By the Grace of G‑d
In the Days of Chanukah, 5721
Brooklyn, N.Y.
[December, 1960]

Greeting and Blessing:

I received your recent letters and for various reasons my reply was unavoidably delayed.

With regard to the question in which you are apparently most interested at the moment, namely, the purchase of merchandise from Hong Kong, the important consideration is, of course, whether the merchandise will be suitable for your market. It is also no less important to know whether the people down there are reliable.

Since you are interested in finding a source of relatively cheap merchandise, it may be better for you to explore the possibility of buying in Japan, a country which has the reputation here of being able to manufacture merchandise at low cost. Of course, this may not apply to every kind of merchandise.

I was gratified to read in your letter that you have again had occasion to see the benevolent Providence in being able to sell quantities of your stock. May G‑d continue to show you His benevolence in the future, and in a greater measure.

However, I am somewhat concerned that while you mention about things done from on high, relating to the sales, you do not mention at all about the things that have to be done here below (and which are entirely in your hands because “All is in the hands of heaven except the fear of heaven”). I refer to your Tzedoko contributions from your business profits. One should remember that according to our holy books one should not be tardy in remitting that which belongs to Tzedoko. On the contrary, it is even advisable to remit in advance of future profits, since the Almighty’s credit is always good.

Thank you very much for letting me know about your daughter's activities. I also hope that the health of your wife has improved considerably.

As we are at present in the auspicious days of Chanukah, the Festival of Lights, which we observe, among other things, by lighting the Chanukah lights in growing numbers, may G‑d send you and yours a growing measure of light and happiness and success in all matters connected with Ner Mitzvah v'Torah Or, which, as a matter of course, will bring you success and true happiness in all your affairs, both personal and communal.

Hoping to hear good news from you and wishing you a happy Chanukah.

With blessing,

M. Schneerson