There's not enough information given to know exactly who Mr James is. He could be the author of the story, in which case he might be a writer known for his spooky tales. Or he could be a character within the story, perhaps the protagonist who experiences the Christmas - themed ghostly encounters.
A mezzotint ghost story is simply a story where a mezzotint plays a role in a ghost - related plot. Mezzotints can create very detailed and moody images. In a mezzotint ghost story, this moody quality might be used to enhance the spookiness. The story could be about a cursed mezzotint that brings bad luck or attracts ghosts. It might be that the mezzotint was made in a haunted place or by a possessed artist, and now it has some sort of otherworldly power that drives the ghostly events in the story.
Another great Mr James story is 'Casting the Runes'. It has an interesting premise where a man is cursed through some strange runic symbols. The sense of impending doom as the victim realizes he's been hexed and tries to fight against it is very engaging. The story also delves into themes of power and the occult in a very effective way.
I'm not entirely sure as I haven't read it in detail. But generally, a mezzotint is a type of printmaking, and in a ghost story related to it, it might involve some spooky or supernatural events associated with the mezzotint itself, like a haunted image emerging from the print.
I don't know the author of 'the mezzotint ghost story'. It could be an unknown or relatively obscure writer. It might also be a story that has been passed down orally and only recently put into written form, so finding the original author could be a real challenge.
Well, 'Lost Hearts' is another great one. It has elements of the supernatural combined with a sense of loss and mystery. The idea of the two children's spirits seeking their lost hearts is both tragic and terrifying. Mr James creates a sense of unease throughout the story with his descriptions of the old house and the strange events taking place within it.
Mr James' ghost stories are some of the best in the genre. His use of atmosphere and slow - building suspense is masterful. For example, in 'Oh, Whistle, and I'll Come to You, My Lad', the desolate beach setting and the eerie whistle create a sense of dread that stays with the reader long after finishing the story.
Maybe he was just interested in the supernatural. Some people are really fascinated by ghosts and the unknown, and collecting ghost stories is a way to explore that world.