PLEASE PASS THIS MESSAGE TO MARINA B

Dear Marina,

I'm afraid that I have some sad news - the customs people at the airport wouldn't let me take the painting out of the country. I explained that it was a present, and that it was by a local artist, and was not extremely valuable but they were adamant. They said that it would need to have special papers from Ekaterinburg, or another city (can't remember the name). I was very upset, but again that didn't change anything! The girl from Lufthansa did help me, she has assured me that they will keep the painting in their office until it can be collected, their telephone number is - 294 9643, you should call them asap.

It was so kind of you to give me the painting, I liked it very much and had plans about where to put it. It was and it a terribly frustrating and upsetting situation! Still, thank you for your kindness. Please do let me know when you have successfully recovered it.

With love and best wishes,

Caroline