Henry Festing Jones

Henry Festing Jones
Henry Festing Jones (1851–1928) was an English writer and close friend of Samuel Butler, the renowned author of "Erewhon." Jones is best known for his biography of Butler, titled "The Life of Samuel Butler," which offers a detailed and intimate look into Butler's life and works. In addition to his biographical work, Jones wrote travel essays, including "The Note-Books of Samuel Butler," and explored themes of philosophy and art. His writings reflect a deep understanding of Butler's intellectual legacy and provide insights into their shared interests and collaborations.

Author's Books:


PREFACE It is probable that every book contains, besides misprints, some statements which the author would be glad to modify if he could.  In Chapter V of Diversions in Sicily it is stated that the seating arrangements of the marionette theatre in Catania would be condemned by the County Council, which I believe to be correct, but, on visiting the theatre since, I find I was wrong in saying that there... more...

CHAPTER I—THE BRIGADIER AND THE LOTTERY One wet Saturday evening in May I found myself at Castelvetrano consulting Angelo, the guide, about the weather.  His opinion was that it would clear up during the night; I said that if it did we would go to Selinunte, and this confirmed his view; so, on the understanding that there was to be no rain, I appointed him padrone of the expedition and promised to... more...

Samuel Butler: A Sketch Samuel Butler was born on the 4th December, 1835, at the Rectory, Langar, near Bingham, in Nottinghamshire.  His father was the Rev. Thomas Butler, then Rector of Langar, afterwards one of the canons of Lincoln Cathedral, and his mother was Fanny Worsley, daughter of John Philip Worsley of Arno’s Vale, Bristol, sugar-refiner.  His grandfather was Dr. Samuel Butler, the... more...