the experience of reading in Britain, from 1450 to 1945...

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George Payne Rainsford James : novels

Elizabeth Barrett to Mary Russell Mitford, 13 July 1843: 'I like the spirit & courteous goodness of Mr James's books [...] I believe I have read almost everyone [sic] of his books .. either when I was ill or when I was well. They have much of what Chaucer calls "gentilesse" .. if not much passion & imagination -- and his scenic descriptions are admirable. I do not know better books for an invalid -- although the author may not be pleased with my reason for saying so -- viz that they seldom make the heart beat.'

Century: 1800-1849     Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Barrett      Print: Book

George Payne Rainsford James : novels

Elizabeth Barrett to Richard Hengist Horne, 5-6 January 1844: '[George Payne Rainsford James] is a picturesque writer [...] Often when I have been very unwell, I have been able to read his books with advantage, when I cd not read better ones. You may read him from end to end without a superfluous beat of the heart -- & they are just the sort of intellectual diet fitted for persons "ordered to be kept quiet" by their physicians [...] I am grateful to Mr James for many a still serene hour.'

Century: 1800-1849     Reader/Listener/Group: Elizabeth Barrett      Print: Book

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