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Show 488 THE CODE OF TERPSICHORE. deserve those severe criticisms which we, from a regard to the interest of the rising generation, have been obliged to pass upon other performances of the same nature. As in the second part of this work, so also in this, w e have been particularly careful, in the lessons to pupils, upon the grace of their position, and the elegance of contour in their attitudes while dancing ; attainments in our art which are both delightful and essential, but, at the same time, extremely difficult to acquire. To arrive at this desirable object, we shall more clearly explain ourselves by the aid of engraved figures, representing every position of which this species of dancing is capable. In designing these figures, we have been careful to adhere to the dictates of taste and art. Any dancer may be capable of executing a chassi, a pas de bourre'e, a contre-tems, &c.; but that genteel air, those graceful manners, and that picturesque action, which are expected from those who have learned the art of dancing, are not to be acquired from all dancing-masters, many of w h o m are usually unwilling, or unable, so profoundly to study their art, as to produce on their pupils this important effect. Although the system of private dancing does not require, of those who practise it, either extraordinary abilities or an intense application, in order to arrive at perfection, there must, however, be inherent in them certain physical qualifications, and some capacity, to insure success. Without these, a person would appear awkward and ridiculous in dancing ; and it is far preferable to be a passive spectator than a clumsy performer. It may be observed also, that while a knowledge of dancing adds to the attractions of a figure, naturally symmetrical and agile, it serves but to render still more conspicuous, those who are incurably ill-shaped, unconquerably heavy, or insensible to any graceful motion. |