translators, and imitators of Shakespeare; the unities may be
preserved, while the spirit is evaporated. However, I ventured to
attempt it; I read the beginning to a circle of friends of approved
judgment, and by their approbation was encouraged to proceed, and to
finish it.





THE OLD ENGLISH BARON: A GOTHIC STORY.



In the minority of Henry the Sixth, King of England, when the renowned
John, Duke of Bedford was Regent of France, and Humphrey, the good Duke
of Gloucester, was Protector of England, a worthy knight, called Sir
Philip Harclay, returned from his travels to England, his native
country. He had served under the glorious King Henry the Fifth with
distinguished valour, had acquired an honourable fame, and was no less
esteemed for Christian virtues than for deeds of chivalry. After the
death of his prince, he entered into the service of the Greek emperor,
and distinguished his courage against the encroachments of the
Saracens. In a battle there, he took prisoner a certain gentleman, by
name M. Zadisky, of Greek extraction, but brought up by a Saracen
officer; this man he converted to the Christian faith; after which he
bound him to himself by the ties of friendship and gratitude, and he
resolved to continue with his benefactor. After thirty years travel and
warlike service, he determined to return to his native land, and to
spend the remainder of his life in peace; and, by devoting himself to