Dear brother,

Listen, Theo, what's the matter with you?

Didn't you receive my last letter, in which I told you what happened at home, and how in consequence I left the house and went back to The Hague and am now settled in my own studio: address Schenkweg No. 138 (near Rynspoor station).

You know Mauve helped me to get settled, but I still have a great many expenses, and for the last few days I really have not had a penny in my pocket. Of course I had counted positively on your sending me at least 100 frs. for the month of January.

But up to now I have not received anything, not even a letter from you. The worst is that I cannot work with a model until I have some money in my pocket again, so I can hardly do anything, as the weather is too bad to sit outside, though I tried it several times.

I am all right, but the last few days I have been faint with suspense. I have been looking for models, and found a few, but I cannot take them.

In desperation I went today to Goupil's, for according to what you wrote me I thought as a last resort I would ask Tersteeg to lend me something. But Tersteeg had just gone out of town for a few days.

I must put a good face on the matter when I'm with Mauve; Mauve has really done enough.

Tersteeg had promised to come to see me, but he has not been here yet. If for some reason or other you cannot send the 100 frs. at once, send me at least part of it by return mail.

I found a stamp in my pocket just now, otherwise I should not be able to send you this letter. It is a time of struggle for you and for me, but I think we are making progress. So let us keep courage. Adieu, with a handshake,

Yours sincerely, Vincent