Of those equally well executed the tragic will, I suppose, make the greater impression." Crabbe was right in this forecast.

Whether more or less in number, the "tragic" Tales far surpass the "lighter" in their effect on the reader, in the intensity of their gloom.

Such stories as that of _Lady Barbara, Delay has Danger, The Sisters, Ellen, Smugglers and Poachers_, Richard's story of _Ruth_, and the elder brother's account of his own early attachment, with its miserable sequel--all these are of a poignant painfulness.

Human crime, error, or selfishness working life-long misery to others--this is the theme to which Crabbe turns again and again, and on which he bestows a really marvellous power of analysis.

There is never wanting, side by side with these, what Crabbe doubtless believed to be the compensating presence of much that is lovable in human character, patience, resignation, forgiveness.