When Tchaikovsky came to me one evening, about thirty years ago thirty-four, and presented me with a roll of music, great was my astonishment on finding this proved to be the Violin Concerto, dedicated to me, completed and already in print. was the reduction for violin and piano, printed in 1878; the publication of the full score did not take place until 1888. My first feeling was one of gratitude for this proof of his sympathy toward me, which honored me as an artist. On closer acquaintance with the composition, I regretted that the great composer had not shown it to me before committing it to print. Much unpleasantness might then have been spared us both...