Nimble Jack

H. M. George V, R. I., is naturally harassed by artists anxious to paint his portrait and gain fame and pelf thereby. Recently Artist Richard Jack, R. A., failed to persuade His Majesty to grant a sitting, but was graciously allowed the loan of a sword, a field marshal's uniform on which were pinned many orders, and a cape--all indisputably fresh from the royal wardrobe. Thus encouraged, Artist Jack slapped these accoutrements upon canvas in an attitude "regally erect," which was reported to "make the King seem unusually tall and commanding." Pleased, His Majesty inspected it last week, deigned to sit for his then wanting head.

Further encouraged, Artist Jack dared to paint in "an almost melancholy likeness, whereas His Majesty is usually painted with a smiling expression."

Intrigued, His Majesty announced late in the week that he would purchase the portrait. Citizens of the Borough of Fulham, which had already contracted with Artist Jack for this work, intending to hang it in their Council Chamber, were surprised.