Letter from David Wilkie, London, to Sir George Beaumont, 1809 September 16 : autograph manuscript signed.

Expressing his delight that the visit to Coleorton was so well remembered by Sir George and it was "...a constant and inexhaustible subject of conversation since our return and for my own part, I do not recollect any time I have spent with more pleasure or reflected on with greater delight. I should on this account be very sorry, indeed, should no future prospect present itself of another visit and of painting your second picture at Coleorton...I suspected the sketches would retain their softness for some time, the egg varnish will certainly prevent all bad consequences and we shall esteem it a great favour if you will put it over them. I was surprized to learn that the canvas & colours had not arrived, knowing that Haydon had ordered them to be sent more than a week ago, but on making inquiry at Browns, I found that he had by mistake sent them by the coach to Dunmow instead of Coleorton, ten days ago. We agreed however that they could be got as soon back from Dunmow as new ones could be prepared and that if Brown wrote for them today which he promised to do, they might come back on Monday evening and be sent by the coach to Ashby on Wednesday. I shall call again on Monday. We are very sorry that by this oversight you should be prevented beginning the work you had in view. 'I know what sort of disappointment it is that arises from hope defered.' I think with much pleasure on the honor you have done me by painting the picture of the bridge for me & suppose you have now completed it. Mr. Haydon will take an opportunity of calling on Mr. Dance. He has put in the effect of the staircase into his picture and it suits it amazingly well. I have got so far on with the portraits that I expect to have them completed by the end of next week;" sending his respects and those of Mr. Haydon.