3262 to 3329. These numbers comprehend a very uncommon and interesting set of Old Romances! which, collectively, did not produce 35l.—but which now, would have been sold for——!?

3330 to 4151. An extraordinary collection of the English Drama.

And thus farewell MAJOR PEARSON!]

LIS. O rare THOMAS PEARSON! I will look sharply after a large paper, priced, copy of the Bibliotheca Pearsoniana!

LYSAND. You must pay smartly for it, if you are determined to possess it.

BELIN. Madness!—Madness inconceivable!—and undescribed by Darwin, Arnold, and Haslam! But, I pray you, proceed.

LYSAND. Alas, madam, the task grows more and more complex as I draw towards the completion of it.

In the year 1789 the book-treasures of the far-famed PINELLI[399] Collection were disposed of by public auction: nor can one think, without some little grief of heart, upon the dispersion of a library, which (much more than commercial speculations and profits) had, for upwards of a century, reflected so much credit upon the family of its possessors. The atmosphere of our metropolis, about this period, became as much infected with the miasmata of the BOOK-PLAGUE as it did, about 130 years before, with the miasmata of a plague of a different description: for the worthy inhabitants of Westminster had hardly recovered from the shock of the bibliomaniacal attack from the Pinelli sale, 'ere they were doomed to suffer the tortures of a similar one in that of the PARIS[400] collection. This latter was of shorter duration; but of an infinitely more powerful nature: for then you might have seen the most notorious bibliomaniacs, with blood inflamed and fancies intoxicated, rushing towards the examination of the truly matchless volumes contained within this collection. Yet remember that, while the whole of Pall Mall was thronged with the carriages of collectors, anxious to carry off in triumph some vellum copy of foreign execution—there was sold, in a quiet corner of the metropolis, the copious and scholar-like collection of MICHAEL LORT, D.D. The owner of this latter library was a learned and amiable character, and a bibliographer of no mean repute.[401] His books were frequently enriched with apposite MS. remarks; and the variety and extent of his collection, suited to all tastes, and sufficiently abundant for every appetite, forms, I think, a useful model after which future bibliomaniacs may build their libraries.

[Footnote 399: Mention has already been made of the different Catalogues of the PINELLI Collection: see p. 21, ante. Here, as Lysander has thought proper again to notice the name of the collector, I am tempted to add a few specimens of the extraordinary books contained in his extraordinary library: adding thereto the prices for which they were sold. But—again and again I observe, in limine—these sums form no criterion of the present worth of the books; be the same more or less! It is a document only of bibliographical curiosity.

NO. 703. La Biblia Sacra in Lingua Vulgare tradotta; 1471. folio. 2 vols. L6 15s. 0d.

2555. Bandello, Canti xi delle lodi della Signora Lucrezia Gonzaga di Gazuolo, &c., 1545, 8vo. 15 15 0

2605. Dante, La Divina Comedia; 1472, folio. Ediz. Prin. 25 14 6

3348. Petrarca, Le Rime. Venez. 1470, 4to. Prin. Ediz. 27 6 0

3458. Sannazzaro, L'Arcadia. Ven. Ald. 1514, 8vo. Esemp. stampata in Cartapecora. 16 16 0

4909. Biblia Polyglotta; Complut. 1514, &c., folio. 6 vols. Exemplar integerrimum splendidissimum. IMPRESSUM IN MEMBRANIS. 483 0 0

All the world (perhaps I should have said the bibliographical world) has heard of this pre-eminently wonderful set of books; now in Count Macarty's library at Thoulouse. My friend, Dr. Gosset—who will not (I trust) petition for excommunicating me from the orthodox church to which I have the honour of belonging, if I number him in the upper class of bibliomaniacs—was unable to attend the sale of the Pinelli collection, from severe illness: but he did petition for a sight of one of these volumes of old Ximenes's polyglott—which, much more effectually than the spiders round Ashmole's neck (vide p. 293, ante), upon an embrace thereof, effected his cure. Shakspeare, surely, could never have meant to throw such "physic" as this "to the dogs?!" But, to return.

8956. Anthologia Epig. Graec. 1494. 4to. Exemp. impr. in membranis. 45 0 0

9308. Theocritus (absque ulla nota) 4to. Editio Princeps. 31 10 0

9772. Plautus, 1472. folio. Editio Princeps. 36 0 0

11,215. Aulus Gellius, 1469, folio. Edit. Princeps. 58 16 0

11,233. Macrobius, 1472, folio. Edit. Prin. 33 12 0

12,141. Priscianus de art. gram. 1470. fol. In Membranis. 51 9 0

[Sale Catalogue, 1789, 8vo.]

But—"Jam satis."

It probably escaped Lysander that, while the sale of the Pinelli collection attracted crowds of bibliomaniacs to Conduit Street, Hanover Square, a very fine library was disposed of, in a quiet and comfortable manner, at the rooms of Messrs. Leigh and Sotheby, in York Street, Covent Garden; under the following title to the catalogue: A Catalogue of a very elegant and curious Cabinet of Books, lately imported from France, &c. (sold in May, 1789). My priced copy of this catalogue affixes the name (in MS.) of MACARTNEY, as the owner of this precious "Cabinet." There were only 1672 articles; containing a judicious sprinkling of what was elegant, rare, and curious, in almost every department of literature. The eleventh and twelfth days' sale were devoted to MSS.; many of them of extraordinary beauty and singularity. It was from this collection, no. 248, that Lord Spencer obtained, for a comparatively small sum, one of the most curious books (if not an unique volume) in the class of early English printed ones, which are in his own matchless collection. It is the "Siege of Rhodes," which has a strong appearance of being the production of Caxton's press. The copy is perfectly clean and almost uncut.]

[Footnote 400: If the reader will be pleased to turn to page 90, ante, he will find a tolerably copious and correct list of the different sales of books which were once in the possession of MONS. PARIS DE MEYZIEUX. In the same place he will also find mention made of a singular circumstance attending the sale of the above collection noticed by Lysander. As a corollary, therefore, to what has been before observed, take the following specimens of the books—with the prices for which they are sold—which distinguished the Bibliotheca Parisiana. They are from the French Catalogue, 1790, 8vo.

NO. 2. Biblia sacra latina vulgatae editionis (ex translatione et cum praefationibus S. Hieronymi); Venetiis, N. Jenson, 1476, 2 vol. in fol.: avec miniatures, relie en mar. r. double de tabis, dentelles et boites: IMPRIME SUR VELIN. "On connoit l'extreme rarete de cette belle edition quand les exemplaires sont sur velin. Nous n'en connoissons qu'un seul, bien moins beau que celui ci; celui que nous annoncons est de toute beaute, et on ne peut rien ajouter au luxe de la relieure." L59 17s. 0d.

3. Biblia sacra vulgatae editionis, tribus tomis distincta (jussu Sixt. V., pontificis maximi edita); Romae, ex typographia apostolica vaticana, 1590; in. fol. ch. mag. maroquin rouge.

"Superbe exemplaire d'un livre de la plus grande rarete; il porte sur la couverture les armes de Sixte Quint." 64 1 0

10. Epitome passionis Jesu Christi, in 4o. SUR VELIN avec miniatures. Manuscrit tres precieux du commencement du 16 siecle, contenant 37 feuillets ecrits en ancienne ronde batarde, et 17 pages de miniatures d'un dessein et d'un fini inappreciables. "Les desseins sont d'Albert Durer, tels qu'il les a graves dans ses ouvrages, et l'execution est si animee qu'on peut croire qu'elle est, en tout ou en partie, de la main de ce peintre celebre. On ne peut trop louer la beaute de ce livre." 50 8 0

13. Officium beatae Mariae virginis cum calendario; in 4o. mar. r. dentelles. "Cette paire d'heures manuscrite SUR VELIN, est sans contredit une des plus belles et des plus achevees que l'on puisse trouver. Au rare merite de sa parfaite execution elle reunit encore celui d'avoir ete faite pour Francoise 1er, roi de France, et d'etre decoree dans toutes ses pages de l'embleme et du chiffre de ce monarque. Ce manuscrit, d'un prix inestimable, est ecrit en lettres rondes sur un velin tres blanc"—"il est decore de tres belles capitales, de guirlandes superbes de fleurs, de culs-de-lampe, & de 12 bordures ornees d'oiseaux, d'insectes, de fleurs et de lames d'or tres brillant."—"Il est impossible de donner une idee satisfaisante de le beaute et de la richesse de 12 peintures admirables qui enrichissent autant de pages de 8 pouces et demi de hauteur, sur environ 6 pouces de largeur; elles sont au dessus de toute expression; mais il n'y en a qu'une qui soit du temps de Francois 1er.; un seigneur dont on voit les armes peintes sur le second feuillet, a fait executer les autres dans la siecle dernier, avec une magnificence peu commune. Les tableaux et les ornemens dont il a enrichi ce precieux manuscrit se distinguent par une composition savante et gracieuse, un dessin correct, une touche precieuse et un coloris agreable," &c. 109 4 0

14. Heures de Notre-Dame, ecrites a la main, 1647, par Jarry, Parisien, in 8o. chagrin noir, avec deux fermoirs d'or et boite de mar. bl. "Ces heures sont un chef-d'oeuvre d'ecriture & de peinture. Le fameux Jarry, qui n'a pas encore eu son egal en l'art d'ecrire, s'y est surpasse, & y a prouve que la regularite, la nettete & la precision des caracteres du burin et de l'impression pouvoient etre imitees avec la plume a un degre de perfection inconcevable."—"Le peintre, dont le nom nous est inconnu, & qui doit avoir ete un des plus fameux du siecle de Louis XIV., a travaille a l'envi avec Nicolas Jarry a rendre ces heures dignes d'admiration."—"Les sept peintures dont il les a enriches, sont recommendables par la purite de leur dessein, la vivacite des couleurs, la verite de l'expression, et leur precieux fini." 73 10 0

This matchless little volume was purchased by Mr. Johnes of Hafod, and presented by him to his daughter, who has successfully copied the miniatures; and, in the true spirit of a female bibliomaniac, makes this book her travelling companion "wherever she goes."

15. Office de la Vierge, manuscrit, avec 39 miniatures et un grand nombre de figures bizarres, oiseaux, etc. superieurement execute; 2 vol. in 8o. m. bl. double de tapis, avec etuis. "On ne peut rien voir de plus agreable & de mieux diversifie que les differents sujets des miniatures; en tout, cet exemplaire est un des plus beaux que j'aie jamais vus; c'est celui de Picart. Il est a remarquer a cause du costume de quelques figures; il a ete relie avec le plus grand soin et la plus grande depense." 110 5 0

145. L'art de connoitre et d'apprecier les miniatures des anciens manuscrits; par M. l'abbe Rive, avec 30 tableaux enlumines, copies d'apres les plus beaux manuscrits qui se trouvoient dans la bibliotheque de M. le Duc de la Valliere, et d'autres precieux cabinets. Exemplaire peint SUR VELIN. "M. l'abbe Rive se proposoit de donner une dissertation sur les manuscrits enlumines pour accompagner ces dessins; mais jusqu'ici ayant des raisons qui l'empechent d'en gratifier le public, il en a donne la description en manuscrit (le seul qui existe) au proprietaire de ce superbe exemplaire." 56 14 0

240. Les faicts, dictes et ballades de maitre Alain Chartier: Paris, Pierre le Caron, sans date, in fol. velours vert; IMPRIME SUR VELIN. "Exemplaire qui ne laisse rien a desirer, pour la grandeur des marges, la peinture des miniatures et de toutes les lettres capitales. La finesse des lignes rouges, qui divisent chaque ligne, demontre combien on a ete engage a le rendre precieux. Il est dans sa relieure originale parfaitement bien conserve; il a appartenu a Claude d'Urfe: l'edition passe pour etre de l'annee, 1484. Voyez Bibliographie Instructive, no. 2999." 31 10 0

242. Contes de la Fontaine, avec miniatures, vignettes et culs-de-lampes a chaque conte; 2 vol. in 4o.; m. bleu, double de tapis, etuis. "Manuscrit incomparable pour le genie et l'execution des dessins. Il est inconcevable que la vie d'un artiste ait pu suffire pour executer d'une maniere si finie un si grand nombre de peintures exquises; le tout est d'un coloris eclatant, d'une conservation parfaite, & sur du velin egalement blanc et uni; enfin c'est un assemblage de miniatures precieuses et dignes d'orner le plus beau cabinet."

