By the Grace of G-d
4th of Shevat, 5718
Brooklyn, N. Y.
Mr....
London, N.16, England
Greeting and Blessing:
I received your letter of the 19th of Teveth, and, subsequently, your second letter of the 7th of Shevat, [and] enclosing photograph, for which I thank you very much.
I was particularly pleased to receive the good news that your sister has not only resolved to observe the Jewish way of life, but is actually doing so. The Almighty, the Giver of the Torah and Mitzvoth, Whose Divine Providence extends to every one individually, may be relied upon to fulfill His promise of Blessings, not only in after-life, but also on this earth, as a direct reward for walking in the ways of the Torah and Mitzvoth, which He has commanded.
I noted that you have given up your own work and are now employed by someone else, which has increased your peace of mind. Needless to say, that this is one of the most important things, and I hope that the change will prove beneficial also in Parnosso.
No doubt you know that we recently observed the Yahrzeit of my father-in-law of saintly memory. I trust that you have also participated in some such special function which took place in this connection. As you know, the importance of observing such a Yahrzeit, is to be inspired by the courage and determination of our great leaders, in order to follow their examples and walk in their ways, which brings true spiritual and material happiness.
Last, but not least, I was pleased to read about your wife's pregnancy. May G-d help that she complete her pregnancy normally and give birth, in due course, to healthy offspring.
I trust that she is observing the good custom of Jewish daughters to put aside a couple of pennies for Tzedoko before lighting the [Shabbos] candles. It would be well for her to add an extra penny until after she gives birth, in a happy and auspicious hour. This should be done, of course, Bli Neder.
With blessing,
M. Schneerson
Advice for Pregnancy
In reply to your question if there is any advice you should follow, I would suggest to follow the advice of my father-in-law of saintly memory that until the pregnancy has entered into the fifth month, the matter should be kept confidential except in regard to the closest relatives.
It is also customary, especially at such a time, to have the Tefillin and Mezuzoth checked, to make sure they are Kosher, if this has not been done within the past twelve months.
I take this opportunity to mention also the following, though your wife undoubtedly observes it in any case, and that is the custom of Jewish women to put aside a small coin for Tzedoko before lighting the candles Erev Shabbos, and Erev Yom Tov, ילב רדנ.
(18 Sivan, 5738)
