[385]With great submission to the "reminescential" talents of Lysander, he might have devoted oneminuteto the commendation of the very curious library ofJohn Hutton, which was disposed of, by auction, in the same year (1764) in which Genl. Dormer's was sold. Hutton's library consisted almost entirely ofEnglish Literature: the rarest books in which are printed in the italic type. When the reader is informed that "Robinsons Life, Actes, and Death of Prince Arthur," and his "ancient order, societie, and unitie, laudable of the same," 1583, 4to. (see no. 2730; concerning which my worthy friend, Mr. Haslewood, has discoursed so accurately and copiously:British Bibliographer, vol. i., pp. 109; 125), when he is informed that this produced only 9s.6d.—that "Hypnerotomachia," 1592, 4to. (no. 2755), was sold for only 2s.—theMyrrour of Knighthood, 1585, 4to. (no. 2759), only 5s.—Palmerin of England, 3 pts. in 3 vols. 1602, 1639, 4to. (no. 2767), 14s.—Painter's Palace of Pleasure, 2 vols. in 1, 1566-7, 4to. (no. 2770)—when, I say, the tender-hearted bibliomaniac thinks that all these rare and precious black letter gems were sold, collectively, for only 2l.16s.6d.!—what must be his reproaches upon the lack of spirit which was evinced at this sale! Especially must his heart melt within him, upon looking at the produce of some of these articles at the sale of George Steevens' books, only 36 years afterwards! No depreciation of money can account for this woful difference. I possess a wretchedly priced copy of theBibl. Huttoniana, which I purchased, without title-page or a decent cover, at the sale of Mr. Gough's books, for 11s.Lysander ought also to have noticed in its chronological order, the extensive and truly valuable library ofRobert Hoblyn; the catalogue of which was published in the year 1769, 8vo., in two parts: pp. 650. I know not who was the author of the arrangement of this collection; but I am pretty confident that the judicious observer will find it greatly superior to every thing of its kind, with hardly even the exception of theBibliotheca Croftsiana. It is accurately and handsomely executed, and wants only an index to make it truly valuable. The collection, moreover, is a very sensible one. My copy is uponlarge paper; which is rather common.
[385]With great submission to the "reminescential" talents of Lysander, he might have devoted oneminuteto the commendation of the very curious library ofJohn Hutton, which was disposed of, by auction, in the same year (1764) in which Genl. Dormer's was sold. Hutton's library consisted almost entirely ofEnglish Literature: the rarest books in which are printed in the italic type. When the reader is informed that "Robinsons Life, Actes, and Death of Prince Arthur," and his "ancient order, societie, and unitie, laudable of the same," 1583, 4to. (see no. 2730; concerning which my worthy friend, Mr. Haslewood, has discoursed so accurately and copiously:British Bibliographer, vol. i., pp. 109; 125), when he is informed that this produced only 9s.6d.—that "Hypnerotomachia," 1592, 4to. (no. 2755), was sold for only 2s.—theMyrrour of Knighthood, 1585, 4to. (no. 2759), only 5s.—Palmerin of England, 3 pts. in 3 vols. 1602, 1639, 4to. (no. 2767), 14s.—Painter's Palace of Pleasure, 2 vols. in 1, 1566-7, 4to. (no. 2770)—when, I say, the tender-hearted bibliomaniac thinks that all these rare and precious black letter gems were sold, collectively, for only 2l.16s.6d.!—what must be his reproaches upon the lack of spirit which was evinced at this sale! Especially must his heart melt within him, upon looking at the produce of some of these articles at the sale of George Steevens' books, only 36 years afterwards! No depreciation of money can account for this woful difference. I possess a wretchedly priced copy of theBibl. Huttoniana, which I purchased, without title-page or a decent cover, at the sale of Mr. Gough's books, for 11s.Lysander ought also to have noticed in its chronological order, the extensive and truly valuable library ofRobert Hoblyn; the catalogue of which was published in the year 1769, 8vo., in two parts: pp. 650. I know not who was the author of the arrangement of this collection; but I am pretty confident that the judicious observer will find it greatly superior to every thing of its kind, with hardly even the exception of theBibliotheca Croftsiana. It is accurately and handsomely executed, and wants only an index to make it truly valuable. The collection, moreover, is a very sensible one. My copy is uponlarge paper; which is rather common.
Alman.Upon my word, Lisardo, there is no subject however barren, but what may be made fruitful by your metaphorical powers of imagination.
Lis.Madam, I entreat you not to be excursive. Lysander has taken a fresh sip of his nectar, and has given a hem or two—preparing to resume his narrative.
Lysand.We have just passed over the bar that separates the one half of the 18th century from the other: and among the ensuing eminent collectors, whose brave fronts strike us with respect, isGeneral Dormer:[386]a soldier who, I warrant you, had faced full many a cannon, and stormed many a rampart, with courage and success. But he could not resist the raging influence of the Book-Mania: nor could all his embrasures and entrenchments screen him from the attacks of this insanity. His collection was both select and valuable.
[386]"A Catalogue of the genuine and elegant Library of the lateSir C.C.Dormer, collected by Lieutenant General James Dormer; which will be sold, &c., by Samuel Baker, at his house in York-Street, Covent Garden; to begin on Monday, February the 20th, 1764, and to continue the nineteen following evenings." At the end of the catalogue we are told that the books were "in general of the best editions, and in the finest condition, many of them inlarge paper, bound in morocco, gilt leaves," &c. This was a very choice collection of books; consisting almost entirely of French, Greek, Latin, Italian, and Spanish. The number of articles did not exceed 3082; and of volumes, probably not 7000. The catalogue is neatly printed, and copies of it onlarge paperare exceedingly scarce. Among the most curious and valuable articles are the following:——no. 599. Les Glorieuses Conquestes de Louis le Grand, par Pontault,en maroquin. Paris, 1678. ("N.B. In this copy many very fine and rare portraits are added, engraved by the most eminent masters.")——no. 604. Recueil des Maisons Royales, fort bien gravés par Sylvestre, &c. (N.B. In the book was the following note. "Ce recueil des Maisons Royales n'est pas seulement complet, en toutes manières, mais on y a ajouté plusieurs plans, que l'on ne trouvent que très rarement.")——no. 731. Fabian's Chronicle, 1559.——752, Hall's ditto. 1548.——751. Higden's Polychronicon. 1527. (I suspect that Dr. Askew purchased the large paper Hutchinson's Xenophon, and Hudson's Thucydides. nos. 2246, 2585.)——no. 2249. Don Quixote, por Cervantes. Madr., 4to., 1605. In hoc libro hæc nota est. "Cecy est l'edition originale; il y a une autre du mesme année, imprimée en quarto à Madrid, mais imprimée apres cecy. J'ay veu l'autre, et je les ay comparez avec deux autres editions du mesme année, 1605; une imprimée à Lisbonne, en 4to., l'autre en Valentia, en8vo."——no. 2590. Thuanus by Buckley, onlarge paper, in 14 volumes, folio; a magnificent copy, illustrated with many beautiful and rare portraits of eminent characters, mentioned by De Thou. (N.B. This very copy was recently sold for 74l.)——From no. 2680 to the end of the Catalogue (401 articles) there appears a choice collection of Italian and Spanish books.
