There has also been a great change in books besides those previously mentioned, from the superficial gentility of the middle and later part of the Victorian era, to the common-sense practical way we now have of reasoning out the social and political events of the day. This change, if guided by proper thought and consideration for others, will undoubtedly lead to a better and happier England. There are, however, still many changes required, especially in the making and selling of books; and it is to be hoped that by a greater union and more harmony and uniformity in the trade, a more general prosperity will be associated with it, and that many of the disputes and difficulties, often more imaginary than real, will be avoided. It appears to me that the shortest way to attain these ideals will be a central control consisting of representatives of both masters and men in the publishing and bookselling trade, who will settle disputes and whose aim will be to see that a satisfactory profit is realized by the various interests represented. This question has been more fully dealt with in a later chapter. The Elementary Education Act which was passed by W.E. Forster in 1870 created a great change in the educational literature of this period, the sum asked for in Parliament in 1871 being about one and a half million pounds. What the future educational grant will be, it is impossible to say, though it is to be hoped that it will make as great an improvement in the people as it has done in educational literature. Another noticeable fact in connexion with books is the few foreign books--especially French--which are now translated and issued in this country. The following authors at this early period had very large sales: Victor Hugo, Jules Verne, Figuier, Erckmann-Chatrian and others. It was in July, 1869, that Simpkin, Marshall & Co. gave their first and last dinner in celebration of the twenty-fifth anniversary of the present building in Stationers' Hall Court, at which the then head of the firm, Mr. John Miles, presided. It was a most social and happy event, and I wish the celebration had been continued. I remember that one of the old hands, William Griffiths, sang a song of his own composition which showed the good feeling then existing between employer and employed. I can only give one of the verses: "Then here's success to Simpkin's Firm and may they always find, In studying their interest us ever of one mind; May their connexion far and wide extend the globe around, And as each year shall onward roll may all of us be found In this fine new house I'm singing of, One of the olden time." to which I certainly say Amen.