Dear Chr[istine],
You
said something yesterday about the likeness of me. -- I do wish
that in this matter you would proceed rather circumspectly. For
I fear that if we choose F. to return to it, perhaps that wretched
B. or that extremely stupid Joseph will interfere and, in that
case, the affair may then become a trick to be played upon me;
and that would be really deplorable. I should have to revenge
myself again; and surely the whole populace doesn't deserve that.
-- Try to get a hold of the thing, if it is at all possible to
do so. I assure that after this experience I will appeal in the
Press to all painters not to paint me again without my knowledge.
I really do not think that this face of mine would ever cause
me embarrassment. As for Sara and taking off my hat, why, that
is really too stupid and, what is more, too discourteous for me
to exact retribution for anything of the kind. Please expound
to her the rights of anybody who is taking a walk --
Adie, the devil take you. --