'
It has been seen from one of Harvey's letters that
the _Faerie Queene_ was already begun in 1580; and from
what Bryskett says, and what Spenser says himself in
his sonnets to Lord Grey, and to Lord Ormond, that it
was proceeded with after the poet had passed over to
Ireland. By the close of the year 1589 at least three
books were completely finished. Probably enough parts
of other books had been written; but only three were
entirely ready for publication. No doubt part of the
conversation that passed between Spenser and Raleigh
related to Spenser's work. It may be believed that
what was finished was submitted to Raleigh's judgment,
and certainly concluded that it elicited his warmest
approval.{8} One great object that Spenser proposed to
himself when he assented to Raleigh's persuasion to
visit England, was the publication of the first three
books of his _Faerie Queene_.
Footnotes
---------
{1} One might quote of these poets, and those of a like
spirit, Wordsworth's lines on 'the Characteristics
of a Child three years old,' for in the respect
therein mentioned, as in others, these poets are
'as little children:'
As a faggot sparkles on the hearth,
Not less if unattended and alone,
Than when both young and old sit gathered round,
And take delight in its activity;
_Even so this happy creature of herself
Is all-sufficient; Solitude to her
Is blithe society, who fills the air
With gladness and involuntary songs.
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