In writing this book, the author read and reread most of Newman's works, and years ago perused a considerable number of books about Newman; but, though a general impression of these latter still remained in his mind, Mr. May decided to defer renewing his acquaintance with them till, unaided, he made what he could of his subject and recorded his own ideas in such a manner and in such a language as he could command. It is not his object to attempt anything in the nature of a detailed biography of Newman. It is the aim of this book to convey to the general reader some impression of Newman's influence on one who, though not a theologian, nor worthy to be the champion of any school of religious thought, is not wholly insensible to beauty, whether in literature, in nature or in human life.