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Douglas, Norman, 1868-1952

"South Wind"

Hence his reticence, his circumspection.
Hence that monotonous enumeration of events.
This microscopic blot on the Duke's escutcheon, as well as other more
commendable details of his life, were duly noted down by the zealous
Mr. Eames who, in addition, had the good fortune to receive as a gift
from his kindly but unassuming friend Count Caloveglia a quaint
portrait of the prince, hitherto unknown--an engraving which he purposed
to reproduce, together with other fresh iconographical material, in his
enlarged and fully annotated edition of the ANTIQUITIES. The print
depicts His Highness full face, seated on a throne in the accoutrements
of Mars, with a gallant wig flowing in mazy ringlets from under the
helmet upon his plated shoulders; overhead, upon a canopy of cloud,
reclines a breezy assemblage of allegorical females--Truth, Mercy, Fame
with her trumpet, and so forth. His nervous clean-shaven features do
not wear the traditional smile; they are thoughtful, almost grim. On
his left is portrayed a huge CANNON astride of which can be seen a
chubby angel; the Duke's hand reposes, in a paternal caress on the
cherub's head--symbolical doubtless of his love of children.


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