FOR REFERENCE
"Essays in Criticism."—Arnold.
"Marcus Aurelius and the Later Stoics."—Bussell.
"Seekers after God."—Farrar.
"Glimpses of Truth."—Spalding.
"Excursions in Art and Letters."—Story.
FRANCIS BACON
(1561–1626)
Francis Bacon was born three years before his great contemporary, William Shakespeare, but survived him many years. He was born in high station and had every educational advantage which the times afforded. He was the nephew of William Cecil, Elizabeth's great minister, and, entering public life, himself became the favorite minister of James I and Lord High Chancellor of England. But his character was not in keeping with his literary merits and ability. He was venal and corrupt, took bribes as a judge and sold justice for a price. He has been called the wisest and meanest of mankind.