THOMAS HOOD From the original at the National Portrait Gallery Painting by an unknown artist His original signature can be seen at the British Museum, London, on a letter to his sister-in-law in which he complains of London being "Very dull and foggy and the baked codlin very dear." He is suffering from a sprained ankle, and says "Some people like a well turned one - but I don't." English Poet. Born in Poultry, London on May 23rd 1799. Entered a city office at the age of thirteen. In 1818 he became an engraver and in 1821 sub-editor of the "London Magazine". Other editorial appointments followed, but in 1844 his health broke down. He died in London on May 3rd, 1845. His writings include "The Song of the Shirt", "The Bridge of Sights" and many humorous poems.