Text: C. F. Briggs (?), Literary, Broadway Journal (New York), April 26, 1845, vol. 1, no. 17, p. ??

[page 267, column 2:]

Frankenstein, by Mrs. Shelley; and Midshipman Easy, by Captain Marryatt,

Form Nos. 1 and 2 of a new Library of Standard Novels, the publication of which has just been begun by Henry G. Daggers, 30 Ann street, on the cheap system; in respect of which the editor, Mr. Benjamin, very justly remarks, in the prospectus: “There is certainly no reason in the nature of things why a novel should be more harmless when printed in a costly and elegant style, than when issued so as to render it obtainable by the poor as well as the rich, by the laboring as well as the idle. Nevertheless there may be, and doubtless is, some force in the objections to cheap literature, based on the fact that the system has been abused. This, however, should not cause any reader to reject, but simply to discriminate. Before purchasing, even at the most paltry prices, he should look at the name of the editor or publisher, and, if either be a man of fair standing, give him the benefit of it; his goods should be considered with as much discrimination as those of a manufacturer, and his stamp should pass as current with the public.”

It is greatly to be deplored that publishers are too seldom influenced by any other motives in putting forth books, than mercenary considerations, but hooks should not be regarded as mere merchandise, and no publisher should allow his name to appear on a book of pernicious tendencies, who wishes to preserve the character of a good citizen, or establish himself in a profitable business. The most successful publishers of cheap books, are the Chambers, of Edinburgh, who have never, in any instance pandered to the base feelings of our nature, by the issue of improper books, or sought to gain popularity by any species of trickery or meretricious show. Their eminent success should embolden other publishers to imitate their example.

The books which Mr. Daggers has selected for the initials of his series are unexceptionable of their kind, and they are of a kind which will always be popular while there is a love for the marvelous in the human mind.