These are necessary to a painter.
"As to painting, I have just finished a large picture, eight feet by six feet six inches, the subject, the 'Death of Hercules,' which is now in the Royal Academy Exhibition at Somerset House.

I have been flattered by the newspapers which seldom praise young artists, and they do me the honor to say that my picture, with that of another young man by the name of Monroe, form a distinguishing trait in this year's exhibition....
"This praise I consider much exaggerated.

Mr.West, however, who saw it as soon as I had finished it, paid me many compliments, and told me that, were I to live to his age, I should never make a better composition.

This I consider but a compliment and as meant only to encourage me, and as such I receive it.
"I mention these circumstances merely to show that I am getting along as well as can be expected, and, if any credit attaches to me, I willingly resign it to my country, and feel happy that I can contribute a mite to her honor.
"The American character stands high in this country as to the production of artists, but in nothing else (except, indeed, I may now say _bravery_).

Mr.West now stands at the head, and has stood ever since the arts began to flourish in this country, which is only about fifty years.
Mr.Copley next, then Colonel Trumbull.