[The Father of Grand Opera: Giacomo Meyerbeer.] Autograph Note in French in the third person while in London, accepting a dinner invitation from Lady Molesworth.

Meyerbeer is said to have been the most frequently performed opera composer during the nineteenth century. He encouraged and supported the young Wagner, who turned on him viciously later in life. Lady Molesworth (née Andalusia Carstairs, d.1888) had herself been a professional singer. She was the widow of Sir William Molesworth (1810-55), founder of the London Review and owner, under the editorship of John Stuart Mill, of the Westminster Review. Regarding the present item, Meyerbeer notes in his diary, for Sunday 17 July, ‘Big dinner and musical soiree at Lady Molesworth’s.’ Sir Charles Santley recalls, in his reminiscences, ‘singing for Meyerbeer at a party at Lady Molesworth’s house’, in order to reassure him that he was up to the part of Hoel in Chorley’s English version of ‘Dinorah’. 1p, 12mo. On recto of first leaf of a bifolium. In fair condition, lightly aged and folded four times for postage. Blot at top right-hand corner in same ink as note. Reads: ‘Meyerbeer présente ses respectueux hommages à Mylady Molesworth, & se rendra avec autant d’empressement que de plaisir à l’aimable invitation de Mylady pour dimanche prochain / Londres 14 Juillet 59.’ See image.