to support a lady of substantial proportions, you must make it fairly
solid."

I came away with reluctance, filled with wonder at the want of
enterprise shown by our revue-managers in not having, long ere now,
secured CHARLES DARLING'S services. If only he continues to take
his art seriously he has a great future. Meanwhile I am applying
embrocation to my sore sides.

* * * * *

NATURE NOTES.

_"The Gloaming,"_

_North Kensington_.


DEAR MR. PUNCH,--I wonder if any of your intelligent readers
have noticed the wonderful adaptability of Nature, of which I
send you the following remarkable instance:--The yellowhammer,
which we are always told sings, "A little bit of bread and no
che-e-ese," has (unless my ears grossly deceive me) changed
its words this year to "A little bit of cheese and no
bre-e-ead!" Need I say more?

Your obedient servant, OBSERVATOR.

* * * * *