Whilst taking a trip by steamer on Lake Windermere one day, he was astonished to hear a young man on the boat playing the cornet very beautifully, and, entering into conversation with him, he became much interested, and determined, if possible, to help him into a better position. Upon his return to Windsor he recommended him to the colonel and bandmaster of the 1st Life Guards, who gladly availed themselves of his services, and were delighted to find that his playing surpassed even what they had been led to expect from Dr. Elvey's recommendation.