[386]"A Catalogue of the genuine and elegant Library of the lateSir C.C.Dormer, collected by Lieutenant General James Dormer; which will be sold, &c., by Samuel Baker, at his house in York-Street, Covent Garden; to begin on Monday, February the 20th, 1764, and to continue the nineteen following evenings." At the end of the catalogue we are told that the books were "in general of the best editions, and in the finest condition, many of them inlarge paper, bound in morocco, gilt leaves," &c. This was a very choice collection of books; consisting almost entirely of French, Greek, Latin, Italian, and Spanish. The number of articles did not exceed 3082; and of volumes, probably not 7000. The catalogue is neatly printed, and copies of it onlarge paperare exceedingly scarce. Among the most curious and valuable articles are the following:——no. 599. Les Glorieuses Conquestes de Louis le Grand, par Pontault,en maroquin. Paris, 1678. ("N.B. In this copy many very fine and rare portraits are added, engraved by the most eminent masters.")——no. 604. Recueil des Maisons Royales, fort bien gravés par Sylvestre, &c. (N.B. In the book was the following note. "Ce recueil des Maisons Royales n'est pas seulement complet, en toutes manières, mais on y a ajouté plusieurs plans, que l'on ne trouvent que très rarement.")——no. 731. Fabian's Chronicle, 1559.——752, Hall's ditto. 1548.——751. Higden's Polychronicon. 1527. (I suspect that Dr. Askew purchased the large paper Hutchinson's Xenophon, and Hudson's Thucydides. nos. 2246, 2585.)——no. 2249. Don Quixote, por Cervantes. Madr., 4to., 1605. In hoc libro hæc nota est. "Cecy est l'edition originale; il y a une autre du mesme année, imprimée en quarto à Madrid, mais imprimée apres cecy. J'ay veu l'autre, et je les ay comparez avec deux autres editions du mesme année, 1605; une imprimée à Lisbonne, en 4to., l'autre en Valentia, en8vo."——no. 2590. Thuanus by Buckley, onlarge paper, in 14 volumes, folio; a magnificent copy, illustrated with many beautiful and rare portraits of eminent characters, mentioned by De Thou. (N.B. This very copy was recently sold for 74l.)——From no. 2680 to the end of the Catalogue (401 articles) there appears a choice collection of Italian and Spanish books.
We have before noticed the celebrated diplomatic character,Consul Smith, and have spoken with due respect of his library: let us here, therefore, pass byhim,[387]in order to take a full and complete view of aNon-PareilCollector: the first who, after the days of Richard Smith, succeeded in reviving the love of black-letter lore and of Caxtonian typography—need I sayJames West?[388]
[387]The reader has had a sufficiently particular account of the book-collections ofConsul Smith, atp. 95, ante, to render any farther discussion superfluous. As these libraries were collectedabroad, the catalogues of them were arranged in the place here referred to.[388]I am now to notice, in less romantic manner than Lysander, a collection of books, inEnglish Literature, which, for rarity and value, in a proportionate number, have never been equalled; I mean the library ofJames West, Esq.,President of the Royal Society. The sale commenced on March 29, 1773, and continued for the twenty-three following days. The catalogue was digested by Samuel Paterson, a man whose ability in such undertakings has been generally allowed. The title was as follows: "Bibliotheca Westiana;A Catalogue of the curious and truly valuable library of the lateJames West, Esq.,President of the Royal Society, deceased; comprehending a choice collection of books in various languages, and upon most branches of polite literature: more especially such as relate to the history and antiquities of Great Britain and Ireland; their early navigators, discoverers, and improvers, and theancient English literature: of which there are a great number of uncommon books and tracts, elucidated by MS. notes and original letters, and embellished with scarce portraits and devices, rarely to be found: including the works of Caxton, Lettou, Machlinia, the anonymous St. Albans school-master, Wynkyn de Worde, Pynson, and the rest of the old English typographers. Digested by Samuel Paterson, and sold by Messrs. Langfords." The title-page is succeeded by thePREFACE."The following catalogue exhibits a very curious and uncommon collection of printed books and tracts. Of British History and Antiquities, and ofRare Old English Literature, the most copious of any which has appeared for several years past; formed with great taste, and a thorough knowledge of authors and characters, by that judicious critic and able antiquary the lateJames West, Esq., President of the Royal Society. Several anonymous writers are herein brought to light—many works enlarged and further explained by their respective authors and editors—and a far greater number illustrated with the MS. notes and observations of some of our most respectable antiquaries: among whom will be found the revered names of Camden, Selden, Spelman, Somner, Dugdale, Gibson, Tanner, Nicolson, Gale, Le Neve, Hearne, Anstis, Lewis, St. Amand, Ames, Browne, Willis, Stukely, Mr. West, &c. But, above all, the intense application and unwearied diligence of the admirable Bishop White Kennett, upon the ecclesiastical, monastical, constitutional, and topographical history of Great Britain, so apparent throughout this collection, furnish matter even to astonishment; and are alone sufficient to establish the reputation, and to perpetuate the memory, of this illustrious prelate, without any other monuments of his greatness." "In an age of general inquiry, like the present, when studies less interesting give place to the most laudable curiosity and thirst after investigating every particular relative to the history and literature of our own country, nothing less than an elaborate digest of this valuable library could be expected; and, as a supplement to the history of English literature, more desired." "That task the Editor has cheerfully undertaken: and, he flatters himself, executed as well as the short time allowed would permit. He further hopes, to the satisfaction of such who are capable of judging of its utility and importance." "The lovers of engraved English portraits (a species of modern connoisseurship which appears to have been first started by the late noble Earl of Oxford, afterwards taken up by Mr. West, Mr. Nicolls, editor of Cromwell's State-Papers, Mr. Ames, &c., and since perfected by the Muse of Strawberry-Hill, the Rev. Wm. Granger, and some few more ingenious collectors) may here look to find a considerable number of singular and scarce heads, and will not be disappointed in their search." Thus much Paterson; who, it must be confessed, has promised more than he has performed: for the catalogue, notwithstanding it was thesecondwhich was published (the first being by a different hand, and most barbarously compiled) might have exhibited better method and taste in its execution. Never were rare and magnificent books more huddled together and smothered, as it were, than in this catalogue. Let us now proceed to an analysis of Mr. West's Collection.1.Volumes of Miscellaneous Tracts.These volumes extend from no. 148 to 200, from 915 to 992, from 1201 to 1330, and from no. 1401 to 1480.