AT A ROSE-SHOW. 283 



compelled to give up its match against time, and the ex- 

 hibitor hears the thrilling sound which proclaims the Rose- 

 show open. He gives his best hat a final brush; he adjusts 

 for the last time the pretty Rose in his coat (be still, throb- 

 bing heart beneath !) ; and back he goes to his fate. 

 He presents at the door his exhibitor's pass ; and then 

 " affecting to be unaffected," but nervous as a girl at her 

 first ball, he wends his anxious way to his Roses. 



What shall he find there — defeat or victory ? Shall the 

 music of the band express to his ears the gladness of his 

 spirit, the triumph of his hope, or shall 



" Sharp violins proclaim 

 Their jealous pangs and desperation," 



in unison Avith his own ? Let him be prepared for either 

 issue. Let him anticipate defeat, as being but a recruit and 

 pupil ; but let him remember, when defeated, that more 

 than one great statesman has been plucked for " Smalls'' — 

 more than one great general has lost his first battle — more 

 than one Royal Academician has had his first picture 

 declined by the hanging-committee. Some faint-hearted 

 candidates for fame never overcome a first discouragement. 

 Entering an exhibition of flowers and fruit at Lincoln some 

 years ago, I met a clerical friend, who informed me con- 



