ANECDOTES OF LANDSEER. 143 



then allayed Mr. Vernon's wrath by explaining that he 

 remembered the circumstance well, that he had cut out 

 the figure in paper, stuck it on casually, and went on 

 painting over it, forgetful of the fact ; and, although some 

 years had elapsed since the picture was painted, no 

 effect had been produced on it until probably the 

 warmth of the fireplace had at last curled it up. Turner 

 at once repaired the damage, and the canvas is none 

 the worse for it. 



One of the most charming pictures ever painted by 

 Landseer, which is by many connoisseurs thought to be 

 his best in the Vernon selection, is that of the two King 

 Charles spaniels lying on a table, with a cavalier's hat 

 and plume near them, and a few other accessories. The 

 history, as related to me by Vernon Heath, is amusing. 

 Mr. Vernon had given Landseer a commission to paint 

 a picture to be exhibited the following year at the 

 British Institution, which was next door to his residence ; 

 the price was to be 500 guineas, the subject being left to 

 Landseer, who chose some of his patron's noted King 

 Charles spaniels, and took sketches accordingly. The 

 day for receiving the pictures arrived, the post of honour 

 over the fireplace in the principal room being reserved 

 for Landseer, but no picture was forthcoming, the 

 excuse being that pressure of business had prevented its 

 completion. Next year again, and some weeks before 

 the opening, Vernon Heath called to remind the artist of 

 his promise, and on the day for receiving the works of 

 art exactly the same thing occurred, and no " Landseer " 

 was exhibited. This excited Vernon's ire, but there was 

 no help for it, and with renewed promises for the next 