—Among them are some singularly choice and curious articles. The following is but an imperfect specimen.NO.£s.d.154.Atkyns on Printing,with the frontispiece, &c., &c., 4to.164.G. Whetstone's Honorable Profession of a Soldier, 1586, &c., 4to.179.Life and death of Wolsey, 1641, &c.183.Nashe's Lenten Stuffe, with the Praise of the Red Herring, 1599, &c. 4to. (the three articles together did not exceed)0120188.A Mornynge Remembrance, had at the Moneth Mynde of the Noble Prynces Countesse of Rychmonde, &c. Wynkyn de Worde, &c. 4to.220194.Oh! read over Dr. John Bridges, for it is a worthie Worke, &c. bl. letter, &c. 4to. Strange and fearful Newes from Plasto, near Bow, in the house of one Paul Fox, a Silk Weaver, where is daily to be seene throwing of Stones, Bricbats, Oyster-shells, Bread, cutting his Work in Pieces, breaking his Windows, &c.No date, 4to.01261477.Leylande's Journey and Serche, given of hym as a Newe Yeares Gyfte to K. Henry 8th, enlarged by Bale, bl. letter, 1549, 8vo., (with three other curious articles.)01761480.A disclosing of the great Bull and certain Calves that he hath gotten, and especially the Monster Bull that roared at my Lord Byshop's gate. Bl. letter, pr. by Daye. No date. 4to.The preceding affords but a very inadequate idea of the "pithie, pleasant, and profitable" discourses mid tracts which abounded among the miscellaneous articles of Mr. West's library. Whatever be the defects of modern literature, it must be allowed that we are notquite so coarsein thetitle pagesof our books.2.Divinity.This comprehended a vast mass of information, under the following general title. Scarce Tracts: Old and New Testaments (including almost all the first English editions of the New Testament, which are now of the rarest occurrence): Commentators: Ecclesiastical History: Polemics: Devotions, Catholic and Calvinistical: Enthusiasm: Monastical History: Lives of Saints: Fathers: Missionaries: Martyrs: Modern Divines and Persons of eminent piety: Free Thinkers: Old English Primers: Meditations: Some of the earliest Popish and Puritanical Controversy: Sermons by old English Divines, &c. In the whole 560 articles: probably about 1200 volumes. These general heads are sufficient to satisfy the bibliographer that, with such an indefatigable collector as was Mr. West, the greater part of the theological books must have been extremely rare and curious. From somany Caxtons,Wynkyn de Wordes,Pynsons, &c., it would be difficult to select afewwhich should give a specimen of the value of the rest. Suffice it to observe that such a cluster ofBlack Letter Gems, in this department of English literature, has never since been seen in any sale catalogue.3.Education, Languages, Criticism, Classics, Dictionaries, Catalogues of Libraries, &c.There were about 700 volumes in these departments. The catalogues of English books, from that of Maunsell in 1595, to the latest before Mr. West's time, were nearly complete. The treatises on education, and translations of the ancient classics, comprehended a curious and uncommon collection. The Greek and Latin Classics were rather select than rare.4.English Poetry, Romances, and Miscellanies.This interesting part of the collection comprehended about 355 articles, or probably about 750 volumes: and, if the singularly rare and curious books which may be foundunder these heads alonewere now to be concentrated in one library, the owner of them might safely demand 4000 guineas for such a treasure! I make no doubt but that hisMajestyis the fortunate possessor of the greater number of articles under all the foregoing heads.5.Philosophy, Mathematics, Inventions, Agriculture, and Horticulture, Medicine, Cookery, Surgery, &c.Two hundred and forty articles, or about 560 volumes.6.Chemistry, Natural History, Astrology, Sorcery, Gigantology.Probably not more than 100 volumes. The word "Gigantology," first introduced by Mr. Paterson, I believe, into the English language, was used by the French more than two centuries ago. See no. 2198 in the catalogue.7.History and Antiquities.This comprehended a great number of curious and valuable productions, relating both to foreign and domestic transactions.8.Heraldry and Genealogy.An equal number of curious and scarce articles may be found under these heads.9.Antient Legends and Chronicles.To the English antiquary, few departments of literature are more interesting than this. Mr. West seems to have paid particular attention to it, and to have enriched his library with many articles of this description of the rarest occurrence. The lovers of Caxton, Fabian, Hardyng, Hall, Grafton, and Holinshed, may be highly gratified by inspecting the various editions of these old chroniclers. I entreat the diligent bibliographer to examine the first 8 articles of page 209 of the catalogue. Alas! when will such gems again glitter at one sale? The fortunate period for collectors is gone by: a knowledge of books almost every where prevails. At York, at Exeter, at Manchester, and at Bristol, as well as in London, this knowledge may be found sometimes on the dusty stall, as well as in the splendid shop. The worth of books begins to be considered by a different standard from that of the quantity of gold on the exterior! We are now for "drinking deep," as well as "tasting!" But I crave pardon for this digression, and lose sight of Mr. West'suniques.10.Topography.Even to a veteran like the late Mr. Gough, such a collection as may be found from p. 217 to 239 of the catalogue, would be considered a very first-rate acquisition. I am aware that the Gothic wainscot and stained glass windows ofEnfield Studyenshrined a still more exquisite topographical collection! But we are improved since the days of Mr. West; and every body knows towhomthese improvements are, in a great measure, to be attributed! When I call to mind the author of "British Topography" and "Sepulchral Monuments," I am not insensible to the taste, diligence, and erudition of the "par nobile fratrum," who have gratified us with the "Environs of London," and the three volumes of "Magna Britannia!" Catalogues of Mr. West's library, with the sums for which the books were sold, are now found with difficulty, and bring a considerable price. The late Mr. G. Baker, who had a surprisingly curious collection of priced catalogues, was in possession of theoriginal saleone of West's library. It is interleaved, and, of course, has the prices and names of the purchasers. Mr. Heber has also a priced copy, with the names, which was executed by my industrious and accurate predecessor, William Herbert, of typographico-antiquarian renown. The number of articles, on the whole, was 4653; and of the volumes as many articles were single, probably about 8000.Ampleas some "pithy" reader may imagine the foregoing analysis to be, I cannot find it in my heart to suffer such a collection, as was theBibliotheca Westiana, to be here dismissed in sosummarya manner. Take, therefore, "pleasaunt" reader, the following account of thepricesfor which some of the aforesaid book-gems were sold. They are presented to thee as a matter of curiosity only; and not as a criterion of their present value. And asMaster Caxtonhas of late become so popular amongst us, we will see, inter alios, what some of the books printed by so "simple a person" produced at this renowned sale.NO.