Only a biographer who wishes to represent a man as he really was, and not as he appeared to be to one or more individuals, has to be on his guard against it.

Let us grant at once that Chopin made a good figure at the Lyceum--indeed, a quick-witted boy who found help and encouragement at home (the secret of almost all successful education) could hardly do otherwise.

But from this to a master of all the arts, to an admirable Crichton, is a great step.

Where there is genius there is inclination.

Now, however well Chopin acquitted himself of his school-tasks--and even therein you will remember a falling-off was noticeable when outward pressure ceased--science and kindred subjects were subsequently treated by him with indifference.