L'ecriture a ete faite par Monchausse, et les miniatures par le fameux Marolles. 315 0 0

328. Opere di Francesco Petrarcha; senza luogho 1514, mar. r. double de tabis et etui; IMPRIME SUR VELIN. "Exemplaire sans prix, avec grand nombre de miniatures charmantes. Il passoit pour constant a Florence, ou je l'ai achete, qu'il avoite ete imprime a part probablement pour quelqu'un des Medicis, et sur les corrections de l'edition de 1514; car les fautes ne s'y trouvent pas, et il ne m'a pas ete possible d'en decouvrir une seule.—La parfaite conservation de ce livre precieux demontre combien ses possesseurs ont ete sensible a sa valeur. P——." 116 11 0

486. Collectiones Peregrinationum in Indiam Orientalem et in Indiam Occidentalem, xxv partibus comprehensae, &c. Francof. ad Maeen. 1590, &c., 60 vol. relies en 24, folio; maroq. citr. bleu et rouge. "Exemplaire de la plus grande beaute, et qui possede autant de perfection que pouvoient lui donner les soins et les connoissances des plus grands amateurs." 210 0 0

543. Les grands chroniques de France (dites les chroniques de St. Denys); Paris, Antoine Verard, 1493, 3 vols. fol. vel. rouge, et boites; IMPRIME SUR VELIN. "Exemplaire d'une magnificence etonante pour la blancheur du velin, la grandeur des marges, et l'ouvrage immense de l'enluminure; chaque lettre-capitale etant peinte en or, et contenant 953 miniatures, dont 13 sont de la grandeur des pages, et 940 environ de 4 pouces de hauteur sur 3 de largeur. Il est encore dans sa relieure originale, et d'une fraicheur & d'une conservation parfaites: il a appartenu a Claude d'Urfe." 151 4 0

546. Chroniques de France, d'Angleterre, d'Ecosse, d'Espagnes, et de Bretaigne, etc.; par Froissart; Paris, G. Eustace, 1514. 4 vol. in fol. mar. r. double de tabis, et boites IMPRIME SUR VELIN. "On peut regarder ce livre comme un des plus rares qui existe. L'exemplaire est unique et inconnu aux meilleurs bibliographes; Sauvage ne l'a jamaie vu; il est de la premiere beaute par la blancheur du velin, & par sa belle conservation. On y a joint tout le luxe de la relieure." In the Hafod Collection. 149 2 0]

[Footnote 401: The following is the title of the Bibliotheca Lortiana. "A Catalogue of the entire and valuable Library of the late REV. MICHAEL LORT, D.D., F.R.S. and A.S., which will be sold by auction by Leigh and Sotheby, &c., April 5, 1791," 8vo. The sale lasted twenty-five days; and the number of lots or articles was 6665. The ensuing specimens of a few of the book-treasures in this collection prove that Lysander's encomium upon the collector is not without foundation.

NO. 1738. Gardiner's (Bishop) Detection of the Devil's Sophistry, MS. title: printed by John Hertford, in Aldersgate Street, at the cost and charges of Robert Toye, 1546, 12mo. Note in this book: "Though this book is imperfect, yet the remarkable part of it, viz. sheet E, printed in the Greek letter, and sheet F in Latin, with the Roman letter, are not wanting." L0 2s. 0d.

1847. Hale's (T.) Account of New Inventions, in a letter to the Earl of Marlborough, 8vo. Note in this book: "Many curious particulars in this book, more especially a prophetic passage relative to the Duke of Marlborough, p. XLVII." 0 5 0

1880. Harrison's (Michael) four Sermons. "N.B. The author of this book cut the types himself, and printed it at St. Ives," 8vo. 0 3 0

1930. Festival (The) impressus Rothomage, 1499, 4to. In this book (which is in English) at the end of each Festival is a narration of the life of the Saint, or of the particular festival. 0 16 0

1931. Festival (The) with wooden cuts, compleat: emprynted by Wynkyn de Worde, 1408, 4to. 0 15 0

2156. Johnson's (Dr. Sam.) Journey to the Western Islands of Scotland. "In this book is contained the cancelled part of page 48, relative to Litchfield Cathedral; likewise the cancelled part of page 296, respecting the cave at Egg, and the transaction there; also parts of reviews and newspapers, concerning Dr. Johnson; two plates, MS. copy of a letter of Dr. Johnson's: and Henderson's letter to Johnson on his journey to Scotland." 1776, 8vo. 0 15 0

2558. Muggleton's Acts of the Witnesses of the Spirit; with heads, MS. remarks, and notes, 1699. Ludowick Muggleton, born in Bishopgate Street, 1609; put apprentice to John Quick, a taylor. Married a virgin of 19, aetat. suae 22. Another virgin of 19, aetat. 32. A third virgin wife of 25, aetat. 53. Chosen a prophet 1665, 4to. 0 5 6

2559. Muggleton's and Reeve's volume of Spiritual Epistles; elegantly bound, with a head of Muggleton underneath a MS. note, 1755, 4to. 0 10 6

2579. Lower's Voyage of Charles II. made into Holland, head and plates. Hague. 1660. Folio. N.B. "A very uncommon book, containing many curious particulars." 1 3 0

2776. Owen's (Dr. John) Divine Originall, &c. of the Scriptures, Oxford, 1659, 8vo. Note in this book: "One of the scarcest and best of Dr. Owen's works." 0 1 0

3005. Psalms (The whole Booke of) with Hymns, by Ravenscroft, with music, 8vo. "Note; in this book are some tunes by John Milton, the great poet's father. See page 242, 62." 0 2 0

3342. Stubbes's Anatomie of Abuses, printed at London by Richard Jones, 16 August, 1583, 8vo. Note in this book: "I bought this rare book at the auction of Mr. Joseph Hart's books, in May 1772, where it cost me 8s. &c." M.L. [The reader may just run back to page 279, ante; where he will find some account of this work.] 1 14 0

4185. Champ Fleury, auquel est contenu l'Art et Science de la deue et vraye Proportion de Lettres Antiques et Romaines selon le Corps et visage Humain, avec figures. Par. 1529. Folio. "This uncommon book was sold at an auction, 1722, for 2l. 15s." 0 12 6

4437. Alberti Descriptione di tutta Italia, Venez., 1568, 4to. Note in this book—"This is a very scarce and much valued account of Italy." With another curious note respecting the author. 0 9 6

4438. Aldrete Varias Antiguedales de Espana, Africa, y otras Provincias. Amberes, 1641, 4to. Note in this book: "One of the most valuable books of this kind in the Spanish language, and very rarely to be met with." 0 9 6

5532. Humfredi, Vita Episcop. Juelli, foliis deauratis, Lond. ap Dayum, 1573, 4to. Note in this book: "At the end of this book are probably some of the first Hebrew types used in England." 0 1 0

6227. Praesidis (Epistola R.A.P.) Generalis et Regiminis totius Congregationis Anglicanae Ordinis St. Benedicti. Duaci, 1628. 8vo. 0 1 0

[Note in this book: "This is a very scarce book; it was intended only for the use of the order, and care taken that it should not get into improper hands. See the conclusion of the General's mandate, and of the book itself."]

6616. Wakefeldi Oratio de Laudibus et Utilitate trium linguarum, Arabicae, Chaldaicae, & Hebraicae; atque idiomatibus Hebraicis quae in utroque Testamento inveniuntur. Lond. ap. Winandum de Worde.—Shirwode Liber Hebraeorum concionatoris, seu Ecclesiasten. Antv. 1523. 4to. Note in this book: "These two pieces by Shirwood and Wakefield are exceedingly rare." 0 4 0

For some particulars concerning the very respectable Dr. LORT, the reader may consult the Gentleman's Magazine; vol. lx. pt. ii. p. 1055, 1199.]

ALMAN. I am glad to hear you notice such kind of collections; for utility and common sense have always appeared to me a great desideratum among the libraries of your professed bibliomaniacs.

BELIN. Yes:—You pride yourselves upon your large paper, and clean, and matchless copies—but you do not dwell quite so satisfactorily upon your useful and profitable volumes—which, surely stand not in need of expensive embellishments. Lort's collection would be the library for my money—if I were disposed to become a female bibliomaniac!

LIS. You are even a more jejune student than myself in bibliography, or you would not talk in this strain, Belinda. Abuse fine copies of books! I hope you forgive her, Lysander?

LYSAND. Most cordially. But have I not discoursed sufficiently? The ladies are, I fear, beginning to be wearied; and the night is "almost at odds with morning which is which."

LOREN. Nay, nay, we must not yet terminate our conversation. Pursue, and completely accomplish, the noble task which you have begun. But a few more years to run down—a few more renowned bibliomaniacs to "kill off"—and then we retire to our pillows delighted and instructed by your——

LYSAND. Halt! If you go on thus, there is an end to our "Table Talk." I now resume.

LOREN. Yet a word to save your lungs, and slightly vary the discourse. Let me take you with me to Ireland, about this time; where, if you reremember [Transcriber's Note: remember], the library of DENIS DALY[402] was disposed of by public auction. My father attended the sale; and purchased at it a great number of the Old English Chronicles, and volumes relating to English History, which Lisardo so much admired in the library. You remember the copy of Birch's Lives of Illustrious Persons of Great Britain!

[Footnote 402: A Catalogue of the Library of the late Right Honourable DENIS DALY, which will be sold by auction on the first of May, 1792, by James Vallance. Dublin, 8vo. A fac-simile copper-plate of a part of the first psalm, taken from a Bible erroneously supposed to have been printed by Ulric Zell in 1458, faces the title-page; and a short and pertinent preface succeeds it. The collection was choice and elegant: the books are well described, and the catalogue is printed with neatness. The copies on large paper are very scarce. I subjoin, as a curiosity, and for the sake of comparing with modern prices, the sums for which a few popular articles in ENGLISH HISTORY were disposed of.

NO. 527. Tyrrell's General History of England, 5 vols. Lond. 1697, fol. "To this copy Mr. Tyrell has made considerable additions in MS. written in a fair hand, which must be worthy of the attention of the learned." L10 4s. 9d.

533. Rapin's History of England with Tyndal's Continuation, 5 vols. elegantly bound in russia. Lond. 1743-1747, folio. "One of the most capital sets of Rapin extant; besides the elegant portraits of the kings and queens, monuments, medals, &c. engraved for this work, it is further enriched with the beautiful prints executed by Vertue and Houbraken, for Birch's Illustrious Heads." folio. 17 2 7

534. Carte's General History of England, 4 vols., fine paper, elegant in russia. Lond. 1747, folio. 7 19 3

537. Birch's Lives of Illustrious Persons of Great Britain, with their heads by Houbraken and Vertue; 2 vols. in one, first impression of the plates, imperial paper. Lond. 1743-1751, folio. It is impossible to give a perfect idea of this book: every plate is fine, and appears to be selected from the earliest impressions: it is now very scarce. 22 15 0

538. Campbell's Vitruvius Britannicus, with Woolfe's and Gandon's Continuation, 5 vols. large paper, fine impressions of the plates, elegantly bound in morocco, gilt leaves, &c. Lond. 1717-1767, folio. 25 0 6

540. Wood's Historia et Antiquitates Oxoniensis, large paper, russia, gilt leaves, &c. Ox. 1674. 2 16 10

542. Biographia Britannica, 7 vols. large paper, elegantly bound. Lond. 1747, fol. 13 13 0

543. —— —— 4 vols. new edition, elegantly bound in green Turkey. Lond. 1778. 7 19 3

545. Mathaei Paris, Monachi Albanensis Angli, Historia Major, a Wats. Lond. 1640, folio. 3 19 7

546. Mathaei Westmonasteriensis, Flores Historiarum. Franc. 1601, folio. 2 16 10

547. Historiae Anglicanae Scriptores Varii, a Sparke. Lond. 1723, folio. 2 5 6

548. Historiae Anglicanae Scriptores X. a Twysden; 2 tom. fol. deaurat. Lond. 1652, folio. 4 11 0

549. Rerum Anglicarum Scriptores post Bedam, a Saville, fol. deaurat. Lond. 1596, folio. 2 5 6

550. Rerum Anglicarum Scriptorum Veterum, a Gale; 3 tom. fol. deaurat. Lond. 1684-91. 5 13 9

551. Rerum Britannicarum, Scriptores Vetustiores. Lugd. 1587, folio. 1 8 0

573. Prynne's Records, 3 vols., with the frontispieces complete, gilt, broad border of gold. Lond. 1666-68. "For an account of this rare and valuable work, see Oldy's British Librarian, page II. Not more than 70 copies of the first vol. were rescued from the fire of London, 1666." folio. 80 15 3

I learn from the nephew of the late Mr. Archer, of Dublin, bookseller, that the late Lord Clare offered 4000 guineas for the collection—which contained only 1441 lots or articles. The offer was rejected. Although the amount of the sale did not exceed 3700l.—according to a rough calculation.]

