4/11 A scholar with great linguistic qualifications for writing the biography of an author whose knowledge of languages was one of his titles to fame, Dr. Starting with an article in _The Chautauquan Magazine_ in 1887, which was reprinted in pamphlet form, Dr.Knapp came to England--to Norwich--and there settled down to write a _Life_ of Borrow, which promised at one time to develop into several volumes. As well it might, for Dr.Knapp reached Norfolk at a happy moment for his purpose. Mrs.MacOubrey, Borrow's stepdaughter, was in the humour to sell her father's manuscripts and books. They were offered to the city of Norwich; there was some talk of Mr.Jeremiah Coleman, M.P., whose influence and wealth were overpowering in Norwich at the time, buying them. |