Hitler invaded in March 1938 and everything after that went downhill. My husband was in the concentration camp and everything was taken - but material values at the time didn't matter one bit. It was only after that it did matter.

I tell you, frankly, I had a very good feeling the last few days. I had a very positive feeling thinking things will go all right. I'm thrilled that it came to this end.

The paintings have been in Vienna for 68 years, and people in Europe saw them all the time. I thought it would be a beautiful thing to show them in this country.

I couldn't be happier and more grateful that they happened to come to Los Angeles, which has been my hometown for so long. That they are now here is just too good for words.

I would also like the portraits to remain in Austria.

To see them here is a dream come true. Los Angeles has been my hometown for so long, so to have them here is beyond words. I'm going to come here very often and bring friends to see them.

I'm incredibly happy. ... If you are persistent, you will succeed.