The Copybook

Short passages for reading, drawn from history, legend, poetry and fiction.

283

Viktor Mikhailovich Vasnetsov (1848–1926)

Invitation to a Viking The Russian Primary Chronicle

The interminable squabbling among the Slavic peoples around the southeast Baltic prompted their leaders to drastic action.

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284

By Peter Paul Rubens (1577–1640), via Wikimedia Commons. Licence: Public domain.

The Fall of Icarus Publius Ovidius Naso (Ovid)

Trapped in Crete with his son Icarus, the craftsman and inventor Daedalus realises a bold and desperate plan to get away.

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285

By Hans Holbein the Younger (?1497-1543), via Wikimedia Commons. Licence: Public domain.

An Admirable English Custom Desiderius Erasmus

Dutch scholar Desiderius Erasmus urged Fausto Andrelini not to miss out on England’s enchanting contribution to good manners.

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286

By Peter Monamy (1681–1749), via Wikimedia Commons. Licence: Public domain.

Liberty and Prosperity John Trenchard

There are solid reasons why countries with lower taxes and less regulation tend to be more prosperous.

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287

By Thomas Rowlandson (1756–1827), via Wikimedia Commons. Licence: Public domain.

‘God Never Sends Mouths Without Sending Meat’ William Cobbett

Riding through Sussex, William Cobbett comes across a large family relaxing together in front of their charming cottage.

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288

Thomas Hearne (1744–1817), via Wikimedia Commons. Licence: Public domain.

Economy – With a Dash of Love Wilkie Collins

Gabriel Betteredge’s cottage was cosy, his employment rewarding and his status respectable, but his cup of happiness was not quite full.

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