[parlour songs]

We first arrive at parlour songs, of which Ms. Linden wrote many.  At a time when there were no  radios, record players, or televisions, and in a place far removed from the high-toned songs across the pond, the parlour song was born.  In 1823 The American company, Chickering & Sons started producing pianos.  With levels of instruments available, even middle class families were able to have a piano in the parlor.  Some parlour songwriters were truly talented; others were hacks who could tap into the formulae that exploited a very sentimental place in the American psyche that did not require much aesthetically.  Given these circumstances, it may not be fair to judge Ms. Linden on these songs.  However, if she was capable of more noble, popular verse, no one was forcing her to squander her efforts on these pieces.  One thing is undeniable: she liked cottages and zephyrs [said mildly sarcastically.]

The Ministry Watches

[the people: May it find virtue.]

"Coming Home Again"

"It Seems Like an Age"

"In the Cottage o'er the Way"

"Pretty Little Bright Eyes"

"Dreaming of My Darling"

"Beautiful Dreams"

Now go to “minstrel songs.”