£s.d.564.Salesbury (Wyllyam) his Dictionary in Englyshe and Welshe, moste necessary to all such Welshemen as wil spedly learne the English tongue, &c.Printed by Waley, 1547, 4to.0170566.Mulcaster (Rich.) of the right writing of our English Tung.Imp. by Vautrollier, 1582, 4to.026575.Florio's Frutes to be gathered of 12 trees of divers but delyghtfule tastes to the Tongues of Italians and Englishmen, also his Garden of Recreation, &c., 1591, 4to.066580.Eliot's Indian Grammar,no title.040Thus much forGrammatical Tracts.808.The fyve Bokes of Moses, wythe the Prologes of Wyllyam Tyndale, b.b. 1534,printed in different characters at different periods, 8vo.440813.The Actes of the Apostles translated into Englyshe metre, by Chrystofer Tye, Doctor in musyke, with notes to synge, and also to play upon the lute.Printed by Seres, 1553, 12mo.0116819.The Newe Testament, with the Prologes of Wyllyam Tyndale, cuts, printed at Andwarp, &c., 1534, 12mo.0180820.The same, with the same cuts, emprynted at Antwerpe, by M. Crom, 1538,a fine copy, in morocco binding(title wanting).2401341.The Gospels of the fower Evangelists, translated in the olde Saxons Tyme, &c. Sax. and Eng. Imprinted by Daye, 1571, 4to.11201383.The Discipline of the Kirk of Scotlande, subscribet by the Handes off Superintendentes, one parte off Ministers, and scribet in oure generalle Assemblies ad Edenbourg, 28 Decemb., 1566.No title.4to.1301714.The most sacred Bible, recognised with great diligence by Richard Taverner, &c.,printed by Byddell for Barthelet, 1539, in russia.3501716.The Byble in Englyshe of the largest and greatest volume, &c.Printed by Grafton, 1541, Folio.1301870.Speculum Vite Christi, the Booke that is cleped the Myrroure of the blessed Lyf of Jhesu Cryste,emprynted by Caxton, fol.,no date, fine copy in morocco.9901871.The prouffytable Boke for Mannes Soule, &c.,emprynted by Caxton, fol., no date, a fine copy in morocco.5001873.Cordyale, or of the fowre last Thynges, &c.,emprynted by Caxton, 1480, fol.,fine copy in morocco.14001874.The Pylgremage of the Sowle, &c., 1483, folio,emprynted by Caxton.81761875.The Booke entytled and named Ryal, &c.,translated and printed by Caxton, 1484,fine morocco copy.10001876.The Arte and Crafte to knowe well to dye;translated and prynted by Caxton, 1490, folio.526So take we leave ofDivinity!1047.Hall's Virgidemiarum, lib. vi. 1599, 1602, 12mo. "Mr. Pope's copy, who presented it to Mr. West, telling him that he esteemed them the best poetry and truest satire in the English language." (N.B. These satires were incorrectly published in 1753, 8vo.: a republication of them, with pertinent notes, would be very acceptable.)01801658.Churchyard's Works; 3 vols. in 1,very elegant, bl. letter.31361816.The Passe Tyme of Pleasure, &c.,printed by Wynkyn de Worde, 1517, 4to., fine copy.3301821.Merie conceited Jests of George Peele, Gent. 1607, 4to.Robin the Devil, his two penni-worth of Wit in half a penni-worth of paper, &c., 1607, 4to.01861846.The Hye Waye to the Spyttell Hous; printed by the compyler Rob. Copland, no date.0661847.Another copy of the Spyttell House; "A thousande fyve hundredth fortye and foure," no printer's name, mark, or date, 4to.Here begynneth a lytell propre Jest, called Cryste Crosse me spede, a b c.11162274.Chaucer's Work; first edition,emprentyd by Caxton, folio,in russia.471562280.—— Troylus and Creseyde,printedbCaxton, folio.101002281.—— Booke of Fame,printed by Caxton, folio.4502297.Gower de Confessione Amantis;printed by Caxton, 1483, folio,in morocco.9902282.The Bokys of Haukyng and Hunting;printed at Seynt Albons, 1486,folio: fine copy in morocco.1300And here farewellPoetry!1678.The Booke of the moste victoryouse Prynce, Guy of Warwick.Impr. by W. Copland, 4to.1101683.The Historye of Graunde Amoure and la bell Pucel, &c.Impr. by John Wayland, 1554, 4to.1201685.The Historye of Olyver of Castylle, &c.Impr. by Wynkyn de Worde, 1518, 4to.11201656.The Booke of the Ordre of Chyvalry or Knyghthode.Translated and printed by William Caxton; no date, a fine copy in russia, 4to.550(Shall I put one, or one hundred marks—not of admiration but of astonishment—at this price?! but go on kind reader!)2480.The Boke of Jason:emprynted by Caxton, folio.4402481.The Boke of Fayttes of Armes and of Chyvalrye,emprynted by Caxton, 1489, folio.101002582.Thystorye, &c., of the Knyght Parys, and of the fayre Vyenne, &c. 1485, fol.,translated and printed by Caxton.1400CaxtonCAXTON.But why should I go on tantalising the S——s, H——s, S——s, R——s, and U——s, of the day, by further specimens of theenormoussums here given for suchcommoneditions of oldRomances? Mr. George Nicol, his majesty's bookseller, told me, with his usual pleasantry and point, that he got abused in the public papers, by Almon and others, for his having purchased nearly the whole of the Caxtonian volumes in this collection for his Majesty's library. It was said abroad that "a Scotchman had lavished away the king's money in buying old black-letter books." A pretty specimen oflavishingaway royal money, truly! There is also another thing, connected with theseinvaluable(I speak as a bibliomaniac—and, perhaps, as a metaphysician may think—as a fool! but let it pass!) with these invaluable purchases:—his Majesty, in his directions to Mr. Nicol, forbade any competition with those purchasers who wanted books of science and belles-lettres for theirown professionalorliterarypursuits: thus using, I ween, the powers of his purse in a manner at once merciful and wise.—"O si sic"—may we say to many a heavy-metalled book-auction bibliomaniac of the present day!