Letter from Dimitri Ivanovich Dolgorouki (Dolgorukov), Madrid, to Washington Irving, 1828 April 18 : autograph manuscript signed.

Sadness at the departure of Wilkie. Feeling lonely and appreciating Irving's letters. Talks a lot about painting and what constitutes their true value. [Antoinette had accused him of being too severe in his reaction to an exhibition of paintings at Madame d'Oubrils.] He says that he's received Irving's book and has discussed it at length with Mr. Everett [the American minister at Madrid] about the criticism of it. He feels that the criticism is weak and that what was criticized is exactly what constitutes its merit. Comparing it with Irving's previous works reveals a lack of judgment. The merit of historical works takes time to appreciate. Talks about joining Irving in Seville, the greatest place for art in Spain. Goes on to philosophize about art. Talks about Wilkie, who also went to Seville. M. d'Oubril is finishing reading Irving's History of New York and recounts during the evening what he read during the morning. Madame d'Oubril is complaining about all the changes in Madrid, with so many people having left. Fears for the future.