W.B. Richmond, to [Herbert Richmond]

RA Collection: Archive

Reference code

RI/1/83

Title

W.B. Richmond, to [Herbert Richmond]

Date

[Feb-Mar 1896]

Level

Item

Extent & medium

2 pieces

Content Description

He thinks it right that Millais has been elected President [of the Royal Academy] as it brooks no jealousy, but he will never be what Leighton was. With Leighton he lost one of his oldest and "most real" friends, the sufferings of the last two years are now behind him.

His lectures appear to have been a great success. They were well attended and he is now readying them for the press. The London Institution had a crowd of 800. After he dined on Oysters at the club and played billiards. He fears Herbert must be bored in Portsmouth.

It seems there will not be war. He spoke to Wolseley about his new position, and quotes from the resulting whinge. He hears, via Millais, that Lord Salisbury is very utopian and that Rosebery regards the outlook as black. "The Frogs" seem to want another revolution.

Discusses more personal and professional matters. "Little Reid" is taking up so much space in the studio that W.B. has been forced to move out. The "advertisement meeting" was a success, with good speeches, although Morris was not up to his usual standard, "he is bad poor old chap".

His picture of Diana should be finished if the light holds good.