In this volume we share Charlotte Bronte's experience for four crucial years. The success of Jane Eyre and the strange power of Wuthering Heights made the 'brothers Bell' the 'universal theme of conversation'; but privately the family endured the deaths of Branwell Bronte in September and Emily in December 1848, followed by Anne's in May 1849. Haunted by the fear that she also would succumb, Charlotte found salvation in writing
Shirley, published in October 1849, and comfort in her friendship and correspondence with Ellen Nussey, with her publishersDSespecially George SmithDSwith Mrs Gaskell, and (for a time) Harriet Martineau. She may also have received a proposal
of marriage from Smith, Edler's manager, James Taylor.