Elvey trained all his choristers to read music accurately, and this boy was especially noted. When Mendelssohn first produced " St. Paul," the Prince Consort sent down to ask the Doctor to bring up "little Foster" to the Castle to sing over parts of the new oratorio to the Queen and himself. Among other pieces, Foster sang " Jerusalem " and " I will sing of Thy great mercies." Her Majesty was so pleased with his performance, that, at the close, she crossed the room and patted him approvingly on the head.