The Cotman Letters 1804-1833

117
(pencil note in margin at end of paragraph 1) Landseer
To Rev. J Bulwer 27 York Crescent Bristol: Somersetshire.
Oct 15. 1828. Norwich.
Dear sir.
When you were [at] in Norwich you understood my feelings respecting the Lithographic Prints. I could scarcely endure them. With the exception of the last batch I had not seen a good one. Those small ones after Cohen and Lord Cosmo Russell on the Pony, after Landseer, have opened my eyes as to the merits of the case; for I find in them what till that time I had more seen, viz, a scale of colour effective & powerful. I have thought deeply on the subject &, if I find I can produce the same effect, why, I will dabble in the ware, for which purpose I am now on the eve of trying by going up to London and pulling myself under some mast, [Corrida] or Lane.
I have plenty of subjects in various ways, but still, if the thing answers, ‘tis my plan to go abroad or to Ireland, and to publish some of my sketches. Should you be inclined to join in travelling I need not say how happy, how very happy, I would be in having such a companion.
These are the heads of my plans if you will do me the favour to give me your advice it will be received by me with many thanks. I shall be for the next fortnight at Mr G. Cooke’s No. 4 Loddiges Place, Hackney, where I shall be so happy to hear from you, but more happy to see you, should you be n London. Mr G Cooke is a first rate man, and whom I shall be most happy to introduce to you, every way.
I have been practising the key Bugle for the Lakes!!! – and the Rifle for an eagle!!! And my parcels are ever ready. I am,
My dear Sir, your obliged & obedient Servant
John S. Cotman
For the next fortnight at Mr G. Cooke’s, 4 Loddiges Place, Hackney.