Volume Iii Part 13 (1/2)

But sometimes, when expectation is awakened there about a book before its publication, one firm of pirates will pay a trifle to procure early proofs of it, and get so much the start of the rest as they can obtain by the time necessarily consumed in printing it. Directly it is printed it is common property, and may be reprinted a thousand times. My circular only referred to such bargains as these.

I should add that I have no hope of the States doing justice in this dishonest respect, and therefore do not expect to overtake these fellows, but we may cry ”Stop thief!” nevertheless, especially as they wince and smart under it.

Faithfully yours always.

[Sidenote: Mr. H. P. Smith.]

DEVONs.h.i.+RE TERRACE, _Thursday, July 14th, 1842._

MY DEAR SMITH,

The cheque safely received. As you say, it would be cheap at any money.

My devotion to the fine arts renders it impossible for me to cash it. I have therefore ordered it to be framed and glazed.

I am really grateful to you for the interest you take in my proceedings.

Next time I come into the City I will show you my introductory chapter to the American book. It may seem to prepare the reader for a much greater amount of slaughter than he will meet with; but it is honest and true. Therefore my hand does not shake.

Best love and regards. ”Certainly” to the Richmondian intentions.

Always faithfully your Friend.

[Sidenote: Mr. Harrison Ainsworth.]

BROADSTAIRS, KENT, _September 14th, 1842._

MY DEAR AINSWORTH,

The enclosed has been sent to me by a young gentleman in Devons.h.i.+re (of whom I know no more than that I have occasionally, at his request, read and suggested amendments in some of his writings), with a special pet.i.tion that I would recommend it to you for insertion in your magazine.

I think it very pretty, and I have no doubt you will also. But it is poetry, and may be too long.

He is a very modest young fellow, and has decided ability.

I hope when I come home at the end of the month, we shall foregather more frequently. Of course you are working, tooth and nail; and of course I am.

Kate joins me in best regards to yourself and all your house (not forgetting, but especially remembering, my old friend, Mrs. Touchet), and I am always,

My dear Ainsworth, Heartily yours.

[Sidenote: Mr. Henry Austin.]

BROADSTAIRS, _Sunday, September 25th, 1842._

MY DEAR HENRY,

I enclose you the Niagara letter, with many thanks for the loan of it.