Battle with Ruskin

From the next letter we can see that Whistler and Moore stayed friends. In fact, in 1878 Whistler asked Moore to be a witness for him in the Whistler v. Ruskin trial [link – Life/Critics]. The tone of this letter to Joseph Edgar Boehm [link – Key figures], who was also asked to be a witness, is urgent, and the opening is abrupt, suggesting that Whistler was nervous. However, Whistler at the same time expresses belief in his artistic achievements:

Whistler to Joseph Edgar Boehm, 20 November [1878],
Glasgow University Library, Whistler MS B98, GUW #00322.

“Now Mac my dear Mac you must stand by me - This is a chance that will not occur again - and that, were the tables turned, and you were in my place, I should only be too eager to seize upon for your sake! - Indeed the cause of us doers and workers is at stake with the writers and praters –

On Monday next my case versus Ruskin comes off - and I shall call on you to state your scientific opinion of Whistler and his work in Art generally. Moore also I shall have and we will see if professors like ourselves cannot carry the day over ill-conditioned pendrivers whose ignorance is only equalled by their arrogance and conceit –

I am bound to win you know! but I must not be deserted! -

It will be simple for you and I trust, not irksome to speak boldly for our side - and first my dear Mac come for a moment round to my place tomorrow at 2 o'clock and see the pictures I have there collected - and I am sure that before the dignified portrait of my mother [link – Painting/Portraits/YMSM 101] - the fine sketch of Carlyle [link – Painting/Portraits/YMSM 137], and the really beautiful picture of little Miss Alexander [link – Painting/Portraits/YMSM 129] (all just varnished and seen for the first time in their full richness of color) you will feel that truth is on my side and have renewed confidence in the painter! -)

The little girl simply lives and breathes and stands in the room with us - and as Signor Buggiani, who has passed his days with the old Masters, says, "On ne fait pas mieux que ça! - on n'a jamais fait mieux que ça! - "

[butterfly signature]

If 2 o'clock is too early, come at 3 - but for heaven's sake come in the day light - or come if you like better on Sunday -
Send me a line in any case just to say it is all right –

The White House
Chelsea Embankment
Wednesday, Nov. 20 –

It is necessary for me to bring men of my own craft to say that what I produce is Art - otherwise Ruskin's statement that it is not art remains; and he has an army of Volunteers ready to come forward and swear that Whistler's work is sham and impudence - and leading among them is Mr. Stacey Marks!!! - who is prepared to stand up and say that he could paint a Whistler Nocturne in five minutes in Court!!”