The Cotman Letters 1835-1837

(Dec 21. 36)
(3)

I love the dear girl & she knows it well. Ann, from Diss, is here too, and is looking extremely well and I hope I shall be able to say happy, too, before long. This is her first day and she of course has seen nothing except fog, and my nonsense to animate her. But I think she promises to be happy, too. These long legs & short legged folk, with George Cotman, will form our Christmas party. I need not say we should be most happy, could you be one of it. I wrote by this post to thank Mr. J. Potter for his offer of assistance to Edmund, inclosing some testimonials. We are turning up every stone in London, & have done nothing else since the canvass commenced. I think he stands a good chance. He is well recommended, and backed by 2,000 drawings. As soon as the thing is known, you shall hear directly. Your arrangement of living with another of your house, I think, is well – so I understand you. But I have hardly had time to look at your letter to assertain (sic)the fact. When you write again, cross your letter with red ink, & it will be seen better. Your account of your wants I was fully aware of, my dear Boy, but could not help you. I have been a batchelor (sic), and in that situation reduced actually to my last shilling more than once, but certainly more without it. But let me know all, and if I can help you, why, I will. A Pudding, some pickles and a pencil case shall be sent to your address so as to arrive on Xmas day. I hope in time for dinner. But,my lad, get a Turkey & a Bottle of French wine, vin ordinaire, about 2 shillings a bottle. ‘Tis most excellent – no Brandy in it - & drink to our good health & happiness. We shall do the same by you – and with double relish by knowing you are enjoying yourself too. To think otherwise would take much from my - and I need not say, I am sure – our enjoyment. Therefore do so, & be happy. We may add an orange & a nut, & when we eat, drink & crack them, talk & think on thee – if not the industrious apprentice, at least the industrious & good steward.
With respect to your clothes, I knew or rather guessed correctly