CHAPTER II
MARIE CORELLI'S CHILDHOOD—EARLY INFLUENCES—LITERARY BEGINNINGS—THE MACKAYS—FATHER AND SON
In explanation of an unannounced and unexpected
afternoon visit in 1890, Mr. W. E. Gladstone
said: "I came because I was curious to see for
myself the personality of a young woman who
could write so courageously and well, and in whose
work I recognize a power working for good, and
eminently calculated to sway the thoughts of the
people."
Such were the veteran statesman's words—well remembered by a friend of the novelist's who was present at that eventful meeting.
This young woman was Marie Corelli, the novelist, whom so many lesser men have abused, because, unlike Gladstone, they have not studied her work, or have done so only with the determination to find fault.
The baby girl for whom so distinguished a career was destined, was adopted, when but three months old, by Dr. Charles Mackay, that excellent journalist, poet, song writer, and author. The love be-
