London with its bustling musical scene always provided Haydn with welcome surroundings at a time when the Flute was extraordinarily popular among English amateurs. The Earl of Abingdon an accomplished flautist undoubtedly enjoyed playing these entertaining trios. Abingdon was a member of Haydn?s circle of acquaintances in London and a composer in his own right: a theme from one of his songs (?The Lady?s Mirror?) servedHaydn for a set of variations in the second trio. Neither of the men could have foreseen the huge success that these cheerful and straightforward pieces would enjoy among music-lovers all over the world.