The Cotman Letters 1838-1864

(12. 8. '41)
(6)
179

him never to do the like again. Only imagine the fine, handsome, manly
& kind Professor Otter - angry!
What you have brought upon yourself by your wish to hear a little about
me, I dare not think about. I only know I have passed almost as good
an evening with you by this chat, and shall soon add another hour to it,
though very late, in looking over your delightful present. I shall be most happy
to see you in Hunter Street - my workshop, or rather my manufactury.
Should I be so fortunate, pray do me the favour to bear the sincere
respects of an old Master in your Family to my esteemed friend, Mrs
Dawson Turner, and to Miss Turner - to whom I take the liberty of en-
closing a muse toy, that I think can heal every ill that I have been guilty
of to any of the Name. I can send you no better proof of my age than what
is enclosed in this letter, which I must page, to be understood - if
attempted to be read. For it contains, alas, almost my life, parentage &
education.
I wish to be considered your obliged & Sincere Svt.
J.S.Cotman.
Aug 11th 1841 - and 12th, I believe.

P.S. I enclose the only correspondence that passed prior to my appointment as draughtsman
to the Engineers Department. The first I answered by letter, enquiring the
nature of the duties to be performed. To the second I answered personally,
& was made acquainted with them: accepted the appointment, wrote the
article in the circular - and the thing was done settled instantes.
I have a portrait of Monsuir De Gurraille. It is feebly
drawn. I do not even remember copying it for you. It is very like him.
If you would like to have it, you are most welcome to it. It may
make one to your many illustrations.
J.S.C.
I am perfectly astonished at my own impertinence, for I find by
collecting my scrawls I have somehow or somehow actually
covered sixteen quarto pages. I really hope you will not consider
it a perfect wonder in folly - if not unique as an
autograph letter.