3-011-705 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

The late Mr. James Sheridan Knowles, 1862. Portrait of...one of the best dramatic writers of his time, was...a cousin-german of the Right Hon. Richard Brinsley Sheridan...Mr. Knowles's prominent career as a dramatic writer may be said to have begun with his play of "Brian Boroihme,"...Worn out by the constant labour of [his] works, Mr. Knowles's health became impaired; nor were his circumstances all that could be wished. Sir Robert Peel came to the rescue, and a Government pension of £200 a year was the result. Subsequent to this Mr. Knowles took again to elocution, and lectured on Shakspeare and the Greek drama. He also...contributed to the Sunday Times. He was appointed Curator of Shakspeare's house at Stratford. In later years Mr. Knowles adopted a new and, for him, singular part - viz., that of an itinerant preacher...Yet, whatever may be thought of the latter period of his existence, there is no doubt that in his demise, which has just occurred, the public lose a very worthy man and an author whose works will hold high rank among the standard dramatists of this country'. From "Illustrated London News", 1862.