Edward Stirling's adaptation of Dickens' novel was first produced when only eight of the monthly installments of the serialized novel had been published. It was an immediate hit with London theater goes and ran for over 100 performances. Even Dickens phrased the play giving his admiration to the production and attended it twice. The play became a staple for stock touring companies of both England and the United States. It is remembered today for the alternative cheery ending that Stirling gave to the story. Edward Stirling was a prolific playwright in the mid-19th century having written or adapted over 200 plays including five from Dickens and was one of the few playwrights at the time to have his plays produced in nearly every theatre in London. He was hailed as "a writer of considerable attainments," "clever and well-educated." When he wasn't writing, he was stage manager/director of the Adelphi, and later for many years at the Drury Lane where he had some of his biggest successes.