CHAPTER XXIV. 



How far I may venture further to obtrude my 

 opinions, or advice, on the notice of artists, par- 

 ticularly engravers on wood, I know not, but they 

 may readily imagine that I cannot help feeling a 

 deep interest, and an ardent desire, that the art 

 may 'long flourish, and that those who follow it 

 may feel happy in the pursuit. Perhaps what I 

 have already said may not be uninteresting to 

 some of them, and, if I knew how I could go 

 further, in any way that might urge or stimulate 

 them to feel enthusiasm for this art, it should not 

 be wanting ; for the wish, though tottering on the 

 down-hill of life, is extended beyond the grave. 



The sedentary artist ought, if possible, to have 

 his dwelling in the country, where he can follow 

 his business undisturbed, surrounded by pleasing 

 rural scenery, and the fresh air. He ought not to 

 sit at work too long at a time, but to unbend his 

 mind with some variety of employment ; for which 

 purpose it is desirable that artists, with their little 

 cots, shall also have each a garden attached, in 

 which they may find both exercise and amusement, 

 and only occasionally visit the city or the smoky 

 town ; and that chiefly for the purpose of meetings 

 wdth their brother artists, in which they may make 

 an interchange of their sentiments, and commune 

 with each other as to whatever regards the arts. 

 Were I allowed to become their M.D., my prescrip- 



