Blackwood's Edinburgh Magazine, Volume 59, No. 368, June 1846   By: Various

Blackwood's Edinburgh Magazine, Volume 59, No. 368, June 1846 provides readers with a fascinating glimpse into the literary and cultural landscape of the mid-19th century. The collection of essays, fiction, and poetry offers a diverse range of perspectives and voices, showcasing the talent and creativity of writers from the era. From thought-provoking political commentary to imaginative storytelling, this volume is sure to captivate and engage readers with its rich and varied content. Whether you are a history buff, literary enthusiast, or simply looking for a good read, this magazine is a must-have addition to any bookshelf.

First Page:

One of the most striking distinctions of English public life from that of the Continent, is in the condition of statesmen after their casual retirement from power. The Foreign statesman seems to exist only in office. The moment that sees him "out of place," sees him extinguished. He is lost as suddenly to the public eye, as if he were carried to the tomb of his ancestors. He retires to his country seat, and there subsides into the garrulous complainant against the caprices of fortune, or buries his calamities in the quiet indulgence of his appetites; smokes away his term of years, subsides into the lean and slippered pantaloon, occupies his studies with the Court Gazette , and his faculties with cards; and is finally deposited in the family vault, to continue the process of mouldering which had been begun in his arm chair, to be remembered only in an epitaph. France, at the present day, alone seems to form an exception. Her legislature affords a new element in which statesmanship in abeyance can still float: the little vessel is there at least kept in view of mankind; if it makes no progress, it at least keeps above water; and, however incapable of reaching the port by its own means, the fluctuations of the national surge, sometimes so powerful, and always so contemptuous of calculation, may at some time or other carry the craziest craft into harbour... Continue reading book >>