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88 picture of his "taking leave of the Dutch States," not bought till 1845, is there his figure. It is a pity that he is not here, either in the form of his pretty boyhood, or the hardened, sinister countenance of middle life. But he is not likely to be forgotten at Hampton Court.

Charles left the marks of his influence on the gardens, the tennis-court, and, less happily, on the house. Verrio, whose "sprawling saints" Pope scorns in well-known lines, was first employed by him to decorate the ceilings in the manner which had become fashionable from France. Horace Walpole tells a story of the artist's extravagance, which has been often quoted, but will bear telling again. It illustrates the reckless freedom of the time, and the bonhomie which made the King attractive in spite of his selfishness and his cold-hearted license. "Once at Hampton Court, when Verrio had but lately received an advance of he found the King in such a circle that he could not approach him. He called out, 'Sire, I desire the favour of speaking to your Majesty.' 'Well, Verrio,' said the King, 'what is your request?' 'Money, sire, money; I am so short of cash, that I am not able to pay my workmen; and your Majesty and I have learnt by experience that pedlars and painters cannot give long credit.' The King smiled, and said he had but lately ordered him £1000 'Yes, sir,' replied he, 'but that was soon paid away, and I have no gold left.' 'At that rate,' said the King, 'you would spend more than I do to maintain my family.' 'True,' answered Verrio, 'but