My dear Theo,

Your letter arrived safely, and I thank you for its contents.

These past days, I've been almost entirely occupied with watercolors. One rainy morning, I passed by and noticed a crowd there waiting to buy lottery tickets. The crowd's expressions reflected the desperation and hope tied to the chance of winning.

There were marvelous colors in the figures from the lottery crowd sketch—blue smocks, brown jackets, white, black, faded shawls, greenish overcoats, muddy pavements, boots against pale or weather-beaten faces. This is where painting or watercoloring truly brings scenes to life.

Thank you again for the timely support, which is essential for my work to continue.

Ever yours,

Vincent

Vincent van Gogh (1853 - 1890), The Hague, c. 1 October 1882

pen and ink on paper, 21.1 cm x 27.4 cm

My dear Theo,

Thanks for your letter, I was glad to hear that you got back safely. I missed you the first few days, and it was strange for me not to find you when I came home in the afternoon.

We spent some pleasant days together, and actually did go for some walks and see a thing or two whenever we had the chance.

What terrible weather, you must feel anxious on your walks to Oisterwijk. Yesterday there were trotting races on the occasion of the exhibition, but the illumination and fireworks were postponed because of the bad weather, so it's just as well you didn't stay to see them. Regards from the Haanebeeks and the Rooses. Ever,

Your loving

Vincent

Vincent van Gogh (1853 - 1890), The Hague, 29 September 1872

pen and ink on paper, 20.7 cm x 13.6 cm

My dear friend Rappard,

I just received your letter and croquis of your painting. It's certainly a good subject, and I have nothing against the composition as regards balance.

For my own work, I'm focused on capturing the spirit of the peasants through color and contrast. Though my technique is't perfect, I believe the character I bring to my subjects matters more than technical precision. We share a commitment to portraying the people and their world authentically, and I hope we can continue to support one another in this shared vision.

Yours truly,

Vincent

Vincent van Gogh (1853 - 1890), Nuenen, c. 18 August 1885

pen and ink on paper, 21 cm x 13.6 cm