Page:The life of Charlotte Brontë (IA lifeofcharlotteb02gaskrich).pdf/62

 "I shall anxiously search the next number of 'Frazer' for your opinions on these points.—Believe me, dear Sir, yours gratefully, "C. ."

But while gratified by appreciation as an author, she was cautious as to the person from whom she received it for much of the value of the praise depended on the sincerity and capability of the person rendering it. Accordingly, she applied to Mr. Williams (a gentleman connected with her publishers' firm) for information as to who and what Mr. Lewes was. Her reply, after she had learnt something of the character of her future critic, and while awaiting his criticism, must not be omitted. Besides the reference to him, it contains some amusing allusions to the perplexity which began to be excited respecting the "identity of the brothers Bell," and some notice of the conduct of another publisher towards her sister, which I refrain from characterising, because I understand that truth is considered a libel in speaking of such people.

1em

"Dear Sir,—I have received the 'Britannia' and the 'Sun,' but not the 'Spectator,' which I rather regret, as censure, though not pleasant, is often wholesome.