The Cotman Collection | 74a

The Cotman Letters 1804-1833

Archive: SDK Sydney Decimus Kitson Archive
Reference Number: SDK/1/3/1/2
Page: 74a


  • Description

    Transcribed letter refers to proof of Rouen Cathedral, from J.S.Cotman to W.Stevenson ,Norwich 3rd April 1821

    Letter from J.S.Cotman to W.Stevenson, Norwich 3rd April 1821.

    Date: 03 April 1821

  • Transcription

    59
    April 3rd 1821.
    Addressed to W. Stevenson Esqr.
    Surry Street, Norwich.

    My dear Sir
    It is with real concern I find I have delayed answering your very obliging and interesting Letters for so remote a period, intense application to my profession with fatigues of it are the cause not only of neglect to you but to everybody and thing - I feel that I am incorrigible and am ashamed of it.
    The first proof of Rouen Cathedral is just off - a work of more than twenty weeks hard labor (sic). The chance of it coming off well or ill from the Good or bad qualities of the Copper, and no way connected with yourself - has been a matter of speculation and anxiety and will continue to be so till it's out of my hands then indeed I shall feel as if a load is taken from me. - The subject is a magnificent one, and shd . it prove a bad [place] piece disgrace must attach to me for so vile a murder - however to make matters smooth with you I have reserved a ghost like proof for your folio. Such a state will be interest to you as the ornaments are nore distinctly seen than they will be when more finished up.
    Your account of yourself though not the best that could be given, is such a one I have no hesitation of sincerely congratulation you upon. Look around you Seek for a Schoolfellow. See half the Young Men laboring (sic) under diseases you know nothing of - look to my poor friend Sir H. Englefield, very nearly blind with a mind every way capable of enjoying and appreciating those works and things that speak through the organ of the Eye.
    And this great great blessing you are in the full enjoyment My Dear Sir rejoice. All things

Transcribed letter refers to proof of Rouen Cathedral, from J.S.Cotman to W.Stevenson ,Norwich 3rd April 1821