Knight to be so much under the
influence of his Society. Had the Cyclopaedia been under his own
superintendence, it would have founded his fortune. As it was,
he lost over 30,000L. by the venture. The 'Penny Magazine' also
went down in circulation, until it became a non-paying
publication, and then it was discontinued. It is curious to
contrast the fortunes of William Chambers of Edinburgh with those
of Charles Knight of London. 'Chambers's Edinburgh Journal' was
begun in February, 1832, and the 'Penny Magazine' in March, 1832.
Chambers was perhaps shrewder than Knight. His journal was as
good, though without illustrations; but he contrived to mix up
amusement with useful knowledge. It may be a weakness, but the
public like to be entertained, even while they are feeding upon
better food. Hence Chambers succeeded, while Knight failed. The
'Penny Magazine' was discontinued in 1845, whereas 'Chambers's
Edinburgh Journal' has maintained its popularity to the present
day. Chambers, also, like Knight, published an 'Encyclopaedia,'
which secured a large circulation. But he was not trammelled by
a Society, and the 'Encyclopaedia' has become a valuable
property.
The publication of these various works would not have been
possible without the aid of the steam printing press. When Mr.
Edward Cowper was examined before a Committee of the House of
Commons, he said, "The ease with which the principles and
illustrations of Art might be diffused is, I think, so obvious
that it is hardly necessary to say a word about it.
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