19 August 1912

My dear Giacomo,

   The Attorney Marchesano was wrong to have sent you my letter, if it was he who did so — which I do not believe. If instead it was Leonardi, this would prove how little delicacy and decency he exercises in his regard for me. But all this — you may be certain — is of no importance to me, so concerned am I — as can be clearly understood from my letter to Marchesano — to find a definitive solution, for your peace of mind, to this Leonardi question.

   So, when you return we'll meet with Marchesano and with Bronzini — and at that point you'll have certain proof of all the effort I am willing to invest in resolving this mess in which — you must admit — Casa Ricordi, its General Manager, and our business relationships play no part whatsoever, whereas what is really involved is nothing more than resolving an annoying family problem for which you ask the help of a trusted friend, as I am. And the trusted friend, who has already proved he wants to help, will do everything he possibly can to provide you with this blessed serenity that is so necessary for you to work.

   For my part then I'll make every possible effort without hesitation — and I hope therefore to find the same willingness on the other side, and especially from Leonardi.

   So, dear Giacomo, pay no heed to gossip, to petty reprisals, to things of little importance — think only of your work, should you finally find the subject that works for you — think only of the joy of producing, of endowing a new creation with life, of the glory that will come with it.

   Sursum cordae in everything and for everything.

   Until we meet again soon — I must go to Berlin on 2 September for a business encounter — but I'll be back on the 4th, available for you as needed.

An embrace from

yours fondly

Tito Ricordi