OBJECTIVES: I. Determine the maximum tolerated dose of B43-genistein immunoconjugate in patients with recurrent B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia or non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. II. Determine the systemic B43-genistein exposure levels in these patients. III. Determine the antileukemic activity of this regimen in these patients. IV. Monitor the development of human antimouse antibody in these patients on this regimen.