110 MEMOIK OF JOHN WILSON. 



" The whole copy shall be sent in Blair's writing, or in a hand 

 still better ; and it* there are any directions necessary about correct- 

 ing the press, of which you think it probable I may be ignorant, 

 you will instruct me. I am still in hopes of Blair coming here 

 soon. 



"Poor Grahame, I hear, is gone; let me hear some particulars; 

 he was a truly estimable being." 



The reference here is to the Rev. James Grahame, author of 

 "The Sabbath," and other poems. My father greatly esteemed 

 him and his poetry, and at this time composed an Elegy to his 

 memory,* which was published anonymously while the Isle of Palms 

 was going through the press. 



Another letter is sent by and by along with the third canto of the 

 Isle of Palms, which had been kept some time by Mr. Blair. He 

 says : — " I expect you will like it fully more than any of the preced- 

 ing ; and Blair thinks it equal to any poetry of modern times. The 

 fourth canto I will send to him this day ; so Ballantyne will have it 

 in time, although I fear he has been stopped for want of this one, 

 which will never again be owing to me. 



" I have had a long letter from John Ballantyne, most anxiously 

 requesting a share in the work, or any concern in it that I would 

 grant, so that his name should appear in the imprint. He wishes 

 to have 500 copies to [sell], but on what terms I do not very clearly 

 understand. 



" I think that if he could be allowed some kind of share or con- 

 nection with it, it might be well, as he has, I suppose, good connec- 

 tions. I wish to hear from you immediately upon this subject, and 

 I cannot answer his letter till I know your wishes and views on it. 

 It augurs well, his anxiety. Should you wish to see his letter? 

 He says that Longman is now preparing his winter catalogue ; and 

 that insertion of the title there would double the first demand. 

 This seems fudge, although same time it should be sent for inser- 

 tion in that catalogue, of which you probably know more than I 

 do. I have advertised the work in the Kendal paper, and shall in 

 one or two of the Liverpool. 



" Let me hear from you if the paper has been sent to Ballantyne, 

 and if you think the work may be out by Christmas. Stir Ballan- 



* "Lines sacred to the Memory of the Eev. James Grahame, author of 'The Sabbath,' &c. 'A 

 man he was to all the country dear.' 4to. Glasgow : Smith & Son." 



