Frederick Lucas: A Biography

Publication: London, Bell and Daldy, 1862 Formatting: 8vo. Condition Report: Very Good. The book is bound in the publisher's original blind-stamped textured brown cloth, which remains remarkably sound and structurally secure for its age. There is mild, expected scuffing to the boards, alongside typical rubbing and gentle bumping along the extremities, corner-tips, and spine ends. Internally, the binding holds firm with tight hinges, preventing any loose or detached pages. The text block is generally bright, presenting with minor age-appropriate tanning and occasional light spotting that does not detract from legibility. The top edge shows light dust-dulling, but the gilt lettering on the spine remains entirely unoxidised and bright, making this a highly attractive and resilient volume. Catalogue Note: This is the scarce 1862 first edition of Christopher James Riethmüller’s biographical study of Frederick Lucas, issued in the publisher's handsome blind-stamped cloth by Bell and Daldy. A point of notable provenance is the crisp blind-stamp of the renowned London bookseller Edward Bumpus of Holborn, present on the front free endpaper. As the earliest known biography of Frederick Lucas, predating the multi-volume life written by his brother Edward in 1886, this text stands as a scarce early historical document on the open market. Christopher James Riethmüller’s Frederick Lucas: A Biography offers an intimate and foundational look at the life of the pioneering English journalist, Catholic convert, and Member of Parliament. Tracing Lucas's journey from his early education at University College, London, to his influential founding of The Tablet and his fervent advocacy for Irish tenant rights, this 1862 work captures the fiery spirit of a man who left an indelible mark on Victorian political and religious life.