 Despite a perceived decline in his work 's quality , the 1840s were the most financially successful of Etty 's career . His income increased with further opportunities for patronage from a growing industrial class , and with few costs and all his earlier debts cleared , Etty was in a position to invest money for the first time . By 1841 Etty had around £ 300 invested , rising to £ 8500 in 1845 and £ 17 @,@ 000 in 1849 . He continued to have difficulty forming relationships with any woman other than Betsy Etty , writing in his diary in 1843 that " being in sound Mind and Body I declare it to be my Firm Intention NEVER TO <unk> . In which resolution I pray GOD to help me that I may devote myself purely to my Art , my Country , and my GOD ! " 