—Old Tom Payne, the father of the respectable Mr. Payne, of Pall-Mall, used to tell Mr. Nichol—pendente hastâ—that he had been "raising all theCaxtons!" "Many a copy," quoth he, "hathstuckin my shop at two guineas!" Mr.Nichols, in his amusing biography of Bowyer, has not devoted so large a portion of his pages to the description of Mr. West's collection, life, and character, as he has to many collectors who have been less eminently distinguished in the bibliographical world. Whether this was the result of the paucity, or incongruity, of his materials, or whether, from feelings of delicacy he might not choose to declare all he knew, are points into which I have neither right nor inclination to enquire. There seems every reason to conclude that, from youth, West had an elegant and well-directed taste in matters of literature and the fine arts. As early as the year 1720, he shewed the munificence of his disposition, in these respects, by befriending Hearne with a plate for hisAntiquities of Glastonbury; see p. 285—which was executed, says Hearne, "Sumptibus ornatissimi amicissimique Juvenis (multis sane nominibus de studiis nostris optime meriti)Jacobi West," &c. So in his pref. toAdam de Domerham de reb. gest. Glaston:—"antiquitatum ac historiarum nostrarum studiosus in primis—Jacobus West." p. xx. And in hisWalter Hemingford, we have:—"fragmentum, ad civitatem Oxoniensem pertinens, admodum egregium, mihi dono dedit amicus eximius Jacobus West—is quem alibi juvenem ornatissimum appellavi," &c., p. 428. How the promise of an abundant harvest, in the mature years of so excellent a young man, was realized, the celebrity of West, throughout Europe, to his dying day, is a sufficient demonstration. I conclude with the following; which is literally from Nichols'sAnecdotes of Bowyer. "James West, of Alscott, in the county of Warwick, Esq., M.A., of Baliol College, Oxford, (son of Richard West, said to be descended, according to family tradition, from Leonard, a younger son of Thomas West, Lord Delawar, who died in 1525) was representative in parliament for St. Alban's, in 1741; and being appointed one of the joint Secretaries of the Treasury, held that office till 1762. In 1765 or 1766, his old patron the Duke of Newcastle, obtained for him a pension of 2000l.a year. He was an early member, and one of the Vice Presidents, of the Antiquary Society; and was first Treasurer, and afterwards President, of the Royal Society. He married the daughter and heiress of Sir Thomas Stephens, timber merchant, in Southwark, with whom he had a large fortune in houses in Rotherhithe; and by whom he had a son, James West, Esq., now (1782) of Alscott, one of the Auditors of the Land-Tax, and sometime Member of Parliament for Boroughbridge, in Yorkshire (who in 1774 married the daughter of Christopher Wren, of Wroxhall in Warwickshire, Esq.), and had two daughters. Mr. West died in July, 1772. His large and valuable collection ofManuscriptswas sold to theEarl of Shelburne, and is now deposited in the British Museum."
[387]The reader has had a sufficiently particular account of the book-collections ofConsul Smith, atp. 95, ante, to render any farther discussion superfluous. As these libraries were collectedabroad, the catalogues of them were arranged in the place here referred to.
[388]I am now to notice, in less romantic manner than Lysander, a collection of books, inEnglish Literature, which, for rarity and value, in a proportionate number, have never been equalled; I mean the library ofJames West, Esq.,President of the Royal Society. The sale commenced on March 29, 1773, and continued for the twenty-three following days. The catalogue was digested by Samuel Paterson, a man whose ability in such undertakings has been generally allowed. The title was as follows: "Bibliotheca Westiana;A Catalogue of the curious and truly valuable library of the lateJames West, Esq.,President of the Royal Society, deceased; comprehending a choice collection of books in various languages, and upon most branches of polite literature: more especially such as relate to the history and antiquities of Great Britain and Ireland; their early navigators, discoverers, and improvers, and theancient English literature: of which there are a great number of uncommon books and tracts, elucidated by MS. notes and original letters, and embellished with scarce portraits and devices, rarely to be found: including the works of Caxton, Lettou, Machlinia, the anonymous St. Albans school-master, Wynkyn de Worde, Pynson, and the rest of the old English typographers. Digested by Samuel Paterson, and sold by Messrs. Langfords." The title-page is succeeded by the
PREFACE.
"The following catalogue exhibits a very curious and uncommon collection of printed books and tracts. Of British History and Antiquities, and ofRare Old English Literature, the most copious of any which has appeared for several years past; formed with great taste, and a thorough knowledge of authors and characters, by that judicious critic and able antiquary the lateJames West, Esq., President of the Royal Society. Several anonymous writers are herein brought to light—many works enlarged and further explained by their respective authors and editors—and a far greater number illustrated with the MS. notes and observations of some of our most respectable antiquaries: among whom will be found the revered names of Camden, Selden, Spelman, Somner, Dugdale, Gibson, Tanner, Nicolson, Gale, Le Neve, Hearne, Anstis, Lewis, St. Amand, Ames, Browne, Willis, Stukely, Mr. West, &c. But, above all, the intense application and unwearied diligence of the admirable Bishop White Kennett, upon the ecclesiastical, monastical, constitutional, and topographical history of Great Britain, so apparent throughout this collection, furnish matter even to astonishment; and are alone sufficient to establish the reputation, and to perpetuate the memory, of this illustrious prelate, without any other monuments of his greatness." "In an age of general inquiry, like the present, when studies less interesting give place to the most laudable curiosity and thirst after investigating every particular relative to the history and literature of our own country, nothing less than an elaborate digest of this valuable library could be expected; and, as a supplement to the history of English literature, more desired." "That task the Editor has cheerfully undertaken: and, he flatters himself, executed as well as the short time allowed would permit. He further hopes, to the satisfaction of such who are capable of judging of its utility and importance." "The lovers of engraved English portraits (a species of modern connoisseurship which appears to have been first started by the late noble Earl of Oxford, afterwards taken up by Mr. West, Mr. Nicolls, editor of Cromwell's State-Papers, Mr. Ames, &c., and since perfected by the Muse of Strawberry-Hill, the Rev. Wm. Granger, and some few more ingenious collectors) may here look to find a considerable number of singular and scarce heads, and will not be disappointed in their search." Thus much Paterson; who, it must be confessed, has promised more than he has performed: for the catalogue, notwithstanding it was thesecondwhich was published (the first being by a different hand, and most barbarously compiled) might have exhibited better method and taste in its execution. Never were rare and magnificent books more huddled together and smothered, as it were, than in this catalogue. Let us now proceed to an analysis of Mr. West's Collection.
