Prose Masterpieces from Modern Essayists ...: The mutability of literature, by W. Irving. The world of books, by Leigh Hunt. Imperfect sympathies, by Charles Lamb. Conversation, by Thomas De Quincey. Petition of the Thugs for toleration, by W.S. Landor. The benefits of Parliament, by W.S. Landor. Fallacies of anti-reformers, by Sydney Smith. Nil nisi bonum, by W.M. Thackeray. Compensation, by R.W. Emerson. Sweetness and light, by Matthew Arnold. On popular culture, by John Morley