Farewell, my dear Master; take nothing amiss from your grateful, devoted pupil,
Fred Leighton.
Friday 10, 1864.
Dear Papa,—You will be disappointed, after waiting so long, to receive no paper after all, and a skimpy note instead. I am amused at the studied ill-nature of the Spectator; I wonder who V. is. The author of an article on sensation pictures in the Realm, in which I am flatteringly quoted, is by Mrs. Norton. En somme I think my "Golden Hours" is the most successful of my pictures (perhaps more than anything since "Cimabue") and the "Orpheus" (deservedly) the least. I am about to begin two new pictures. Mrs. Guthrie's portrait—a full length—is postponed for her health till the winter.
1864.
I should not leave the place I am in except to build; a mended house would be most unsatisfactory and temporary. I feel sure I shall nowhere get standing room for a house for less than £28, still less room for a house and large garden. If I find the terms exactly as I expect and my lawyer (Nettleship) satisfied with the title I shall, I think, close the bargain, the more so that another painter (I don't know who) is after it.[32] I am staying for a day or two at Dangstein (Lady Dorothy Neville's). I met here last night Mr. Henry Woolfe, who very kindly offered me introductions to one or two charming Venetian families (Mocenigo) which will be very pleasant for me, as I want to see a Venetian interior. Gambart has paid the £1050 for "Dante." The "Honeymoon" was bought by a Cornhill dealer yclept Moreby.
I will let you know how all goes off on Saturday at the Council, meanwhile best love to Mamma.—From your affectionate son,
Fred.
August 23, 1864.
I found your letter on returning from Lyndhurst this morning. I may as well tell you at once that I have finished my fresco, retouching a great deal of what was already painted, and I think I may add, greatly improving it—so much for that.