Autograph letter from the great German violin virtuoso and composer who gave the premiere of Mendelssohn's E minor Violin Concerto, regarding the great fire which took place in his home town of Hamburg in May 1842. 1 p. Lepizig, 8 May, 1842. Addressed to Adolf Falk (apparently a close friend of David), with the original postmarked envelope. Writing on the last day of the famous disaster, David asks urgently for news of his mother and for Falk to arrange for her and his two sisters, Luise and Therese, to come to him in Leipzig, promising to cover any costs. Translation below. Folding creases and a small tear to the addressed side; overall fine. 8.5 x 11 inches (21.8 x 27.8 cm).

Translated from the German: "Dear Falk, I have just heard about the terrible disaster which has befallen you all, but [I take it] from the location of your house that you have been spared. Johannisstrasse is being named as one of the burnt streets, and now I ask you [...] if it is at all possible to find out where Mother is staying, to let me know immediately. It would be best if she came here immediately [...] with Line and Therese. I am good for any costs; if they need money, please be so good as to put it on my bill. Please, dear Falk, help if you can and if you are not yourself in danger; you may count on my gratitude [...]. Write me immediately, I ask urgently. In great haste, your true friend, Ferdinand David."