December 13, 1872

The Hague.

Dear Theo,

What good news I've just read in Father's letter. I wish you luck with all my heart. I'm sure you will like it there, it's such a fine firm. It will be quite a change for you.

I am so glad that both of us are now to be in the same profession and in the same firm. We must be sure to write to each other regularly.

I hope that I'll see you before you leave, we still have a lot to talk about. I believe that Brussels is a very pleasant city, but it's bound to feel strange for you in the beginning. Write to me soon in any case. Well, goodbye for now, this is just a brief note dashed off in haste, but I had to tell you how delighted I am at the news. Best wishes, and believe me, always.

Your loving brother, Vincent.

I don't envy you having to walk to Oisterwijk every day in this awful weather. Regards from the Roos family.

August 18, 1872

The Hague.

Dear Theo,

Many thanks for your letter, I was glad to hear you arrived home safely. I missed you the first few days and it felt strange not to find you there when I came home in the afternoons.

We have had some enjoyable days together, and managed to take a few walks and see one or two sights between the pots of rain.

What dreadful weather! You must have sweltered in the heat on your walks to Oisterwijk. There was harness racing yesterday at the exhibitions; but the illuminations and the fireworks were put off because of bad weather, so it's just as well you didn't stay to see them. Regards from Haanebeck and Roos families.

Always your lovng Vincent.