“May 10th, 1798.

“We whose names are subscribed, having seen specimens of drawings by John Thomas Smith, are of opinion that he is qualified for the office of drawing-master in the school of Christ’s Hospital.

I not only think him qualified as an artist, but greatly to be respected as a man.

Being not personally acquainted with Mr. J. T. Smith, I have examined his performances, and I think him well qualified for the above office.

I have known him from a child, and think him an honest man and well qualified for the office.

I have long been acquainted with Mr. J. T. Smith’s merits as a good artist and a worthy man.