The Cotman Letters 1835-1837

{typed transcript}
manner all they wanted was accuracy of outline, and light and shade whether the shadow be made by lines short or long, by stump or sepia is of no moment so that the object be fully rendered.”
I thought of Geldart when I asked all this so you will tell him he need not, to become a student, waste a month about a background. Stothard studied at the Academy, his Father was I believe an R. A. so I should think he ought, and does know what sort of drawing is required. This is for the Antique Academy; For the Life, you have to draw some while in this at least until four or five [[good]] copies are made from casts appointed, after that if satisfied with the copies, or with the progress even you have made, you are at once admitted to draw, paint or (loaf?) only, “just which you please my petty (paper torn)
Give my love to A.D. I am glad to hear he arrived safe in Norfolk and hope he has ere this lost all weariness

{sketch of a snail}

Ha: I mean nothing by this snail!!!!! in truth I did not exactly know what to say next, and so, and so out of mere idleness I did draw it. --- Oh – are you not a fine fellow a very fine fellow!!!!! To talk about my being dead, or that you should think I were but for the interference of others Gad that is a joke, what has not been heard of lately. pray explain. I wrote to you very lately so what the devil do you mean?????????? ¿ ¿ ¿ ¿
You had better bring up your pistols with you, as nothing will satisfy me save an explanation or pistols in a saw pit. This is Sunday – I have been painting all day – cannot satisfy myself – writing after tea. Now I must clean my brushes so good night. I must add I worked to-day until six O’Clock. Beautiful day. charming hot day. oh a beautiful day.
Uncle arrived Monday quite well and exceedingly full of