Eminent English liberals in and out of Parliament

THESE biographic sketches of "Eminent English Liberals" appeared in the old country shortly before the fall of the Beaconsfield administration.

That event fulfilled the hopes and anticipations of the writer so completely, that, in preparing this edition for the American press, he has deemed it inexpedient to alter the original text in almost any particular. The only important change effected is one of name: "Liberal" has been substituted for "Radical" on the title-page to avoid possible misinterpretation. Truly regarded, Americans and Englishmen form but one mighty people, moved by common instincts and identical interests. Especially ought the great contemporary thinkers and doers of both countries to be made common property; and, should this volume contribute in some little measure towards so desirable an end, its primary object will have been attained.

Union Club, Boston,
September, 1880.

THESE brief sketches of eminent Radicals were originally contributed to the London "Weekly Dispatch."

They were each written at a single spell, and it was not at first intended that they should be republished.

They, however, attracted an attention gratifying to me in proportion to its unexpectedness.

Many brother journalists and several distinguished members of the legislature, whose judgment I was bound to respect, urged reproduction. Hence this volume, which owes much to the enterprise of the publishers.

As regards the sketches themselves, their chief merit, if they have any, consists in this, that they have not been "written to order," but express as nearly as possible the sentiments of the writer regarding twenty-four representative Radicals, with most of whom he is personally acquainted.

These "Men of the Left" I regard as the salt of our ​political world. Nevertheless, I can say with truth, that, if I have set down nothing in malice, neither have I consciously extenuated in aught.

To complete the roll of eminent Radicals, at least a score of other honorable names ought to be added. "There be of them that have left a name behind them, that their praises might be reported. And some there be that have no memorial; but these also were merciful men, whose righteousness shall not be forgotten. With their seed shall remain a good inheritance, and their glory shall not be blotted out. The people will tell of their wisdom, and the congregation will show forth their praise."

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