Letter from David Wilkie, London, to Sir George Beaumont, 1812 March 10 : autograph manuscript signed.

Concerning his intention to mount an Exhibition of his work, his decision to go ahead with this plan and hoping for his support; saying "I shall be glad when you come to town in order that I may consult you about the various parts of my plan, but as I have already resolved upon it I cannot delay acquainting you with my intention and the progress that has been already made towards carrying it into effect. I have engaged a very handsome room in Pall Mall nearly opposite the British Gallery which from its size and entrance to it, it is particularly adapted for my purpose and from its situation I think as highly respectable as any in London. The next step of importance was that of securing the promise of Mr. Angerstein's picture, which I have obtained with that sort of readiness and good will as had me to think that Mr. Angerstein will even take an interest in the success of the concern himself. All the other pictures that are within my reach I am now about to apply for and amongst the number the two I had the honor of painting for yourself will be no small acquisition. These however I apply for in the same way as I have applied for Lord Mulgraves more out of matter of form than serious solicitation. The others particularly that of the Duke of Gloucester I shall have great difficulty in asking for and as i intend to couple with my petition for the picture a request that his Royal Highness would be pleased to countenance my Exhibition I must proceed with the caution that the importance of the object will require. The picture I sent to Scotland some years ago of the Country Fair we have also thought worth while to have among the number and I have already given directions to have it sent up by sea on purpose. I saw it when I was last in Scotland and although it is no doubt very badly painted it has more subject and more entertainment in it than any three pictures i have since painted. In the management of every thing and indeed in the notion of having the Exhibition at all, I have been more regulated by the opinion of my friends than by my own judgement. Lord Mulgrave is most heartily interested in carrying it through and Seguier speaks with more than usual confidence of its success. It is not yet known to many people but after all the pictures have been secured I intend to advertise it publickly;" apologizing for saying so much about the exhibition but expressing his hope that it might prompt him to offer his opinion; adding that he would also like to hear what he is painting.