I shall break down

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 watercolor, 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.

To Theo van Gogh, from The Hague, 18 February 1882, Letter 176
Translation courtesy of Robert Harrison.
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