HUME, David. THE HISTORY
OF ENGLAND FROM THE INVASION OF JULIUS CAESAR TO THE REVOLUTION IN 1688.
Five volume set, uniformly bound
in full tan calf, steel engraved frontispiece. Published by Longman, Green,
Longman etc., London. 1864. New edition, hb leather, 8vo, Morocco spine
labels, marbled foredges and eps, dentilled edges to boards, early bookplate
to fep of each volume. David Hume (1711-1776) turned to history almost
by chance, and after the greater part of his philosophical work had been
done. After being appointed Keeper of the Advocates Library in Edinburgh,
he had access to original and secondary historical sources.
He published the first volume of this History (vol. V in this set) in 1754, which was roundly criticised by various commentators, each of whom appeared to be grinding their own axe. The second volume, published two years later, was better received. Subsequent volumes followed until 1762. This is "A New Edition. with the Author's Last Corrections and Improvements. To Which is Prefixed, a Short Account of His Life, Written by Himself." Following Hume's essay on himself (composed shortly before his death, of which he speaks in anticipation), there is a letter about Hume from Adam Smith. Vol. V contains an extensive Index. Hume's HISTORY was continued by Tobias Smollett, down to the death of George II. We have this three volume set, uniformly bound with Hume's, and will offer all eight volumes at a reduced price - please inquire. Each of the five volumes of this set shows some rubbing to extremities, and soiling and scuffing to boards (esp. to vol. V). The inner hinges of vol. I are a trifle tender, else all hinges and joints tight. The contents of all volumes are very clean, with little age-toning or foxing, save for off-setting to the title page of vol. I from the frontispiece. Overall, this is a sturdy, sound set, with some evidence of wear but still quite attractive and in good condition.
PRICE: $750Cdn/$500 US.
#028206
| Return to home page | Return to recent acquisitions page |