39. 5 August 1991 [ES] (Why Cortona?; how the shakes appear)

previously unpublished; © the estate of eric sams and beatrice cazac (Mrs. Mathew’s letters)

Dear Hayat,

   Thanks for your oblong card of the square. It seemed quite uncharacteristic of you. Not, of course, that you don't have the right angles on everything.

   But how did you come to Cortona, of all places, in the first place? For all things there is a reason, and therefore for this also.

   [...]

   While waiting for your letter, I've become very old: indeed, an O.A.P. - which I much enjoy. The money is quite good, and regular. But I had a rather disappointing time with the Gruner Lieder competition: we felt we had to withhold the first prize for both singer and accompanist. But it was nice to meet Edith Wiens and Irwin Gage (who is a kindred spirit).

   Sorry about the unintentional tremors (my obsession wants me to say something about how the Shakes appear, but I shall refrain). I'm en route.

   Farewell for now

   yours as ever (that's English for 'love')

   Eric