Yet still, as we said above, the Life of Bunyan is an interesting
work. How different the origin of all the sects and their founders,
from that of our sober, staid, and, we trust, permanent
establishment, and the learned and pious reformers from whom it
sprang!

But that for which we chiefly notice this work of Mr. Southey, is
the very last sentence in it, wherein is contained his frank and
honourable recommendation (though not more than they deserve) of the
works of one whom the iron hand of oppression would have levelled
with the dust:--

"In one of the volumes collected from various quarters, which were
sent to me for this purpose, I observe the name of W. Hone, and
notice it that I may take the opportunity of recommending his
_Every-Day Book_ and _Table Book_ to those who are interested in the
preservation of our national and local customs. By these very
curious publications their compiler has rendered good service in an
important department of literature; and he may render yet more, if
he obtain the encouragement which he well deserves."

Not only we, and the person mentioned in this paragraph, but all the
friends of pure English literature,--all the curious in old English
customs,--in short, all intelligent men, with the hearts of
Englishmen in them,--owe Mr. Southey their gratitude for this
recommendation: it springs from a just taste and right feeling
united.

Hone wrote to _The Times_ at once to thank both the paper and Southey
for the compliment. A few days later, on May 21, appeared an article in
_The Times_ containing correspondence between Hone and Southey. I quote
the introduction, again probably the work of Lamb, and Southey's letter
(see Lamb's letter to Hone below):--

We alluded some days ago to the handsome notice of Mr. Hone in Mr.
Southey's _Life of Bunyan_. The following correspondence has since
been sent to us: it displays in an advantageous light the modesty of
Mr. Hone and the amiable and candid disposition of Mr. Southey. The
business, wholly foreign to Mr. Hone's former pursuits, which is
alluded to in the letter, is explained in an advertisement in this
day's paper.

* * * * *

"To Mr. Hone, 13, Gracechurch-Street,

"Keswick, April 26.

"Sir,--Your letter has given me both pain and pleasure. I am sorry
to learn t