ABSTRACT
The story of Cromek’s engaging Blake to produce an illustrated edition of The Grave has been told often-and almost always at Cromek’s expense. Most versions have Cromek unmercifully exploiting Blake, failing to deliver what he promised, and, in general, personally and professionally abusing Blake. A careful look at all the evidence, however, shows that Cromek is not a high-handed villain, nor is Blake an unsuspecting, exploited artist. The Grave project was vital to the careers of both men, and each one realized how much depended on its success. As the project developed, changes were made, and these changes precipitated misunderstandings and disagreements between Cromek and Blake. In spite of these, however, the collaboration was in many respects successful for both of them.
