On Monday week the Royal Academy opens—I shall be curious to see what pictures they have taken; my work at present will be a woodcut for Dalziel—then that for the Cornhill—then a drawing for Cundall's Bible—Mrs. Magniac's portrait—the cartoon for the remainder of the Lyndhurst fresco—then perhaps a new picture. I wish some one would buy the old ones!

Have you read "Sylvia's Lovers"? Don't read "Salammbo"—it is hideous.

Dearest Mamma,—My chair has arrived safe and sound; once more, my very best thanks for it.

Aïdé is one of the most excellent men that ever lived—I like him extremely.

By-the-bye, I am made one of the ensigns in our Rifle Corps, so that when you come to town you have a chance of seeing me strutting about with a sword.

I write in haste. Good-bye, best love to all.—From your very affectionate boy,

Fred.

THE FRESCO PRESENTED BY LORD LEIGHTON TO LYNDHURST CHURCH—"THE WISE AND FOOLISH VIRGINS." Completed 1864[ToList]