[Inside Front Cover]

BEETHOVEN [presumably in his apartment on the Josephstädter Glacis; possibly Tuesday, April 18]: April, 1820. [//]

[Blatt 1r]

OLIVA [accompanying Beethoven on his shopping errands; probably in the morning of Tuesday, April 18]:

[first at a hat shop:]

He is asking 16 Gulden for the hat. [//]

[at a shop that sold lamp oil:]

One can get it at various places; the best is behind the Hoher Markt, in Natorp's building, then behind it in the small narrow street [Gasse]; I mean lamp oil; the warehouse of the largest factory is there. // If it looks this yellow and clear, it costs 48 kr. per pound; contains a half Mass [measure]; this is the finest. // Landskron- Gasse No. 383 [sic]. //

[at a fish vendor’s:]

Freshly caught, 34 kr. for 4 of them. //

The best pepper is not ground. Have white pepper bought for you; it is healthier than the black. [Blatt 1v]

It is too warm; better to eat them at midday today; the woman just got them yesterday. //

When will you get home? [//]

BEETHOVEN [in a coffee house; presumably the afternoon of Tuesday, April 18]: Rospini, periscopic eyeglasses. [//]

[Blatt 2r]

BERNARD [probably in a restaurant in the City; probably a long midday dinner on the afternoon of Tuesday, April 18]: I have not succumbed to it; this contrary condition is very rare and doesn't last a day when it occurs. My digestion is unequalled and I have never felt the urge to vomit, even after the greatest gluttony. //

In this peaceful city, as in Dresden, one would hardly believe it possible. [//] [Blatt 2v] There is essentially no need here in Vienna, and far and wide in the surrounding region, as much as is spent on security. //

Take Captain Lindner or Artillery Professor Strombeck. You will certainly find both a great pleasure, since both are very educated and pleasant people. [//]

[Blatt 3r]

[joined briefly by other guests:]

This is Baron Brandau, Court Secretary, with his wife. //