Page:Marie Corelli - the writer and the woman (IA mariecorelliwrit00coat).pdf/82

 mysteries of the unseen world, and I look forward to some interesting speculations from your enquiring mind."

Various passages in other letters testify to Mr. Bentley's genuine appreciation of the book. "A clever lady, a great friend of mine whose opinion I value, is charmed with 'Thelma.' This lady was a friend of Guizot, is a keen critic, and hates our modern novels." And again: "There is a rich imagery in 'Thelma,' which makes me believe you capable of becoming our first novelist, and there is a versatility which bodes well But God sends what is best for His children—may His best be for you!"

"Thelma" is, in truth, for some considerable way through its numerous pages, a very pretty story: by many readers, as has been said, it is counted Miss Corelli's best achievement, albeit the authoress, in her heart of hearts, sets "Ardath" above everything that has come from her pen.

"Thelma" is quaintly unorthodox from its very start, for the two principal characters meet each other in the unconventional manner so dear to the heart of the romance-lover. A wave-lapped beach, at midnight, in the Land of the Midnight Sun—a handsome English aristocrat—a wonderful maid, who can claim direct descent from the old Vikings*