The Cricket on the Hearth, 1846.The next Christmas story, "The Cricket on the Hearth," contains three illustrations by Doyle, one for each chapter, as before. The first really comprises two distinct subjects, separated by a quaintly-designed initial letter; in the upper drawing is seen John Peerybingle's cart on its journey, preceded by Boxer, while below we are presented with an ideal scene of domestic happiness, where John and Dot are seated before the fire in their humble home. The first page of "Chirp the Second" contains a capital picture of Caleb Plummer and his blind daughter Bertha, busily at work among the toys; in the last design, illustrating the opening lines of "Chirp the Third," the honest carrier is observed reclining his head upon his hand in silent grief, while comforting spirits hover around him.
The Battle of Life, 1846.Dickens's fourth Christmas Book, "The Battle of Life," includes three designs by Doyle, which are also introduced as embellishments of the initial pages of the different chapters. They are much bolder in treatment, however, than the artist's earlier drawings, and do not possess the artistic charm appertaining to his illustrations in "The Cricket on the Hearth." The most successful are the vignette subjects at the top of each page, which are charming little studies.
It is unfortunate that no original sketches for these illustrations are available for reproduction. A member of the artist's family declares that they were dispersed, principally as gifts to friends, and that their present destination is unknown.
On December 10, 1883, Richard Doyle was struck down by apoplexy as he was quitting the Athenæum Club, and died on the following day. Thus passed away not only one of the most graceful limners of Fairyland that England has produced, but one who will long be remembered for his many noble qualities of heart and mind.
Plate XLIX
CLARKSON STANFIELD, R.A.
From a Photograph
Lent by Mr. Field Stanfield.