| Description | Letter dated 12 January 1875 to Macdonald from George Reid, R.S.A., 22 Scotland Street, Edinburgh (Robertson's), pleased that Macdonald's letter seemed more cheerful, thanks for view of Hook's letter, which was cheery and full of life, appreciation of his painting with Dutch milk pails, note from him seems to indicate that he will not be able to send a painting to the Edinburgh exhibition, though he is trying some of his friends, part of the problem seems to be insurance, Robert Herdman is still keen to pursue the matter, the Academy pays all the insurance and carriage expenses, his pastoral, 15 years ago, was the last Hook exhibited in Edinburgh, 'The memory of it still lingers here in a way that would astound him if he knew of it', attempts to visit Hugh Cameron, progress with portrait of Sir Robert Christison, with sketch, and enthusiastic description of his head, mention of what is to appear in the portrait, Mr. Wilson's portrait is not advancing quickly either, he expects to have four portraits ready for the exhibition, Lady Huntly, Principal Lumsden, Col. Lumsden and James Crombie, mention of Cassie's accident, argument over whether or not a certain painting will be a bad example to young painters, pleased to hear that Mrs. Sacks is going to look after Mr. Fields' children: 'he might search Great Britain from one end to the other without finding such another', hopes that Mrs. Macdonald continues to improve, dinner with the Crown Agent, Mr. Mackintosh of Auchterarder and his late response to a funding request for a memorial window. |