This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can usually download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1873 edition. Excerpt: ...Litttle Wolfgang played with an ardor and inspiration which enabled him to overcome the greatest difficulties with ease. The condescending, almost motherly kindness of the distinguished lady had entirely won his heart, and he embraced the opportunity to pour forth, in the most glorious tones he could elicit from the instrument, his love and gratitude, until the Empress herself put an end to his enthusiasm. "Hush, hush, my little one," said she, kindly. "We are not willing to have you become sick from over-exertion. You have now again shown us that you will some day be a great master; then prove to us but once that you can also be a child among children." The little Archduchesses Elizabeth and.Maria Antoinette, to whose sports Wolfgang had listened with great delight and attention, understood the hint of their mother, and whilst she entered into conversation with father Mozart and Nanni, they took little Wolfgang by the hand, and led him through the magnificent room of state, which the Empress usually occupied. Kindly and pleasantly they called his attention to the beautiful pictures and furniture, showed him all the curiosities, and chatted as freely with him as if they were sisters and brother. But a comical interlude soon followed, which showed that little Wolfgang was by no means at home at the imperial castle, as were the lovely little Archduchesses. Whilst walking about, looking at the pictures and statuary, Wolfgang forgot the smoothness of the polished, inlaid floor; stepping on a spot unusually slippery, he suddenly fell full length on the floor, where he struggled with his hands and feet. The sight was comical, so comical that the little Elizabeth could not control herself, and broke out in a loud laugh. Maria...