202.—BEETHOVEN A LA CUPID.
Beethoven was a man of stern and rugged disposition, a man whose exterior was rough and whose actions were frequently peculiar; but at the same time he had a very gentle and kindly side to his nature. Those who did not happen to see his character displayed in that light thought him hard-hearted and boorish, but that was because they saw him at his worst.
Beethoven had his own love affairs, and, as the following incident shows, was not averse to helping other people in theirs.
In 1811, Beethoven was staying at Toplitz, and took his meals at a certain inn where, as it happened, an actor named Lowe, was accustomed to dine, and, at the same time, engage in the enjoyable occupation of making love to the landlord's daughter. The actor and his fair damsel had arranged that Lowe should come for his dinners after the other guests had gone, and only Beethoven remained. They calculated that he would not be an offensive third party, because of his deafness.
But, as the stories generally go, the irate parents stepped in and ordered the actor to discontinue his visits. This he was compelled to do, and for a time the lovers were disconsolate. But who ever knew of an actor so easily discouraged? Lowe was seized by a bright idea. He met Beethoven on one of his daily walks, having purposely taken the road frequented by the master. Beethoven recognized him and at once asked why he had deserted the inn. This gave Lowe a chance to tell his tale of woe and to timidly ask Beethoven to take charge of a letter to the maiden. "Why not?" pleasantly observed the gruff composer, "you mean what is right."
He placed the note in his pocket and started off without taking any more notice of the actor. Lowe started after him saying:—
"I beg your pardon, Herr van Beethoven, that is not all."
"Well, what then?" said the master.
"You must also bring back the answer."
"Well, then, meet me here at this time to-morrow," and again Beethoven started on his way.
As may be imagined Lowe was promptly at the place next day and received from his lady-love the reply at Beethoven's hands. And in this way the greatest of composers continued to serve the lovers as long as he stayed in that place.