Robert sank into neglect and consequent poverty. He died (of bronchitis) on the 13th of March, 1856, in his sixty-sixth year. FOOTNOTES: [57] In this I cannot agree. George designed about a third of the plates, and those who know his workmanship thoroughly will not fail to identify it. [58] A fact which testifies to the curiosity and _not_ the immorality of our people. [59] I have known as much as L10 asked for a copy; but _a first edition_ (a rarity) may be purchased sometimes of a respectable bookseller for L8. [60] "Fair Play! Robt. Cruikshank, invt. et fect., original suggestor and artist of the 2 vols. Adieu!" [61] A list of his works will be found in Dr. Brewer's "Handbook." [62] "The Maclise Portrait Gallery," by William Bates (ed. 1883), p. 236. [63] The name given to the students of Eton School who board in the town. [64] Diary of Madam d'Arblay. [65] W. S. Orr & Co., 1838. CHAPTER VII. _THE CARICATURES OF GEORGE CRUIKSHANK._ SIXTY YEARS AGO. Just sixty years ago, a writer in _Blackwood_ spoke of the subject of the present chapter (then a young man who had already acquired an artistic reputation) in the following terms:-- "It is high time that the public should think more than they have hitherto done of George Cruikshank; and it is also high time that George Cruikshank should begin to think more than he seems to have done hitherto of himself. Generally speaking, people consider him as a clever, sharp _caricaturist_, and nothing more; a free-handed, comical young fellow, who will do anything he is paid for, and who is quite contented to dine off the proceeds of a 'George IV.' to-day, and those of a 'Hone,' or a 'Cobbett' to-morrow. He himself, indeed, appears to be the most careless creature alive, as touching his reputation. He seems to have no plan--almost no ambition--and, I apprehend, not much industry. He does just what is suggested or thrown in his way, pockets the cash, orders his beef-steak and bowl, and chaunts, like one of his own heroes,-- 'Life is all a variorium, We regard not how it goes.' Now, for a year or two to begin with, this is just what it should be. Cruikshank was resolved to see _Life_,[66] and his sketches show that he has seen it, in some of its walks, to purpose. But life is short, and art is long; and our gay friend must pull up.