The Spectator

London: J. & R. Tonson & S. Draper, 1747. This 8 volume set has the bookplates (SEE PHOTOS) of Canada's Governor-in-Chief, Sir Archibald Acheson (1776-1849), who was a member of both the Irish and British parliaments. Acheson was nominated by the prime minister Lord Melbourne and served from 1835 until 1838 as Governor-in-Chief of British North America (less Newfoundland) during which time the Canadian rebellion took place. Acheson was second Earl of Gosford in the Irish peerage and in 1835 was created a peer of the United Kingdom, adopting the title Baron Worlingham. See DNB, vol 22, pp. 8-10 (or Concise DNB, part 1, p.4). This set also has the bookplates (SEE PHOTOS) of the important English book collector, Frederick Perkins. See Quaritch part V and Fletcher pp. 347-349. In all but two volumes, Perkins' bookplates cover Acheson's. Good-Very Good condition. Hinges are sound. Minimal foxing. Silk page marker bound in. Contains 555 numbers in 8 octavo volumes, complete. According to Macaulay, THE SPECTATOR contains "perhaps the finest essays, both serious and playful, in the English language." Dr. Johnson considered its style exemplary, as do many modern arbiters. Among the many distinguished contributors were Pope and Montagu. The bindings are contemporary sprinkled full calf, ornately gilt decorated. SEE PHOTOS. Two leather spine labels are missing. This 1747 edition features delightful frontispieces designed by Francis Hayman, "the most proficient English illustrator of his time." -- Gordon N. Ray, The Illustrator and the Book in England, p. 5). This large, heavy 8 book set will require SUBSTANTIAL postage at our cost for International shipments [up to $100 or more], but only the standard charge for priority or media mail. . 1747 edition. Hardcover (heavy 8 vol. set). Good-Very Good condition. Illus. by NOT a library discard. 8 volumes, complete. Great Packaging, Fast Shipping.…