A few years subsequent to the publication of Knickerbocker, Mr. Irving visited England, or the “land of wonders,” as he facetely terms our favoured isle.  During his stay, he wrote a series of papers, illustrative of English manners, which were chiefly printed in America.  These papers were afterwards published in a collected form, in England, under the title of “The Sketch-Book of Geoffrey Crayon, Gent.” and dedicated to Sir Walter Scott, “in testimony of the admiration and affection of the author.”  In the advertisement to the Sketch-Book, Mr. Irving thus modestly refers to its origin: 

“The author is aware of the austerity with which the writings of his countrymen have hitherto been treated by British critics:  he is conscious too, that much of the contents of his papers can be interesting only in the eyes of American readers.  It was not his intention, therefore, to have them reprinted in this country.  He has, however, observed several of them from time to time inserted in periodical works of merit, and has understood that it was probable they would be republished in a collective form.  He has been induced, therefore, to revise and bring them forward himself, that they may at least come correctly before the public.  Should they be deemed of sufficient importance to attract the attention of critics, he solicits for them that courtesy and candour which a stranger has some right to claim, who presents himself at the threshold of a hospitable nation.”

Mr. Irving’s solicitations were not made in vain, as the rapid sale of several editions must have convinced him; while every journalist in the empire hailed the work as the most beautiful specimen of Transatlantic talent which had been recognised in this country.

The two volumes of the Sketch-Book appeared at different periods; and, at the conclusion of the second, we find the following apologetic postscript:  “The author is conscious of the numerous faults and imperfections of his work; and, well aware how little he is disciplined and accomplished in the arts of authorship.  His deficiencies are also increased by a diffidence arising from his peculiar situation.  He finds himself writing in a strange land, and appearing before a public, which he has been accustomed, from childhood, to regard with the highest feelings of awe and reverence.  He is full of solicitude to secure their approbation, yet finds that very solicitude continually embarrassing his powers, and depriving him of that ease and confidence which are necessary to successful exertion.  Still the kindness with which he is treated encourages him to go on, hoping that, in time, he may acquire a steadier footing; and thus he proceeds, half venturing, half shrinking, surprised at his own good fortune, and wondering at his own temerity.”