The book, the whole book, and nothing but the book (except the binding, which is an important item), has arrived at last, and is forwarded herewith. The red represents my blushes at its gorgeous dress; the gilding, all those bright professions which I do not make to you; and the book itself, my whole heart for twenty months, which should be yours for so short a term, as you have it always. With best regards to Mrs. and Miss Macready, always believe me, My dear Macready, Your faithful Friend. [Sidenote: The same.] DOUGHTY STREET, _Thursday, Nov. 14th, 1839._ MY DEAR MACREADY, Tom Landseer--that is, the deaf one, whom everybody quite loves for his sweet nature under a most deplorable infirmity--Tom Landseer asked me if I would present to you from him the accompanying engraving, which he has executed from a picture by his brother Edwin; submitting it to you as a little tribute from an unknown but ardent admirer of your genius, which speaks to his heart, although it does not find its way there through his ears. I readily undertook the task, and send it herewith. I urged him to call upon you with me and proffer it boldly; but he is a very modest and delicately-minded creature, and was shy of intruding. If you thank him through me, perhaps you will say something about my bringing him to call, and so gladden the gentle artist and make him happy. You must come and see my new house when we have it to rights. By Christmas Day we shall be, I hope, your neighbours. Kate progresses splendidly, and, with me, sends her best remembrances to Mrs. Macready and all your house. Ever believe me, Dear Macready, Faithfully yours. 1840. NARRATIVE. Charles Dickens was at Broadstairs with his family for the autumn months. During all this year he was busily engaged with the periodical entitled "Master Humphrey's Clock," in which the story of "The Old Curiosity Shop" subsequently appeared. Nearly all these letters to Mr. George Cattermole refer to the illustrations for this story. The one dated March 9th alludes to short papers written for "Master Humphrey's Clock" prior to the commencement of "The Old Curiosity Shop." We have in this year Charles Dickens's first letter to Mr. Daniel Maclise, this and one other being, unfortunately, the only letters we have been able to obtain addressed to this much-loved friend and most intimate companion. [Sidenote: Mr. George Cattermole.] 1, DEVONSHIRE TERRACE, _Monday, January 13th, 1840._ MY DEAR CATTERMOLE,