Barrie, James Matthew

James Matthew (1860-), a Scottish novelist, critic, and humorist. He was born at Kirriemuir, Forfarshire. He was graduated from Edinburgh University in 1882, and engaged in journalism almost immediately. A Window in Thrums, published in 1889, was his first widely read book, although Better Dead, When a Man's Single, and Auld Licht Idylls had all preceded it. Other writings are My Lady Nicotine, a Study in Smoke, The Little Minister, usually regarded as his best work, Sentimental Tommy, Margaret Ogilvie, The Little White Bird, and others. Most of his serious critical work has appeared in London newspapers and periodicals. The Little Minister has been successfully dramatized. Mr. Barrie was offered knighthood by King Edward, but declined the honor.

For pathos fresh and unstrained; sympathy wide and human; pity tender and true, are the qualities which have made Barrie's Window in Thrums and The Little Minister shake the hearts of the human family. . . . Never a drop of gall mingles in the genial cup of his mirth; his humor penetrates to the heart of things, but never to wound.--Elliot Henderson.