The fact is, neither she nor
any of us expected that view to be taken of the book which has been
taken by some critics. That it had faults of execution, faults of
art, was obvious, but faults of intention or feeling could be
suspected by none who knew the writer. For my own part, I consider
the subject unfortunately chosen--it was one the author was not
qualified to handle at once vigorously and truthfully. The simple
and natural--quiet description and simple pathos are, I think, Acton
Bell's forte. I liked _Agnes Grey_ better than the present work.
'Permit me to caution you not to speak of my sisters when you write
to me. I mean, do not use the word in the plural. Ellis Bell will
not endure to be alluded to under any other appellation than the _nom
de plume_. I committed a grand error in betraying his identity to
you and Mr. Smith. It was inadvertent--the words, "we are three
sisters" escaped me before I was aware. I regretted the avowal the
moment I had made it; I regret it bitterly now, for I find it is
against every feeling and intention of Ellis Bell.
'I was greatly amused to see in the _Examiner_ of this week one of
Newby's little cobwebs neatly swept away by some dexterous brush. If
Newby is not too old to profit by experience, such an exposure ought
to teach him that "Honesty is indeed the best policy.
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