Page:Hector Macpherson - Herschel (1919).djvu/18

12 considerable time. Jacob Herschel contrived to gain a livelihood by teaching music. At length, the brothers found that they could not make a living in London. Accordingly, Jacob decided to return to Hanover in the autumn of 1759 to compete for a place in the court orchestra, which he was successful in gaining. For a time, William was, in his own words, "involved in great difficulties". Fortunately, however, he succeeded in procuring an appointment in Yorkshire. The Earl of Darlington, Colonel of the Durham militia, was desirous of obtaining a good musician as leader of the band. Herschel's name was brought to his notice, and he received the offer of the post, which he accepted and held for two years. These two years appear to have been very crowded. The brief entries in his diary record the composition of various symphonies, and he seems to have travelled a great deal over the north of England. In 1761 he applied for an important post in Edinburgh—"the manager of the concerts intending to leave that place"—and in anticipation of receiving the appointment, he terminated his engagement with Lord Darlington. However, Herschel was disappointed, as the concert manager altered his plans and decided to remain at his post. On arriving in Edinburgh, he records in his diary: "I was introduced to Mr. Hume, the metaphysician, and a few days after, at one of their regular concerts, I was appointed to lead the band of musicians, while some of my symphonies and solo concerts were performed. Mr. Hume, who patronised my performance, asked me to dine with him, and accepting of his invitation, I met a considerable company."

During the next few months, Herschel held temporary appointments at Newcastle and Pontefract, and in April, 1762, he accepted a post as manager of concerts at Leeds, where he remained for about four years. During this time, his public engagements multiplied, and he was rapidly acquiring a notable position as a teacher