THE SIGNATURE OF THE KING 151 



« Of what value could such a presentation be to him more 

 than to a stuffed king in the museum? 



Audubon went out into the open air. 



He was more determined to secure the king's signature 

 than ever before. 



Purpose makes a way, or breaks one. Into his purpose 

 had gone thirty years. That purpose was a flint, and the 

 spark was in it. 



Audubon had found a true friend in J. P. Chaldren, 

 of the British Museum. This man was earnest in his de- 

 sire that the king should see the American birds that 

 lived on paper. He had a friend, Sir Walter Waller, Bart., 

 K. C. B., who had the same wish. Sympathy can find its 

 way anywhere, even into the doors of a lazy and luxuri- 

 ous king. 



" I will myself show the work to the king," said Sir 

 Walter. 



So Sir Walter went to his Majesty with the lively and 

 enthralling portfolio. 



" It is fine," said his Majesty, " fine! " 



He examined it with delight. The birds won his heart. 

 The perfect work made for an hour a true king. 



" I will subscribe for it myself," he said, " not as a 

 king, but as a gentleman" 



Truly there was a saving remnant in the heart of self- 

 loving George IV. 



" Not as a king, but as a gentleman! " 