LIS. I do:—and a marvellously fine one it is!

LOREN. Well, this was formerly Exemplar Dalyanum. But now proceed. I wished only to convince you that the miasmata (as you call them) of the bibliomaniacal disease had reached our Sister Kingdom. Of Scotland[403]—I know nothing in commendation respecting the BIBLIOMANIA.

[Footnote 403: This is rather a hasty speech, on the part of Lorenzo. The copious and curious catalogues of those booksellers, Messrs. CONSTABLE, LAING, and BLACKWOOD—are a sufficient demonstration that the cause of the Bibliomania flourishes in the city of Edinburgh. Whether they have such desperate bibliomaniacs in Scotland, as we possess in London, and especially of the book-auction species—is a point which I cannot take upon me to decide. Certain it is that the notes of their great poet are not deficient in numerous tempting extracts from rare black-letter tomes; and if his example be not more generally followed than it is, the fault must lie with some scribe or other who counteracts its influence by propagating opinions, and recommending studies, of a different, and less tasteful, cast of character. I am fearful that there are too many politico-economical, metaphysical, and philosophical miasmata, floating in the atmosphere of Scotland's metropolis, to render the climate there just now favourable to the legitimate cause of the BIBLIOMANIA.]

I had nearly forgotten to mention, with the encomiums which they merit, the select, curious, and splendid collections of the CHAUNCYS:[404] very able scholars, and zealous bibliomaniacs. Many a heavy-metalled competitor attended the sale of the Bibliotheca Chauncyana; and, I dare say, if such a collection of books were now sub hasta——

[Footnote 404: A Catalogue of the elegant and valuable Libraries of CHARLES CHAUNCY, M.D. F.R.S. and F.S.A.; and of his brother, NATHANIEL CHAUNCY, Esq., both deceased: &c. Sold by auction by Leigh and Sotheby, April, 1790, 8vo.: 3153 articles.

NO. 99. Booke of Raynarde the Foxe, morocco, gilt leaves, London by Thomas Gaultier, 1550, 8vo. L2 3s. 0d.

108. Merie Tales by Master Skelton, Poet Laureat; imprinted by Thomas Colwell; no date, 12mo. 1 6 0

109. The Pleasunt Historie of Lazarillo de Tormes, by David Rouland; impr. at London, by Abel Jeffes, 1586, 12mo. 0 11 0

112. The Newe Testament, corrected by Tyndal, with exhortations by Erasmus; gilt leaves, 1536, 12mo. 5 2 6

113. More's Utopia, by Robynson; impr. by Abraham Veale, 12mo. (1551.) 0 8 0

"N.B. In this are the passages which have been left out in the later editions." (But the reader may be pleased to examine my edition of this translation of the Utopia; 1808, 2 vols., 8vo., see vol. i., p. clix.)

119. The Epidicion into Scotland of the most woorthely fortunate Prince Edward, Duke of Somerset, Uncle unto our most noble sovereign, &c., Edward the VIth; imprinted by Grafton; 1548, 8vo. 2 18 0

(At the sale of Mr. Gough's books in 1810, a fine copy of this work was sold for 10l. 10s.)

362. Ben Jonson his Volpone, or the Foxe; morocco, gilt leaves, 1607, 4to. 4 0 0

"In this book is this note written by Ben Jonson himself. 'To his loving father, and worthy friend Mr. John Florio: the ayde of his Muses. Ben Jonson seales this testimony of friendship and love.'"

384. Nychodemus's Gospell, morocco, gilt leaves, emprynted at London, by Wynkyn de Worde, 1511, 4to. 2 2 0

388. Oxford and Cambridge Verses; in blue and red morocco, gilt leaves, with gold tassels, 13 vols., 1617, &c., fol. 2 12 6

572. Caius of English Dogges, the diversities, the names, the natures, and the properties, by Fleming; imprinted at London by Richard Johnes, 1576, 4to. 5 10 0

592. The Life and Death of the merry Devill of Edmonton, with the pleasant Prancks of Smug the smith, Sir John, and mine Host of the George, about the stealing of Venison, frontispiece, 4to. 1 10 0

599. Speculum Xristiani, corio turcico, impress. London, p. Willelmum de Machlinia ad instanciam nec non expensas Henrici Urankenburg, mercatoris, sine anno vel loco, circa, 1480, 4to. 11 0 0

599. [Transcriber's Note: sic] A Hundreth Sundrie Flowers, bounde up in one small poesie, gathered in the fyne outlandish gardins of Euripides, Ovid, Petrake, Aristo, and others. London, 4to. 1 12 0

1669. The Recuile of the Historie of Troie; imprynted 1553, by William Copland, folio 2 5 0

1670. The Pastyme of People. The Chronicles of dyvers Realmys, and most specyally of the Realme of Englond, brevely compylyd and emprynted in Chepesyde at the sygne of the Mearmayde, next Polly's Gate (made up with MS.) morocco, gilt leaves, folio 9 14 0

1684. Cunningham's Cosmographical Glasse. Lond. printed by Daye, 1559, fol. 5 15 6

(I conclude that it had the portrait.)

2932. Ptolomaei Cosmographie; cum tab. georgr. [Transcriber's Note: geogr.] illum. Impress. in Membranis, 1482, fol. 14 14 0

2933. Virgilii Opera: Impres. in Membram. Venet. ap. Barthol. Cremonens, 1472, fol. (Two leaves on vellum in MS. very fairly written) 43 1 0

Purchased by the late Mr. Quin.

2934. Plinii Hist. Naturalis; Venet. 1472, folio. Impres. in Membranis. The first leaf illuminated on very fine vellum paper. Note in this book: "This book, formerly Lord Oxford's, was bought by him of Andrew Hay for 160 guineas." 65 2 0

Purchased by Mr. Edwards.

There was also a magnificent copy of Pynson's first edition of Chaucer's Works, in folio, which is now in the collection of Earl Spencer.]

LIS. He means "under the hammer."—Ladies are not supposed to know these cramp Latin phrases.—

LYSAND. Well, "under the hammer:"—if, I say, such a collection were now to be disposed of by public auction, how eager and emulous would our notorious book-collectors be to run away with a few splendid spoils!

We will next notice a not less valuable collection, called the Bibliotheca Monroiana; or the library of Dr. JOHN MONRO;[405] the sale of which took place in the very year, and a little before, the preceding library was disposed of. Don't imagine that Monro's books were chiefly medical; on the contrary, besides exhibiting some of the rarest articles in Old English literature, they will convince posterity of the collector's accurate taste in Italian Belles Lettres: and here and there you will find, throughout the catalogue, some interesting bibliographical memoranda by the Doctor himself.

[Footnote 405: "Bibliotheca Elegantissima Monroiana: A Catalogue of the elegant and valuable library of JOHN MUNRO, M.D., Physician to Bethelem Hospital, lately deceased. Sold by auction by Leigh and Sotherby [Transcriber's Note: Sotheby], &c. April 23d, 1792, 8vo." As usual I subjoin a few specimens of the collector's literary treasures in confirmation of the accuracy of Lysander's eulogy upon the collection——No. 709, Cowell's Interpreter; or, Booke containing the signification of words, first edition, ("rare to be met with.") Camb. by Legate, 1607, 4to.——No. 1951. Cent (Les) Nouvelles Nouvelles, ou pour mieux dire, Nouveaux Comptes a plaisance, par maniere de Joyeusete.——Lettres Gothiques, fig. et bois et titre MSS. feuilles dorees, en maroquin, Paris, par Ant. Verard, 1475, fol.——No. 1963, Heide Beschryving der nieuevlyks uitgevonden en geoctrojeerde Slang-Brand-Spuiten, en Haare wijze van Brand-Blussen, Tegenwoordig binnen Amsterdam in gebruik zynde. Wyze figuurs Amst. 1690, fol. "Note in this book: Paris, 1736. Paid for this book for his Grace the Duke of Kingston, by Mr. Hickman, 24l." A great sum for a book about a "newly discovered fire engine!"——No. 2105, Vivre (Le livre intitule l'art de bein) et de bien mourir, lettres gothiques, avec fig. en maroquin dorees sur tranches. Imprime a Paris, 1543, 4to. Note by Dr. Munro: "It is a very scarce book, more so than generally thought." With a long account of the book on separate papers.——No. 2121, Ariosto, Orlando Furioso, con figure da Porro, foglio dorat. Venet. 1584, 4to. N.B. In this copy the true print is replaced with a fine head of Ariosto, and elegantly inlaid with morocco and calf.——No. 2147, Boccacio (Nimpale Fiesolano: composto par il Clarissimo Poeta Misser Joanni) Fiorentino, &c. rigato. Senza data, 4to. See in this book a long account of this poem from Dom. Maria Manni, in the Istoria del Decamerone, p. 55. "From what Manni says in the above account, I suppose this to be the first edition he makes mention of, as there is no place or date to be found. J.M."——No. 2194. Dante di Landino, con. fig. La prima Edizione di Landino, impf. Firenze per Nicholo di Lorenzo della Magna, 1481, folio. "In this book are several remarks by Dr. Munro, on separate papers. An old scarce print, separate. On the title-page the following initials C M/DC R; upon which the Doctor remarks it might probably be the signature of Charles the First, whose property it might have been. The Doctor likewise observes this copy, though imperfect, is still very valuable, on account of its having eight plates, the generality having only the two first."——No. 2208, Molinet (Les Faictz et dictz de bone Memoire Maistre Jehan) Lettres gothiques, en maroquin Par. 1537, 8vo.——No. 2366, Peri Fiesole Distrutta, poema: with portrait and engraved title, Firenze, 1619, 4to. Note in this book: "This is the only copy I ever saw of this work, which I imagine is at present become extremely scarce. The title and portrait are engraved by Callott. The portrait is common enough, but the title, known by the name of the Bella Giardiniera, very seldom seen. J.M."——No. 2379. Ridolfi, Le Maraviglie dell'Arte, overo le vite di Pittori Veneti e dello stato, con. fig. 2 tom. 4to. N.B. On the blank leaf of this book is an etching by Carolus Rodolphus, with this MS. note: "I imagine this to be an etching of Cavaier Rodolphi, as I do not remember any other of the name."——No. 2865, Lazii in Genealogiam Austriacam, Basil. ap. Oporinum, 1564.—Lazii Vienna Austriae Basil, 1546. Francolin Res Gestae Viennensis, cum fig. Viennae Austriae excudebat Raphael Hofhalter, 1563. Folio. Note in this book: "The last book in this volume is curious and uncommon."]

