An Inquiry concerning the Rise and Progress, the Redemption and Present State, and the Management, of the National Debt of Great Britain. The second edition, enlarged.

Second edition, enlarged from the first of the previous year. It marks the "first serious attack upon the general sinking fund policy of the period. Hamilton declared that the only genuine sinking fund consisted in an excess of revenue over expenditure and that all other sinking funds were illusory. He held it desirable to maintain a sinking fund of this sort during a period of peace by securing a revenue greater than the expense of a peace establishment" (Wormell, The National Debt in Britain 1850-1930, Vol. II, p.135). Kress B6331. Octavo (225 x 142 mm). Uncut in the original paper boards, spine lettered by hand. Bookseller's ticket to front pastedown, ownership signature dated 1850 to front free endpaper, manuscript letter dated 1816 loosely inserted, apparently unrelated. Spine backing a little chipped, rear cover loosening but holding, some light foxing. A very good copy in the fragile original boards.