The Cotman Letters 1835-1837

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upon it, providing he has anything in him or not. The walk or ride, or time going and returning must be paid for, ever, by the employer.
I have been working hard, Drawing and sorting my Prints and Sketches, the former during the Day - the latter, of an Evening, surrounded by my Crew, and all full of life and funn - of this Harry and Mrs. Roe will make a good report I trust on their return. a working fit with me is as you know a good sign.
I am a member of the Second Conversazione held at the Freemasons Tavern and have given both my tickets to Miles Ed. - on your coming up I have no doubt of getting others for you, you not being a resident in London -- can be had from the Secretary who has always some on hand for such people of respectability and who have interest with the great ones in the M E T R O P O L I S.
I have not yet heard that I am a member of the first established Conversazione, but I trust I shall -- I don't hope or care about it and confess to you in verity, consequently, I cannot be very much disappointed if I am not. Have you heard of a Book entitled "Poetry of Life" * or some such

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by Sarah Stickney (see Dickes, p. 382 -

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Name written by an old pupil of mine, in which I am well spoken of -- if you have not I tell you there is such a Book, which I have ordered, it is likely to do me much good for it is much read, and has been reviewed in different Journals of the Day and the part relative to me quoted. This is sort of Puff you know I don't disrelish but court. Oh fie for shame says Madam Difidence or Madam Modesty or Madam Prude, or Madam Squemish or some such Madam I don't know which (Witch she is not for me) or don't care. The Brasses are not to be had, they are out of print. I am glad to hear your good account of Walter.
I excuse the tone of your last Letter as you desired me to do -- and hope you will have no occasion to repeat such a