HELPS, Sir Arthur

Realmah. By the Author of 'Friends in Council.'

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Macmillan and Co., London, 1868. Two volumes, octavo, 48pp. ads. at rear of volume I; smooth blue publisher's cloth, gilt; very slightly bumped at corners and some wear at spine, but a handsome set. First edition: a transparent political fable set in prehistoric Europe.

Helps (1813-1875), was initially private secretary to various prominent Victorians, but by 1841 was able to pursue a career as an essayist and historian. In 1860 he was appointed Clerk to the Privy Council, where he became a favourite of Queen Victoria, and prepared her book, Leaves from the Journal of our Life in the Highlands for publication.

Realmah belongs to the wide-spread nineteenth century tradition of what Angenot and Khouri have catalogued as 'prehistoric fiction.' The eponymous Realmah becomes King of the Sheveri, a proto-nation existing in the environs of the Lake District several million years ago. Despite this setting, the novel makes no real claim for historical veracity, and the main characters are clearly parodies of prominent statesmen of the 1860s, just as their debates engage with many of the popular issues of the day. Throughout, the tale of Realmah is continually interrupted by the knowing interjections of the wonderfully learned 'Friends in Council,' who contribute such philosophical gems as 'You all know how fond I am of yachting.'.
Presley, 4 XII, p. 22.

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