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Letter from Vincent van Gogh to Theo van Gogh
The Hague, 18 February 1882

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Dear Theo,

It is now February 18 and I have not heard anything from you this month.

As you can imagine, I am very hard pressed for money. Mr. Tersteeg bought a small drawing from me for 10 guilders, with which I managed this week. But he wants them small and only in watercolour, and I do not always succeed in that. But at least the first sheep has crossed the bridge. I work as much as I can, but don't forget that I shall break down if I have too many cares and anxieties.

So write by return mail, send me some money if you can, and believe me, with a handshake,

Yours sincerely, Vincent

This week I made three other studies beside the one Mr. Tersteeg bought; the technique is not perfect yet, but, thank God, the drawing is better.

I am very glad that I feel my drawing is improving, it gives me courage. Drawing is the principal thing, whatever they may say, and it is the most difficult too. It is for this reason that I venture to say I shall make something saleable within a year. For the one Mr. Tersteeg bought does not count - I shall make them much better when I have made more progress in drawing, as then it will come more easily to me.

Adieu, boy, do write soon!


At this time, Vincent was 28 year old
Source:
Vincent van Gogh. Letter to Theo van Gogh. Written 18 February 1882 in The Hague. Translated by Mrs. Johanna van Gogh-Bonger, edited by Robert Harrison, number 176.
URL: https://www.webexhibits.org/vangogh/letter/11/176.htm.

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