Goldsmith’s Writing Career

Abstract

His finances were so low on his return to England, that he with difficulty got to this metropolis, his whole stock of cash amounting to no more than a few halfpence! An entire stranger in London, his mind was filled with the most gloomy reflections in consequence of his embarrassed situation! He applied to several apothecaries in hopes of being received in the capacity of a journeyman, but his broad Irish accent, and the uncouthness of his appearance, occasioned him to meet with insult from most of the medicinal tribe. The next day, however, a chemist near Fish Street, struck with his forlorn condition, and the simplicity of his manner, took him into his laboratory, where he continued till he discovered his old friend Doctor Sleigh was in London. This gentleman received him with the warmest affection, and liberally invited him to share his purse till some establishment could be procured for him. Goldsmith, unwilling to be a burden to his friend, a short time after eagerly embraced an offer which was made him to assist the late Rev. Dr Milner, in instructing the young gentlemen at the Academy at Peckham; and acquitted himself greatly to the Doctor’s satisfaction for a short time; but, having obtained some reputation by the criticisms he had written in the Monthly Review, Mr Griffiths, the principal proprietor, engaged him in the compilation of it; and, resolving to pursue the profession of writing, he returned to London, as the mart where abilities of every kind were sure of meeting distinction and reward.

In Oliver Goldsmith: Poems and Plays (London: B. Newbery & T. Johnson, 1780) pp. v–viii. Editor’s title.