With such a list of artists at work week by week, small wonder that it should now be spoken of as "The Golden Period" of _Judy_.
In the pages of _Judy_, Charles H. Ross created the character of Ally Sloper and also of his friend Ikey Moses. In the early part of 1884, Gilbert Dalziel conceived and modelled a new publication, to be called the _Half-Holiday_, in which Ally Sloper was to be a leading character. It was finally decided, however, to add the Old Man's name to the title, and on May 3rd, 1884, _Ally Sloper's Half-Holiday_ made its first appearance.
Amongst the many quaint features of the paper, perhaps the "Award of Merit" stands foremost. This decoration consists of a very clever design by W. G. Baxter, executed in colours, and has been presented to and accepted by men and women of the highest distinction in all branches of art, science, literature, music, and the professions generally.
[Illustration: "_'You're the wax-work child, are you not?' said Miss Monflather._
"_'Yes, ma'm,' replied Nell, colouring deeply._"
"The Old Curiosity Shop" (Household Edition).--CHARLES DICKENS.
_By permission of Messrs. Chapman & Hall._]
Gilbert Dalziel has in his possession a collection of autograph letters, in acknowledgment of the "Award," from some of the most eminent folks before the public during the latter part of the old century, amongst whom may be mentioned--Lord Tennyson, as representing Literature; Sir John E. Millais, Bart., P.R.A., for Painting and Drawing on Wood; Sir Arthur Sullivan, for Music; Sir Charles Russell, for Law; Arthur W. Pinero and Sir Henry Irving, for the Drama; Lord Charles Beresford, for the Navy; and Lord Roberts (when he was in command in India), for the Army.
Charles H. Bennett was one of the most original artists of his period. Alas! his life was all too short. There was an individual stamp about his work--independent in manner and full of deep thought. We had many of his drawings through our hands and knew him well. A more earnest man concerning his work we never met; and, not unlike Pinwell, he held it as a principle that time should never be allowed to enter into the question; the task should be defined, but never trammelled by, "How long will it take?"--whether it be days, weeks or years, for the proper execution of the project. Perhaps his "Bunyan's Pilgrim's Progress" will rank as his greatest achievement.