1.Volumes of Miscellaneous Tracts.
These volumes extend from no. 148 to 200, from 915 to 992, from 1201 to 1330, and from no. 1401 to 1480.—Among them are some singularly choice and curious articles. The following is but an imperfect specimen.
The preceding affords but a very inadequate idea of the "pithie, pleasant, and profitable" discourses mid tracts which abounded among the miscellaneous articles of Mr. West's library. Whatever be the defects of modern literature, it must be allowed that we are notquite so coarsein thetitle pagesof our books.
2.Divinity.
This comprehended a vast mass of information, under the following general title. Scarce Tracts: Old and New Testaments (including almost all the first English editions of the New Testament, which are now of the rarest occurrence): Commentators: Ecclesiastical History: Polemics: Devotions, Catholic and Calvinistical: Enthusiasm: Monastical History: Lives of Saints: Fathers: Missionaries: Martyrs: Modern Divines and Persons of eminent piety: Free Thinkers: Old English Primers: Meditations: Some of the earliest Popish and Puritanical Controversy: Sermons by old English Divines, &c. In the whole 560 articles: probably about 1200 volumes. These general heads are sufficient to satisfy the bibliographer that, with such an indefatigable collector as was Mr. West, the greater part of the theological books must have been extremely rare and curious. From somany Caxtons,Wynkyn de Wordes,Pynsons, &c., it would be difficult to select afewwhich should give a specimen of the value of the rest. Suffice it to observe that such a cluster ofBlack Letter Gems, in this department of English literature, has never since been seen in any sale catalogue.
3.Education, Languages, Criticism, Classics, Dictionaries, Catalogues of Libraries, &c.
There were about 700 volumes in these departments. The catalogues of English books, from that of Maunsell in 1595, to the latest before Mr. West's time, were nearly complete. The treatises on education, and translations of the ancient classics, comprehended a curious and uncommon collection. The Greek and Latin Classics were rather select than rare.
4.English Poetry, Romances, and Miscellanies.
This interesting part of the collection comprehended about 355 articles, or probably about 750 volumes: and, if the singularly rare and curious books which may be foundunder these heads alonewere now to be concentrated in one library, the owner of them might safely demand 4000 guineas for such a treasure! I make no doubt but that hisMajestyis the fortunate possessor of the greater number of articles under all the foregoing heads.
5.Philosophy, Mathematics, Inventions, Agriculture, and Horticulture, Medicine, Cookery, Surgery, &c.
Two hundred and forty articles, or about 560 volumes.
6.Chemistry, Natural History, Astrology, Sorcery, Gigantology.
Probably not more than 100 volumes. The word "Gigantology," first introduced by Mr. Paterson, I believe, into the English language, was used by the French more than two centuries ago. See no. 2198 in the catalogue.
7.History and Antiquities.
This comprehended a great number of curious and valuable productions, relating both to foreign and domestic transactions.
8.Heraldry and Genealogy.
An equal number of curious and scarce articles may be found under these heads.
9.Antient Legends and Chronicles.
To the English antiquary, few departments of literature are more interesting than this. Mr. West seems to have paid particular attention to it, and to have enriched his library with many articles of this description of the rarest occurrence. The lovers of Caxton, Fabian, Hardyng, Hall, Grafton, and Holinshed, may be highly gratified by inspecting the various editions of these old chroniclers. I entreat the diligent bibliographer to examine the first 8 articles of page 209 of the catalogue. Alas! when will such gems again glitter at one sale? The fortunate period for collectors is gone by: a knowledge of books almost every where prevails. At York, at Exeter, at Manchester, and at Bristol, as well as in London, this knowledge may be found sometimes on the dusty stall, as well as in the splendid shop. The worth of books begins to be considered by a different standard from that of the quantity of gold on the exterior! We are now for "drinking deep," as well as "tasting!" But I crave pardon for this digression, and lose sight of Mr. West'suniques.
10.Topography.
Even to a veteran like the late Mr. Gough, such a collection as may be found from p. 217 to 239 of the catalogue, would be considered a very first-rate acquisition. I am aware that the Gothic wainscot and stained glass windows ofEnfield Studyenshrined a still more exquisite topographical collection! But we are improved since the days of Mr. West; and every body knows towhomthese improvements are, in a great measure, to be attributed! When I call to mind the author of "British Topography" and "Sepulchral Monuments," I am not insensible to the taste, diligence, and erudition of the "par nobile fratrum," who have gratified us with the "Environs of London," and the three volumes of "Magna Britannia!" Catalogues of Mr. West's library, with the sums for which the books were sold, are now found with difficulty, and bring a considerable price. The late Mr. G. Baker, who had a surprisingly curious collection of priced catalogues, was in possession of theoriginal saleone of West's library. It is interleaved, and, of course, has the prices and names of the purchasers. Mr. Heber has also a priced copy, with the names, which was executed by my industrious and accurate predecessor, William Herbert, of typographico-antiquarian renown. The number of articles, on the whole, was 4653; and of the volumes as many articles were single, probably about 8000.Ampleas some "pithy" reader may imagine the foregoing analysis to be, I cannot find it in my heart to suffer such a collection, as was theBibliotheca Westiana, to be here dismissed in sosummarya manner. Take, therefore, "pleasaunt" reader, the following account of thepricesfor which some of the aforesaid book-gems were sold. They are presented to thee as a matter of curiosity only; and not as a criterion of their present value. And asMaster Caxtonhas of late become so popular amongst us, we will see, inter alios, what some of the books printed by so "simple a person" produced at this renowned sale.
Thus much forGrammatical Tracts.
So take we leave ofDivinity!
And here farewellPoetry!
Caxton
CAXTON.
