me, when at Reading, with every mark of kindness and respect.

Mr. P. seems to have felt the due weight of such respectable testimonials, and has shown me ever since so much friendship and attention, that his house is become as it were my home. As he is in the continual possession of free admission tickets, he indulges me with repeated opportunities of attending the theatres. Mr. P. has placed my book, as originally written, in the hands of several London critics, for their report of its merits and demerits. I will copy two letters which he has received, among many others equally favourable, stating the opinion of two celebrated authors, because I know it will gratify you much.

To Messrs. P. and M. St. Clements, Strand.

"GENTLEMEN,

THE poem which you sent me yesterday, seems the work of a man of a truly poetic mind: and with a knowledge of versification which he might easily improve into excellence. But with you, the great question of course is whether the work, as it stands, is likely to be popular; and I will confess it does not seem to me to promise a very extensive sale, because the subject is unfortunate, for the world is weary of Scripture sub

jects. The poem is too long for general readers; and in this age of sentimental romance and extravagant adventure, it would scarcely repay you any large price which its genuine merits might induce you to hazard. The author 'may be fairly assured, that he can write good poetry; and that he only wants a little attention to the spirit of the day, to write popular and profitable poems.

I am, your's, &c.

GEORGE CROLY."

SIR,

To Mr. P. St. Clements, Strand.

THE poem you sent for my opinion is a sublime story, and it is described with a power and felicity not easy to be rivalled. But some critics, I suspect, will conclude it to be too long, too sombre, and that it exhibits more of the fruits of serious observation, than vividness of creative fancy. It seems clear to me, that had the good things with which it abounds been condensed a little more, and certain superfluities, which it is not without, been lopped off, it would probably have formed the very best epic poem extant. But as it is, it sometimes occasions a sense of weariness, united to some flattened and cumbrous lines, which makes one inclined to skip a page or two; although dreading the loss of those beauties which spring up as it were spontaneously, and often unexpectedly, throughout the work.

The sale for some years will be dull, but ultimately it will be read and admired in spite of the critics; and on this principle, that time will lead to the discovery of those numerous isolated beauties, with which each book abounds.

I am at a loss to think why the author has not revised it with more care. I am no wordmonger; but there are a variety of verbal errors, which should be corrected with care. You have my genuine opinion, such as you required, and it is for you to judge further and to act. I fear he has not hit the prevailing taste of the age, and that he had the virtue to write less from the desire of gain, than from the impulse of genius. I am, dear sir, Yours, &c.

Euston Square.

You will be rejoiced to learn that my poetic labours have been so flatteringly appreciated in London, and that my journey is likely to prove so very advantageous. But till the arrival of the corrected copy from Weymouth, nothing decisive can be done.

Remember me to little Edwin and my dear mother, and believe me, dear Maria,

Yours affectionately,

VOL. III.

SYLVATICUS.

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LETTER LXXXIII.

DEAR MARIA,

London.

I HAVE most heart-cheering news to tell you. On the arrival of the corrected copy, it was shown to other critical friends of Mr. P. in town, who highly approved of the alterations and additions ; and he immediately offered me very handsome terms, which I accepted, and entered into a written engagement to let him be the publisher of all my future works. A very handsome edition, printed by Bensley, is to be speedily brought out, and permission has been obtained for me to dedicate it to His Royal Highness the Duke of Sussex. Dearest Maria, is not this a triumph at last; a great reward, a noble recompense for all the cruel neglect, the toil, the contempt, and the sufferings I have endured. I am encouraged to believe that the reviewers, though they took no notice of my first edition, will do me every justice now that the work is brought out in London, and under the high auspices of royal patronage. The deep night of darkness,

want, and misery, is past; and all to come will now be brightness and happiness. I have no words whereby to express my joy; you, who have so cheerfully shared with me the bitterness of the past, can only fully appreciate this triumph of my success, and partake of the transport I experience.

I am pleased to find that the school has increased in my absence. You may expect me at the hermitage in a few days. Till then, dear Maria, adieu.

3

Yours ever affectionately,

SYLVATICUS.