The Cotman Letters 1835-1837

{typed transcript}
ever so fine, there fore it is wasting those talents given us, to improve, in following an occupation that does not answer, therefore you will I hope excuse my answering your letter in poetry and be content with my poor endeavours to express my affection for you in prose, I could do it in verse but for the reason above stated think it would not do.

I like your verses much they are full of meaning which I fully understand and appreciate, believe me, they are and will be valued, But you perhaps forget, how, you used to help me with mine at School I was but a poor poet when we went to School together and you used generally to do mine for me. you will have forgotten these little favours conferred on me, but believe me I have not, nor the kindness you showed me when I was ill in Norfolk and so you must be attributed in a great measure my being then restored to health and You were also the main spring of my coming to Manchester therefore every action of yours to me and every year and month as it rolls on brings some new favour from You therefore My dear John you cannot doubt the Affection of
Your Affectionate Brother
Francis Walter Cotman.

Write to me soon again and I will write again the first opportunity and tell you how I am getting on.