Impressions of England; or, Sketches of English Scenery and Society

"Impressions of England; or, Sketches of English Scenery and Society" by A. Cleveland Coxe is a travel narrative written in the mid-19th century. The work provides an intimate and reflective account of the author's journey through England, as he explores the culture, society, and scenery of the country he has long admired from afar. Through his observations, Coxe shares not only the beauty of the landscapes but also the customs, people, and institutions that shape English life. At the start of the narrative, the author describes the emotional experience of arriving in England after many years of imagining its beauty and history. He recounts his journey on a steamer to Liverpool, where he is met with a mix of excitement and nostalgia, reflecting on his ancestral ties to England. After a brief stay in Liverpool, he travels to Warwickshire to stay with a friend, immersing himself in the Holy Week festivities and visiting local churches and parsonages. The opening portion emphasizes Coxe's admiration for English spirituality and tradition while setting the stage for his exploration of various locales, notable figures, and historical narratives throughout his travels in England.