Though these two books, upon which we bestowed much anxious care, were very highly appreciated by the press generally, and still more highly by the art-loving world, the public, unfortunately, did not respond so enthusiastically as we had expected, and, as a large debt had by this time been incurred, all further progress in the scheme was abandoned.
Amongst much interesting work in which we were associated with Ward & Lock, was a very charming edition of "The Pilgrim's Progress," containing 100 beautiful pictures, drawn entirely by Thomas Dalziel—thus adding another to the many editions of this wonderful book which we had been called upon to embellish.
Our connection with Messrs. Ward & Lock continued for many years after "The Arabian Nights" transaction had terminated.
It was through an introduction by G. J. Pinwell that we first met J. W. North. He began as a pupil of J. W. Whymper, in whose studio he made many small drawings, most of which were modelled on the works of Birket Foster. North said that all the art teaching he ever got at Whymper's was that when a subject was given him, a print of one of Foster's was placed before him, with instructions to make his drawing in that manner. We were struck, not only with the earnestness of his method, but the beautiful drawing and his sweet simplicity of style. But it is a fact that publishers generally did not care for his work, and, broadly speaking, all the drawings he did for us were in the form of commissions given direct by ourselves, and at our own risk. Most certainly we have nothing to regret in this; for in different forms he gave us some of the finest English landscapes that have been produced in black and white. Amongst the most important are those which we placed in our "Round of Days," in "Home Thoughts," and in "Jean Ingelow's Poems." And whatever reputation North may have gained in other branches of art, we feel assured that these early works will form no small part of that distinction.
"Silent they stood, each gazing on the dust
Of kindred;—on the well-beloved ones
Whom they should never lie beside in slumber."
"The Exiles of Glen Oona."—Robert Buchanan.
By William Small.