English Dictionary

331 Graham (Maria) Journal of a Residence in Chile, plates, calf extra, gilt edges, by C. Lewis 4to. 1824 / The following note is written by Mr. Beckford on fly-leaf: p. 386. “‘The blessed Virgin or some other heavenly Chimera’—happy expression to be sure—highly recommendatory for the future governess of Prince of Brazil. p. 426 And is it possible that, Maria Graham, a professed scribbleress and little more, could ever have been encouraged even to dream of such a situation? Had she been a professed Cook, for which useful art—from the frequent mention of dainty morsels and savoury dishes in different pages of her Tours I rather conjecture she has some vocation—one might have seen some cause for the appointment. It is impossible in these revolutionary times to foresee all the degradation to which princesses may be compelled to stoop, and a knowledge of cookery skilfully instilled may turn out upon the spur of occasion a most happy accomplishment.’”