When I consider the close relationship of the arts that are represented
by the pen, brush, and chisel, I am inclined to think that the _manes_
of these excellent painters and sculptors whose names our contributors
have assumed would probably not be displeased with the liberty we have
taken. Provided these departed spirits still feel a passionate interest
in our worldly affairs, they might wish to instruct these painting
writers to follow nature as closely and skillfully with their pens as
they themselves had done with delicate brush or chisel. Nature is indeed
the one universal teacher of all artists. Painter, sculptor, author, not
one can succeed unless he hold counsel with her. The writer who does not
respect her is a falsifier, and the painter or sculptor who departs from
her is a dabbler. The highest place in art belongs to the writer, for
his field comprehends most. With one stroke of the pen he will describe
more than a painter can represent in a succession of pictures. On the
other hand, the painter appeals more to the imagination, and leaves a
stronger impression than description can possibly awaken.