Dear Theo,

I wanted to write you earlier. I am happy that Father has accepted the nomination at Etten; in the circumstances, I think it right that W. and A. [their sisters] are leaving together. I would have liked to be with you all that Sunday when you went to Helvoirt - did I write you that I spent the day with Soek and his family at Ville d'Avray? I was surprised to find three pictures by Corot in a little church there.

Last Sunday and the previous Sunday, I went to church to listen to Dr. Bercier; I heard him preach on “Toutes choses prouveront le bien de ceux qui aiment Dieu” [All things work together for the good of those that love God] and on “Il fit l'homme à son image” [God created man in his own image.] It was beautiful and noble.

You should go to church every Sunday if you have the time; even if the preaching is not good, it is better to go; you will not regret it. Have you been to church to hear the Reverend Mr. Zubli?

On the list of engravings that hang in my room, I forgot the following:

I am trying to get another engraving of Rembrandt's “Bible Reading” for you; if possible, I will send it to you in the first box of pictures. Did I send you a lithograph of Troyon's “Morning Effects” and François' “Last Summer Days”? If not, tell me. I have duplicate copies of them.

And now, be as happy as you can; do well and don't look back if you can help it.

Believe me, always your loving brother, Vincent

My compliments to Mr. and Mrs. Tersteeg and Mauve. Also to the Van Stockums, Haanebeeks, Aunt Fie and the Rooses!