St. Mary Tavy, Tavistock.
252. _Printing in 1449, and Shakspeare._--As the _Esil_ controversy
seems now, if not settled, to be at least lulled, at the risk of
stirring up another Shakspearean discussion, I venture to set down a
passage in the _Second Part of Henry VI._, which I have never yet seen
satisfactorily explained. It is--
"Act IV. Scene 7.--_Cade._ ... Thou has most traitorously
corrupted the youth of the realm, in erecting a grammar-school;
and whereas, before, our forefathers had no other books but the
score and the tally, _thou hast caused printing to be used_; and
contrary to the king, his crown and dignity, _thou hast built a
paper-mill_."
Is this a mere wilful anachronism on Shakspeare's part; or had "that
misunderstood politician" Mr. John Cade any ground for this particular
accusation against the Lord Treasurer Say? Perhaps some of your
correspondents who have contributed the very interesting Notes on Caxton
and Printing will elucidate the matter.