deplorable position of the Pantomime literature of the
country, there can be little need to question further the
necessity of a British Academy of Letters. The naming of those
who are to constitute that institution is another thing;
but if an authoritative fountain-head, to discharge this
inevitable function, is sought, and the public puts the
question, "_Quis Nominabit_?" I think, Sir, you will admit
that I have most satisfactorily supplied the answer. Trusting
to your judicious appreciation of the full gravity of the
matter at issue, to publish this communication,

I am, Sir, your obedient servant,

A VERY POSSIBLE FUTURE ACADEMICIAN.

* * * * *

BEFORE AND BEHIND.

(_From a Thoughtful Grammarian_.)

SIR,--In the _Times_' Court Circular, on Friday last, I read
that--

"Mr. WILLIAM NICHOLL had the honour of singing before Her
MAJESTY and the Royal Family."

This was indeed an honour. I regret that the Courtly
Circularist did not tell us what Mr. NICHOLL sang before the
QUEEN and Royal Family, and also what the QUEEN and Royal