That we reserve for ourselves the compliment of the first bouquet we trust will not be regarded as an impropriety. The necessity of making a formal bow on entering for the first time the presence of the great Public is well recognized, and in the performance of this duty, which holds for us a rare pleasure, a little well meant selfishness is perhaps pardonable.
Dixie is introduced to your notice as the result of the latest attempt to establish a Southern magazine. Despite the precedents of failure that are ours, we believe success to be possible for such a venture under existing conditions. It is difficult to accept as truth what has been said so often of the Southern people, that they are in general unappreciative of good literature and good art. That we do not concur in the belief the appearance of Dixie is conclusive evidence. We confidently expect the most liberal support from the cultivated class of every state of the South, believing a periodical of this order—a native production having at heart the interests of the Southern people—will meet with an eager and a sincere welcome.
We have thought it best to make a modest beginning rather than to herald our undertaking with a brilliant first number at the cost of strength that might better be reserved for exigencies of the struggle yet to come. We have chosen to build, and would have our success—if success await us—be the result of growth. Having obtained the services of a number of the well known writers and artists of the country, we are in the position to promise a continual improvement both in the contents and the appearance of the magazine.
It was found necessary to make the first number somewhat local in tone, but this is only a passing condition. We have secured for future issues contributions of more general interest.
With this brief introductory note, Dixie is offered to your consideration.
The greatest praise is due Mr. Philip de Boilleau for his beautiful and distinguished painting entitled “Hydrangias,” which we reproduce on the opposite page. This picture,—an harmonious arrangement in soft grays,—was painted in Milan during the past summer, and has only recently been brought to Baltimore. We consider it one of Mr. Boilleau’s best works, and pin this modest little boutonniere on the lapel of his coat in recognition of his resourceful and extremely personal talent.