Edward FitzGerald and "Posh" / "Herring Merchants"

A biographical sketch recounts the intimate friendship between Edward FitzGerald and Joseph Fletcher, an East Coast fisherman, drawing on previously unpublished letters and local reminiscences to challenge portrayals of FitzGerald as misanthropic. It traces the author's inquiries among Lowestoft fishermen and neighbors, describes his partnership in a herring venture, and reproduces affectionate correspondence that reveals FitzGerald's generosity, humor, and human warmth. Interspersed with a biographical introduction, preface, and illustrative anecdotes, the narrative balances personal recollection with documentary material to present the poet as a compassionate, practical friend whose character is better understood through his local relationships.