But why should I go on tantalising the S——s, H——s, S——s, R——s, and U——s, of the day, by further specimens of theenormoussums here given for suchcommoneditions of oldRomances? Mr. George Nicol, his majesty's bookseller, told me, with his usual pleasantry and point, that he got abused in the public papers, by Almon and others, for his having purchased nearly the whole of the Caxtonian volumes in this collection for his Majesty's library. It was said abroad that "a Scotchman had lavished away the king's money in buying old black-letter books." A pretty specimen oflavishingaway royal money, truly! There is also another thing, connected with theseinvaluable(I speak as a bibliomaniac—and, perhaps, as a metaphysician may think—as a fool! but let it pass!) with these invaluable purchases:—his Majesty, in his directions to Mr. Nicol, forbade any competition with those purchasers who wanted books of science and belles-lettres for theirown professionalorliterarypursuits: thus using, I ween, the powers of his purse in a manner at once merciful and wise.—"O si sic"—may we say to many a heavy-metalled book-auction bibliomaniac of the present day!—Old Tom Payne, the father of the respectable Mr. Payne, of Pall-Mall, used to tell Mr. Nichol—pendente hastâ—that he had been "raising all theCaxtons!" "Many a copy," quoth he, "hathstuckin my shop at two guineas!" Mr.Nichols, in his amusing biography of Bowyer, has not devoted so large a portion of his pages to the description of Mr. West's collection, life, and character, as he has to many collectors who have been less eminently distinguished in the bibliographical world. Whether this was the result of the paucity, or incongruity, of his materials, or whether, from feelings of delicacy he might not choose to declare all he knew, are points into which I have neither right nor inclination to enquire. There seems every reason to conclude that, from youth, West had an elegant and well-directed taste in matters of literature and the fine arts. As early as the year 1720, he shewed the munificence of his disposition, in these respects, by befriending Hearne with a plate for hisAntiquities of Glastonbury; see p. 285—which was executed, says Hearne, "Sumptibus ornatissimi amicissimique Juvenis (multis sane nominibus de studiis nostris optime meriti)Jacobi West," &c. So in his pref. toAdam de Domerham de reb. gest. Glaston:—"antiquitatum ac historiarum nostrarum studiosus in primis—Jacobus West." p. xx. And in hisWalter Hemingford, we have:—"fragmentum, ad civitatem Oxoniensem pertinens, admodum egregium, mihi dono dedit amicus eximius Jacobus West—is quem alibi juvenem ornatissimum appellavi," &c., p. 428. How the promise of an abundant harvest, in the mature years of so excellent a young man, was realized, the celebrity of West, throughout Europe, to his dying day, is a sufficient demonstration. I conclude with the following; which is literally from Nichols'sAnecdotes of Bowyer. "James West, of Alscott, in the county of Warwick, Esq., M.A., of Baliol College, Oxford, (son of Richard West, said to be descended, according to family tradition, from Leonard, a younger son of Thomas West, Lord Delawar, who died in 1525) was representative in parliament for St. Alban's, in 1741; and being appointed one of the joint Secretaries of the Treasury, held that office till 1762. In 1765 or 1766, his old patron the Duke of Newcastle, obtained for him a pension of 2000l.a year. He was an early member, and one of the Vice Presidents, of the Antiquary Society; and was first Treasurer, and afterwards President, of the Royal Society. He married the daughter and heiress of Sir Thomas Stephens, timber merchant, in Southwark, with whom he had a large fortune in houses in Rotherhithe; and by whom he had a son, James West, Esq., now (1782) of Alscott, one of the Auditors of the Land-Tax, and sometime Member of Parliament for Boroughbridge, in Yorkshire (who in 1774 married the daughter of Christopher Wren, of Wroxhall in Warwickshire, Esq.), and had two daughters. Mr. West died in July, 1772. His large and valuable collection ofManuscriptswas sold to theEarl of Shelburne, and is now deposited in the British Museum."
Loren.All hail to thee—transcendant bibliomaniac of other times!—of times, in which my father lived,and procured, at the sale of thy precious book-treasures, not a few of those rare volumes which have so much gladdened the eyes of Lisardo.
Belin.I presume you mean, dear brother, some of thoseblack-lookinggentlemen, bound in fancifullymarked coats of morocco, andwashedandironedwithin (for you collectors must have recourse to a woman's occupation) with so much care and nicety that eventhe eyes of our ancient Rebecca, with "spectacle on nose" to boot, could hardly detect the cunning' conceit of your binder!
Loren.Spare my feelings and your own reputation, if you wish to appreciate justly the noble craft of book-repairing, &c.—But proceed, dear Lysander.
Lysand.You cannot have a greater affection towardsthe memory of the collector of theBibliotheca Westianathan myself. Hark—! or is it only a soft murmur from a congregation of autumnal zephyrs!—but methought I heard a sound, as if calling upon us to look well to the future fate of our libraries—to look well to their beingcreditably catalogued—"For" (and indeed itisthe voice of West's spirit that speaks) "my collection was barbarously murdered; and hence I am doomed to wander for a century, to give warning to the ——, ——, and ——, of the day, to execute this useful task with their own hands! Yes; even the name ofPatersonhas not saved my collection from censure; but his hands were then young and inexperienced—yet I suffer from this innocent error!" Away, away, vexed spirit—and let thy head rest in peace beneath the sod!
Alman.For heaven's sake, into what society are we introduced, sister? All mad—book mad! but I hope harmless.
Lysand.Allay your apprehensions; for, though wemay have the energies of the lion, we have the gentleness of the "unweaned lamb." But, in describing so many and such discordant characters, how can I proceed in the jog-trot way of—"next comes such a one—and then follows another—and afterwards proceeds a third, and now a fourth!?"
Alman.Sir, you are right, and I solicit your forgiveness. If I have not sufficient bookish enthusiasm to fall down and worship yourCaxtonian Deity,James West, I am at least fully disposed to concede him every excellent and amiable quality which sheds lustre upon a literary character.
Lysand.All offence is expiated: for look, the spirit walks off calmly—and seems to acknowledge, with satisfaction, such proper sentiments in the breast of one whose father and brother have been benefited by his book treasures.
The rapturous, and, I fear you will think, the wild and incoherent, manner in which I have noticed the sale of theBibliotheca Westianahad nearly driven from my recollection that, in the preceding, the same, and subsequent, year, there was sold by auction a very curious and extraordinary collection of books and Prints belonging to honestTom Martin,[389]of Palgrave,in Suffolk: a collector of whom, if I remember rightly, Herbert has, upon several occasions, spoken with a sortof veneration. If Lavater's system of physiognomy happen to receive your approbation, you will conclude, upon contemplating Tom's frank countenance—of which a cut precedes the title-page of the first catalogue—that the collector of Palgrave must have been "a fine old fellow." Martin's book-pursuits were miscellaneous, and perhaps a little too wildly followed up; yet some good fortune contributed to furnish his collection with volumes of singular curiosity.
