| Content | Bohuslav Martinů thanks you for your letter. He also received news from Prague about a strong action by Jaroslav Křička. However, he thinks that the officials could take him into consideration as well as Ladislav Vycpalek. There should also be no objection to the choice of BM, and Vycpálek, who is perhaps even more closed-minded than he, does not reflect on the position. He himself would like to change his tactics and come out of his closed-mindedness, which he rather considers as concentration on a certain goal. He would be glad for advice. Should he let the Department of Education know that he is applying for the job? He could enclose a dossier of other people's criticisms and performances and give reasons for his return to Prague. Is that feasible? The dossier is ready and if Josef Schieszl could use it, it is at his disposal. Of the professors of the Conservatoire, V. Talich, L. Zelenka and perhaps J. Kunec. However, apart from Talich, they are probably not very reliable. The advantage is that if his name comes up in the election, they will not be able to pass him over easily. He thinks that artistic responsibility will override personal or friendly motives. He does not know if the initiative of the proposal and the election will come from the ministry or the professoriate. He felt that Křička's candidacy is strong and he would be offered the position after him. However, this is unguaranteed information and would be too convenient a solution. If the position were not filled now, he could intervene after his arrival in early December and even a performance of his opera [PLAY OF MARY] at the National Theatre would strengthen his position. When he arrives, he will visit JS immediately and thank him, as he would be lost to Prague without him. BM is glad that JS liked his little opera [THE VOICE OF THE WOODS]. The critics' votes mean little to him; the works are not for them. Criticism from all those to whom listening to music gives pleasure always pleases him. BM adds a new Paris address. |