He encloses his article on Royal Academy reform. He read Spielmann's interview with
Herbert, the "raving old maniac" who thinks bible study makes for a better artist. He wonders what influence Spielmann must have used to open the "blithering old idiot" up in such a way. Bemoans the "awfulness" of a picture in Folkstone, by Herbert in his prime, of a meeting of the Anti-Corn Law League.
Whistler is working joyously.