CONSTANTLY changing in its appearances, the sea includes variety among its many attractions. The scene before us embodies a masterly presentation of waves and of sky combined with a realistic and stirring view of maritime industry. The scene is probably on the North Sea. A little trading vessel is preparing to depart with its simple merchandise. The sailors are busy hoisting the sails and bringing on board the last articles of freight. A strong wind is blowing: the waves dash angrily against the ship and cover it with spray. Along the distant horizon, both sky and water are lit up with a sinister light, which makes the heavy clouds above more black and threatening. The elements of the picture are few and simple, but nature is most vividly counterfeited. With but a slight effort of the imagination we can hear the whistling wind and roaring surf, and realize all those feelings that are aroused by the observation of a rising storm. Andreas Achenbach is one of the great masters of marine p