With this plate (of which the very few proofs in aqua-fortis, as well as the finished ones, are highly valuable) no unfair stratagems have been practised, that a number of the various impressions, taken off at different times, might be mistaken for the earliest. On copper nothing is more easy than to cover, alter, efface, or re-engrave an inscription, as often as temporary convenience may require a change in it.[5] Witness, the several copies of _The Lottery_, three of which exhibit the names of three different publishers: the fourth has none at all. The possessors of this March to _Finchley_ need not vehemently lament their want of the original. The spirit of it is most faithfully transfused on the copper. As to the colouring, it will hardly delight such eyes are are accustomed to the pictures of _Steen_ or _Teniers_. To me the painting of the _March to Finchley_ appears hard and heavy, and has much the air of a coloured print. I should not, on this occasion, omit to add, that Mr. _Strange_, in his _Inquiry into the Rise and Establishment of the Royal Academy of Arts in London_, observes, that "the donations in painting which several artists presented to _The Foundling Hospital_," first led to the idea of those Exhibitions which are at present so lucrative to our Royal Academy, and so entertaining to the publick. _Hogarth_ must certainly be considered as a chief among these benefactors. [1] _General Advertiser, April_ 14, 1750. Mr _Hogarth_ is publishing, by subscription, a print representing the march to _Finchley_ in the year 1746, engraved on a copper-plate, 22 inches by 17. The price 7 _s._ 6 _d._ Subscriptions are taken in at _The Golden Head_ in _Leicester-Fields_, till the 30th of this instant, and not longer, to the end that the engraving may not be retarded. Note. Each print will be half a Guinea after the Subscription is over. In the Subscription-book, are the particulars of a proposal whereby each subscriber of three shillings, over and above the said seven shillings and sixpence for the print, will, in consideration thereof, be entitled to a chance of having the original picture, which shall be delivered to the winning subscriber as soon as the engraving is finished. _General Advertiser, May_ 1, 1750. Yesterday Mr. _Hogarth's_ subscription was closed. 1843 chances being subscribed for, Mr. _Hogarth_ gave the remaining 157 chances to _The Foundling Hospital_. At two o'clock the box was opened, and the fortunate chance was N° 1941, which belongs to the said Hospital; and the same night Mr. _Hogarth_ delivered the picture to the Governors.