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November 2, 1961

Dear Nellie,

I regret to be forced to return the painting after all. However, i want you to keep the eighty-five dollars I have thus far paid for it for the pleasure it has given me during the eight months I have had it. My very difficult decision which I have tried to avoid as you know, it is due to a number of reasons. The expenses that I have accumulated during the past half year make it very difficult to keep up my payments.

First, I have to help Melie get out of Algiers where the situation have become worse than intolerable. Without my help, she would be forced to stay on indefinitely at her meagre salary as a teacher, with her life and those of her family in continuous danger.

Secondly, my mother has moved to California, doubling her rent, doctor bills, etc. and I have been forced to raise the monthly allowance I give her to help support her. In addition, she expects visits from time to time, which I have been putting off because of the expense it would be. It is incredible to her that I can find the money and time to go across the ocean to see Melie, and not be able to visit her at all. She has no idea of the sacrifices I have had to make during the year to do that.

These extra moneys, I had planned to use for the painting, but I can no longer indulge myself thus without a strain. Please try to understand and forgive me. No doubt, you will one day sell it for more money - as it deserves. It is a beautiful object and will leave a big void in my house.

Affection,
Daisy

Cliff will deliver it to you on Saturday afternoon.