The scope and dimension is entirely fresh, the 'private' relationships, their motives, the maker's self-esteem and confused aspirations all hugely consequental. The early influence of D'Orsay is discovered, the utter complexity of Edwin's associations, esp. Russells, and how a boy from Foley St played and pandered in a pretentious, beguiling, improbable dream. This perspective study unravels much of the enigma 'E.L.'- corrupted, really, by people and events recovered meticulously here- and consequently the influence of Jacob Bell. Despite the author's finely academic commentary, his affection for the artist imperceptively ripples through the pages to the final, unanimous wave. Fascinating and enjoyable every snippet, a great gift for anyone associated with or influenced, by British art or culture.