1. The Dutch celebrate the feast of St Nicholas by giving presents to family members and friends on 5 December, the eve of the saint’s name day (6 December).

2. Their sister Willemien was also not going to be there at Christmas.

a. Here meaning ‘Bijzonder, opmerkelijk’ (special).

3. Theo’s co-workers at Goupil’s; see letter 19, n. 11.