A letter containing remarks on Abbott’s Corner Stone by the Rev’d George Scott on reading a review in the Christian Lady’s Magazine when it was severely critical [manuscript caption title].


Fair copy of a letter reacting to a critical review of American writer, educator, and Congregational clergyman Jacob Abbott’s book The Corner-Stone (1834). The review appeared in the London women’s periodical, The Christian Lady’s Magazine.¹ Abbott is best-known for his juvenile books, especially the 28-volume “Rollo Series.”

The author of the letter, Rev. George Scott, Rector of Balteagh, author of A Protest Against Tractarianism… [etc.], a critic of the Oxford Movement, writes that “it was with surprise and pain I read the review…”, later adding “...you may conceive then how I was astounded by the remarks…of the reviewer.” It is apparent that Scott had carefully read Abbott’s book and can effectively engage both with Abbott and his “uncharitable” reviewer.

The letter refers in some measure to the theological doctrines of the Godhead with some mention of the “Consolation of the Spirit” and “the atonement of Christ.” At face value, Scott’s letter would appear to have been intended for publication; we cannot source its origin if so.

“...The Corner Stone (1834), raised considerable outcry in quarters hostile to Unitarianism, especially in England, where Abbott’s emphasis upon practical Christianity was mistakenly thought to cover Arian leanings. The book even became the subject of one of the famous Oxford Tracts for the Times by J. H. Newman, although, after their meeting in the course of Abbott’s first trip to Europe in 1843, the two men became cordial friends. In later editions of The Corner Stone Abbott changed certain equivocal passages to prevent further misapprehension of his views, which were substantially those of the more liberal Evangelicals of his period.” (DAB)


Description: A letter containing remarks on Abbott’s Corner Stone by the Rev’d George Scott on reading a review in the Christian Lady’s Magazine when it was severely critical [manuscript caption title].

[Np, possibly Civil Parish of Balteagh, Co. Londonderry, Ireland. c.1834]. [4]pp. Fair Copy of a Letter. Sm. 4to. Bifolium. Folds; Near Fine.

[3729933]

Note: 1. Elizabeth, ed. The Christian Lady’s Magazine, Vol. II. July to December MDCCCXXXIV (London, 1834), p552ff.


Price: $125.00

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