Of Mr. BERNHARD, the sub-librarian, I have already spoken frequently; and in a manner, I trust, to shew that I can never be insensible either of his acquirements or his kindness.  He has one of the meekest spirits—­accompanied by the firmest decision—­which ever marked the human character; and his unconsciousness both of the one and of the other renders his society the more delightful.

A temporary farewell to Bibliography, and to Bibliographers.  You may remember that I introduced the name of Hess, in a former part of this letter; with an intention of bringing the character, to whom it belonged, at a future period before your notice.  You will be gratified by the mention of some particulars connected with him.  Mr. Hess has passed his grand climacteric; and is a Professor of Design, but more especially a very distinguished Engraver.  His figure, his manner of conversation, his connections, and his character, are all such—­as to render it pleasing to find them combined with a man of real talent and worth.  I had brought with me, from England, a drawing or copy of one of the original portraits at Althorp—­supposed to be painted by Anthony More—­with a view of getting it engraved abroad.  It is very small, scarcely four inches square.  I had shewn it at Paris to Lignon, who modestly said he would execute it in his very best manner, for 3000 francs!  M. Hess saw it—­and was in extacies.  “Would I allow him to engrave it?” “Name your price.”  “I should think about thirty-five guineas.”  “I should think (replied I) that that sum would entitle me to your best efforts.”  “Certainly; and you shall have them”—­rejoined he.  I then told him of the extravagance of Lignon.  He felt indignant at it.  “Not (added he) that I shall execute it in his highly finished manner.”  I immediately consigned the precious portrait into his hands—­with a written agreement to receive the engraving of it next year, at the stipulated sum.[74]

Thus you see I have set Mr. Hess to work in my absence—­when I quit Munich—­which will be to-morrow, or the following day at farthest.  This worthy artist won upon me at every interview.  His dress and address were truly gentlemanly; and as he spoke the English language as well as he did the French, we were of course glad to renew our visits pretty frequently.  His anxiety to promote my views, and to afford my companion every assistance in his power, connected with the Fine Arts, will be long and gratefully remembered by us.[75] But Mr. NOCKHER shall not be passed over “sub silentio.”  He is a banker; and I found another FRANCS in the promptitude and liberality of his offers of pecuniary supply.  He, together with Mr. Hess, has tasted the best red wine, at my humble table, that the Schwartzen Adler can afford; and I have quaffed his souchong, in society in which I should like to have mingled again and again.  The subjects of pictures and prints occupied every moment of our time, and almost every word of our discussion;