Alvan Fisher to Charles H. Hall, Esquire, Nov. 29, 1822

Transcription: Charles H. Hall Esqre New York Care of Thos. H. Smith Charleston Alvan Fisher November 29th 1822 Recd Decr 11th 1822 [?] Charleston / S.C. / 29th Novr 1822 Dear Sir, I understood from you that it was in contemplation to have the portraits of Eclipse and Bassorah Engraved. If I have not been mistaken as to this fact, I wish to call your attention to a proposition of a friend of mine who is an engraver of much merit and particularly in animals and landscape - and from the specimens of horses which I have seen I think that he would execute the portraits of the above animals as well as any man in America. Mr. Charles C. Wright the gentn alluded to, is desirous of Engraving one or both of the animals - and as his proposition is a fair one, I thot that you might wish to avail yourself (as one of the association) of it. His proposition is this: he will take the portrait of Eclipse and Engrave it on a plate of the size which which you may desire, and when finished it shall be at your option to take it at a fair price, If it meets with your expectations. If not, the loss is to be his alone - should he meet your expectations in the first he will hope, and expect the other portrait. Mr W. is ambitious to make himself known and I have no doubt he would do justice to the paintings - his offer is so candid and disinterested in every respect (but the wish to add to his fame) that it is an additional inducement for me to write independant his merit as an engraver. It has given me much pleasure to hear that Eclipse has gained fresh Laurels from the ""Ancient dominion"" and that the South are convinced that the North can run as well as fight. I employ my leisure moments in portraits of Bassorah in picturesque positions and situations. Should your friends wish for his portrait I can supply them. Yours respectfully, Alvan Fisher C. H. Hall, Esqre