Page:Life of William Blake, Gilchrist.djvu/470

 not able, as yet, to sit up longer than six hours at a time; and also feel the cold too much to dare venture beyond my present precincts. My heartiest thanks for your care in my accommodation, and the trouble you will yet have with me. But I get better and stronger every day, though weaker in muscle and bone than I supposed. As to pleasantness of prospect, it is all pleasant prospect at North End. Mrs. Kurd's (the lodgings of Mr. Linnell before he went to Collins' Farm) I should like as well as any; but think of the expense, and how it may be spared, and never mind appearances.

I intend to bring with me, besides our necessary change of apparel, only my book of drawings from Dante, and one plate shut up in the book. All will go very well in the coach, which, at present, would be a rumble I fear I could not go through. So that I conclude another week must pass before I dare venture upon what I ardently desire,—the seeing you with your happy family once again, and that for a longer period than I had ever hoped in my healthful hours. I am, dear Sir, Yours most gratefully,

5th July, 1826.

— I thank you for the receipt of five pounds this morning, and congratulate you on the receipt of another fine boy. Am glad to hear of Mrs. Linnell's health and safety.

I am getting better every hour. My plan is diet only; but if the machine is capable of it, shall make an old man yet. I go on just as if perfectly well, which indeed I am, except in those paroxysms, which I now. believe will never more return. Pray let your own health and convenience put all solicitude concerning me at rest. You have a family; I have none: there is no comparison between our necessary avocations.

Believe me to remain, dear Sir,

Yours sincerely,

William Blake.

16th July, 1826.

—

I have been, ever since taking Dr. Young's addition to Mr. Fincham's prescription for me (the addition is dandelion), in a