A. Schaffer to Pratt, Oct. 27, 1936

Transcription: Telephone Circle 7-0747 Cable Address "Russianart"

Alexander S. Schaffer 15 West 50th Street Rockefeller Center New York October 27, 1936

Mrs. John L. Pratt Box 118 Fredericksburg, Virginia

Dear Mrs. Pratt,

I was so glad to receive your letter, as I was worried already that you may be ill, and that this was the reason that you did not come to New York as you planned. And judging from your letter, I was almost right, but I am glad to know that it isn't anything serious, and I hope that by the time this note reaches you, you will be in perfect condition again.

I would not think of letting you make that trip to Washington. I would much rather wait until the 3d and then you could bring the things with you.

Regarding the Egg, you have apparently forgotten that in one of my letters I have definitely promised it to you for September, and which I meant. Although it is now October, as you see I kept my promise, except for being late, which was beyond my control. I am sorry to learn that you cannot find a way of getting it at present. However, I must tell you this – should I be successful in making a substantial sale, I shall buy it back myself and then, needless to say, I will let you have it regardless of when you could pay for it. I only hope that they do not change their minds in the meanwhile.

I could not buy it myself presently, because I have just paid a huge amount in duties for some fine things I have bought about a year ago. If not for

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this, I would have probably settled the whole affair with them without even writing to you about it, because to get it back is my one ambition, and I would not worry about selling it again. I shouldn't have done it in the first place.

With kindest regards and best wishes, and love from the family,

Cordially, Alexander S. Schaffer [signed]