Penny Dreadfuls: Victorian Sensation for the Working Classes

This volume is the first of a biographical compilation of Charles James Fox edited by Lord John Russell, published in 1853. The work comprises correspondence, documents, and commentary arranged chronologically from Fox's birth through his death in 1806, organized into seven distinct periods. Rather than a complete biography, it aims to provide materials for future biographers through Fox's letters—particularly his literary correspondence with Lord Holland (1790–1805) discussing Greek and Italian poetry—supplemented by contemporary anecdotes and related documents. Lord Holland initially began the project but left it incomplete; editor John Allen resumed it, adding explanatory passages on historical context. Passages are marked by their respective authors: Fox's uncle Lord Holland, editor Allen (in brackets), and Russell himself (in asterisks). The compilation opens with genealogical information, tracing the Fox family to Sir Stephen Fox, born 1627, courtier under Charles II.