CHAPTER XXVII.
BENJAMIN WEST.
A native of Pennsylvania—Circumstances attending his birth—The child of promise—First indications of genius—The baby's portrait—Lessons from the Indians—The box of colors—The truant pupil—The mother's discovery—-West's opinion of his first picture—The little portrait painter—The first attempt at historical painting—"The Death of Socrates"—Choosing a profession—Dedicated to his work—A fighting Quaker—Establishes himself in New York—Visits Europe—Arrival at Rome, and reception there—Visit to the Apollo Belvidere—West's criticism—Travels and labors on the continent—Visits England—His reception there—Urged to stay—Decides to make England his home—Sends for his bride—Marriage—"Agrippina Landing with the Ashes of Germanicus"—Success of the picture—The king becomes his friend—The most famous works of Benjamin West—"The Death of Wolfe"—Reception of the picture by the public—West triumphs over the critics, and inaugurates a new era of historical painting—Death of the king—West is elected President of the National Academy—His resignation and re-election—Closing years of a great career—Personal appearance—Leigh Hunt's description of him—Death—Burial in St. Paul's Cathedral.
CHAPTER XXVIII.
JOHN ROGERS.
Birth—Early years—Begins life as a clerk in a dry goods store—Artistic talent—Opposition of his parents—A change in his plans—Becomes an