It was about the year 1839, that a stir began to be made in Europe by the tour of one of the greatest pianists that ever lived: whose genius, however, has been manifested more remarkably without, than within, the circles of strict and orderly art. I need hardly name Dr. Liszt. There have been few things in executive music in any respect comparable to his public career, which may be here spoken of, because it is understood to have closed so far as exhibition is concerned, and to be merged in enterprises of creative and critical activity. Brilliant in his wit, extravagant in his habits of life and opinion, courted for his personal fascination by every one who is greatest in rank and choicest in intellect, as Dr. Liszt has been, from his prodigious youth upward,–the fine judgment and the firm resolution which have enabled him to see that there is a time for every thing–a time to give up exhibition, and to enter upon more meditative pursuits–to cease from display at the moment when his popularity was the highest, when no rival was in hearing–I may say more, in being–such a whim of wisdom (if whim it be) must be commemorated as among the most remarkable passages and traits of his remarkable life and character.

At the time I refer to, on the continent of Europe Dr. Liszt commanded the whole world of gentle and simple listeners as no other instrumentalist ever commanded it before him.