We shall now run rapidly towards the close of the eighteenth century. But first, you may secure, for a shilling or two, the SOUTHGATE COLLECTION;[406] and make up your minds to pay a few more shillings for good copies, especially upon large paper, of all the parts of the catalogues of the library of GEORGE MASON[407]. This collection was an exceedingly valuable one; rather select than extensive: exhibiting, in pretty nearly an equal degree, some of the rarest books in Greek, Latin, and English literature. The keimelion of the Masonian cabinet, in the estimation of the black-letter bibliomaniacs, was a perfect copy of the St. Albans' edition of Juliana Barnes's book of Hawking, Hunting, and Angling; which perfect copy is now reposing in a collection where there are keimelia of far greater value to dim its wonted lustre. But let Mason have our admiration and esteem. His library was elegant, judicious, and, in many respects, very precious: and the collector of such volumes was a man of worth and learning.

[Footnote 406: "Museum Southgatianum; being a Catalogue of the valuable Collection of Books, Coins, Medals, and Natural History of the late Rev. RICHARD SOUTHGATE, A.B., F.A.S., &c. To which are prefixed Memoirs of his Life. London: printed for Leigh and Sotheby," &c. 1795, 8vo. The books were comprised in 2593 lots. The coins and medals extend, in the catalogue, to 68 pages. The shells and natural curiosities (sold in May, 1795) to 11 pages. This catalogue possesses, what every similar one should possess, a compendious and perspicuous account of the collector. My copy of it is upon large paper; but the typographical execution is sufficiently defective.]

[Footnote 407: Lysander is right in noticing "all the parts" of the Masonian Library. I will describe them particularly. Pt. I. A Catalogue of a considerable portion of the Greek and Latin Library of GEORGE MASON, Esq., with some articles in the Italian, French, English, and other languages, &c. Sold by auction by Leigh and Sotheby, on Wednesday, January 24, 1798, 8vo. 497 articles. Pt. II. A Catalogue of most of the reserved portion of the Greek and Latin Library of G.M., &c., chiefly classical and bibliographical, with a few miscellaneous articles in French: sold as before, May 16, 1798, &c. 480 articles. Pt. III. A Catalogue of a considerable portion of the remaining Library of G.M., Esq.—chiefly historical, with some curious theological, and some scientific, articles: sold as before; Nov. 27 to 30; 1798, &c. 547 articles. Pt IV. A Catalogue, &c., of the remaining library of G.M., Esq.—chiefly Belles Lettres, English, French, and Italian, &c., sold as before; April 25, 1799: 338 articles. These FOUR PARTS, priced, especially the latter one—are uncommon. My copies of all of them are upon large paper. It must have been a little heart-breaking for the collector to have seen his beautiful library, the harvest of many a year's hard reaping, melting away piece-meal, like a snow-ball—before the warmth of some potent cause or other, which now perhaps cannot be rightly ascertained. See here, gentle reader, some of the fruits of this golden Masonian harvest!—gathered almost promiscuously from the several parts. They are thus presented to thy notice, in order, amongst other things, to stimulate thee to be equally choice and careful in the gathering of similar fruits.

PART I.

NO. 150. Winstanley's Audley End, inscribed to James the Second, fol. Never published for sale L27 10s. 0d.

158. Hypnerotomachia Poliphili, C.T. F.D. Ald. 1499 5 0 0

162. Aquinae (Thomae) Quartiscriptum, C.R. Moguntiae Schoeffer, 1492, fol. 6 0 0

295. Cicero de Officiis, C.T. F.D. Moguntiae ap. Fust. 1465. 4to. In hoc exemplari Rubrica inter libros secundum ac tertium habet singularia errata, quae in nullo alio exemplari adhuc innotuerunt; viz. primus ponitur pro secundus, secundus pro tertius, et secundum pro tertium 26 5 0

307. Chalcondylas, Moschopulus, et Corinthus, Gr. editio princeps. Vide notam ante Librum 8 18 6

308. Constantini Lexicon Graecum. Genevae, 1592 4 5 0

324. Ciceronis Orationes, C.T. viridi F.D. per Adamum de Ambergau, 1472, fol. 5 5 0

468. Homerus, Gr., 2 vol., Editio princeps, C.R. Flor. 1488 11 11 0

496. Xenophon, Gr., editio princeps, C.T. F.D. Flor. ap. Junt. 1516, fol. 2 3 0

PART III.

70. Maundrel's Journey from Aleppo to Jerusalem, L.P. Oxf. 1714, 8vo. First edition of the entire work 3 18 0

101. The Psalter of David, large B.L. C.T. nigro F.D. Cantorbury, in St. Paule's Parysh, by John Mychell, 1549, 4to. 4 4 0

102. The Gospels in Saxon and English, dedicated to Queen Elizabeth, by John Foxe, C.T. nigro, F.D. Lond. by Daye, 1571, 4to. 4 5 0

103. The new Testament, by Thomas Matthew, 1538, 4to. 3 4 0

["There are cuts to the Revelations, different from any Mr. Herbert had seen; nor had he seen the book itself, till he was writing his 'Corrections and additions,' where, at p. 1833, he describes it."]

105. Nychodemus' Gospell, C.T. F.D. wood prints. Wynkyn de Worde, 1511, 4to. 1 5 0

107. English Prymer, in red and black types: with emblematic frontispiece from a wood-cut. C.T. caeruleo F.D. Byddell, 1535, 4to. PRINTED ON VELLUM 8 18 6

110. Speculum Christiani (in Latin prose and English verse) C.T. nigro. In civitate Londoniarum, per Wilhelmum de Machlinia. Supposed to be the first book printed in London, and about 1480, 4to. 4 4 0

111. Contemplation of Synners, (Latin prose and English verse) with double frontispiece, and other wood-cuts. Westminster, by Wynkyn de Worde, 1499, 4to. 2 3 0

112. (Walter Hylton's) Scala Perfectionis, London, without Temple-Barre, by Julyan Notary, 1507, 4to. 1 11 6

151. Dives and Pauper, C.R. first dated impression by Pynson, 1493, folio 2 5 0

164. Hackluyt's Collection of Voyages, B.L. 3 vols. in 2. Lond. 1599. "This work contains in vol. I. (beginning at p. 187) a political tract in verse (of the time of Henry VI.) exhorting England to keep the sea." 4 10 0

178. Arnold's Chronicle, or Customs of London, B.L. C.T.—F.D. (1521) folio 15 15 6

180. Chaucer's Hertfordshire; with all the plates, C.R. Once the book of White Kennet, Bishop of Peterborough; whose marginal notes in are pp. 64, 359, 523, folio 21 0 0

338. Froissart's Chronycles, 2 vols. C.R. F.D. Printed by Pynson, 1523-5, folio, 2 vols.

341. Rastell's Pastyme of People, C.T.—F.D. Johannes Rastell, (1529) One page and part of a pieced leaf written.

349. Monasticon Anglicanum, 3 vols. ligat. in 4, C.R. all the plates, Lond. 1651, 61, 73. "This copy contains that very scarce leaf, which sometimes follows the title-page of the first volume: an account of which leaf (by Tanner and Hearne) may be seen from p. 45 to p. 50 of the sixth volume of Leland's Collectanea, and their account rectified by Bridges, at the conclusion of Hearne's preface to Titus Livius Foro-Juliensis." Folio.

466. Hardyng's Chronicle (in verse) C.R.—F.D. With an original grant (on vellum) from Henry VI. to Hardyng, Londoni. Grafton, 1543, 4to.

[This beautiful copy, formerly West's, is now in the collection of George Hibbert, Esq.]

518. Fabian's Chronicle, C.T. caerulo F.D. 2 vols. in 1. B.L. Lond. W. Rastell, 1533. "This edition (as well as Pynson's) has the hymns to the Virgin, though Mr. T. Warton thought otherwise." folio.

PART IV.

[Transcriber's Note: In this section, no prices are given in the original.]

37. Kendall's Flowers of Epigrams, B.L.—C.R. Leaf 93 is wanting, 12mo.

47. M(arloe)'s Ovid's Elegies and Epigrams, by J. D(avies of Hereford). (Ovid's head engraved by W.M.) C.T.—F.D. Middlebourg, 12mo.

57. Observations on Authors, Ancient and Modern, 2 vol. Lond. 1731-2. "This was Dr. Jortin's own copy, who has written the name of each author to every piece of criticism, and added a few marginal remarks of his own," 8vo.

150. Valentine and Orson, B.L. cuts. Wants title, two leaves in one place, and a leaf in another, 4to.

152. La Morte D'Arthur, B.L. wood-cuts, Lond. Thomas East. Wants one leaf in the middle of the table. See MS. note prefixed.

153. Barnes's (Dame Juliana) Boke of Haukynge, Huntynge, and Cootarmuris, C.T.—F.D. Seynt Albon's, folio, 1486. "This perhaps is the only perfect copy of this original edition, which is extant. Its beginning with sig. a ii is no kind of cantradiction [Transcriber's Note: contradiction] to its being perfect; the registers of many Latin books at this period mention the first leaf of A as quite blank. The copy of the public library at Cambridge is at least so worn or mutilated at the bottom of some pages that the bottom lines are not legible." [This copy is now in the matchless collection of Earl Spencer.]

157. Chaucer's Canterbury Tales, C.R. woodcuts, Pynson, folio, "This is Pynson's original edition, and probably the first book he printed. See a long MS. note prefixed. Bound up at the end of this copy are two leaves of a MS. on vellum, which take in the conclusion of the Miller's Prologue, and beginning of his Tale. One of these pages is illuminated, and has a coloured drawing of the Miller on his mule."

166. Mort D'Arthur, B.L. woodcuts. Lond. W. Copland. See MS. notes at the beginning and end, folio.

175. Roy's Rede me and be not wrothe, For I say nothing but trothe.

"This is the famous satire against Cardinal Wolsey, printed some years before his fall. See Herbert, p. 1538, 8vo." [The reader may look for one minute at page 225, ante.]

263. Boetius, (The Boke of Comfort, by) translated into Englishe Tonge (in verse) Emprented in the exempt Monastery of Taverstock, in Denshire, by me, Thomas Rycharde, Monke of the said Monastery, 1525, 4to.

261. Caxton's Blanchardyn and Eglantine, or Proude Lady of Love, C.T.—F.D., printed by Caxton, folio. [See my edition of the Typograhical [Transcriber's Note: Typographical] Antiquities, vol. i. p. 346.]

274. Hawkyng, Huntyng, and Fyshyng, (from Juliana Barnes) B.L. woodcuts. Lond. Toye, and W. Copland, 4to. See MS. notes prefixed.

275. Hawys's Compendions Story, or Exemple of Vertue, B.L.—C.R. wood-cuts, ib. Wynkyn de Worde, 1533.

276. —— Passe-Tyme of Pleasure, B.L. wood-cuts ib. by W. de Worde, 1517, 4to.

306. Spenser's Shephearde's Calendar. C.T.—F.D., wood-cuts: first edition, ib. Singleton, 1579, 4to.

308. Taylor, the water poet (fifteen different pieces by) all of posterior date to the collection of his works. Among them is the Life of Old Par, with Par's head, and 31 plates of curious needle-work. The volume also contains some replies to Taylor. A written list of all the contents is prefixed. Lond. and Oxford, 4to.

330. Tulle of Old Age (translated by William Botoner, or of Worcester) pr. by Caxton, 1481. folio.

—— of Friendship, translated by Tiptoft, Earl of Worcester; to which is added another tract written by the same Earl, C.R.—F.D.—L.R. Explicit per Caxton, folio.]

How shall I talk of thee, and of thy wonderful collection, O RARE RICHARD FARMER?[408]—and of thy scholarship, acuteness, pleasantry, singularities, varied learning, and colloquial powers! Thy name will live long among scholars in general; and in the bosoms of virtuous and learned bibliomaniacs thy memory shall ever be enshrined! The walls of Emanuel College now cease to convey the sounds of thy festive wit—thy volumes are no longer seen, like Richard Smith's "bundles of sticht books," strewn upon the floor; and thou hast ceased, in the cause of thy beloved Shakspeare, to delve into the fruitful ore of black-letter literature. Peace to thy honest spirit; for thou wert wise without vanity, learned without pedantry, and joyous without vulgarity!

