Mentoring Edward Thomas

James Ashcroft Noble (1844-96) tends to be remembered only as the mentor, and future father-in-law, of the essayist, critic and war-poet Edward Thomas (1878-1917). Using Noble's two contributions to the prestigious Yellow Book, this essay sets out to prove him much more than that: a poet, journalist and critic in his own right, and promoter of many other writers, several more famous in their day. By examining Noble's work and influences we are able to trace a direct link between Edward Thomas and a Scottish poet and essayist once sensationally famous, now almost forgotten. I have graduated four times from three different English universities and have a PhD in Radio Drama. I used to be a local politician and ran an advice centre. Now I am a magistrate and write inflammatory political material for my local political party.