n--without the least
ambition to rise to the first rank, both in its practice and theory.
There is no profession or trade in which a slovenly manner will not
show itself, and none where its effects will be more apparent than this.

In order to be great in any pursuit, we must be ourselves, and keep all
things, in order. In your show and reception rooms, let neatness
prevail; have your specimens so placed--leaning slightly forward--as
to obtain the strongest light upon them, and at the same time prevent
that glassiness of appearance which detracts so materially from the
effect they are intended to produce. If possible, let the light be of
a north-western aspect, mellowed by curtains of a semitransparent hue.
Your show-cases, at the door, should be kept well cleaned. I have
often been disgusted while attempting to examine portraits in the cases
of our artists, at the greasy coating and marks of dirty fingers upon
the glass and frame enclosing them. Believe it, many a good customer
is lost for no other reason.

In your operating room, dust should be carefully excluded. It should
be furnished with nothing apt to collect and retain dust; a carpet is
therefore not only a useless article, but very improper. A bare floor
is to be prefered; but if you must cover it use matting. There is no
place about your establishment where greater care should be taken to
have order and cleanliness; for it will prevent many failures often
attributed to other causes. "A place for every thing, and every thing
in its place," should be an absolute maxim with all artists. Do not
oblige the ladies, on going away from your rooms, to say--"That H. is a
slovenly man; see how my dress is ruined by sitting down in a chair
that looked as if it had just come out of a porter house kitchen and
had not been cleaned for six months."

In choosing your operating room, obtain one with a north-western
aspect, if possible; and either with, or capable of having attached, a
large skylight. Good pictures may be taken without the sky-light, but
not the most pleasing or effective.

A very important point to be observed, is to keep the camera perfectly
free from dust. The operator should be careful to see that the
slightest particle be removed, for the act of inserting the
plate-holder will set it in motion, if left, and cause those little
black spots on the plate, by which an otherwise good picture is
spoiled. The camera should be so placed as to prevent