no one can excel in Photography who does not possess a natural
taste for the fine arts, who is not quick in discerning grace
and beauty--is regardless of the principles of perspective,
foreshorting and other rules of drawing, and who sets about
it merely for the sake of gain--without the least ambition
to rise to the first rank, both in its practice and theory.
There is no profession or trade in which a slovenly manner
will not show itself, and none where its effects will be more
apparent than this.

In order to be great in any pursuit, we must be ourselves,
and keep all things, in order. In your show and reception rooms,
let neatness prevail; have your specimens so placed--
leaning slightly forward--as to obtain the strongest light
upon them, and at the same time prevent that glassiness
of apearance which detracts so materially from the effect they
are intended to produce. If possible, let the light be of a
north-western aspect, mellowed by curtains of a semitransparent hue.
Your show-cases, at the door, should be kept well cleaned.
I have often been disgusted while attempting to examine portraits
in the cases of our artists, at the greasy coating and marks
of dirty fingers upon the glass and frame enclosing them.
Believe it, many a good customer is lost for no other reason.

In your operating room, dust should be carefully excluded.
It should be furnished with nothing apt to collect and retain dust;
a carpet is therefore not only a useless article, but very improper.
A bare floor is to be prefered; but if you must cover it use matting.
There is no place about your establishment where greater
care should be taken to have order and cleanliness; for it