Black

BLACK, William, Scottish novelist: b. Glasgow, 9 Nov. 1841; d. Brighton, England, 10 Dec. 1898. He first studied art, but event ually became connected with the Glasgow press. In 1864 he went to London, and in the follow ing year joined the staff of the Morning Star, for which he was special correspondent during the Austro-Prussian War of 1866. His first novel, 'James Merle> (1864), was not a suc cess, but his Silk Attire> (1869), (1870), (1872), containing descriptions of scenery much praised by Ruskin; 'A Princess of Thule' (1873) ; 'Madcap Violet' (1876) ; 'Green Pastures and Piccadilly> (1877) ; of Dare' (1828) Wings' (1880); (The Beautiful Wretch' (1881) ; (Judith Shakespeare> (1884); (White Heather' (1885) ; Strange Adventures of a House Boat) (1888); 'In Far Lochaber' (1889); 'The New Prince Fortunatus) (1890) • 'High land Cousins' (1894); (1846) ; and 'Wild Eelin) (1898). Black's novels have en

joyed much popularity, especially in the United States. His subjects are drawn from many lands, but it is in dealing with the scenery of the Scottish Highlands that he is at his best. He is especially happy in his portrayal of types of sprightly and unconventional womanhood. A collected edition of his works was issued 1872-74. See Wemyss Reid, 'William Black, Novelist> (New York 1902).