The Cotman Collection | 133

The Cotman Letters 1804-1833

Archive: SDK Sydney Decimus Kitson Archive
Reference Number: SDK/1/3/1/2
Page: 133


  • Description

    New pictures commissioned.

    Letter from J. S. Cotman to Dawson Turner, 2nd July 1827

    Date: 2 July 1827

  • Transcription

    110
    Dawson Turner Esq
    July 2. 1827. Norwich

    Dear Sir,
    I received the favour of your letter yesterday - the day I returned to Norwich - & sorry I was to receive it, as I had hoped to have made all the reparation in my power without being reminded, for my conscious negligence was quite sufficient to [[make]] render my inattention very uncomfortable to me. I was quite satisfied with the situation my drawings were in and with the stand they made, for it was higher than I calculated upon. Moreover my purchaser is satisfied too – at least, so he told me. But on this heal every day brings convincing proofs how little satisfied we ought to be with words – much less, flattering ones. It will give you pleasure to assure you I shall go on with Drawings. But I have received additional orders for ten pictures at 18 guineas each, which must be attended to. I have bought paints to a considerable amount, as most necessary tools. We must know our affairs but, my dear Friend, and that is my excuse for adding anything like a pang to one who has been so long interested in my well being. I looked abroad to works of art , and to Nature to the points my friends have criticised me upon – and I most sincerely trust that I may find to profit by it – for there rests my only sense of uneasiness. I have no time, for to be & to find myself but a mere Drawing Master – the very thing I dreaded most on setting out in life!! It I most galling to me.
    I enclose a letter from the Rock Society, which I request you will do me the favour to settle for me, as before.
    Our children are all ill with the Hooping (sic) Cough, with the exception of Edmund.
    Please to present my repects to Mrs Turner & family, and, as ever, I remain, dear Sir, your most obliged & obedient servant.
    J. S, Cotman.
    Norwich. July 2nd 1827.
    If the drawing of the Inn at Andelys is done with, I shall esteem it a favour (sic) to have it forwarded to Norwich, as I may be able to work it up for the Norwich Exhibition.
    //
    (pencil note) (one)

New pictures commissioned.