A definite arrangement

When your letter took so long to come (since it went to Mauve first, I received it even later) I had to go to Mr. Tersteeg, and he gave me 25 guilders until I received your letter. It might be a good idea if I, with your knowledge, or you, with my knowledge, made some sort of arrangement with Mr. T. For you realize, Theo, I must know with as much certainty as possible what to expect, and I must be able to calculate and be able to tell in advance whether I can do this or that or must give it up. So you will do me a great favor by agreeing with me to a definite arrangement, and I hope you will write to me about it soon.

To Theo van Gogh, from The Hague, 7-8 January 1882, Letter 169
Translations courtesy of Robert Harrison.
Back to The Way of Vincent: Making art no matter what