Richard Wagner (1813–1883).

During his concert tour in London. [Wagner had been engaged by the London Philharmonic Society to conduct a series of eight concerts, from March to June 1855. There he met Mrs Benecke, the wife of a businessman of German origin living in London, to whom he had been recommended by Wesendonck.] Mrs Benecke’s friendly letter only increased his annoyance at not having been able to attend her family gathering… Next Saturday, he will have another rehearsal; if it does not tire him too much, he will go to Camberwell to enjoy Mrs Benecke’s warm hospitality… ‘Your kind words, for which I thank you warmly, have only increased my vexation, as I was already reproaching myself for having accepted an invitation specifically for your family evening, which could not be changed at short notice because a lady is coming in from the country especially for this evening. Next Saturday I have another rehearsal: if it does not prove too exhausting, I shall nevertheless come to Camberwell to enjoy your kind hospitality"...