Eminent Viennese composer (1825–1899), aka the “Waltz King,” best known for such all-time favorites as “The Beautiful Blue Danube” and the “Emperor Waltz” and for the operetta staple, “Die Fledermaus.” ALS in German, three pages on two adjoining sheets, 4.5 x 7, Westminster Hotel, Berlin letterhead, May 6, 1896. Strauss bears farewell to a friend. In part [roughly translated]: “I would have gladly stayed in your beautiful Berlin longer but my chronic bronchial catarrh does not allow me the cold air - which I am forced to breathe longer in the hotell. Certainly I have had the opportunity to shake hands with you for great kindnesses…However, since my health worsened, I'm forced to take up my journey home earlier than I intended.” Scattered areas of light creasing are present, as is some mild toning. Importantly, a tape repair to a small separation along a horizontal mailing fold does not affect any of the text, otherwise fine condition. Pre-certified PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
