Cotmania. Vol. VI. 1930-31

too big a thing for Thirtle at an early period, and
though I appreciate the criticisms you make about the
shadow, the bird, etc., the drawing on the whole is
extraordinarily good, and the weaknesses are not in-
consistent with the idea that this is a fairly early
work by Cotman, i.e.. earlier than the "Windmill" at
the British Museum and in your collection. I cannot
help feeling that if Thirtle had done this before
1810 he would have had a much vaster reputation before
he died in 1839. All the same your idea is a very
interesting one and I shall not lose sight of it.
Frank was greatly delighted with his afternoon
in your company and regards you - quire rightly -
as a great authority on Art and Architecture. He was
apparently much amused, as well as instructed, by your
encounter with a picture dealer.
Long will write to you with reference to your
query about Murphy, concerning whom he has some informatio
Yours sincerely,
MARTIN HARDIE