[4] Besides the prefaces here referred to, Mr. G. Bernard Shaw has at various times written other articles on the subject.--(V. T.)
[5] It should be borne in mind that this letter was written before Mr. G. B. Shaw had seen the essay in question, by Tolstoy, now published in this volume.--(V. T.)
"No one will peruse a page without laying down the book a better and a wiser man."--_Dundee Courier._
This work contains twenty-six essays and letters (many published for the first time) belonging to the last fifteen years of Tolstoy's career, the period in which he has devoted himself exclusively to humanitarian labors. Therefore each has a definite altruistic purpose. In the letters in particular we have, in the words of the translator, "Tolstoy's opinions in application to certain definite conditions. They thus help to bridge the gulf between theory and practise."
"The subjects are varied, and present Tolstoy's well-known views in his always forceful manner."--_The Outlook._
"It contains the Russian philosopher and philanthropist's best thought, and furnishes considerable insight into his wonderful personality."--_The Mirror, St. Louis._
"For those who wish to be well instructed in Tolstoyana this handy little book will be invaluable."--_Brooklyn Eagle._
"These essays form an admirable introduction to Tolstoy's philosophy."--_Western Daily Mercury_, Plymouth, Eng.
12mo, Cloth, 372 pp. Price, $1.00, post-paid
FUNK & WAGNALLS COMPANY, Publishers NEW YORK and LONDON
This volume, a new translation by Louise and Aylmer Maude, contains Tolstoy's three great plays, together with the Russian folk-tale of which one of them is the dramatized version. It also includes a complete annotated and chronological list of Tolstoy's works of special helpfulness to all readers and students of the great Russian writer.
=The Power of Darkness=; or, If a Claw is Caught the Bird is Lost--A drama in five acts.
=The First Distiller=--A comedy in six acts.
=Fruits of Culture=--A comedy in four acts.
=The Imp and the Crust=--This is a Russian folk-tale, of which "The First Distiller" is the dramatized version.
To their literary merit Tolstoy's plays add the quality of being excellent acting dramas, as their success both in Russia and elsewhere has abundantly shown. Mr. Laurence Irving lately wrote: "I suppose England is the only country in Europe where 'The Power of Darkness' has not been acted. It ought to be done. It is a stupendous tragedy; the effect on the stage is unparalleled."