[Footnote 408: There is but a scanty memorial of this extraordinary and ever respectable bibliomaniac, in the Gentleman's Magazine; vol. lxvii. pt. ii. p. 805: 888: nor is it noticed, among Farmer's theologico-literary labours, that he was author of an ingenious essay upon the Demoniacs mentioned in scripture; in which essay he took up the idea of Mede, that these Demoniacs were madmen. Dr. Farmer's essay upon the Learning of Shakespeare is, in respect to the materials, arguments, and conclusions—what the late Bishop of Salisbury's [Douglas] was upon Miracles—original, powerful, and incontrovertible. Never was there an octavo volume, like Farmer's upon Shakespeare—which embraced so many, and such curious, points, and which displayed such research, ingenuity, and acuteness—put forth with so little pomp, parade, or pedantry. Its popularity was remarkable; for it delighted both the superficial and deeply-versed reader in black-letter lore. Dr. Parr's well applied Ciceronian phrase, in lauding the "ingenious and joy-inspiring language" of Farmer, gives us some notion of the colloquial powers of this acute bibliomaniac; whose books were generally scattered upon the floor, as Lysander above observes, like old Richard Smith's "stitched bundles." Farmer had his foragers; his jackalls: and his avant-couriers: for it was well known how dearly he loved every thing that was interesting and rare in the literature of former ages. As he walked the streets of London—careless of his dress—and whether his wig was full-bottomed or narrow-bottomed—he would talk and "mutter strange speeches" to himself; thinking all the time, I ween, of some curious discovery he had recently made in the aforesaid precious black-letter tomes. But the reader is impatient for the Bibliotheca Farmeriana: the title to the catalogue whereof is as follows. "Bibl. Farm. A Catalogue of the curious, valuable, and extensive Library in print and manuscript, of the late REV. RICHARD FARMER, D.D., Canon Residentiary of St. Paul's; Master of Emanuel College: Librarian to the University of Cambridge; and Fellow of the Royal & Antiquary Societies (deceased, &c.) Sold by Auction by Mr. King; May, 1798," 8vo. [8199 articles]. The collection is justly said, in the title page, to contain the "most rare and copious assemblage of Old English Poetry that, perhaps, was ever exhibited at one view; together with a great variety of Old Plays, and early printed books, English and Foreign, in the black-letter." The reader has already (p. 324 ante) had some intimation of the source to which Dr. Farmer was chiefly indebted for these poetical and dramatical treasures; of some of which, "hereafter followeth" an imperfect specimen:

NO. 5950. Marbecke (John) the book of Common Prayer, noted, 1550. 4to. See Dr. Burney's long account of this very scarce book in his History of Musick, vol. ii. p. 578, &c. L2 6s. 0d.

6127. Skinner's Discovery and Declaration of the Inquisition of Spayne, imp. J. Daye, 1569, 4to. 6128. Shippe of Fooles, by Brant, wood cuts, imp. Wynkyn de Worde, 1517, 4to. 1 16 0

6194. Brunswyke's Medical Dictionary, translated by Huet, imp. by Treveris, 1525. folio. 3 10 0

6195. Customs of the Citie of London, or Arnold's Chronicle, with the Nut-Brown Mayde, 1st edition, 1502, folio. 0 19 0

6386. Annalia Dubrensia, or Robert Dover's Olimpic Games upon Cotswold-Hills, with frontispiece, 1636. 1 14 0

6387. Barley-breake, or a Warning for Wantons, by W.N. 1607, 4to. 0 5 0

6395. Britton's Bowre of Delights, by N.B. 1597. 4to. 1 13 0

6413. Byrd's (Will.) Psalmes, Sonets, and Songs of Sadnes and Pietie made into Musicke of 5 partes. 1588. Ditto Sacrae Cantiones, 2 parts; and various Madrigals and Canzonets, by Morley, Weelkes, Wilbye, Bateson, &c. 4to. 0 15 0

6608. Copie of a Letter sent from the roaring Boyes in Elizium, to the two arrant Knights of the Grape in Limbo, Alderman Abel and M. Kilvert, the two projectors for wine; with their portraits. 5 5 0

6785. Turbervile's (George) Epitaphs, Epigrams, Songs and Sonets, with a Discourse of the freendly affections of Tymetes to Pyndara his ladie, b.l. 1570, imp. by Denham, 8vo. 1 16 0

6804. Virgil's Aeneis, the first foure bookes, translated into English heroicall verse, by Richard Stanyhurst, with other poetical devises thereunto annexed; impr. by Bynneman, 1583, 8vo. 2 17 0

6826. Essayes of a Prentise in the Divine Art of Poesie (King James VI.) Edinburgh, by Vautrollier, 1585, 8vo. 1 13 0

6846. Fulwell's (Ulpian) Flower of Fame, or bright Renoune and fortunate Raigne of King Henry VIII. b.l. with curious wood cuts: imp. by Will. Hoskin, 1575, 4to. 1 11 6

6847. Flytting (the) betwixt Montgomerie and Polwarte, Edin., 1629, 4to. 2 5 0

7058. Horace's Art of Poetrie, Pistles, and Satyrs, English'd by Drant, b.l. Imp. by Marshe, 1566, 4to. 0 7 6

7066. Humours Ordinarie, where a man may be verie merrie and exceeding well used for his sixpence, 1607, 4to. 0 14 6

7187. Mastiffe Whelp, with other ruff-island-like curs fetcht from among the Antipodes, which bite and barke at the fantasticall humourist and abuses of the time. 0 19 0

7199. Merry Jest of Robin Hood, and of his Life, with a new Play for to be plaied in May-Games; very pleasant and full of pastime, b.l. imp. by Edward White, 4to. 3 13 6

7200. Milton's Paradise Lost, in 10 books, 1st edit. 1667. 0 11 0

7201. —— —— —— —— —— —— 2nd title page, 1668. 0 11 0

7202. —— —— —— —— —— —— 3rd title page, 1669.—"N.B. The three foregoing articles prove that there were no less than three different title-pages used, to force the sale of the first edition of this matchless poem." S. P[aterson.] 0 7 0

7232. Paradyse of Daynty Devises, b.l. extremely scarce, imp. by Henry Disle, 1576, 4to. 6 0 0

7240. Peele's (G.) Device of the Pageant borne before Woolstone Dixie, Lord Mayor of London, Oct. 29, 1585, b.l. See Dr. F.'s note; as probably the only copy. 4to. 1 11 6

7241. Percy's (W.) Sonnets to the fairest Caelia, 1594. 4to. 1 12 0

7249. Psalter (the whole) translated into English Metre, which containeth an Hundreth and Fifty Psalms. The title and first page written. Imp. by John Daye, 1567. "This translation was by Archbishop Parker, and is so scarce that Mr. Strype tells us he could never get a sight of it." See Master's History of C.C.C.C. Mr. Wharton supposes it never to have been published, but that the Archbishop's wife gave away some copies. "It certainly (he adds) is at this time extremely scarce, and would be deservedly deemed a fortunate acquisition to those capricious students who labour to collect a Library of Rarities." Hist. of Eng. Poetry, vol. iii. 186. It has a portrait of the Archbishop. 4to. 3 6 0

7828. Somner's (Henry) Orpheus and Eurydice, 1740. 4to. 0 1 6

7829. Shakespeare's Works, 1st edition, in folio, wants title, last leaf written from the 4to. 1623. 7 0 0

8062. Metrical Romances, written in the reign of Richard IId. or rather about the end of the reign of Henry IIId. or beginning of Edward I. (See note,) purchased at Dr. Monro's Auction by Dr. Farmer, for 29l. 4 14 0

8080. These Booke is called Ars moriendi, of William Baron, Esq., to remayne for ever to the Nonnye of Deptford; on vellum, bound in purple velvet. 2 3 0

6451. Chaucer's noble and amorous auncyent Hystory of Troylus and Cresyde, in fyve Bokes, imprynted by Wynkyn de Worde, 1517.

Here begynneth the Temple of Glass, imp. by Wynkyn de Worde.

The Castell of Pleasure, imp. by ditto.

Here begynneth a lyttell Treatise cleped La Conusauce D'Amours. imp. by Pynson.

The Spectacle of Lovers, imp. by Wynkyn de Worde.

History of Tytus and Gesippus, translated out of Latin into Englyshe, by Wyllyam Walter, sometime servaunte to Syr Henry Marney, Cnyght, Chaunceler of the Duchy of Lancastre, imp. by ditto.

The Love and Complayntes betwene Mars and Venus.

The Fyrst Fynders of the VII Scyences Artificiall, printed by Julian Notarye.

Guystarde and Sygysmonde, translated by Wyllyam Walter, imp. by Wynkyn de Worde, 1532.

The Complaynte of a Lover's Lyfe, imp. by ditto.

Here begynneth a lytel Treatyse, called The Disputacyon of Complaynte [of] the Harte, thorughe perced with the lokynge of the Eye, imp. by Wynkyn de Worde.

This Boke is named the Beaultie of Women, translated out of French into Englyshe, imp. by Wier.

Here begynneth a lytel Treatise, called the Controverse betwene a Lover and a Jaye, lately compyled, imp. by Wynkyn de Worde.

The above 12 very rare and ancient pieces of poetry are bound in one vol. with curious wood-cuts, and in fine preservation.

'The Temple of Glass alone was sold for 3l. 15s. and the present vol. may, with propriety, be deemed matchless.' All in quarto. 26 5 0

[N.B. These articles should have preceded no. 6608; at p. 423, ante.]

And here, benevolent reader, let us bid farewell to RICHARD FARMER of transcendant bibliomaniacal celebrity! It is in vain to look forward for the day when book-gems, similar to those which have just been imperfectly described from the Bibl. Farmeriana, will be disposed of at similar prices. The young collector may indulge an ardent hope; but, if there be any thing of the spirit of prophecy in my humble predictions, that hope will never be realised. Dr. Farmer's copies were, in general, in sorry condition; the possessor caring little (like Dr. Francis Bernard; vide p. 316, ante) for large margins and splendid binding. His own name, generally accompanied with a bibliographical remark, and both written in a sprawling character, usually preceded the title-page. The science (dare I venture upon so magnificent a word?) of bibliography was, even in Farmer's latter time, but jejune, and of limited extent: and this will account for some of the common-place bibliographical memoranda of the owner of these volumes. We may just add that there are some few copies of this catalogue printed on large paper, on paper of a better quality than the small; which latter is sufficiently wretched. I possess a copy of the former kind, with the prices and purchasers' names affixed—and moreover, uncut!]

A poor eulogy, this, upon Farmer!—but my oratory begins to wax faint. For this reason I cannot speak with justice of the friend and fellow-critic of Farmer—GEORGE STEEVENS[409]—of Shakspearian renown! The Library of this extraordinary critic and collector was sold by auction in the year 1800; and, being formed rather after the model of Mason's, than of Farmer's, it was rich to an excess in choice and rare pieces. Nor is it an uninteresting occupation to observe, in looking among the prices, the enormous sums which were given for some volumes that cost Steevens not a twentieth part of their produce:—but which, comparatively with their present worth, would bring considerably higher prices! What arduous contention, "Renardine shifts," and bold bidding; what triumph on the one part, and vexation on the other, were exhibited at the book-sale!—while the auctioneer, like Jove looking calmly down upon the storm which he himself had raised, kept his even temper; and "ever and anon" dealt out a gracious smile amidst all the turbulence that surrounded him! Memorable aera!—the veteran collector grows young again in thinking upon the valour he then exhibited; and the juvenile collector talks "braggartly" of other times—which he calls the golden days of the bibliomania—when he reflects upon his lusty efforts in securing an Exemplar Steevensianum!

[Footnote 409: If Lysander's efforts begin to relax—what must be the debilitated mental state of the poor annotator, who has accompanied the book-orator thus long and thus laboriously? Can STEEVENS receive justice at my hands—when my friends, aided by hot madeira, and beauty's animating glances, acknowledge their exhausted state of intellect?! However, I will make an effort:

'nothing extenuate Nor set down aught in malice.'

