Perhaps it is hardly necessary to say here that, with the exception of the first two, Walker made the entire series of illustrations to Thackeray's novel of "Philip; his way through the World," or that this picture is an elaborately finished painting from one of these designs. Walker held this gifted author in very high esteem.
In a note addressed to us, dated December 28th, 1863, we find the following passage:
"I have not been very well, and should have passed a happier Christmas but for this sad news of poor Thackeray. I have lost a good friend."
Our first knowledge of Professor Hubert von Herkomer, R.A., came to us in the form of a parcel, containing two or three drawings, through the post from Southampton. They were not very remarkable, but had sufficient skill to justify us in using his work. His development was wonderful, showing a facility of design and artistic taste far above the average. But in spite of his all-round cleverness he had severe struggles in the early days. He always had dramatic taste, and he told us that it was a chance whether he persisted in his painting or went on the stage. He is a well-trained musician—a composer as well as an executant; and one time thought of joining a Christy's Minstrel troupe. In fact, he offered himself as "bones," but there was "no vacancy," so he continued drawing and painting, getting decorative work to do at South Kensington Museum, where he did some stencilling on a ceiling, under conditions explained in the following letter:
"32 Smith Street, Chelsea,
"Monday Morning.
"My dear Sirs,—Would you kindly send me the proof of my two drawings this week? I am working at Kensington Museum, doing some decorative work, which will at least keep the wolf from the door and still give, or rather leave, me plenty of time for other work.
"When I have some more things done I will take the liberty to show them to you.
"Yours very faithfully,
"Hubert Herkomer.