John Callcott Horsley, The Waiting Maid
A baronet’s stepdaughter runs away to be a lady’s maid.
For Aïdé, see Novels 076, 176, and 236.
“Mr. Aïdé’s forte lies in character. Among all . . . there is not one which is exaggerated on the one hand or indistinct on the other”; the novel shows his “knowledge of the world, and his sympathy with the more hidden qualities and feelings of human nature. . . . When, united with this delicate observation and this power of drawing character, there is a clear and incisive style, we have much for which to be grateful in these days of false psychology and questionable grammar.” Saturday Review, April 22, 1871
“An admirable little miniature painting, with no dreary padding; one of the most taking little stories we have read for many months past.” Spectator, May 6, 1871
A contrasting view:
“It indicates no great fertility of imagination, nor any remarkable insight into character. If it has few merits, its demerits are also trifling.” Athenaeum, April 15, 1871
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