Dante Gabriel Rossetti was a famous 19th-century poet and artist.One day,he was1by an elderly man.The old fellow had some sketches and drawings that he wanted Rossetti to look at and tell him if they were any good,2if they at least showed3talent.

    Rossetti examined them carefully.After the first few, he knew that they were4,showing not the least5of artistic talent.But Rossetti was a kind man,and he told the elderly man as6as possible that the pictures were without much7and showed little talent.He was sorry,but he could not 8 to the man.The visitor was9 ,but seemed to10 Rossetti's judgment.

    He then11for taking up Rossetti's time,but12to ask whether he would just look at a few more drawings—these done by a young art student.Rossetti looked over the second batch of sketches and immediately became 13 over the talent they14 .“These,”he said,“oh,these are good.This young student has great talent.He should be given every help and encouragement in his15 as an artist.He has a great future if he will work hard and16it.”

    Rossetti could see that the old fellow was deeply17 .“Who is this fine young artist?”he asked.“Your son?” “No,”said the old man18 “It is me—40 years ago.If only I had heard your19then!For you see,I got discouraged and gave up—too20”