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James MacDonell, Journalist
By W. Robertson Nicoll, M.A. (1889) (pdf)
PREFATORY NOTE
THE object of this volume
is sufficiently explained in the opening chapter. As this is probably
the first book of its kind, I have had no precedent to follow. It is
obvious that many difficult and critical questions present themselves to
a biographer with such a subject, and that he is also not without
temptations. But I have done my best to act with scrupulous regard for
the great traditions of English journalism, to violate no confidence, to
insert nothing that would give pain, to write the life of James
Macdonell in something of the spirit it was lived in. My obligations to
his surviving friends and correspondents are many, and cannot fully be
acknowledged here. Without the unwearied help of his wife this book
could never have been written. Of several chapters (viii. xi.
especially) she is virtually the author, and in almost every page her
influence is to be traced. Miss Margaret A. Macdonell has given the most
generous and valuable aid, especially in writing the story of her
brother's early days. Mr. H. Gilzean Eeid, President of the Institute of
Journalists, has, in the kindest manner, put into my hands the larger
part of his long and confidential correspondence with Mr. Macdonell, and
has besides favoured me with many helpful suggestions. Mrs. John
Macdonell wrote for me a very interesting paper of reminiscences. My
friend Professor Minto of Aberdeen sent me a very useful letter on Mr.
Macdonell as a journalist. I have also to acknowledge the kindness of
Dr. Alexander of Aberdeen, and other correspondents. It is hardly
needful to say that for any errors of judgment or fact I alone am
responsible.
December 9th, 1889. |
