Chapter Versatile to Victor Amadeus of V by Brewer's Readers Handbook

(This novel has been dramatized several times: In 1819 it was performed in the Surrey Theatre; in 1823 it was turned into an opera; in 1850 Tom Taylor dramatized it; in 1878 W. G. Wills converted it into a drama of four acts, entitled Olivia.)

The real interest of the story lies in the development of the character of the amiable vicar, so rich in heavenly, so poor in earthly wisdom; possessing little for himself, yet ready to make that little less, whenever misery appeals to his compassion. With enough of worldly vanity about him to show that he shares the weakness of our nature; ready to be imposed upon by cosmogonies and fictitious bills of exchange, and yet commanding, by the simple and serene dignity of goodness, the respect even of the profligate.— Encyclopædia Britannica (article “Romance”).

Vicar of Wrexhill (The), a novel by Mrs. Trollope (1837, her best).

Victor Amadeus , king of Sardinia (1665, 1675–1732), noted for his tortuous policy. He was fierce, audacious, unscrupulous, and selfish, profound in dissimulation, prolific in resources, and a “breaker of vows both to God and man.” In 1730 he abdicated, but a few months later wanted to regain the throne, which his son, Charles Emmanuel, refused to resign. On again plotting to recover the crown, he was arrested by DOrmea the prime minister, and died.—R. Browning: King Victor and King Charles Emmanuel.