G. F. Watts, R.A., also expressed himself in high approval of the project, and promised his ready help, but ultimately he contributed only three drawings. His letter will be of interest:
"Little Holland House,
"July 19th, 1863.
"Gentlemen,—I am sorry my designs have been so long delayed. I have not succeeded in rendering one sufficiently satisfactory to myself to send to you. The fact is I have not the habit of making designs for wood cutting, and the subject is not a good one; my time also is fully occupied, and my health is not good. These reasons taken together may form some excuse for my apparent neglect; I don't think I can find time, anyhow, to make any fresh attempts for the next ten days or a fortnight, so perhaps I had better send you back the wood block. If you can wait till after that time I will again try what I can do, in order that you may not be disappointed, but I do not feel I can make much of the subject.
"Yours truly,
"G. F. Watts."
Some slight objection having been taken to one of Mr. Watts' drawings, and a reconsideration suggested, he wrote the following letter:
Esau Meeting Jacob.
By G. F. Watts, R.A.