George French Flowers an Louis Spohr in Kassel

Ulcebly Vicarage
near Barrow on Humber
Lincolnshire

july 22nd, 1847.

Dear Sir,

Before you leave England this time you would greatly oblige me by giving me a testimonial something in the form of these enclose. My intention is to make application for the Professorship of Oxford, should I outlife D^r Crotch who is neither young nor in good health.
My father and brother are with myself, Oxford men and I have many influential persons ready to assist me to the new Professorship. A testimonial from you would be very useful, expecially if you mentioned my new work and your opinion of me as a musicial theorist. I was quite proud when you told me that your wife should translate my work; I am no less indebted to the kindiness of Mrs. Spohr should she undertake it. Nothing could be a greater proof of your opinion of my production than this and on this account I feel confident in asking for a testimonial in conjuction with those with which¹ I have already been honored and I should be sorry for² your name not to sanction the efforts of one, who was educated by one of your own Landsman’s most celebrated musicians. I allude to my dear maestro D^r Rinck.
I read with pleasure the article of your oratorio &ce in ”The Times“ our friend Davison never did you so much justice before.³ Davison is a clever men, but to much influenced by personal feeling. When, however, he once attaches himself to a man, he never forsakes him. I trust the next time you visit England that you will make my house, your home. I am more in the way of Editors &ce and my influence is felt more in classical music than those who write glees. This I say in all respect to those with whom you reside for I have a high opinion of E. Taylor’s talents although the heads of our profession thinks otherwise.
Thank you once more for this beautiful chorale you composed for me. I was delig sister hted when you told me you that you approve of the 5^ths I pointed out to you, because this opinon followed mine
as expressed in my work. Remember me most kindly to Mrs. Spohr and her wishing you good health and happiness.
I am your constant admirer.

French Flowers

My Brother has not got a copy of my last testimonials. I have cut off the testimonial of the clergy which only referred to me as an organist, not a music theorist.
If you write me a testimonial will you kindly write it in English characters because I cannot read the german ones.
You can send the testimonial either to my house in Keppel Street of to the place I am now staying with my brother. There will be an article about you in my Literary Gazette this week from me.⁴