James Payn

James Payn
James Payn (1830–1898) was an English novelist and editor, known for his prolific output and contribution to Victorian literature. He wrote numerous novels, the most famous being "Lost Sir Massingberd" and "By Proxy," which were popular for their engaging plots and light style. In addition to his fiction, Payn was also the editor of "Chambers's Journal" and later "Cornhill Magazine," where he supported and promoted emerging writers. His work is characterized by humor, wit, and a focus on middle-class life.

Author's Books:


THE MIDWAY INN. 'The hidden but the common thought of all.'   The thoughts I am about to set down are not my thoughts, for, as my friends say, I have given up the practice of thinking, or it may be, as my enemies say, I never had it. They are the thoughts of an acquaintance who thinks for me. I call him an acquaintance, though I pass as much of my time with him as with my nearest and... more...

CHAPTER I. CAREW OF CROMPTON. Had you lived in Breakneckshire twenty years ago, or even any where in the Midlands, it would be superfluous to tell you of Carew of Crompton. Every body thereabout was acquainted with him either personally or by hearsay. You must almost certainly have known somebody who had had an adventure with that eccentric personage—one who had been ridden down by him, for that... more...