The respectable compiler of the Gentleman's Magazine, vol. lxx. p. 178, has given us some amusing particulars of Steevens's literary life: of his coming from Hampstead to London, at the chill break of day, when the overhanging clouds were yet charged with the 'inky' purple of night—in order, like a true book-chevalier, to embrace the first dank impression, or proof sheet, of his own famous octavo edition of Shakspeare; and of Mr. Bulmer's sumptuous impression of the text of the same. All this is well enough, and savours of the proper spirit of BIBLIOMANIACISM: and the edition of our immortal bard, in fifteen well printed octavo volumes, (1793) is a splendid and durable monument of the researches of George Steevens. There were from 20 to 25 copies of the octavo edition printed upon LARGE PAPER; and Lord Spencer possesses, by bequest, Mr. Steevens' own copy of the same, illustrated with a great number of rare and precious prints; to which, however, his Lordship, with his usual zeal and taste, has made additions more valuable even than the gift in its original form. The 8vo. edition of 1793 is covetted with an eagerness of which it is not very easy to account for the cause; since the subsequent one of 1803, in 21 octavo volumes, is more useful on many accounts: and contains Steevens's corrections and additions in every play, as well as 177, in particular, in that of Macbeth. But I am well aware of the stubbornness and petulancy with which the previous edition is contended for in point of superiority, both round a private and public table; and, leaving the collector to revel in the luxury of an uncut, half-bound, morocco copy of the same, I push onward to a description of the Bibliotheca Steevensiana. Yet a parting word respecting this edition of 1803. I learn, from unquestionable authority, that Steevens stipulated with the publishers that they should pay Mr. Reed 300l. for editorship, and 100l. to Mr. W. Harris, Librarian of the Royal Institution, for correcting the press: nor has the editor in his preface parted from the truth, in acknowledging Mr. Harris to be 'an able and vigiland [Transcriber's Note: vigilant] assistant.' Mr. H. retained, for some time, Steevens' corrected copy of his own edition of 1793, but he afterwards disposed of it, by public auction, for 28l. He has also at this present moment, Mr. Josiah Boydell's copy of Mr. Felton's picture of our immortal bard; with the following inscription, painted on the back of the pannel, by Mr. Steevens:

May, 1797. Copied by Josiah Boydell, at my request, from the remains of the only genuine Portrait of William Shakspeare. GEORGE STEEVENS.

The engraved portrait of Shakspeare, prefixed to this edition of 1803, is by no means a faithful resemblance of Mr. Boydell's admirably executed copy in oil. The expenses of the edition amounted to 5844l.; but no copies now remain with the publishers. We will now give rather a copious, and, as it must be acknowledged, rich, sprinkling of specimens from the Bibliotheca Steevensiana, in the departments of rare OLD POETRY and THE DRAMA. But first let us describe the title to the catalogue of the same. A Catalogue of the curious and valuable Library of GEORGE STEEVENS, Esq., Fellow of the Royal and Antiquary Societies (Lately deceased). Comprehending an extraordinary fine Collection of Books, &c., sold by auction by Mr. King, in King Street, Covent Garden, May, 1800. 8vo. [1943 articles: amount of sale 2740l. 15s.]

OLD POETRY.

NO. 867. Gascoigne's (Geo.) Workes, or a Hundreth sundrie Flowers bounde in one small Poesie, (including) Supposes, com. from Ariosto; Jocosta, Tr. from Euripides, &c. b.l. first edition. Lond. impr. by Bynneman, 1572, 4to. L1 19s. 0d.

'With MS. notes respecting this copy and edition by Mr. Steevens.'

868. Another copy, 2d edition (with considerable additions); among other, the Princely Pleasures of Kenilworth Castle, the Steele Glass, the Complainte of Phylomene, b.l. ib. impr. by Abell Jeffes, 1587, 4to., with MS. references, by Messrs. Bowles and Steevens. 4 4 0

869. Another copy, including all the aforementioned, and a Delicate Diet for Daintie Mouthde Droonkardes, b.l. Lond. impr. by Rich. Jhones, 1576, 8vo.

The Glasse of Gouernement, 4to. b.l. russia, with MS. references.

The Droome of Doomesday, 3 parts, b.l. ib. 1576, 4to. 'The above two volumes are supposed to comprise the compleatest collection of Gascoigne's works extant.' 5 15 6

876. Googe (Barnabe) Eglogs, Epytaphes, and Sonnettes newly written, b.l., small 8vo. fine copy in Russia, Lond. impr. by Tho. Colwell for Raffe Newbery, dwelynge in Fleet Streete a little above the Conduit, in the late shop of Tho. Bartelet. See Mr. Steevens's note to the above; in which he says there is no scarcer book in the English language, and that Dr. Farmer, Messrs. T. Warton and Js. Reed, had never seen another copy. 10 15 0

949. Lodge (Tho.) Life and death of William Longbeard, the most famous and witty English traitor, borne in the citty of London, accompanied with manye other most pleasant and prettie Histories, 4to. b.l. printed by Rich. Yardley and Peter Short, 1593. [cost Mr. Steevens 1s. 9d.!] 4 7 0

995. The Paradyse of Dainty Devises, MS. a fac-simile of the first edition, in 1576, finished with the greatest neatness by Mr. Steevens, 4to. in russia. 5 15 0

996. The Paradice of Dainty Devises, devised and written for the most part by M. Edwardes, sometime of her Majestie's Chappell; the rest by sundry learned Gentlemen, both of Honor and worship. Lond. printed by Edwd. Allde, 1595, 4to. 4 6 0

997. The Paradice of Daintie Devises, b.l. interleaved, ib. printed for Edw. White, 1600, 4to.

Breton (Nich.) Workes of a young Wyt, trust up with a Fardell of Prettie Fancies, profitable to young Poetes, prejudicial to no Man, and pleasant to every Man, to pass away Idle Tyme withal, b.l. 4to. interleaved with a MS. list of the Author's Works by Messrs. Steevens, Ritson, and Park: impr. at Lond. nigh unto the Three Cranes in the Vintree, by Tho. Dawson, and Tho. Gardyner.

Soothern's Odes, 4to. b.l. interleaved with copious MS. Notes, and an Extract from the European Magazine relative to the Author: wants title, no date.

Watson (Tho.) Passionate Centurie of Love, 4to. b.l. interleaved: the 12 first sonnets, and the latter ones, from 78, in MS. Lond. impr. by John Wolfe.

"The above curious Collection of Old Poems are bound together in russia, with border of gold, and may be deemed with propriety, Matchless." 21 10 6

1037. Puttenham's Arte of English Poesie, in 3 bookes, with a wood-cut of Queen Elizabeth; choice copy, in morocco, 4to. ib. printed by Rich. Field, 1589. 7 10 0

1073. Roy (Will.) Satire on Cardinal Wolsey, a Poem; b.l. sm. 8vo. russia, no date nor place. 7 7 0

1078. Skelton (Jo.) Poet Laureat, lyttle Workes, viz. Speake Parot. The Death of the Noble Prynce, King Edwarde the Fourthe. A Treatyse of the Scottes. Ware the Hawke, The Tunnynge of Elynoure Rummyng, sm. 8vo. b.l. Impr. at Lond. in Crede Lane, Jhon Kynge, and Thomas Marshe, no date. 12mo.

Hereafter foloweth a lyttle Booke, called Colyn Clout, b.l. impr. by John Wyght, 12mo.

Hereafter foloweth a little Booke of Phyllip Sparrow, b.l. impr. by Robert Tob. 12mo.

Hereafter foloweth a little Booke which has to name, Whi come ye not to Courte, b.l. impr. by John Wyght. 12mo. 4 5 0

1079. Skelton (Master, Poet Laureat) Merie Tales, b.l. 12mo. Lond. impr. by Tho. Colwell, no date. 5 15 6

"See Note, in which Mr. Steevens says he never saw another copy."

1119. Warren (Will.) A pleasant new Fancie of a Foundling's Device intitled and cald the Nurcerie of Names, with wood borders, b.l. 4to. ib. impr. by Rich. Jhones, 1581. 2 16 0

1125. Watson (Tho.) Passionate Centurie of Love; b.l. 4to. the title, dedication, and index, MS. by Mr. Steevens.

"Manuscript Poems, transcribed from a Collection of Ancient English Poetry, in the possession of Sam. Lysons, Esq., formerly belonging to Anne Cornwallis, by Mr. Steevens." 5 10 0

1126. —— Passionate Centurie of Love, divided into two parts, b.l. 4to. russia. Lond. impr. by John Wolfe. 5 18 0

1127. England's Helicon, collected by John Bodenham, with copious additions, and an index in MS. by Mr. Steevens, 4to. russia, ib. printed by J.R. 1600. 11 15 0

1128. Weblee [Webbe] (Will.) Discourse of English Poetrie, together with the author's judgment, touching the Reformation of our English Verse, b.l. 4to. russia, ib. by John Charlewood, 1586. 8 8 0

THE DRAMA; AND EARLY PLAYS OF SHAKESPEARE.

1216. The Plot of the Plays of Frederick and Basilea, and of the Deade Man's Fortune, the original papers which hung up by the side scenes in the playhouses, for the use of the prompter and the acter, earlier than the time of Shakspeare. 11 0 0

1218. Anonymous, a pleasant Comedie, called Common Conditions, b.l. imperf. 4to. in russia.

"Of this Dramatick Piece, no copy, except the foregoing mutilated one, has hitherto been discovered: with a long note by Mr. Steevens, and references to Kirkman, Langbaine, Baker, Reed," &c. 6 10 0

1221. Bale (John) Tragedie, or Enterlude, manifesting the chiefe Promises of God unto Man, compyled An. Do. 1538, b.l. 4to. now first impr. at Lond. by John Charlewood, 1577. 12 15 0

1248. Marlow (Chr.) and Tho. Nash, Tragedie of Dido, Queene of Carthage, played by the Children of her Majesties' Chappell, 4to. russia, Lond. printed by the Widdowe Owin, 1594. 17 0 0

1259. Peele (Geo.) The Old Wives Tale, a pleasant conceited Comedie played by the Queene's Majesties' Players; 4to. in russia; ib. impr. by John Danter, 1595. 12 0 0

"N.B. A second of the above is to be found in the Royal Library; a third copy is unknown." Steevens' note.

EARLY PLAYS OF SHAKSPEARE.

