293.—ROSSINI'S ARROGANCE.
Royal patrons have often been overbearing, but, on the other hand, the patronized musician has frequently proved himself an insufferable bore.
The following incident would probably not have occurred had not music already broken away from royal patronage and become, as we might say, self-supporting.
Rossini was once the principal musical figure at a party given by King George IV, at St. James Palace, London. During the evening the king paid particular attention to the Italian composer, and was much pleased with his compositions. As the company was about to break up His Majesty said: "Now, Rossini, before, we stop, let us have one piece more, and that shall be the finale."
But Rossini, insensible to the honors that had been bestowed upon him, arrogantly replied, "I think, Sire, we have had enough music for one night," and took his departure.