PRAYERS AND MEDITATIONS, Composed by Samuel Johnson, LL.D. and Published from His Manuscripts, by George Strahan, D.D.

A collection of personal, spiritual writings by 18th century British author and lexicographer Samuel Johnson (1709-84), first published posthumously in 1785. The book reveals Johnson’s private struggles with faith, morality, illness, and aging, showcasing his introspective, devout, and often anxious inner life. Octavo: xxxii, 230, [2, ads] pp. In the publisher's brown rough paper spine over grayish-blue paper covered boards, with a printed buff paper spine label. Minor scuff to the title page, with the period ownership inscription of J.H. Cranfurd, Canfurdland; a related holographic notation ("Cranfurdland Library, H.10") appears on the front flyleaf. Light foxing to the endpapers. The spine is a touch darkened, with some minor edgewear. An excellent example of an early 19th century temporary boards binding. Provenance: from the Publishers' Bookbindings collection of Ellen K. Morris and Edward S. Levin.