The following correspondence relating to the print is also of some interest:—
“Oct. 17th, 1796.
“To J. L. Philips.
“I have sent a proof of the ‘Dead Soldier’ very near finished. Pray let me have your opinion and remarks upon it as soon as possible. I have sent one to Wright, and have asked him to paint a companion to it; if he will not, who would you recommend for that purpose?
“I have hopes of a great sale from the number of subscribers I already have, and the approbation the print has met with from every one who has seen it.
“J. HEATH.”
“1796.
“To J. L. Philips.
“The prints you mention from Wright’s I dare say I shall be able to pick up at the sales this winter. I have heard from Mr. Wright, in which he says: ‘The effect of the picture is so well preserved, and the parts which compose it so true, that I have nothing to say but that I am well pleased with it.’ He says that he began to paint again about a week ago, and that he will (if his health returns) talk to me about a companion picture.
“J. HEATH.”
“Feby., 1797.
“To J. L. Philips.
“I shewed him (Lord Lansdowne) a proof of the ‘Dead Soldier,’ which he liked exceedingly, and subscribed for a couple. I asked his permission to dedicate it to him, which seemed to give him great pleasure. I expect him to call to see the picture, and when he has seen it, I will immediately send it on to you.
“J. HEATH.”
“To Joseph Wright.
“Sir,
“As I am going to publish the ‘Dead Soldier,’ I wish to announce the ‘Shipwrecked Sailor’ as a companion. I should therefore be much obliged to you to inform me whether your health will permit your painting it. An answer will much oblige.
“Your most obedt. Servt.,
“JAS. HEATH.
“Mch. 14th, 1797.
“Newman St., London.”