most treasured little wife! – Pay attention to your health, for even if everything goes awry, I disregard it as long as you are healthy and I am well –adieu. 1000 kisses, and to Süssmayr a thousand clips round the ear. – Eternally your Mozart