By the Grace of G-d 23rd of Kislev, 5743 Brooklyn, N. Y.

Blessing and Greeting:

I was pleased to receive your letter of the 5th of Kislev, with the enclosed photographs - in addition to the good reports that I receive from our mutual friends. But, of course, there is no substitute for a personal note from time to time.

Your letter was particularly timely in this auspicious month of Kislev, which ushers in the Festival of Lights, with its eternal and always timely message of spreading the light of the Torah and Mitzvoth in an ever growing measure, both at home and in one's surroundings. Included, of course, is also the spreading of the inner light of the Torah and Mitzvoth, and the wellsprings of Chabad, of which we are especially reminded in connection with the Chag HaGeulo of the saintly Founder, the Alter Rebbe, which we observed a few days ago, and is a fitting prelude to the Festival of Lights.

In this connection, I take this opportunity to emphasize once again your great Zechus, in the tradition of your esteemed family, in supporting the institutions and activities of the Merkos L'Inyonei Chinuch, which are dedicated to spreading the light of Torah and Mitzvoth, permeated with the vitality and warmth of Chasidus, in keeping with the spirit of Chanukah. May G-d grant that you should continue your good activities in a consistently growing measure, in good health and happy circumstances.

I am enclosing a copy of my Chanukah message, which I trust you will find illuminating and useful.

Wishing you and all yours an inspiring and bright Chanukah and a bright always,

With esteem and

blessing,

M. Schneerson

P.S. You did not mention in your letter anything about some personal points which we discussed. But, in accordance with the saying, "No news is good news," I trust that this is so also in this case.