ABSTRACT
William Godwin was born at Wisbeach, in Cambridgeshire, 3d March, 1756. His grandfather had been a dissenting minister in London. His father was also a clergyman. In the year 1773 Mr. Godwin was placed at a college for dissenters at Hoxton, for the purpose of being educated for the church. Towards the beginning of the year 1797 Godwin married Mary Wollstonecraft. The writings of this celebrated woman are monuments of her moral and intellectual superiority. In 1800 Mr. Godwin visited Ireland. He resided while there principally with Curran, and associated intimately with Grattan, and all the other illustrious Irish patriots. In 1801 Mr. Godwin again married a widow lady of considerable personal attractions and accomplishments. In 1830 Mr. Godwin published “Cloudesley,” his last novel, a book whose charm goes to the heart. The spirit of virtue and love is its soul. It breathes peace to all men, and a fervid attachment to all that bears the human form.
