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. Here you may see it exemplified in the 'Penny
Magazine.' Such works as this could not have existed without the
printing machine." He was asked, "In fact, the mechanic and the
peasant, in the most remote parts of the country, have now an
opportunity of seeing tolerably correct outlines of form which they
never could behold before?" To which he answered, "Exactly; and
literally at the price they used to give for a song." "Is there not,
therefore, a greater chance of calling genius into activity?" "Yes,"
he said, "not merely by books creating an artist here and there, but by
the general elevation of the taste of the public."

Mr. Clowes was always willing to promote deserving persons in his
office. One of these rose from step to step, and eventually became one
of the most prosperous publishers in London. He entered the service as
an errand-boy, and got his meals in the kitchen. Being fond of
reading, he petitioned Mrs. Clowes to let him sit somewhere, apart from
the other servants, where he might read his book in quiet. Mrs. Clowes
at length entreated her husband to take him into the office, for
"Johnnie Parker was such a good boy." He consented, and the boy took
his place at a clerk's desk. He was well-behaved, diligent, and
attentive. As he advanced in years, his steady and steadfast conduct
showed that he could be trusted. Young fellows like this always make
their way in life; for character invariably tells, not only in securing
respect, but in commanding confidence. Parker was promoted from one
post to another, until he was at length appointed overseer over the
entire establishment.

A circumstance shortly after occurred which enabled Mr. Clowes to
advance him, though greatly to his own inconvenience, to another
important post. The Syndi