This Ethereal Presence you have so exquisitely portrayed that it is probable you know the play! only that I think you would then have quoted from it in the R.A. catalogue, in explanation of what confuses some of your ignorant reviewers as to this embodied spirit. The counterfeit Helen was of "unsubstantial air," a figure marvellously rendered in your picture, and which I can fully appreciate: and you quote a very apposite passage from Lord Derby's "Homer," as that which you illustrate; but if there are reprints of the catalogue, I would suggest the addition of a line from Euripides, as thus:-- "Juno to Paris gave me--yet not me, But in my semblance formed a living image Composed of ether." WODHALL'S _Eur. Hel._ If haply you do not know the book, inquire at Longman's for the fifth volume of the Greek Tragic Theatre (in English); or, should you prefer it, of course it is extant in the Greek. If not easily attainable in London, I shall be happy to lend you the volume by post. Congratulating you on your difficult and exquisite achievement--I am, dear sir, truly yours, MARTIN F. TUPPER. F. LEIGHTON, Esq. [40] WARNFORD COTTAGE, BISHOP'S WALTHAM. MY DEAR MR. LEIGHTON,--I was very sorry indeed when I returned to Park Place on Sunday evening and found that you had been so kind as to call upon me. I have not ventured to intrude upon you in your late affliction with the expression of a sympathy which cannot have much value for you, but had I seen you when you called I should hardly have refrained from telling you how sincerely I feel for your sorrow.--Pray believe me, yours always most truly, FANNY KEMBLE. WARNFORD, _Thursday, 2nd_. FOREST BANK, LYNDHURST. MY DEAR LEIGHTON,--I cannot let the post go out without offering you my sincere sympathy on your loss. I know how deeply attached you were to your mother, and am very sure the bereavement is a heavy grief to you. You are right in saying that to me your sorrow comes especially home. My mother sends you her affectionate love, and we both beg you to remember that, whenever you have a few spare days and want quiet, you must consider this home as a temporary home.--Believe me always, in all affection, yours, HAMILTON AÏDÉ.