"I write to acknowledge a volume of proofs. Its size and thickness impressed me, and I don't well know how sufficiently to thank you for having had the proofs bound up with such care and taste. I can only say that I thank you very much for it, and that it will be highly valued by me. I had no idea of the magnificent style you had intended to get it up. Comparing these proofs with the impressions in the volume of poems, I am more than ever impressed that the printer has not done his part properly: the difference is immense.
"Believe me, very truly,
"John Gilbert."
About this time W. Harrison Ainsworth was editing "Bentley's Miscellany," and published some of his own works through that journal, Sir John Gilbert making the illustrations to "The Lancaster Witches," which were entrusted to us for engraving and printing. In sending a cheque, Ainsworth wrote:
"I have much pleasure in sending you a cheque in payment of your account for the engraving and printing of the designs, all of which have my entire satisfaction."
Again, in another letter accompanying a set of drawings by Gilbert, illustrating "The Constable of the Tower," he says:
"I have always thought Mr. Gilbert's illustrations to 'Lancaster Witches' as in every way charmingly engraved, and I have no doubt the present cuts will equal them, if not surpass them, in beauty.
"Ever yours truly,
"W. Harrison Ainsworth."