John Forster’s friendship with Charles Dickens began in 1837 and lasted for the rest of Dickens’ life. He acted as Dickens’ literary advisor, and saw all of the author’s work before it was published. Forster wrote a comprehensive biography of Dickens which, though constrained by Victorian inhibitions, nevertheless gives much insight into the life of his good friend. This object was displayed at the Charles Dickens Reception at Buckingham Palace, 2012.