The Cotman Letters 1804-1833

84
(pencil note) Postmark- Norwich, June 21.
Dawson Turner Esq, Yarmouth.
June 21 1826.

Dear Sir,
I sat down on Monday to put all my affairs in a straightforward state, that I might clearly see what I was doing. Edmund was invited to go down to the water that day, and I gave him leave most willingly to do so, glad to get him out, for his own sake and my own. About 2 or 3 o'clock my Brother informed me the Boat had sunk and one of the young men had drowned, but that my Son was safe. This he did not know at the time. I immediately set off and, thank God, found it so. For the sight of the young man, Mr Roe, was quite enough, he looked like a fine marble statue, discoloured. The exertion and agonies of death gave the color (sic) and severity that must terrify and strike the observer of such a scene. - fixed, severe & dreadful. Walter, a younger son of mine had actually got to the door to go with his brother, but he had no notion of swimming, and he was persuaded to remain at home. Edmund, from his knowledge of swimming, and consequently collected, saved his life - though in the utmost jeopardy, for he went down to the bottom in the Cabin of the Boat - and that Cabin so made as not to permit him to stand upright. Gracious God, thy hand was here. So blessed do I feel myself in my son's case I dare not presume to ask why it was not extended to his companion. Presumptious and inconsiderate that I am to suggest such a question! My own situation was forgotten.
I have by today's post sent Mr Gasse warning to quit at Michaelmas. I shall give notice to my landlord that I shall quit at Michaelmas. Yesterday I wrote to Mrs Drake stating the terms of my House - £300 _ subject to her paying the transfer. Can nothing be done in my case to relieve me in the event of my going into a small House hire? My wife consents to the change for Southtown, but I saw could not support it afterwards - I cannot urge that she should return- for what prospects have I beyond the difference of expense expense of House? What inducement, what support, can I expect in adversity, when I had not enough to save the little property I had when I came to Yarmouth?
I am dear Sir, your obligd servant J. S. Cotman.
June 21st. 1826.