The Cotman Letters 1835-1837

{Typed transcript}
before you express your opinion of old Friends. For old friends do not change their opinion or alter their conduct to others without cause. And old Friends may be old friends still. – You have been very ill, you are now much better, every one now says it, therefore keep yourself but quiet, - think well of everybody, till positive proof of bad conduct makes you to think differently.
Of Geldart there can be but one opinion. To you he has, and is the best of friends. He has watche[[s]]d over you with the love of a Brother and the anxiety of a parent. You say you value my opinion. Believe this then, from me, and don’t lose the Jewel, not to be bought at any price. His Friendship. A Friend my advise and will do so. An acquaintance will not take the trouble. As you have called in London Street, you have of course seen Alfred. He’s grown a tall fellow. He is on his way to Hanworth. My Influenza still hangs about me and won’t let me be a very merry companion.

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{Typed transcript, underlined in pencil}
I am painting a little in oils so when you come you must try your hand at it too. The Royal Academy Rooms are well lighted but look small. Wilkie, Landseer and Etty are the Principal Painters. Turner’s are very extraordinary pictures and require to be looked at a good deal to give an opinion upon them.

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{Typed transcript}
Your Mother and Ann are out walking. Not in the heat of the Day for we have not had much of that yet, and I suppose the country must be still very backward in vegetation. Remember me to your Uncle Ned and Miles when you visit them. I quite agree with you that Miles’ establishment is a very pleasant one and I hear he is looking better than what he did when he first made his appearance there.
Yours affectionately
J.S. Cotman.