The Cotman Letters 1834

Addressed to Jhn. Jos. Cotman.

My dear Brother John,
I was glad to have at last received a letter from you even though by it I am led to imagine you are not over and above happy. Whether my imaginings are true or false I know not but sincerely I hope they may be untrue. You[r] prospects here are very good (at all events for Norwich views). I had on Wednesday some talk with Mrs. Beckwith about you and your plans. She hoped you had not altered your mind in respect to teaching heads. having written to some of her friends to that tune, On these conditions has or will have another pupil for you certain (after the vacation) and two or three doubtful. She will do all she can for you. says so – and I believe it. – You told her when you called on her you intended to do so, so you must somehow or other get up some heads, either in chalk or pencil by school time again. I should recommend pencil as the material easier managed by girls and not so dirty, but that you will think about. I have not but three pupils there as Miss B is out and I teach Miss Day at her own house. Two at Mrs. Chapman’s, Two at Miss Dix’s, and two at home from Turner’s. Making in all ten. You may do more; you may stir up a school in Yarmouth and even increase Mrs. Beckwith’s as I have before stated. I am glad Father intends being such a glorious incendiary as to do his best at all events to set the Thames on fire. [Note in margin: The Houses of Parliament were burnt down on Oct: 16 1834. J. S. C made a sketch.] Grand attempts though unsuccessful are better than small, crowned with success, and when he succeeds I intend to ride on the clouds to witness the conflagration, won’t you join me, and ride on a fine soft spongy sort of rain cloud made on purpose for me?
I would fain tell you a little Norwich news only I am so