[copy] Joshua Reynolds, opposite Mays Buildings in St. Martin's Lane, to Joseph Wilton, at [Sir Horatio] Mann

2 pieces

He delayed writing until he received the money for Wilton's Bustos from Lord Edgcumbe, which he will give to Wilton's father. He should return to London as Rubiniac [sic] is has more business than he can handle. Wilton's father talks of building a house for Wilton, with rooms for Reynolds.

Alexander is doing very poorly. Hambleton [sic] is very miserable and his work gone from him. He, like Ashley[sic], has taken on a house and lifestyle he cannot afford.

He immodestly concludes with a list of recent sitters including, the Duke of Devonshire, Lord Anson, Commodore Keppel and others.

Giuseppe has grown so proud he will not be seen to be carrying anything [for Reynolds] in the street. Hone, he has heard from his brother, is returning home. Liotard is in London, raking it in.

The original remained with the family of the donor, whereabouts now unknown.

This letter has been published in full twice. Firstly by Martin Postle in Apollo, vol.91, 1995, pp.11-18; secondly in The Letters of Sir Joshua Reynolds, ed. Edgcumbe and Ingamells, 2000, pp.13-16.