III

die out completely; – these few branches on the old

tree often have more abundant flowers

than on any "unpruned" trees, it might even

seem "furry" from the surplus of energy

– it only has a few young branches to

pour all of its old energy into; – it’s possible

I have not managed to depict this

well, – if at a later date I find ^that I might

be better able to do this using other means,

I would be grateful for permission to rectify

this or paint over it – (obviously without any extra

expense to You) – I have several sketches and studies

of this tree, – incidentally it stood closer to the

house with its branches, – than I have painted it – (perhaps

that might have been more fortunate after all?)

But that is neither "here nor there".

Please forgive the poor paper and handwriting.

Well, every day I think about making a trip in to Bergen, but

my choking seizures cause me to become discouraged – and then

my wife is expecting "a little one" any day now – and "you never know

what to expect"; – Therefore it is not likely that I will be able

to get away before Christmas; – Otherwise I am working diligently on

the woodcuts these days – I am making enough, so that You

have something to choose between, – but the gloomy weather

impedes me. It was kind of You to mention something

about wine – I will; (in view of my wife’s imminent child-

birth) – accept Your more than kind offer, if

I am permitted to reimburse You with drawings, woodcuts

or similar works on a smaller scale; – my wife

will benefit from a little wine under such "circumstances".

With gratitude for the money and Your kindness I am Yours sincerely

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