To Vladimir Konheim [Letter 290]

January 20, 1947 

Dear Volodia: 

I am sorry that I have not written to you sooner, but I have been so busy that this is the first chance I’ve had to write a letter.

It was completely impossible for me to help you with the purchase of a house. I suppose that you do not realize what the income tax situation is. My taxes are so high that I am not able to lend to anyone a sum as large as the one you needed. 

I presume you have not heard anything about the packages sent to Europe. I don’t think that you should ask Gimbel’s to inquire—because I am afraid that it might prove embarrassing to our relatives. So let us wait and not do anything further for the time being. 

I hope that you are doing well and that your practice is growing satisfactorily. I am sorry that we could not come to New York this year, and I don’t know when we’ll be able to, but I hope to come when and if my work permits it. 

Thank you for your Christmas greeting, and please give my thanks to Peter for the present she sent me—the “Fountainhead” soap. (!) That certainly surprised me, and I would like to know who is putting out that soap. Would you ask Peter to find out the address of the manufacturer, from the store where she bought it, and to let me know? 

Best wishes from both of us for a very successful New Year for Peter and yourself, 

Sincerely,

Ayn Rand