J S Bach to the Town Council

Leipzig, 24 Aug 1736

Magnificent, most honourable gentlemen, our wise and

learned councilors, distinguished Lords and Patrons, et

cetera, et cetera, et cetera.... May it please you to

condescend to hear how Herr Johannes Fredrich Eitelwein,

a merchant in the town of Leipzig, was married on the twelfth

of August of the present year out of town, and therefore

thinks himself entitled to withhold the fees due us in all

such cases, and has made bold to disregard our many kind

reminders. Where as the said fees make up the greater part

of our emoluments, a perquisite of this position and no one

has hitherto endeavoured to withhold from us our lawful

share. We therefore feel compelled to beg you, honoured

Lords and Gracious Patrons for this reason to take us under

your protection and by your decision to uphold us in our old

right and agreed Salario, and further to enjoin upon the said

Herr Eitelwein that he remit to us a due proportion of the

foresaid marriage fees, together with the costs occasioned,

in this instance, which we also claim, with all respect and

reverence. Magnificent and honourable gentlemen, most

wise and learned councilors, distinguished Lords and

Patrons, from your most humble and devoted servant,

Johann Sebastian Bach.