The author's _forte_ unquestionably lies in this species of
writing, and his "_Rank and Talent_" will, we think, bear us out in
this opinion. The story or canvass of the novel is simple, and well
prepared for his sketches and finished portraits of character. They
belong to fashionable and middle life, and the conceits and
eccentricities, as well as the straightforward integrity of their
stations are illustrated with peculiar force. Sound moral and knowledge
of the world are occasionally introduced with great tact, for the author
is no stranger to the inmost workings and recesses of the human heart;
and he adapts these lessons, and dovetails them with the narrative, in a
clever and agreeable style.
The outline of the story may be briefly told. The Hon. Philip Martindale
has an action brought against him, at the assizes, for the false
imprisonment of one Richard Smith, as a poacher; although the object of
the defendant was a beautiful girl residing with the defendant. Clara
Rivolta is rudely cross-examined as a witness; whilst the plaintiff's
case is conducted by Horatio Markham, an intelligent young barrister,
whose parents reside in the town where the action is tried. The cousin
of the defendant, Mr. John Martindale, an eccentric old gentleman who
builds an abbey for his titled relative to occupy, whilst he himself
lives in a cottage on the estate; seeks an acquaintance with Markham.
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