The Timber-Tree Improved: or, the Best Practical Methods of Improving Different Lands with Proper Timber. And Those Fruit-Trees whose Woods make the most Profitable Returns to their Owners, according to the newest Inventions, by the Plough, Harrow, and other Methods most approved of. The Third Edition.

A later edition of this popular agricultural tract, the third in four years. Ellis was a well-respected authority, and farmers from all around the country invited him to visit and advise on their holdings. He here discusses trees including oak, beech, elm, ash, and cherry. "A shrewd man of business", Ellis (d. 1758) was commissioned by London booksellers to write monthly instalments on husbandry, through which he also sold seeds and farming implements. However, those readers who visited his farm in Little Gaddesden, Hertfordshire, were disappointed to find that "he did not practise what he advocated in print, that his implements were old-fashioned, and that his land was neglected and in bad condition" (ODNB). His reputation as an agricultural authority nevertheless endured, with editions of his works continuing to appear into the late-18th century. The first edition was published in 1738. ESTC N37885 & T149516; Goldsmiths' 7888; Hanson 5146; Henrey 686 & 688. Octavo (196 x 119 mm) in 2 parts, pp. vi, 110, [2]; viii, 207, [1]. Floriated initials, head- and tailpieces. Contemporary speckled calf, spine with 5 raised bands, red morocco label, compartments ruled and with foliate motif, edges speckled red. Contemporary ink shelfmark on front pastedown. Spine ends and corners bumped, superficial scratches to covers, inner hinges split but holding firm, endleaves lightly soiled, first part fresh and clean, second part evenly browned, the latter with small wormhole from sig. Bb2 to rear endpapers: a very good copy.…