TIMOTHY DEXTER REVISITED

This can scarcely be viewed as a reissue of the first Lord Timothy Dexter, published some 35 years ago, for actually it is a new book in which the more mature biographer views his subject- an eccentric of 18th century Newburyport- from a different perspective, and sets him in focus of his own appreciation of the passing scene. This is almost as much a backward look at Marquand's family saga and the Newburyport that is fast disappearing as it is a study of an oddity against a backdrop of a stand town. And for most readers, Marquand's own background is more interesting than the caricature of a self-made man in days when such figures were virtualy social outcasts. The book's claim to fame will rest on this capturing of the passing scene, and the evocative and charming spot drawings by Philip Kappel add to its eye appeal. But- in final analysis- is Timothy Dexter worth revisiting? Newburyport- yes- but his lordship-well, one questions it.