Genre:

Letter, Spoof, Serial

Subjects:

Gender, Education, Libraries, Reading, Natural History, Amusement

    Complains about the state of 'sea-side libraries', notably their stock of sensational novels. Upholds the virtues of turning from the 'unwholesome excitements of modern fiction' to the 'contemplation of a young shrimp'. Offers her daughter an 'interesting fact' about shrimps from a 'scientific manual', and emphasises the importance of learning solid facts about marine life. Criticises 'writers of scientific manuals' for being 'so sentimental' and for making 'many unaccountable omissions in describing the shore and its living wonders', notably the 'Cormorant Hotel Keeper' and the 'Preaching Crabs'.