the eruption of Vesuvius"; the following from Æschylus: "Raising the Ghost of Darius"[1]; "Atossa's Dream "[2]; "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 educa-
- ↑ This fine cartoon is now in the Roscoe collection at Liverpool. The crowned head and outstretched arms of the aged Darius arise from a cloud in the midst. Atossa stands (r.) with amazed look. Three bowed and kneeling figures in front are very Blake-like in character, and, in the light of the extract printed on p. 52, are not improbably due to his influence. The date of the cartoon is about 1780.
- ↑ A fine cartoon, of the same date as the preceding, also in the Roscoe collection at Liverpool.
