NOTES.--1. Mr. Squeers is represented as an ignorant, brutal teacher, many
of whom were to be found in Yorkshire, England, at the time of this story.


Nicholas Nickleby is a well-educated, refined young man, who has just
obtained the position of assistant teacher, not knowing Squeers's true
character.

6. Smike is a poor scholar, disowned by his parents, and made almost
idiotic by harsh treatment.

The novel from which this story is abridged, aided greatly in a
much-needed reform in the Yorkshire schools; and the character of Squeers
was so true to life, that numerous suits were threatened against Mr.
Dickens by those who thought themselves caricatured.



LXXIX. THE GIFT OF EMPTY HANDS.

Mrs. S. M. B. Piatt (b, 1835,--) was born near Lexington, Ky. While still
a young girl she began to write poetry, which was well received. In 1861
she was married to the poet John James Piatt. Mrs. Piatt's poetry is
marked by tender pathos, thoughtfulness, and musical flow of rhythm. The
following selection is from "That New World."

1. They were two princes doomed to death;
Each loved his beauty and his breath:
"Leave us our life and we will bring
Fair gifts unto our lord, the king."