The Cotman Letters 1834

such a room full. Mr. Mrs. Crome, and Miss Ann Drake, and her brother, who has lately come to Norwich to reside, as a surgeon. I think Miss Drake a very nice person indeed, we were very soon good friends, Mr. Charles Turner and son, with Miss Brown, his lady and her Mama, and Papa. Mr. & Mrs. Massey and many others whose names are not worth repeating but I must not forget one amiable person, who is such a favourite with you who do you think it is? pray guess why no other person than the agreeable Miss Steward. I think I never met such an affected, disagreeable girl before, quite horrible, to think anyone could behave so. The kindness of Mr. Mrs and in fact the whole of the family of the Morgans was very gratifying to me, Mr. Morgan particularly I can scarcely tell you in what manner, but he was kind.
I will not I can assure you neglect either drawing, music, french or walking, if it be possible for me to go on with them (which I hope I shall). I agree with you my dear brother that the road to happiness and contentment is gained by endeavouring to spread comfort around us, and by keeping our minds well occupied in whatever station we may be placed, this world is one for trial and when we reflect for how short a time we are in it it ought to be our pleasure as well as duty to attend to the few things we are required to do. You will perhaps say I preach, it would be better for me to practise, this I will not deny I know that I should be far happier did I attend to it. I hope I shall as I get older and profit by your kind remarks. As for Mama’s kindness my dear John I feel that we can not do too much for her, but what you have received from me is no more than you have perfectly deserved and even much more than you have ever received from me, you have amply