ALEXANDER WILSON. 
xlv 
One or two of these I cannot find either in your Nomenclature, 
or in the seven volumes of Edwards. Any hint for promoting my 
plan, or enabling me to execute better, I will receive from you with 
much pleasure. Criticise these, my dear friend, without fear of 
offending me. This will instruct, but not discourage me. To 
your advice and encouraging encomiums I am indebted for these 
few specimens, and for all that will follow. They may yet tell 
posterity that 1 was honoured with your friendship, and that to your 
inspiration they owe their existence .” In his examination of Edwards, 
Wilson perceived that that naturalist had etched his own platesl 
It appeared to him, that what one man had done, another might 
do ; and he determined at least to try. Mr Lawson, of course, 
was applied to, and cheerfully supplied him with the copper and 
necessary tools. The sequel of this story is thus detailed by his 
American biographer: — The day after Wilson had parted from 
his preceptor, he was surprised to see him bouncing into his room, 
crying out, “ I have finished my plate ! let us bite it in ivith aqua 
fortis at once , for I must have a proof before Heave town .” Lawson 
burst into laughter at the ludicrous appearance of his friend, 
animated with impetuous zeal ; and, to humour him, granted his 
request. A proof was taken, but fell far short of Wilson’s expec- 
tations, or his ideas of correctness. However, he lost no time in 
conferring with Mr Bartram, to whom he wrote as follows: — 
“ I have been amusing myself this some time in attempting to 
etch, and now send you a proof sheet of my first performance in 
this way. Be so kind as communicate to me your own corrections, 
and those of your young friend and pupil. I will receive them as 
a very kind and particular favour. My next attempt will perhaps 
be better, every thing being new to me in this. I will send the 
first impression I receive after I finish the plate.” 
With the proof of his second plate he again writes , — 44 Mr 
Wilson’s affectionate compliments to Mr Bartram, and sends for 
his amusement and correction another proof of his Birds of the 
United States. The colouring being chiefly done last night, must 
soften criticism a little : will be thankful for my friend’s advice and 
correction. 
44 Mr Wilson wishes his beloved friend a happy new' year, and 
every blessing.” 
