In commemorating the "preëminent works of this exhibition," out of nearly two thousand pictures, this critic places the "Dying Hercules" among the first twelve. On June 13, 1813, Morse thus writes to his parents:-- "I send by this opportunity (Mr. Elisha Goddard) the little cast of the Hercules which obtained the prize this year at the Adelphi, and also the gold medal, which was the premium presented to me, before a large assembly of the nobility and gentry of the country, by the Duke of Norfolk, who also paid me a handsome compliment at the same time. "There were present Lord Percy, the Margravine of Anspach, the Turkish, Sardinian, and Russian Ambassadors, who were pointed out to me, and many noblemen whom I do not now recollect. "My great picture also has not only been received at the Royal Academy, but has one of the finest places in the rooms. It has been spoken of in the papers, which you must know is considered a great compliment; for a young artist, unless extraordinary, is seldom or never mentioned till he has exhibited several times. They not only praise me, but place my picture among the most attractive in the exhibition. This I know will give you pleasure." CHAPTER VI JULY 10, 1813--APRIL 6, 1814 Letter from the father on economies and political views.--Morse deprecates lack of spirit in New England and rejoices at Wellington's victories.--Allston's poems.--Morse coat-of-arms.--Letter of Joseph Hillhouse.--Letter of exhortation from his mother.--Morse wishes to stay longer in Europe.--Amused at mother's political views.--The father sends more money for a longer stay.--Sidney exalts poetry above painting.--His mother warns him against infidels and actors.--Bristol.--Optimism.-- Letter on infidels and his own religious observances.--Future of American art.--He is in good health, but thin.--Letter from Mr. Visger.--Benjamin Burritt, American prisoner.--Efforts in his behalf unsuccessful.--Capture of Paris by the Allies.--Again expresses gratitude to parents.--Writes a play for Charles Mathews.--Not produced. The detailed accounts of his economies which the young man sent home to his parents seem to have deeply touched them, for on July 10, 1813, his father writes to him: "Your economy, industry, and success in pursuing your professional studies give your affectionate parents the highest gratification and reward. We wish you to avoid carrying your economy to an _extreme_. Let your appearance be suited to the respectable company you keep, and your living such as will conduce most effectually to preserve health of body and vigor of mind. We shall all be willing to make sacrifices at home so far as may be necessary to the above purposes." Farther on in this same letter the father says: "The character you give of Mr. Allston is, indeed, an exalted one, and we believe it correctly drawn. Your ardor has given it a high coloring, but the excess is that of an affectionate and grateful heart."