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where to end. Every case must stand on its own merits. My 
principle is that, where a work is not too far perished by injury or 
decay, important features that are wanting may frequently be 
replaced. Thus, for instance, it would be preposterous to meddle 
with the Elgin Marbles or the Venus de Milo; but if the Apollo 
Belvedere, in the Vatican, or the Clytie, in the British Museum, 
lost his or her nose, it would be right to supply a new one. To 
define, perhaps, the exact theory, is difficult, but the practice is as 
easy as ABC. I could multiply instances, but I will not weary 
you further. 
I can only hope I have sufficiently performed my undertaking 
so as to render what I have said intelligible. Embracing the 
cause, and accepting, as I do, the main principles of the Anti- 
restoration Society, I cannot side with the extreme party, but I 
desire that, in preserving the treasures of art which our forefathers 
have left us, the voices of reason, common-sense, moderation, and 
expediency should have a full hearing—these treasures of bygone 
days are unfortunately not immortal—like all human creations, 
they must and will decay ; but when the time for restoration comes, 
let that restoration be conservative in the true sense of the word. 
Let it preserve, but at the same time progress—not seek its 
inspiration from the imperfect efforts of darker ages, but from the 
purer sources flowing from the 15th and 16th centuries, when, for 
the space of a century or more, a race of giants trod all the paths 
of art, and left to future generations the records of their genius, 
and unless a man learns both to appreciate and understand 
them, it is certain he can never do satisfactory work either as an 
artist or as a critic. 
A vote of thanks to Mr. Bentinck was proposed by the 
President, who discussed the principles laid down by the author at 
some length. He was followed by Mr. H. A. Fletcher and Dr. 
T Anson.* 
Mr. Bentinck, in replying to the points raised in the discussion, 
said: Mr. Russell, ladies and gentlemen,—I have to return you 
* A part of the discussion that followed the Lecture is here given, for the 
sake of the Lecturer’s reply. 
