System Number: 05200
Date: [8/15 January 1899][1]
Author: Walford Graham Robertson[2]
Place: Godalming
Recipient: JW
Place: [Paris]
Repository: Glasgow University Library
Call Number: MS Whistler R100
Document Type: ALS
SANDHILLS,
WITLEY,
GODALMING.
My dear Whistler
What must be - must[,] and it is your picture[3] of course - so it shall be delivered up to Dicksee[4] for transit to Venice.
I hate it's going, "I will not deceive you", but I also hate to refuse a request of yours so - go it must.
[p. 2] I am aware that I am yielding ungracefully but grace is not my strong point & after all it comes to the same thing in the end.
But for the Lord's Sake don't tell the other folks[5] who wanted the picture lately, or they will come over here & tell me just what they think about me!
Please do not think [p. 3] me unfriendly in always making such an unhallowed fuss about the pictures going away but I am very fond of them - you would not like me to have them if I was not - and I am always anxious about them during their absence - I wish, if you could conveniently do so, you would stipulate that the picture should not be removed from it's frame. Often on it's return from wanderings, it is very dirty & dusty & has been carelessly taken in & out of the frame - for what reason I know not.
[p. 4] So that's settled, & you must try to forgive my general unpleasantness, reflecting that I was "born so & must please myself" even though I may never succeed in pleasing anybody else.
I am just up & out after influenza & the world is yellow before my face - hence this objectionable letter.
I hope you are well and that we shall meet when you are next in town. Do let me know.
Sincerely,
Graham Robertson
This document is protected by copyright.
Notes:
1. [8/15 January 1899]
Dated from reference to exhibition (see previous correspondence, #05199, #09412).
2. Walford Graham Robertson
Walford Graham Robertson (1867-1948), painter, designer and collector [more].
3. picture
Crepuscule in Flesh Colour and Green: Valparaiso (YMSM 73) was lent to the 3rd Esposizione Internazionale d'Arte della Città di Venezia,Venice, 1899.
4. Dicksee
James Dicksee and Co., 7 Ryder Street, London; fine art agents, packers and conveyancers.
5. other folks
The organisers of the 1st World of Art Exhibition, St Petersburg, 1899 (see #05199).