The Cotman Letters 1838-1864

(Sept 12. 1839.)
(4.) 145

Sung to please her Father, was most {crossed out - impressiv.} {added – captivating} I shall buy
this for Ann for 'tis a very easy Ballad to sing & very poetical
“Of all the days that in the week I dearly love but one day, and that's
the day that comes between a Saturday & Monday. There words are
highly poetical, easy & natural - and quite in unison with
the whole Ballad, which is simplicity itself. I dare say you
have heard it.
I am painting & working away like a new one, and our drawing
room looks beautifully. I have got those old pieces of worked Satin
made into four pillows - two for the sofa, & two for seats on
either side of the piano, to carry the style of furniture into both
rooms - ensuite. 'Tis now half past one A.M, so will to
bed, leaving room to throw a few last words at you before I
send it off when I get up again. Still I am fresh & do not appear to
want sleep!!! Mine is a strange composition, for I appear to
stand what others cannot - that's to say, living really without
sleep - or wishing for it. My walk home this evening was three
Cigars long - viz about four miles. Good night, God bless you.
Bother! - this is early for me, my hours are from this time to
half past 5 o'clock, & up at half past 6 or 7 at furthest.
Once more a bonne repose, & goodnight & God bless you. J.S.C.
Friday night, 11 ½ . This day I took Alfred with me
to Woolwich, sketched the vessels en route & the one I went for,
for the landing of the King of Two Belgiums, walked over the very,
very large common & the Dock yards & Arsenal, etc. & with the
Foundry, etc. It was {added – such} a glorious day, such clouds, such forms
& colouring. I was quite beside myself & everything appeared
animated. The prosperous London & its survivors to me
is everything - especially the Thames, and all the vessels & the
Stream appeared full to choaking, & the wonder is how they are
'navigated with so much exactness. Steamers in Shoals cutting
their rapid flight amid ships of all nations, & all appear
quadrilling it, even to the Cock & Goat. In short the whole day
has been one of Stupendous Splendour. I think I never recollect