Page:The letters of William Blake (1906).djvu/201

 Rh the eruption of Vesuvius"; the following from Æschylus: "Raising the Ghost of Darius" ; "Atossa's Dream " ; "The Furies." I hope they exist in a perfect state; and if they do, they are all well worth etching in a bold manner, which I think Blake is likely to do with great success, and perhaps at an expense that will not be burthensome. But, at any rate, give him one to do first for a trial. The exhibition of a painter s noblest sentiments and grandest thoughts must certainly become as striking and interesting in his life as their several poems in the lives of Milton, Homer, or Virgil. I am glad you are satisfied with the introduction; in this you have had the success of a friend both zealous and skilful. I confess, great as my regard was for the man, to write his life and speak the truth without offence seems attended with considerable difficulty. I am not at all surprised that many passages in this eminent man's letters were truly eloquent and beautiful. Indeed I should have been confounded had they not been so; because whatever advantages