London: T. Davies, 1766. 4to, [4], 184 pp. Title with woodcut fleuron; old waterstain to top forecorners of a few leaves at front. Handsome early or original half calf and marbled boards, red morocco label lettered in gilt; slightly rubbed, a very good copy. § First edition of the only book by Anna Williams (1706-1783), the blind poet and companion of Samuel Johnson. After her death Johnson wrote of her ""Her curiosity was universal, her knowledge was very extensive, and she sustained forty years of misery with steady fortitude. Thirty years and more she has been my companion, and her death has left me very desolate." Her Miscellanies in Prose and Verse was published in 1766, her 60th year; Johnson contributed a preface and several prose and verse pieces. "The work had been first advertised in 1750, and there were waspish claims from Anna's friends that Johnson had not exerted himself in its production, but the publication was moderately successful, and earned the author about £100" (Oxford DNB). Justin Croft noted of his copy: "Very uncommon, as one might expect from Mrs. Thrale's statement: 'I never saw it on any Table but my own.'" Fleeman, pp. 1139-42, Courteney & Nicholl Smith, p. 111. Seller Inventory # 107752

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Bibliographic Details

Title: Miscellanies in Prose and Verse

Publication Date: 1766

Binding: Hardcover

Edition: 1st Edition

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John Windle Antiquarian Bookseller offers an exceptional selection of rare books and manuscripts from medieval times through the twentieth century. We specialize in illustrated material, particularly the work of William Blake and his circle and children's books. Our open shop is located in downtown San Francisco, where we have served an international clientele of private collectors, libraries, and institutions for 40 years.

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John Windle Antiquarian Bookseller, ABAA
CA, U.S.A.

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All books are guaranteed as described and may be returned within 5 days of receipt only if packed, shipped, and insured as received. Payment in US dollars drawn on a US bank and including state and local taxes as applicable. ILAB Dealers only may deduct their reciprocal discount provided the account is paid in full within 30 days; thereafter the price is net. References or advance payment may be requested of anyone ordering for the first time. Visa, MasterCharge, and American Expre...

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