Text: N. P. Willis (?), Notice of Cheever, Pilgrim's Progress, Evening Mirror (New York), December 28, 1844, vol. 1, no. 71, p. 2, col. 2

[page 2, column 2, continued:]

THE PILGRIM’S PROGRESS: Wiley & Putnam. — This book is identified alike with our language and our religion. It is read by all ages, by all classes; it is read again and again. It is one of those books of which we never tire, and which every one aims to possess. Perhaps no book ever needed less a commentary of a key; for all can understand it: and yet these have been written for it, — but alas! how inappropriate and ungraceful! Since the simple discourses of Christ, enlivened by every striking and touching form of illustration, were given, Christian doctrine has been presented in dry, stately and didactic forms. “The Pilgrim's Progress” restored the ancient simplicity and plainness. Instead of the oppressive dogmatism of catechisms, we have here a beautiful dramatic representation of the Christian life. Now the commentaries in question, as if they could not endure any thing like nature and child-like truth, have only served to turn ‘The Pilgrim's Progress’ back again into dogmatic form.

Mr. Cheever's book is of a widely different character. After an introductory portion, in which we have ‘The Life and Times of Bunyan’ served up with great spirit and clearness, he proceeds in a course of easy, familiar discussion and exquisitely beautiful lectures, to enlarge upon, and apply the vivid allegories of Bunyan, but without changing their allegorical character. He seems to have gotten into his quaint and picturesque style. His lectures are like spontaneous outgushing meditations which he cannot repress, and which seem born under the inspiration of the allegory. It is long since a book in such form, taste and keeping, and of such deep and heartfelt interest and beauty, has been produced. He who loves “The Pilgrim's Progress,” will feel inclined to place this volume beside it as its natural and faithful companion.

The manner in which the work has been got up, is worthy of all praise. Fine paper, large print, and a selection of the best English engravings, are all combined. To this we must add that it has been bound up in embossed cloth and elegant morocco, in the style of the annuals. It is, therefore, altogether adapted to the holiday season. Nothing, scarcely, more beautiful or more valuable could be selected as a gift of friendship or affection.