May 20, 1994
Mrs. Fely Santos
Paroba, Cabcaben
Mariveles, Bataan
Dear Mrs. Santos:
We regret very much that you were troubled to write your letter of May 18 regarding the proofs of your son’s portrait.
After careful examination of the six proofs, I am convinced that they are not worthy of so good a subject as your young son.
That these proofs, Mrs. Santos, do not measure up to your expectations of our service is explained by the illness of Mr. Herrera at the time of your sittings. When you made the appointment, he was not ill. After an absence of three weeks, he is again with us.
Mr. Herrera specializes in children’s portraits. During his enforced absence, however, a colleague did his best with children, but I assure you that we can now make a better portrait of your son.
Under the circumstances we are glad to suspend our regulation of one set of proofs for each patron. We invite you to call at our studios again. By visiting us on or before Saturday, May 22, you will be assured of an artistic portrait for the holy week.
Sincerely yours,
Shamma Valencia