Dear Theo,

It is now February 18 and I have not heard anything from you this month. I thought you might perhaps be ill, because in your last letter you mentioned not feeling well. But Mr. Tersteeg told me that you were better, at least he was not aware of your being ill.

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!