The Cotman Letters 1804-1833

my first No. I must have the liberty of ten [months] of [January] , instead of the 1st, to deliver them in. I would it were otherwise. Were it not for these two plates I should be in good time. My Castle Rising is now undergoing the aqua fortis. I thank you for processing the Drawing of the North Gate, but I was cruelly disappointed, as it cannot be accurate, nevertheless I will do something with it.
My dear Sir, it is with real concern & sorrow I feel obliged to lay aside your good wishes towards me respecting my residing in Yarmouth - feeling as I do that 200£ p. annum for teaching is a great sum for an individual to make in that line, & really above my comprehension, especially if I am to go on with my Norfolk - Condescend to state to me how it is to be done. In what way am I to teach, or how has teaching been done in Yarmouth? You say - without a family, etc. I might try experiments. It is for this vary reason I dare not nurture, for where I so invited and single, I should feel too much pleasure in the idea of being guided by such a friend, to hesitate for one moment. Allowing you, as you say you are to be interested, so much the more gratifying it is to me to feel that you are, because you suppose me competent to teach your family - and I should have too much to lose in your good esteem, not to do my duty. Alas Sir, do not condemn my wariness, for I had rather come than stay away. Find me a good house, not so far off as Gorleston, but on the Bridge, as cheapness must be considered, and I will come. Best clear up the perspect, for I have something to give up. In the meantime, should Crome have given you up, & you approve of it, I will send your Daughters a few Pencil Drawings, etc. to copy, that they may not lose time. My calculations are to have three days in the week to myself - for my Nofolk will require that - Favour me with a plan of ways and means for my teaching at Yarmouth, and you will really oblige me, for it is really my wish to follow your Plan, could I bu think it would answer. I am, dear Sir,
Your obliged & obedient Servant
John Sell Cotman
Saturday night.
[pencil note] no date or postmark]-