3-078-230 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

"Bosom Friends" - by C. T. Garland, in the Royal Academy Exhibition, 1890. 'The first two decades of a life, on which kind Fortune smiles, generally bring with them "bosom friends" of various sorts and kinds. In the earlier years quadrupeds are apt to reign supreme - and with good reason too. for, as a rule, they seem to understand children even better than "grown-ups," however much these latter may command their obedience. The little maiden in Mr. Garland's clever picture...has been doubly happy in her playmates, and can divide her affections between the English terrier and the French poodle. The artist shows a delicate sense of humour in his rendering of the national characteristics of the two animals, contrasting the downright direct appeal of the English dog with the posing and posturing antics of the French one. How often "Dolly" may be called upon to make peace between the rivals we tremble to think; but she has a soft and winning smile, which her doggies will be the first to understand. Yet, when called upon to display sternness, wo can imagine that she will be equal to the occasion, and allow no appeal against the commands she issues or the favours she bestows'. From "Illustrated London News", 1890.