"I forgot to ask you not to publish the 'Lost Sheep' amongst the Parables in Good Words, as I have had a letter from Mrs. Blackburn stating that she had a drawing for the paper of the same subject, and wishing me to keep back that illustration if it did not interfere with the arrangement. I suppose it will make no difference to you, so please withhold it from the set devoted to Good Words."
In reference to the engraving of "The Lord of Burleigh" he says:
"Perth,
"December 10, '56.
"My dear Sirs,—I received the proofs this afternoon and am quite satisfied with the cutting, which is perfect. I mention a few corrections, or rather additions, which I think will improve them. As I have omitted to add my monogram to the other drawings I should like it cut out of the snow in the illustration to the 'Old Year.' The only improvement I see is a want of softness in some of the outlines, which may be reduced or made to look more tender. I have written in pencil such faults as strike me may be easily remedied.
"The more I have looked into the cutting of both these (but especially the 'Burleigh') the more delighted I am with the rendering. I wish you would send me a good proof of each of them, as I have all the others.
"Again thanking you for the evident care you have taken in rendering my drawings,
"Believe me,
"Ever yours truly,
"John Everett Millais."
Millais, on returning proofs which we had submitted for his touching or approval, invariably made such favourable remarks on our portion of the work as the following:
"November 6, '63.