Joseph Andrews, Vol. 1

The only source of the true Ridiculous (as it appears to me) is affectation

The History of the Adventures of Joseph Andrews, and his Friend Mr Abraham Adams, appeared in February 1742, and its author received from Andrew Millar, the publisher, the sum of L183, 11s.

The most successful of his other dramatic works were the Mock Doctor and the Miser, adaptations of Moliere's famous pieces.

The only product of this period which has kept (or indeed which ever received) competent applause is Tom Thumb, or the Tragedy of Tragedies, a following of course of the Rehearsal, but full of humour and spirit.