"DEAR SIR,--Mr. Johnston informing me of your desire to receive my demand for the composition of the music in 'The Little Gipsy,' I beg leave to expatiate a little thereon. I think a musician, with regard to theatrical employment, under an unfortunate predicament, if comparatively considered with the author of any little piece, for the following reason. They should both have learning, invention, and a perfect knowledge of effects; but an author of a _petite pièce_ can instantaneously write down his thoughts as they arise, whereas, the poor musician, when he has conceived an air, in every respect suitable to the sense, and emphatically expressed in every part, has done but half his business; for he has all the instrumental accompaniments to study and write down; insomuch as, that in a composition of ten, twelve, or more different parts, when he has written a whole side of music paper, he has the mortification to have composed but one line; all, except the voice part, being requisite to that one line. And yet an author of a farce will frequently make upwards of £100 by his sixth night, besides £50 by the sale of his copy to the printer; while the poor devil of a crotchet monger is thought well paid with £50 for six times the study and labour. This last observation, though strictly just, is not, in me, productive of a single complaint or grumble; but convictive that I have taken infinite pains to be master of a scurvy profession. As to my bill, it amounts, at my constant and reasonable rule of charging, but to £45 13 6: If you should think I have employed extraordinary time and care to make the composition proper and perfect in its kind, you will not overpay me with £50. But do as you please; I shall be satisfied, and am, with true respects, Dear Sir, your most obedient servant, "THOMAS AUGUSTINE ARNE." This letter is endorsed by Garrick, "Dr. Arne, about bill for 'May Day.' I gave him the £50 desired." "May Day, or the Little Gipsy," a musical farce in one act, by David Garrick, was produced at Drury Lane Theatre on the 28th of August, 1775. There is much to be learned from the correspondence which passed between Arne and Garrick; the following letter, undated, is full of interest: