The Cotman Letters 1834

March 1, 1834.
My dear Brother
Friday 28.
I have done to-day a good days work I mean, I have followed your advice, have made a study from a young rustic, not a very good study but a beginning of a good plan. I made it at Thorpe, it is the young gipsy rascal who disappointed us the other day. I slept at Thorpe last night in the hope he would come this morning and was a second time disappointed. This afternoon I caught him, made a rough sketch and booked him for Sunday. I say I did this but it was Geldart – who sent for me to draw him as he had caught him &c. I staid tea and we talked so long that we were too late for French at Dixon’s. I should have said though that we (Ann and I) were to go to the Concert, but had intended to do French first – only we were too late – Dixon was gone to concert. We met the Morgans there – a large party – and an excellent concert. It was Copeman’s selection he was determined to have a select audience and he succeeded I never saw a fuller or a better one. Dixon came in after it was over and smoked a quiet pipe (he never smokes but with me) quietly and comfortably. Then he left, while Mother and Ann curled their hairs, I wrote this and just finished the page by the time they had done. Good night. past one.
Saturday (Do not suppose the hour signed last night is usual).
We have just received your letter – and others in the parcel with Mother’s gown. I have done all the errands Father requested &c. &c.
You see I do write at odd times – I am in such a bustle to be in time I do not know what to say – but I have sent you shirts and sponge. I am sorry to hear of Mr. Cooke’s illness.