1263. The Tragedie of Hamlet, Prince of Denmark, no title, 4to. Lond. 1611. With MS. notes, &c., by Mr. Steevens. 2 2 0

1264. The Tragedy of Hamlet, Prince of Denmark, 4to. ib. printed by R. Young, 1637. 0 7 0

1265. The History of Henrie the Fourth, with the Battell of Shrewsburie, &c.; with the famous conceits of Sir John Falstaffe, part I. 4to. ib. printed by S.S. 1599. 3 10 0

1266. The same, ib. printed for Mathew Lay, 1608, 4to. 1 7 0

1267. The same, ib. printed by W.W. 1613. With MS. notes, &c. by Mr. Steevens. 1 2 0

1268. The same, ib. printed by Norton, 1632. 0 10 0

1259. The 2d part of Henry the Fourth, continuing to his Death, and Coronation of Henrie the Fift, with the Humours of Sir John Falstaffe and Swaggering Pistoll, as acted by the Lord Chamberlayne his Servants. First Edit. 4to. ib. printed by V.S. 1600. 3 13 0

1270. The same, ib. 4to. printed by Val. Simmes, 1600. 2 15 0

1271. The Chronicle History of Henry the Fift, with his Battell fought at Agincourt in France, together with Auntient Pistoll, as playd by the Lord Chamberlayne his servants. First Edit. 4to. inlaid on large paper, ib. printed by Thomas Creede, 1600. 27 6 0

1272. The Chronicle History of Henry the Fift, &c. 4to. Lond. 1608. 1 1 0

1273. The true Tragedie of Richarde, Duke of Yorke, and the Death of good King Henrie the Sixt, as acted by the Earle of Pembroke his Servants, 4to. inlaid on large paper, ib. printed by W.W. 1600. 1 16 0

1274. The whole contention betweene the two famous Houses, Lancaster and Yorke, with the Tragicall Ends of the good Duke Humphrey, Richard, Duke of Yorke, and King Henrie the Sixt, divided into 2 parts, 4to. ib. no date. 1 5 0

1275. The first and second part of the troublesome Raigne of John, King of England, with the discoverie of King Richard Cordelion's Base sonne (vulgarly named the Bastard Fauconbridge) also the Death of King John at Swinstead Abbey, as acted by her Majesties Players, 4to. Lond. impr. by Val. Simmes, 1611. 1 18 0

1276. The first and second part of the troublesome Raigne of John, King of England, &c., ib. printed by Aug. Matthews, 1622. 1 1 0

1277. The True Chronicle History of the Life and Death of King Lear, and his three Daughters, with the unfortunate Life of Edgar, Sonne and Heire to the Earl of Glocester, and his sullen and assumed Humour of Tom of Bedlam, by his Majestie's servants. First Edit. 4to. ib. 1608. 28 0 0

1578. [Transcriber's Note: 1278] Another Edition, differing in the title-page and signature of the first leaf. 4to. ib. 1608. 2 2 0

1279. The most excellent Historie of the Merchant of Venice, with the extreme crueltie of Shylocke the Jew towards the sayd Merchant, in cutting a just pound of his flesh: and the obtayning of Portia by his choyce of three chests, as acted by the Lord Chamberlaine his servants, First Edit. inlaid oil large paper; 4to. at London, printed by John Roberts, 1600. 2 0 0

1280. The excellent History of the Merchant of Venice, with the extreme crueltie of Shylocke the Jew; First Edit. 4to. inlaid on large paper, printed by John Roberts, 1600. 2 2 0

1281. A most pleasant and excellent conceited Comedie of Syr John Falstaffe and the Merrie Wives of Windsor, as acted by the Lord Chamberlaine's Servants. First Edit. 4to. Lond. printed by T.C. 1602. 28 0 0

1282. A most pleasant and excellent conceited Comedy of Sir John Falstaffe and the Merry Wives of Windsor, with the swaggering vaine of Antient Pistoll and Corporal Nym, 4to. inlaid. Lond. 1619. 1 4 0

1283. The Merry Wives of Windsor, with the Humours of Sir John Fallstaffe, also the swaggering Vaine of Ancient Pistoll and Corporal Nym, 4to. Lond. printed by T.H. 1630. 0 10 6

1284. A Midsommer Night's Dreame, as acted by the Lord Chamberlaine's Servantes, First Edit. impr. at Lond. for Thos. Fisher, 4to. 1600, part of one leaf wanting. 25 10 0

1285. Another copy, First Edit. inlaid, ib. 1600. 1 15 0

1286. Much adoe about Nothing, as acted by the Lord Chamberlaine his Servants, First Edit. 4to. ib. printed by Val. Simmes, 1600. 25 10 0

1287. The Tragedy of Othello the Moore of Venice, as acted at the Globe and at the Black Friers, by his Majesties Servants, 4to. Lond. printed by N.O. 1622, with MS. notes and various readings by Mr. Steevens. 29 8 0

1288. The Tragedy of Othello the Moore of Venice, as acted at the Globe and at the Black Friers, 4to. Lond. printed by A.M. 1630. 0 13 0

1289. Tragedie of Othello; 4th Edit. 4to. ib. 1665. 0 4 0

1290. The Tragedie of King Richard the Second, as acted by the Lord Chamberlaine his Servants, 4to. Lond. printed by Val. Simmes, 1598. 4 14 6

1291. Tragedie of King Richard the Second, as acted by the Lord Chamberlaine his Servants, 4to. printed by W.W. 1608. 10 0 0

1292. The Tragedie of King Richard the Second, with new Additions of the Parliament Scene, and the deposing of King Richard, as acted by his Majestie's Servants at the Globe, 4to. Lond. 1615, with MS. notes, &c. by Mr. Steevens. 1 12 0

1293. The Life and Death of King Richard the Second, with new Additions of the Parliament Scene, and the deposing of King Richard, as acted at the Globe by his Majesties Servants, 4to. Lond. 1634. 0 5 0

1294. The Tragedie of King Richard the Third, as acted by the Lord Chamberlain his Servants, 4to. Lond. printed by Tho. Creede. 1602. Defective at the end. 0 10 0

1295. The Tragedie of King Richard the Third, containing his treacherous Plots against his Brother Clarence, the pitiful murther of his innocent Nephews, his tirannical usurpation, with the whole course of his detested Life, and most deserved Death, as acted by his Majesties Servants, 4to. Lond. printed by Tho. Creede, 1612, with notes and various readings by Mr. Steevens. 1 5 0

1296. The same, 4to. ib. 1629. 0 7 0

1297. Tragedie of King Richard the Third, as acted by the King's Majesties Servants, 4to. ib. 1634. 0 6 0

1298. The most excellent and lamentable Tragedie of Romeo and Juliet, 4to. A fragment. Lond. 1599. 0 5 6

1299. The same, compleat, inlaid on large paper, 4to. ib., impr. by Tho. Creede, 1599. [Second Edition.] 6 0 0

1300. The same, 4to. Lond. 1609, with MS. notes and readings by Mr. Steevens. 2 2 0

1301. The same, 4to. ib. printed by R. Young, 1637. 0 9 0

1302. A pleasant conceited Historie, called the Taming of the Shrew, as acted by the Earle of Pembroke's Servants. First Edit. 4to. inlaid on large paper, ib., printed by V.S. 1607. 20 0 0

1303. A wittie and pleasant Comedie, called the Taming of a Shrew, as acted by his Majesties Servants, at the Blacke Friers and the Globe, 4to., ib., printed by W.S. 1631. 0 11 0

1304. The most lamentable Tragedie of Titus Andronicus, as plaide by the King's Majesties Servants, 4to. inlaid, ib., printed for Edward White, 1611. 2 12 6

1305. The History of Troylus and Cresseide, as acted by the King's Majesties Servants at the Globe. First. Edit. 4to., ib., imp. by G. Alde, 1609. 5 10 0

1306. The lamentable Tragedie of Locrine, the eldest sonne of King Brutus, discoursing the Warres of the Brittaines and Hunnes, with ther discomfiture, 4to. ib., printed by Thomas Creede, 1595. 3 5 0

1307. The London Prodigall, as plaide by the King's Majesties Servants, 4to. ib., printed by T.C. 1705. 1 9 0

1308. The late and much admired Play called Pericles, Prince of Tyre, with the true relation of the whole Historie and Fortunes of the said Prince, as also the no lesse strange and worthy accidents in the Birth and Life of his Daughter Marianna, acted by his Majesties Servants at the Globe on the Banck-side, 4to. ib., 1609. 1 2 0

1309. Another edition, 4to. ib. 1619. 0 15 0

1310. The first part of the true and honourable History of the Life of Sir John Old-castle, the good Lord Cobham, as acted by the Earle of Nottingham his servants, 4to. Lond. 1600. 0 10 0

1311. A Yorkshire Tragedy, not so new, as lamentable and true, 4to. Lond. 1619. 0 9 0

1312. (Twenty Plays) published by Mr. Steevens, 6 vols. large paper, ib., 1766. Only 12 copies taken off on large paper 5 15 6

EDITIONS OF SHAKSPEARE'S WORKS.

1313. Comedies, Histories, and Tragedies, published according to the true originall copies, by John Heminge and Hen. Condell, fol. russia. Lond. printed by Isaac Juggard and Edwd. Blount. 1623; with a MS. title, and a fac-simile drawing of the portrait by Mr. Steevens. 22 0 0

1314. The same: 2d edit. folio, fine copy morocco, gilt leaves, ib. 1632. In this book is the hand writing of King Charles I. by whom it was presented to Sir Tho. Herbert, Master of the Revels. 18 18 0

1315. The same: 3d edit. with the 7 additional Plays, fol., neat and scarce, ib. 1664. See Note by Mr. Steevens. 8 8 0

1316. The same: 4th edit. 1685, folio. 2 12 6

1326. Hammer's (Sir Tho.) edition; 9 vols. 18mo. Lond. 1748. 1 13 0

1327. The same: with cuts, 6 vols. 4to. elegantly bound in hog-skin.

1328. Pope and Warburton, 8 vols. 8vo. Lond. 1747. 1 0 0

1329. —— 8 vols. 12mo., with Sir Thos. Hammer's Glossary. Dub. 1747. 0 15 0

1330. Capell, (Edw.) 10 vols. 8vo. Lond. printed by Dryden Leach, 1768. 2 6 0

1331. Johnson, (Sam.) 8 vols. 8vo. Lond. 1765. 1 19 0

1332. —— and Geo. Steevens, 10 vols. 8vo. ib. 1773. 2 14 0

1333. —— in single Plays, 31 vols. boards, ib. 1 11 0

1334. Johnson and Steevens: 10 vols. 2d edit. with Malone's Supplement, 2 vols., and the plates from Bell's edition, ib. 1778. 4 16 0

1335. —— 10 vols. 3d edit. ib. 1785. 3 5 0

1336. —— 4th edit. with a glossarial Index, 15 vols. 8vo. ib. 1793. 6 16 6

1337. Malone, (Edm.) 11 vols. 8vo. ib. 1790. 4 8 0

1338. —— Another copy, 11 vols. 8vo. ib. 4 18 0

1339. Ran (Jos.) 6 vols. 8vo. Oxf. 1786. 1 11 6

1340. —— with Ayscough's Index, 2 vols. 8vo. russia, marbled leaves, published by Stockdale, ib. 1784-90. 0 15 6

1341. Eccles, 2 vols. 8vo. ib. 1794. 1 11 0

1342. From the Text of Mr. Malone's edit. by Nichols, 7 vols. 12mo. Lond. 1790. 0 18 0

1343. From the Text of Mr. Steevens, last edit. 8 vols. 12mo. ib. 1797. 1 0 0

1344. —— 9 vols. 12mo. ib. 1798. 1 3 0

1345. —— 9 vols. 12mo. Birm. by R. Martin. 1 1 0

1346. —— 9 vols. Bell's edit. no plates. Lond. 1774. 0 18 0

1347. —— 20 vols. 18mo. with annotations, Bell's edit. fine paper, with plates, beautiful impressions, ib. 1788. 8 13 6

1348. —— 20 vols. 12mo. Bell's edition; large paper, finest possible impressions of the plates, superbly bound in green turkey, double bands, gilt leaves, ib. 17 17 0

1349. The Dramatic Works of; Text corrected by Geo. Steevens, Esq.; published by Boydell and Nichol, in large 4to., 15 nos. with the large and small plates; first and finest impressions, 1791, &c. N.B. Three more numbers complete the work. 36 4 6

1348. Harding, no. 31, l.p. containing 6 prints, with a portrait of Lewis Theobald, as published by Richardson, and some account of him, by Mr. Steevens. 0 4 6

1349. Ditto, ditto. 0 4 6

1350. Traduit de l'Anglois, 2 toms. Par. 1776. 0 6 0

1351. In German, 13 vols. 12mo. Zurich, 1775. 0 16 0

1352. King Lear, Macbeth, Hamlet, Othello, and Julius Caesar, by Jennings, Lond. 1770. 0 11 0

1353. Macbeth, with Notes by Harry Rowe, 12mo. York, 1797. 0 1 6

1354. —— 8vo. 2d edit. ib. 1799. 0 5 0

1355. Antony and Cleopatra, by Edw. Capell; 8vo. Lond. 1758. 0 1 0

1356. The Virgin Queen; a Drama, attempted as a Sequel to Shakspeare's Tempest, by G.F. Waldron, 8vo. 1797.

1357. —— Annotations on As You Like it, by Johnson and Steevens, Bell's edit. 0 1 0

