Abstract
The Japanese version of S. Smiles, Self-Help translated by Masanao Nakamura was the best seller in Meiji Period and made contribution to madernization of Japan. This important book was presented by a gentleman called H. W. Freeland as a small token of his best wishes for Nakamura's return journey from England. Although H. W. Freeland was one of the few Nakamura's English friends during his stay in London, there is little known about Freeland.
This article is to clarify who was H. W. Freeland and his publications. The information used here was collected mainly at the British Library during recent visits to England. What I found is as follows.
Humphrey William Freeland (1814-1892)
Eldest son of James Bennet Freeland, Esq., of Chichester, by Ann, daughter of William Humphrey, Esq., late of Chichester. Born in 1814. Educated at Midhurst Grammar School and at Christ Church, Oxford University, where he was 2nd class honors Literae Humaniores 1835, and graduated M. A. 1841. Called to the bar at Lincoln's Inn, 1841, but did not practice. A Magistrate and Deputy-Lieutenant for the County of Sussex.
Author of a volume of Lectures, life and Writings of Lamartine, etc., a volume of Poems with translation from Lamartine, Art : A Version in Chinese, by the MARQUIS TSENG, of a Poem written in English and Italian, and various political pamphlets. Member of the Royal Aiastic Society of Great Britain and Ireland from 1862, Fellow of Royal Botanical, Geological, & Statistical Societies, a Life Governor of the Agricultural Scoiety, Titular Life Member of 'Institut d'Afrique', Member of Athenaeum Club, etc.
Liberal MP for Chichester 1859-63, and in favour of extention of the parliamentary franchise. No record of marriage. Died Chichester 2 Oct. 1892.
