The Cotman Letters 1804-1833

Dawson Turner Esq
Yarmouth
Jan: 11. 1812 [Norwich]

Dear Sir,

Ever since I have seen the splendid collection of etchings by Piranesi, now in you possession, I have hardly thought of anything else. Therefore, should you finally determine not to take them, I would - we they the property of Mr. M Stevenson- make him the following offer, not doubting but that did he choose to accept that offer, I would be to him equal to cash - he having a sufficient number of channels to distribute any number of copies of my Norfolk - The proposed offer -- The price is, I think, 120£ for Piranesi. I would send him setts (sic) of my Norfolk, either quarto or Folio, to the value of 120£, allowing him interest for the 100 (my work coming out but slowly) for the first two years. or setts (sic) of my Norfolk to the value of 130 or 140, without paying him that interest.
2 setts (sic),quarto, is 120£.
17 ditto, Folio, is 119£.
By this offer, should it be accepted, I should gain a most invaluable Study- and at a rate I could well afford to pay for it. But I am building Castles in the Air. I have laid these thoughts before you as my Friend, to show what I should be most happy to o to possess such work and to know your opinions whether it would be proper to make such an offer to Mr Stevenson. I have not spoken to anyone regarding you having Piranesi - much less price, or your intentions, nor should not think of doing so.
Mr Stevenson and Mrs G Burrell called today & subscribed to my Norfolk, 4to quarto. And I thank you, dear Sir, for being my advocate, for Mr. S. told me you had vindicated my cause by your belief that I was a[[n]] correct draughtsman.
I am, dear Sir, you most obedient & obliged Servant
John.S. Cotman.

Could I now ascertain you would not leave Yarmouth for Beccles before the Norwich Coach arrived, I would send another Plate, for I almost positive I shall have finished another, the days being so delightfully long.