In the preface they have taken out the two little mirrors: now one--the smaller--would be necessary, and sufficient to explain the laryngoscope.
As to the preface, I will see what I can add. It seems to me, if I am not mistaken, that Mr Ascherberg has the intention of adding an editorial preface to the work, with the idea of increasing the sale. That, I think, would be a mistake. Praise, if the book merits it, must come from without, unless one wishes to turn it into blame.
Send me, not those proofs which I have, but the corrected pages, including those in which I have corrected the accompaniments, and the whole shall be returned to you without delay. We shall be back again on the 18th (September), and if you care to come to me on the 19th we will prepare the index.--Bien à vous,
"By the middle of October the work was complete and ready for the press. However, a delay occurred, in consequence of the necessity for waiting until an American edition had been printed and published in accordance with copyright requirements. The dear old master grew a trifle impatient, although he knew the cause:--
DEAR FRIEND,--Business having called me back to town, I paid you a visit at your house, but did not find you at home. No other cause led me to do this than the simple curiosity to know what has become of the 'Hints.' I suppose Mr Ascherberg is having them prepared for publication in America? If you have time, send me a line.--Mes amitiés!
"Eventually the 'Hints on Singing' were published in the last week of January 1895. The reception of the book generally afforded pleasure to its venerable author, and he was particularly gratified by the long notice of it which appeared in 'The Sunday Times.' Hence the note here appended. The one that follows it was elicited by some remarks concerning the 'real' inventor of the laryngoscope, which I, in due course, answered in the columns of my journal.
MY DEAR MR KLEIN,--I owe you double thanks, first, for the cordial congratulations brought by your telegram, and again for the flattering article in 'The Sunday Times': two friendly emanations which have been greatly appreciated by the inhabitants of 'Mon Abri.' I trust your family are all well. Here we are in the best of health, and unite in warmest regards to you and yours, wishing you all the prosperity that you can desire!--Tout à vous de coeur,