oyal Academy, and we greatly regret when any
cause arises to prevent us being present. It is a matter of
great interest not only to be surrounded by all that is finest
in modern art, but also to meet so distinguished an assembly,
although we who come year by year find that gaps are made which
we must all deeply regret. One of the most recent of these has
been occasioned by the death of the great statesman just taken
from us, who but two years ago made in this room one of his most
eloquent speeches, which must be in the memory of all who were
then present, many of whom are here to-night. I will not allude
to the late Earl of Beaconsfield further than to say how
gratifying it is to see that fine portrait of him in the next
room, executed by one of our first artists, Mr. Millais. I might
also allude to the removal from among us of the late Lord Chief
Justice of England, opposite to whom I had often the pleasure of
sitting at this table. The Academy, I am sure, also deplores the
loss of Mr. Elmore, and Mr. Knight, who was many years
Secretary, and we must all sympathise with the Academy for the
loss they have thus sustained.

"It is not for me on this occasion to offer any criticism on the
pictures which adorn these walls. I have only had the
opportunity of taking a very cursory glance at them, and even if
I were able I should not indulge in any critical remarks. But I
will say this--neither the President nor the members of the
Academy have any reason to deprecate fair and just criticism.
One of the greatest pictures in the Exhibition is the portrait
of the President, painted by himself. In this he has only
followed the example of some of the great masters, who painted
their own portraits. As there are so many more speeches to be
made--some of the greatest possible interest--I will not weary
you with more words. I will only again thank you, in my own
name, in the name of the Princess, and of my brothers who are
present, for your very kind reception."

The Duke of Cambridge said the Artists' Corps was one of the smartest
and most efficient in the Volunteer Army, and he was glad of the
opportunity of paying this tribute to them.

_1885._

At the banquet of 1885, the Prince of Wales was accompanied for the
first time by Prince Albert Victor. In the speech in reply to the usual
toast from the C