THE LETTERS OF RALPH VAUGHAN WILLIAMS

The Hallé Concerts Society
8, St. Peter’s Square.
Manchester, 2.

[Early October 1957]

My dear Ralph

I am not usually at a loss for words, but they fail me now, with all your goodness to me.  The “flourish” took my breath away, beautifully wrapped in gift paper, ribbon and all. You really are not only one of the greatest, but the sweetest man of our day.  Bless you and a humble “thank you”.¹
My warmest love to you & Ursula.
Ever

John

1. VW wrote Flourish for Glorious John, Catalogue of Works 1957/3, as a present for the opening concert of the centenary season of the Hallé Concerts which was to take place on 16th October. Barbirolli had given the first performances of  both Sinfonia Antartica and  the Eighth Symphony.