You do not currently have permission to view the full text for this document. Please sign in to an account with an active subscription or contact support.
Vienna, April 28, 1912
IX., Berggasse 19
Dear friend,
I am replying to you immediately because of your enclosed letter by Putnam. Our good friend has forgotten that lying and swindle found their way over the ocean to Europe a long time ago. Remind him of that and dip the paintbrush in deep in order to paint broadly.
You are otherwise too pessimistic about the persecutions. The only strange thing is that I am not being challenged by any of our friends over there on account of Allen Starr.1
I am in great suspense as I devour your news about the course of your family affair. I received a letter from Elma simultaneously with yours. It is very amicable, requests no reply, and will be taken care of by your being so kind as to convey my thanks to her. Of all your misgivings, one has made an impression on me: whether your daily schedule and life-style have room for a young woman who is in love with life and not deeply interested in your work.
A letter from Dr. Margarete Stegmann2 contains the discouraging news about the miserable course of her marriage, which is now about to break up. That is certainly no sign in her favor. Stegmann has acted unbelievably crazy and counted on something quite unfulfillable.
I have so much work I can't budge; I can't find any time at all to finish the taboo thing. In order to force myself, I have announced it as a lecture in the Society.3
Everything is well today at home. Emden is still here.4
Kindest regards,
Freud