THE NEW TESTAMENT OF OUR LORD AND SAVIOUR JESUS CHRIST, translated out of the original Greek: and with the former translations diligently compared and revised,

8vo, (207x136mm), collates: A-T8., some spotting and finger-soiling. Bound in an all-encompassing case of darkened tinplate, with a large brass ring rivetted on to the lover cover, and the remains of a brass clasp at the fore-edge. This fascinating example of an unusual binding has undergone some restoration and has been recased into its metal covers, a recent typed noted (alas unsigned) by the re-binder outlining the work that was undertaken is loosely inserted. It would seem reasonable to speculate that this unusual example of the bookbinder's craft was perhaps intended for display in either a gaol or a workhouse, doubtless to improve the minds of the unfortunate inmates, the brass ring on the lower cover suggests that it was intended for fixing, probably with a chain, to some immovable object so perhaps the possibility of its former use in a gaol might be the more likely explanation. The pages show the signs of some, though not excessive use, so perhaps it did some good, but doubtless not as much as was intended.…