Pres.  Well, well, I do not know what our friend will think of the matter, but perhaps the Hansom of Venice is a little superfluous.  Why here is the HOME SECRETARY.

[Enter that august personage—­mutual greeting.

Home Sec. (examining picture).  Yes, very nice.  Just my idea of what a historical picture should be!  Sea-view very fair indeed, and I think that the suggestion of the presentation at Court is also extremely neat.  The Black Prince, perhaps, a little near OLIVER CROMWELL, but then that is a detail that will not challenge particular attention.  I like too the view of Vauxhall Gardens—­very good, indeed!  But why should a scene of this great historical importance be laid in Charing Cross during a labour demonstration?

Pres. (frankly).  I cannot say that I have looked up all my authorities, but I do not think our friend would allow himself to be wrong on so important a point.

Home Sec.  Well, I think it would be in better taste if the Artist cut out that stampede of police—­it is not true to nature! [Exit.

Pres.  There may be something in what he says, but I do wish these amateurs would keep their suggestions to themselves.

Enter FIRST LORD of the ADMIRALTY.

Pres. (cordially).  My dear Lord, delighted to see you—­what do you think of it?

First Lord.  Hm!  Yes!  Perhaps!  But, I say, what right has the Artist to put the white ensign on the top of that light-house?  It’s against the regulations—­they should be flying the Trinity House flag—­if anything.  That must come out, you know—­it really must! [Exit.

Pres.  Silly blunder, but it can be easily remedied.  Ah! the Secretary of State for War! (Enter that official) Well, Mr. STANHOPE, and how do you like the new purchase?

War Minister (after, a glance at the canvas).  Tol lol.  But come, I say, come; the Iron Duke never wore a hat like that!  And, I say, as it isn’t raining, why has he put up his umbrella?  In the cause of historical accuracy that should not be allowed. [Exit.

Pres. (drily).  I am afraid our friend will have enough to do. (Enter the remainder of the Cabinet together).  Well, Gentlemen—­hope you approve of our purchase?

Remainder (together).  Not at all.  You should have only bought the frame! [Scene closes in on the consideration of this new point.

* * * * *

[Illustration:  “MANNING THE (BACK-)YARDS.”

CHELSEA, JUNE, 1891.  FOUR BELL(E)S.]

* * * * *

MR. PUNCH EXPLAINS.

    [Last week Mr. Punch congratulated King HENRY’S “holy shade”
    on the Four-hundredth Anniversary of the Foundation of Eton
    College.]