"In following their line through, and those of Plantagenet and Tudor, there is but little to soothe the mind"

This quote by Charlotte Smith is describing the history of the British monarchy. She is recommending that when one follows the line of succession from the Plantagenet and Tudor dynasties, there is very little to be pleased with. This might be analyzed as a criticism of the monarchy, as she indicates that the history of the monarchy is not something to be celebrated. She is recommending that the monarchy has not been a force for good, and that it has not offered much in the method of convenience or solace. This could be viewed as a reflection of the turbulent times in which she lived, as the monarchy was frequently viewed as a source of injustice and inequality. Charlotte Smith's quote is a tip that the history of the monarchy is not always something to be happy with, which it is important to remember the mistakes of the past.