Since we left Aberdeen, from which place my last was mailed, we have visited in Edinburgh with abounding delight; thence yesterday to Newcastle. Last night attended service in Durham Cathedral, and after that came to York, whence we send Henry to Liverpool.
I send you letters, etc., by him. One hundred thousand copies of “Dred” sold in four weeks! After that who cares what critics say? Its success in England has been complete, so far as sale is concerned. It is very bitterly attacked, both from a literary and a religious point of view. The “Record” is down upon it with a cartload of solemnity; the “Athenaeum” with waspish spite; the “Edinburgh” goes out of its way to say that the author knows nothing of the society she describes; but yet it goes everywhere, is read everywhere, and Mr. Low says that he puts the hundred and twenty-fifth thousand to press confidently. The fact that so many good judges like it better than “Uncle Tom” is success enough.
In my journal to Henry, which you may look for next week, you will learn how I have been very near the Queen, and formed acquaintance with divers of her lords and ladies, and heard all she has said about “Dred ;” how she prefers it to Uncle Tom, how she inquired for you, and other matters.
Till then, I am, as ever, your affectionate wife,
