These letters originally appeared in Punch in 1849. As an independent series of Essays written under a nom de plume not elsewhere adopted by Thackeray, they possess an individuality of their own. William Makepeace Thackeray - the name is dear to all lovers of classic fiction, who have wandered in enchanted lands, following the fortunes of Colonel Newcome, Becky Sharp, Henry Esmond, and a host of other familiar characters created by the great novelist. To an unusual degree, Thackeray dwells on the youth of the characters he depicts, lingering fondly and in details over the pranks and pastimes, the school and college days of his heroes and heroines, as though he wished to call especial attention to the interest of that portion of their career.