Page:Memoirs of a Trait in the Character of George III.djvu/299

244 might be called;) on the contrary, the Author has heard him express the pleasure he found in being so useful to his father and the family.

Mr. Sheriff's uncommon character and merit having reached Carlton House, the Prince sent for, and honoured him by sitting for his portrait, a large miniature, which being admired in the exhibition at Somerset House, increased his custom. If this was in the usual course of things, yet an accidental occasion his highness availed himself of, showed an intimate knowledge of the human heart. It touched those chords which (except in the misanthrope) harmonize with the desire all feel to be esteemed by others, which less disposes them to quarrel with themselves. Mr. Sheriff happened one evening to be amongst the lookers on at the principal assembly in Brighton; certainly without the most distant thought of joining a set formed either of the nobility, or persons of the first fashion and fortune. His illustrious patron was there, and, coming up, accosted him with his usual affability; enquiring after his health, his professional success, and—asking why he did not dance?—The artist being thus taken by surprise, scarcely knew what he said, but it purported that he had no right to mix with company so much above him. The Prince, over-ruling his diffidence, introduced him, as a partner, to a lady of quality. With whom Mr. Charles, who probably excelled in the dance, as