And there were little passages of arms and some heart-quaking and head-shaking, until Mr.Dale, the old schoolmaster, wrote that he had heard no less a man than Sydney Smith mention the new book in public, in the presence of "distinguished literary characters," as a work of "transcendent talent, presenting the most original views, in the most elegant and powerful language, which would work a complete revolution in the world of taste." When he returned home it was to find a respectful welcome.

His word on matters of Art was now really worth something, and before long it was called for.

The National Gallery was comparatively in its infancy.

It had been established less than twenty-five years, and its manager, Mr.Eastlake (afterwards Sir Charles), had his hands full, what with rascally dealers in forged old masters, and incompetent picture-cleaners; and an economical Government, and a public that neither knew its own mind nor trusted his judgment.

A great outcry was set up against him for buying bad works, and spoiling the best by restoration.