Page:Sarah Sheppard - L. E. L.pdf/19

 observation, did it not glitter beneath a sunbeam's touch; so gems of intellectual worth and beauty, that had been perhaps carelessly overlooked, shone forth as newly-discovered treasures beneath the brilliant light of L. E. L.'s appreciation.

To her favourable opinions of the works of her contemporaries, Miss Landon ever gave free and generous expression. Writing to a young author, she observes: "Criticism never yet benefited a really original mind; such a mind macadamizes its own road." Jealousy seemed utterly opposed to her nature. In the petty rivalries which sometimes disturb the outer-court worshippers of the Muses, she ever disdained to take part, except in vindication of a friend. Her disposition was peculiarly disinterested, kindly and generous; she never paused to think of her own interest when others required any assistance which she could bestow.