Meaning: The quote "In the western part of England lived a gentleman of large fortune, whose name was Merton" is the opening line of the novel "The History of Sandford and Merton" by Thomas Day. Published in 1783, the novel is a didactic children's story that aims to teach moral lessons through the adventures of its characters. The book was hugely popular in its time and was considered an important work in the genre of educational literature for children.

The story revolves around three main characters: Tommy Merton, Harry Sandford, and Master Tommy Sandford. The character mentioned in the quote, Mr. Merton, is a wealthy gentleman who serves as a mentor and guardian to the two boys. The quote sets the stage for the setting of the story and introduces one of the central figures in the narrative.

Thomas Day, the author of "The History of Sandford and Merton," was a prominent English author and social reformer of the 18th century. He was known for his educational and moralistic writings, and "The History of Sandford and Merton" is considered one of his most significant works. Day's intention in writing the novel was to provide a moral guide for young readers, presenting them with virtuous characters and situations that would impart important lessons about behavior, ethics, and social responsibility.

The character of Mr. Merton represents the ideal of a benevolent and wise adult figure who guides the young protagonists through various moral dilemmas and challenges. Through his interactions with Tommy and Harry, Mr. Merton imparts valuable lessons about honesty, kindness, hard work, and the importance of empathy and understanding towards others.

The setting of the story in the western part of England adds a sense of charm and nostalgia to the narrative, evoking a picturesque and idyllic backdrop for the moral lessons and adventures that unfold. The location serves as a familiar and relatable environment for the young readers, allowing them to immerse themselves in the world of the story and connect with its characters and themes.

The opening line of the quote not only introduces Mr. Merton as a character but also sets the tone for the didactic nature of the novel. It signals to the readers that they are about to embark on a journey of moral learning and personal development, guided by the actions and teachings of the characters they will encounter.

Overall, the quote serves as an invitation into the world of "The History of Sandford and Merton," where readers are encouraged to explore the virtues and values espoused by the characters and to reflect on the lessons imparted through their experiences. Through the character of Mr. Merton and the setting of the western part of England, the novel provides a rich and engaging backdrop for its moral and educational content, making it a timeless and influential work in the genre of children's literature.