Viewing page 11 of 18

This transcription has been completed. Contact us with corrections.

October 2nd, 1939

Dear Nicky: 

These few lines in reference to our conversation a few days ago in regard to our mutual friend, Mr. Rowland Leigh and his picture by Couture. 

Though I gave you very little hope when we talked about this situation that anything positive could be done at the moment, I did not want to put myself on record until I had discussed this matter with the attorneys of the company, and I feel very regretful that at present I cannot be of greater assistance to Rowland. 

However, I hope he will understand the position our firm is in. As you know, most of my associates are in France and in the war, and under the present set-up in our firm here, we are in no position to make any purchases whatsoever. I think I am not guessing wrong if most other firms will have the same attitude. The situation now is entirely different from last spring. 

I had devoted hours to Rowland and had made him all sorts of different propositions when he was here last spring that could have solved his problems easily. Unfortunately, I was not able to convince him then. Now we have set iron rules to maneuver our firm through the war period, the length of which and the consequences of which cannot be foreseen, and I am afraid that, much as I would like to help Rowland, I cannot do anything. 

Would you kindly be good enough to convey the contents of this letter to Rowland. I am sorry I have such a negative answer, and with many kind personal regards, 

As always, 

(R. H. Waegen)

P. S. As previously discussed, if Mr. Leigh wants us to, we shall be very glad to have his picture in our galleries on consignment, and in this case, naturally, would spare no effort to dispose of it for him and reach a satisfactory solution. 

Baron Nicolas de Gunzburg
19 East 60th Street
New York, New York

[[initials]]