tions
would be the arrangement of objects illustrating the progress of art and
industry, not according to countries, but according to classes. On the
proposal of a vote of thanks to the chairman of the meeting, the Prince
said:--

"I require and desire no thanks at all. It has given me great
pleasure to be here to open the proceedings, and I cordially
thank all the gentlemen who have so kindly supported me on this
occasion. I beg again to assure you that I take a very deep
interest in this question--that of education, and that I shall
be always ready to give my hearty co-operation on a subject of
this important bearing."

ROYAL GENERAL THEATRICAL FUND.

_May 16th, 1870._

This Fund grants relief in annuities to members of the dramatic
profession, to singers and dancers, and also to the widows and orphans
of members. At present, upwards of L2000 annually is paid to fifty
annuitants. The invested capital is about L12,000. The institution has
the merit of not being a mere charity, but is largely supported by the
actors themselves. In this respect it holds a more honourable position
than even the Royal Literary Fund; no attempt to establish a guild for
mutual help among men of letters having, as yet, been successful.

The Theatrical Fund was established as long ago as 1839 by a few actors,
and was incorporated by Royal charter in 1853. Part of the income comes
from subscribers to the fund; but it is necessary also to appeal to the
public, in the method common to all charities; the resources of the
profession not being sufficient to maintain a mutual insurance society
on financial unaided by benevolent principles.

His Royal Highness the Prince of Wales presided at the 25th anniversary
festival of the Fund at St. James's Hall on the 16th of May, 1870. There
was a large attendance, including the leading members of the profession,
and some zealous supporters of the drama, among whom were the Nawab
Nazim of Bengal, with his two sons, the Princes Ali and Suleiman. Grace
having been sung after dinner the Prince gave "The Health of Her Majesty
the Queen," the patroness of this institution, and an annual subscriber
to its funds. The Duke of Sutherland, in proposing the health of "The
Prince and Princess of Wales, and other members of the Royal Family,"
adverted to the constant support given by their Royal Highnesses to the
drama.

The Prince of Wales, in returning thanks, said "he re