Life of Alexander H. Stevens. By Richard Malcom Johnston and William Hard Browne. Philadelphia: J. B. Lippincott & Co.
We are indebted to the publishers for a copy of this beautifully gotten up book, which, in paper, printing and binding, is in the usual style of the work of this famous house.
The literary execution of the book is admirable. Mr. Johnston has been for years an intimate friend of Mr. Stephens, and has had some peculiar advantages in gathering material for a true picture of the inner life of the “great commoner.” Mr. Browne has added his fine literary taste and skill, and the book is one of deep interest — indeed, a charming specimen of biography. The extracts from Mr. Stephens' private letters, diaries and conversations, as well as from his public speeches, enhance the value of the book.
Mr. Stephens' long public career, his unquestioned ability, and his high character give a certain degree of importance to his utterances. But each one must, of course, judge for himself as to the correctness of many of his opinions and acts. We do not here pass upon them at all.
