Some Eccentrics & a Woman

"Some Eccentrics & a Woman" by Lewis Melville is a collection of essays published in the early 20th century. This work delves into the lives of several eccentric figures predominantly from the 18th century, showcasing their contributions to society and the amusing quirks that defined their characters. Key personalities explored include the notorious Sir John Lade, Colonel George Hanger, and Sir Lumley Skeffington, each illuminating the extravagant lifestyles and cultural dynamics of their time. The opening of the collection begins with a fascinating examination of George, Prince of Wales, and his circle of unconventional companions like Charles James Fox and Sir John Lade. Melville characterizes the prince as a young man seeking validation among those who mirrored his own erratic behavior. As the narrative unfolds, it sketches the vivid portraits of these men about town—often reckless and extravagant—revealing both their follies and the societal norms that surrounded them. Through engaging anecdotes and historical reflections, Melville paints a colorful picture of a time marked by extravagance and eccentricity, inviting the reader into the lively world of 18th-century British high society. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Lewis Saul Benjamin was an English author, born into a Jewish family in London, England and educated privately in England and Germany. From 1896 to 1901 he was known as an actor, though part of his time even then was devoted to literature. His publications include:The Life of William Makepeace Thackeray In the World of Mimes: A Theatrical Novel (1902) The Thackeray Country (1905) Victorian Novelists (1906) The First Gentleman of England Bath under Beau Nash (1907) The Beau of the Regency (1908) King Edward VII: His Life & Reign. The Record of a Noble Career The Life and Letters of Laurence Sterne The Life and Letters of William Cobbett An edition of Thackeray's works