The Cotman Letters 1834

[Note in pencil:] From J. S. Cotman.
[Note in pencil: Sat] March 29th 1834.
Norwich.

My dear John
Messrs Geldart, Dixon and Lound and My Brother, spend their evening with us on Thursday, and talked and talked of you and the Arts &c. I forgot though that previous to their coming I, Ann and Edmund took tea at the Cottages. Friday, packing of Books. Mrs. Kitson took tea with us. To-day packing up Books and pasting Sketches to send up to you. Mr. Geldart has asked to draw my portrait so that [I] sit early next week. He has made two more portraits one of a Gentleman full of Character of course. The other of Arford a more pleasing but perhaps not so strong a likeness.
Tombland Fair never was so gay or so full. It is removed from Mr. Dilches to our Square so that we see enough of it all the Shows are here, and no noise so you have no right to expect a long letter, be glad of what you can get, for I am the only one who will write to you. You must make your own way with the Reeves. You can tell them what is very true, that I wrote an introduction Letter for you, but carried it to Norwich. Your sketches will be your best introduction. So fare you well, and I escape the trouble of writing which I am glad to do – amidst the convulsion here of noise, and lack of sense, very different to a London Noise Round a bouts, Shows, Up’s and Down’s and Boats are all making their several manoeuvres to the delight of their several and motley crews. John Hicks is staying here. I send your Sketches and a Book or two, Reynolds’ Lectures are lent out so must defer sending those to another opportunity. I found your Mother in good health but her Leg not in a good plight. Alfred was not well but he is much better.