Word Caution, First Edition (3 results)

1st edition. Poor copy bound in stiff-card wrappers; edges somewhat dust-dulled and nicked. Text remains clear and without blemish. Physical description; 16 pp.; 17 cm. Notes; Date is suggested. Subjects; Gratitude Religious aspects Christianity. 3 Kg.

1st edition. Poor copy bound in stiff-card wrappers; edges somewhat dust-dulled and nicked. Text remains clear and without blemish. Physical description; 16 pp.; 17 cm. Notes; Date is suggested. Subjects; Gratitude Religious aspects Christianity. 1 Kg.

First edition of this Quaker tract preaching divine retribution for ungenerous hoarders of wealth. The author, the American anti-slavery campaigner John Woolman (1720-1772), was highly esteemed for his concern for animals, the poor, native Americans, and slaves; Charles Lamb, Samuel Taylor Coleridge and G. M. Trevelyan all wrote favourably of him, and "next to Francis of Assisi, Woolman has become probably the most quoted religious spokesperson for animal concern" (ODNB). The present work, although published two decades after Woolman's death, does appear to be the first printing of the text. A London edition followed in 1794, and an American edition in 1805, with the Fabian Society reprinting the tract at the end of the 19th century. ESTC T80774; Sabin 105210; Smith, J. Descriptive catalogue of Friends' books, II, p. 960. Duodecimo (138 x 87 mm). Near-contemporary sprinkled sheep, red morocco label. Contemporary ownership signature to front free endpaper. Bound without half-title. Library shelf label to spine and stamp to pastedown, inked notation to front free endpaper, a few pencilled lines in margins, stab-holes in gutter. Spine chipped at ends, front joint cracked but holding. A very good copy.