Neal, JOHN

Neal, JOHN, American author, was born at Falmouth (now Portland, Maine), August 25, 1793. In his youth he was a Quaker, and he began the world at twelve as a shop-boy. In 1816 he failed in business, and turned to the study of law, supporting himself the while by his pen. He was one of the first Americans to write in the greater English magazines, and from 1823 till 1827 he lived in England, part of the time as one of Bentham's students and secretaries. After his return to America he settled in his native town, practised law, edited newspapers, lectured, and found relaxation in practising and teaching boxing, fencing, and gymnastics. He died 21st June 1876. Among his numerous works are a series of novels, Bentham's Morals and Legislation, and Wandering Recollections of a Somewhat Busy Life (1869).