History was the one form of literature outside Goethe and Burns for which he really cared.

He had translated Wilhelm Meister in 1824, and it was probably at his suggestion that Froude translated Elective Affinities for Bohn's Library in 1850.

Scottish history and Scottish character Carlyle knew as he knew his Bible.
His assistance and encouragement, which were freely given, proved invaluable to Froude.
Froude settled steadily down to work, dividing his time between London and Devonshire.

Shooting and fishing had for the time to be dropped.

For recreation he joined an archery club, where, as James Spedding told him, you were always sure of your game.