1358. —— Another copy

1359. Shakspeare's Sonnets, never before imprinted, 4to. at Lond. by G. Ald, 1609. 3 10 0

1360. —— Poems, 8vo. ib. 1640. 0 4 6

1361. —— Venis [Transcriber's Note: Venus] and Adonis, 8vo. ib. 1602. 1 11 6

1362. Rymer (Tho.) Short View of Tragedy, with Reflection on Shakspeare, &c. 8vo. b. 1698. 0 1 6

1363. Shakspeare restored, by Lewis Theobald, 4to. ib. 1726. 0 4 6

1364. Whalley's (Peter) on the Learning of; ib. 1748. Remarks on a late edition of Shakspeare, by Zach. Grey, ib. 1755, and other Tracts. 0 8 6

1365. Morris (Corbyn) Essay towards fixing the true Standard of Wit, Humour, &c. 8vo. ib. 1744. 0 8 0

1366. Critical Observations on, by John Upton; 8vo. 2d edit. Lond. 1748. 0 1 6

1367. —— Illustrated, by Charlotte Lennox; 3 vols. 12mo. ib. 1754. 0 9 0

1368. Notes on Shakspeare, by Zachary Grey; 2 vols. 8vo. ib. 1734. 0 3 0

1369. Beauties of Shakspeare, by William Dodd, 2 vols. 12mo. ib. 1757. 0 3 6

1370. Beauties of Shakspeare, by Wm. Dodd; 3 vols. 12mo. ib. 1780. 0 6 0

1371. —— (Revival of) Text, by Heath, 8vo. ib. 1765. 0 1 0

1372. Observations and Conjectures on some passages of, by Tho. Trywhit [Transcriber's Note: Tyrwhitt]; 8vo. Oxford, 1766. 0 5 0

1373. Farmer (Rich) on the Learning of; 8vo. morocco. Camb. 1767. Only 12 copies on this paper. 0 16 0

1374. —— London. 8vo. 1789, with Mr. Capell's Shakspeariana, 8vo., only 20 copies printed, 1779. 0 1 6

1375. Malone (Edm.) Letter on, to Dr. Farmer; 8vo. ib. 1792. 0 4 6

1376. Letter to David Garrick (on a Glossary to) by Rich. Warner, 8vo. ib. 1768. 0 2 6

There were copies of the Catalogue of Steeven's books struck off on LARGE PAPER, on bastard royal octavo, and in quarto.

It remains to say a few words of the celebrated collector of this very curious library. The wit, taste, and classical acquirements of GEORGE STEEVENS are every where recorded and acknowledged. As an editor of his beloved Shakspeare, he stands unrivalled; for he combined, with much recondite learning and indefatigable research, a polish of style, and vigour of expression, which are rarely found united in the same person. His definitions are sometimes both happy and singular; and his illustrations of ancient customs and manners such as might have been expected from a head so completely furnished, and a hand so thoroughly practised. I will not say that George Steevens has evinced the learning of Selden upon Drayton, or of Bentley upon Phalaris; nor did his erudition, in truth, rise to the lofty and commanding pitch of these his predecessors: nor does there seem much sense or wit in hunting after every pencil-scrap which this renowned bibliomaniac committed to paper—as some sadly bitten book-collectors give evidence of. If I have not greatly misunderstood the characteristics of Steevens's writings, they are these—wit, elegance, gaiety, and satire, combined with almost perfect erudition in English dramatic antiquities. Let us give a specimen of his classical elegance in dignifying a subject, which will be relished chiefly by GRANGERITES. Having learnt that a copy of Skelton's Verses on Elinour Rummin, the famous Ale-wife of England, with her portrait in the title-page, was in the Library of the Cathedral of Lincoln (perhaps, formerly, Captain Coxe's copy; vide p. 266, ante), he prevailed on the late Dean, Sir Richard Kaye, to bring the book to London; but as it was not suffered to go from the Dean's possession, Mr. S. was permitted to make a fac-simile drawing of the title, at the Dean's house in Harley-street. This drawing he gave to Richardson, the printseller, who engraved and published it among the copies of scarce portraits to illustrate Granger. The acquisition of this rarity produced from him the following Jeu d'Esprit; the merit of which can only be truly appreciated by those who had the pleasure of knowing the eminent PORTRAIT COLLECTORS therein mentioned, and whose names are printed in capital letters.

ELEONORA REDIVIVA.

To seek this Nymph among the glorious dead, Tir'd with his search on earth, is GULSTON fled:— Still for these charms enamoured MUSGRAVE sighs; To clasp these beauties ardent BINDLEY dies: For these (while yet unstaged to public view,) Impatient BRAND o'er half the kingdom flew; These, while their bright ideas round him play, From Classic WESTON force the Roman lay: Oft too, my STORER, Heaven has heard thee swear, Not Gallia's murdered Queen was half so fair: "A new Europa!" cries the exulting BULL, "My Granger now, I thank the gods, is full:"— Even CRACHERODE'S self, whom passions rarely move, At this soft shrine has deign'd to whisper love.— Haste then, ye swains, who RUMMING'S form adore, Possess your Eleanour, and sigh no more.

It must be admitted that this is at once elegant and happy.

* * * * *

We will now say somewhat of the man himself. Mr. Steevens lived in a retired and eligibly situated house, just on the rise of Hampstead Heath. It was paled in; and had, immediately before it, a verdant lawn skirted with a variety of picturesque trees. Formerly, this house has been a tavern, which was known by the name of the Upper Flask: and which my fair readers (if a single female can have the courage to peruse these bibliomaniacal pages) will recollect to have been the same to which Richardson sends Clarissa in one of her escapes from Lovelace. Here Steevens lived, embosomed in books, shrubs, and trees: being either too coy, or too unsociable, to mingle with his neighbours. His habits were indeed peculiar: not much to be envied or imitated; as they sometimes betrayed the flights of a madman, and sometimes the asperities of a cynic. His attachments were warm, but fickle both in choice and duration. He would frequently part from one, with whom he had lived on terms of close intimacy, without any assignable cause; and his enmities, once fixed, were immovable. There was, indeed, a kind of venom in his antipathies; nor would he suffer his ears to be assailed, or his heat to relent, in favour of those against whom he entertained animosities, however capricious and unfounded. In one pursuit only was he consistent: one object only did he woo with an inflexible attachment; and that object was Dame DRAMA.

I have sat behind him, within a few years of his death, and watched his sedulous attention to the performances of strolling players, who used to hire a public room in Hampstead; and towards whom his gallantry was something more substantial than mere admiration and applause: for he would make liberal presents of gloves, shoes, and stockings—especially to the female part of the company. His attention, and even delight, during some of the most wretched exhibitions of the dramatic art, was truly surprising; but he was then drooping under the pressure of age, and what passed before him might serve to remind him of former days, when his discernment was quick and his judgment matured. It is, however, but justice to this distinguished bibliomaniac to add that, in his literary attachments he was not influenced by merely splendid talents or exalted rank. To my predecessor HERBERT (for whose memory I may be allowed, at all times, to express a respectful regard) Steevens seems to have shewn marked attention. I am in possession of more than a dozen original letters from him to this typographical antiquary, in which he not only evinces great friendliness of disposition, but betrays an unusual solicitude about the success of Herbert's labours; and, indeed, contributes towards it by nearly a hundred notices of rare and curious books which were unknown to, or imperfectly described by, Herbert himself. At the close of a long letter, in which, amongst much valuable information, there is a curious list of CHURCHYARD'S Pieces—which Steevens urges Herbert to publish—he thus concludes:

"DEAR SIR,

"I know not where the foregoing lists of Churchyard's Pieces can appear with more propriety than in a work like yours; and I therefore venture to recommend them as worth republication. If you publish, from time to time, additions to your book, you may have frequent opportunity of doing similar service to old English literature, by assembling catalogues of the works of scarce, and therefore almost forgotten, authors. By occasional effusions of this kind you will afford much gratification to literary antiquaries, and preserve a constant source of amusement to yourself: for in my opinion, no man is so unhappy as he who is at a loss for something to do. Your present task grows towards an end, and I therefore throw out this hint for your consideration." (July 27, 1789.)

A little further he adds: "In your vol. ii. p. 1920, you have but an imperfect account of TYRO'S 'Roaring Megge,' &c. I shall therefore supply it underneath, as the book now lies before me. I have only room left to tell you I am always your very faithfully, G. STEEVENS." But the bibliomanical spirit of the author of this letter, is attested by yet stronger evidence:

Hampstead Heath, August 42th [Transcriber's Note: 12th], 1780.

"SIR,

"I have borrowed the following books for your use—Dr. Farmer's copy of Ames, with MS. notes by himself, and an interleaved Maunsell's Catalogue, with yet more considerable additions by Baker the antiquary. The latter I have promised to return at the end of this month, as it belongs to our University Library. I should not choose to transmit either of these volumes by any uncertain conveyance; and therefore shall be glad if you will let me know how they may be safely put into your hands. If you can fix a time when you shall be in London, my servant shall wait on you with them; but I must entreat that our library book may be detained as short a time as possible. I flatter myself that it will prove of some service to you, and am,

"Your very humble Servant,

"G. STEEVENS."

The following was Herbert's reply.

"Cheshunt, August 20th, 1780.

"SIR,

"As it must give you great satisfaction to know that the books were received safe by me last night, it affords me equal pleasure to send you the earliest assurance of it. I thank you sincerely for the liberty you have allowed me of keeping them till I come to London, on Monday, the 4th of September; when I shall bring them with me, and hope to return them safe at Mr. Longman's, between 10 and 11 o'clock; where, if it may be convenient to you, I shall be very happy to meet you, and personally to thank you for the kind assistance you have afforded me. If that may not suit you, I will gladly wait on you where you shall appoint by a line left there for me; and shall ever esteem myself,

"Your most obliged humble Servant,

"W. HERBERT."

The following, and the last, epistolary specimen of the renowned G. Steevens—with which I shall treat my reader—is of a general gossipping black-letter cast; and was written two years before the preceding.

Hampstead Heath, June 26th, 1788.

"DEAR SIR,

"A desire to know how you do, and why so long a time has elapsed since you were seen in London, together with a few queries which necessity compels me to trouble you with, must be my apology for this invasion of your retirement. Can you furnish me with a transcript of the title-page to Watson's Sonnets or Love Passions, 4to. bl. l.? As they are not mentioned by Puttenham, in 1589, they must, I think, have appeared after that year. Can you likewise afford me any account of a Collection of Poems, bl. l., 4to. by one John Southern? They are addressed 'to the ryght honourable the Earle of Oxenforde;' the famous Vere, who was so much a favourite with Queen Elizabeth. This book, which contains only four sheets, consists of Odes, Epitaphs, Sonnets to Diana, &c. I bought both these books, which seem to be uncommonly rare, at the late sale of Major Pearson's Library. They are defective in their title-pages, and without your assistance must, in all probability, continue imperfect. Give me leave to add my sincere hope that your long absence from London has not been the result of indisposition, and that you will forgive this interruption in your studies, from

"Your very faithful and obedient Servant,

"GEO. STEEVENS."

"P.S. I hope your third volume is in the press, as it is very much enquired after."

It is now time to bid farewell to the subject of this tremendous note; and most sincerely do I wish I could 'draw the curtain' upon it, and say 'good night,' with as much cheerfulness and satisfaction at [Transcriber's Note: as] Atterbury did upon the close of his professional labours. But the latter moments of STEEVENS were moments of mental anguish. He grew not only irritable, but outrageous; and, in full possession of his faculties, he raved in a manner which could have been expected only from a creature bred up without notions of morality or religion. Neither complacency nor 'joyful hope' soothed his bed of death. His language was, too frequently, the language of imprecation; and his wishes and apprehensions such as no rational Christian can think upon without agony of heart. Although I am not disposed to admit the whole of the testimony of the good woman who watched by his bed-side, and paid him, when dead, the last melancholy attentions of her office—although my prejudices (as they may be called) will not allow me to believe that the windows shook, and that strange noises and deep groans were heard at midnight in his room—yet no creature of common sense (and this woman possessed the quality in an eminent degree) could mistake oaths for prayers, or boisterous treatment for calm and gentle usage. If it be said—why