QUESTION 363 e: Pick your spot!

 X is the first novel by Y. After the publication, the widow of the illustrator Robert Seymour claimed that the idea for the novel was originally her husband's; however, in his preface to the 1867 edition, Y strenuously denied any specific input, writing that "Mr Seymour never originated or suggested an incident, a phrase, or a word, to be found in the book."

Y was asked to contribute to the project as an up and coming writer following the success of Sketches by Boz, published in 1836 (most of Y's novels were issued in shilling instalments before being published in the complete volume). Y increasingly took over the unsuccessful monthly publication after Seymour had committed suicide.

With the introduction of Sam Weller in chapter 10, the book became the first real publishing phenomenon, with bootleg copies, theatrical performances, Sam Weller joke books, and other merchandise.


X and Y?