337. The Recruit; by H. Liversege. The principal group in this picture is
treated in the following way: around a table are seated four persons,
among whom are two soldiers--being the recruiting sergeant with one of his
party. The recruit, a rustic looking youth, has a good deal of expression
in his countenance; he seems extremely doubtful concerning the step he has
taken, while an interesting young woman, apparently his sister, is fondly
endeavouring to dissuade him from it. The sergeant complacently smokes his
pipe, and smiles at her solicitude. This is, perhaps, the most unaffected
picture in the whole collection, being a remarkably modest representation
of nature. The composition is good, and the freedom and delicacy of the
execution stands unrivalled.
386. Hunt the Slipper; A.E. Chalon, R.A. In this picture several figures
are introduced _seriatim_, engaged at this old English, but now rather
unfashionable, game. A little too much vulgarity is displayed, though in
other respects the performance is highly praiseworthy.
413. Love the best Physician; painted at Paris by Monsieur Destouches.
Although we disapprove of the colouring and some parts of the execution of
this work, the subject is very interesting. A young man of fortune, who
had fallen in love with a beautiful young girl, becomes sick in
consequence of his hopeless passion. The physicians appear to have
rendered him no service, and as a last alternative, his friends prevail on
the girl to visit him, accompanied by her parents. The deep blushes with
which her face is suffused, and her downcast eyes, indicate the violent
agitation of her frame; while the sick man, having raised himself in bed,
stretches out his arms, and eagerly feasts his eyes on the charming object
of his love.--G.W.N.
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