[389]"Hereafter followeth" rather a rough outline of the contents of honest Tom Martin's miscellaneous and curious collection. To theivth part I have added a few prices, and but a few. I respect too much the quiet and comfort of the present race of bibliomaniacs, to inflame their minds by a longer extract of such tantalizing sums given for some of the most extraordinary volumes in English Literature.——i.A Catalogue of the Library ofMr.Thomas Martin,of Palgrave, in Suffolk, lately deceased. Lynn, Printed by W. Whittingham, 1772, 8vo. With a portrait engraved by Lamborn, from a painting of Bardwell. 5240 articles; with 15 pages of Appendix, containing MSS.——no. 86. Juliana Barnes on Hawking, &c., black-letter, wants a leaf, folio. 56. Chauncey's History of Hertfordshire, with marginal notes, by P. Le Neve, Esq., 1700, folio. 757. Scriptores Rerum Brunsvicensium, 3 vols. folio, 1707. ("N.B. Only 3 sets in England at the accession of Geo. III.")——ii.A Catalogue of the very curious and numerous collection of Manuscripts ofThomas Martin, Esq.,of Suffolk, lately deceased. Consisting of Pedigrees, Genealogies, Heraldic Papers, Old Deeds, Charters, Sign Manuals, Autographs, &c., likewise some very rare old printed books. Sold by auction by Baker and Leigh, April 28, 1773, 8vo. The MSS. (of many of which Edmonson was a purchaser) consisted of 181 articles, ending with "The 15 O's, in old English verse—St. Bridget." Among the 19 volumes only of "Scarce Printed Books" were the following:—no. 188. Edwards' Paradyse of daynty Devices, 1577. 196. The Holy Life of Saynt Werburge, printed by Pynson, 1521. The Lyfe of Saynte Radegunde, by Pynson. Lyfe of Saynt Katherine, printed by Waley, 4to.——iii.A Catalogue of the remaining Part of the valuable Collection of the late well known Antiquary, Mr.Martin,of Palgrave, Suffolk: consisting of many very valuable and ancient Manuscripts on vellum, early printed black-letter Books, and several other scarce Books; his Law Library, Deeds, Grants, and Pedigrees; a valuable collection of Drawings and Prints, by the best masters—and his Collection of Greek, Roman, Saxon, and English Coins—with some curiosities. Sold by auction by Baker and Leigh, 18th May, 1774. 8vo. This collection consisted of 537 articles, exclusively of the coins, &c., which were 75 in number. Among the printed books were several very curious ones; such as——no. 88. The Death and Martyrdom of Campione the Jesuite, 1581, 8vo. 124. Heywood's "If you know not me, you know nobody," 1623, 4to. "This has a wood-cut of the whole length of Q. Elizabeth, and is very scarce." 183. Fabyan's Chronicle. This I take it was the first edition. 186. Promptuarium Parvulorum. Pynson, folio, 1499. See Hearne's Peter Langtoft, vol. ii., 624-5. 228. Dives et Pauper; yis Tretyys ben dyvydit into elevene partys, and ev'ry part is dyvidit into chapitalis. "The above extremely curious and valuable Manuscript on vellum is wrote on 539 pages. Vide Leland, vol. ii., 452: Bale, 609. Pits, 660. MS., 4to." 236. Original Proclamations of Q. Elizabeth, folio. "A most rare collection, and of very great value: the Earl of Oxford once offered Mr. Martin one hundred guineas for them, which he refused." Qu. what they sold for? 237. The Pastyme of the People; the Cronycles of dyvers Realmys, and most specyally of the Realme of Englond, &c., by John Rastell. An elegant copy, in the original binding, large folio, black-letter, London, 1529. "Supposed to be only two or three copies existing;" but seepage 337, ante. The folio Manuscripts, extending to no. 345, are very curious; especially the first 60 numbers.——iv.Bibliotheca Martiniana. A Catalogue of the entire Library of the late eminent AntiquaryMr.Thomas Martin,of Suffolk. Containing some thousand volumes in every Language, Art, and Science, a large collection of the scarcest early Printers, and some hundreds of Manuscripts, &c., which will begin to be sold very cheap, on Saturday, June 5 (1773). By Martin Booth and John Berry, Booksellers, at their Warehouse in the Angel Yard, Market Place, Norwich, and continue on sale only two months: 8vo. This Catalogue is full of curious, rare, and interesting books; containing 4895 articles; all priced. Take, as a sample, the following:NO.s.d.4071.Wynkyn de Worde's reprint of Juliana Berners' book of Hawking, &c., 1496, folio, 1l.11s.6d.: no. 4292. Copland's ditto of ditto, fair764099.A collection of Old Romances in the Dutch Language, with wood-cuts, very fair, 1544 to 1556, folio1064169.Horace's Art of poetry, by Drant, 1567, 4to.364234.A certayne Tragedye, &c., entitled, Freewil, wants title, very fair and scarce, 4to.504254.Historie of Prince Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table, 1634, 4to.764336.The Life off the 70 Archbishopp off Canterbury presentlye sittinge, &c. Imprinted in 1574, 8vo., neat106A severe satire against Parker, Abp. of Canterbury, for which 'tis said the author was punished with the loss of his arm.4345.Amorous Tales, by James Sanforde, very rare, printed by Bynneman, 1567, 12mo. (or small 8vo. perhaps)504432.Hereafter followeth a little boke whyche hath to name Whye come ye not to court: by Mayster Skelton; printed by Anthony Kytson, no date. A little boke of Philip Sparrow, compiled by Mayster Skelton; printed by Ant. Veale, no date, very fair, both 8vo.76"This is a most extraordinarily scarce edition of Skelton's Pieces, and has besides these, some other fragments of his by various early printers."
[389]"Hereafter followeth" rather a rough outline of the contents of honest Tom Martin's miscellaneous and curious collection. To theivth part I have added a few prices, and but a few. I respect too much the quiet and comfort of the present race of bibliomaniacs, to inflame their minds by a longer extract of such tantalizing sums given for some of the most extraordinary volumes in English Literature.——i.A Catalogue of the Library ofMr.Thomas Martin,of Palgrave, in Suffolk, lately deceased. Lynn, Printed by W. Whittingham, 1772, 8vo. With a portrait engraved by Lamborn, from a painting of Bardwell. 5240 articles; with 15 pages of Appendix, containing MSS.——no. 86. Juliana Barnes on Hawking, &c., black-letter, wants a leaf, folio. 56. Chauncey's History of Hertfordshire, with marginal notes, by P. Le Neve, Esq., 1700, folio. 757. Scriptores Rerum Brunsvicensium, 3 vols. folio, 1707. ("N.B. Only 3 sets in England at the accession of Geo. III.")——ii.A Catalogue of the very curious and numerous collection of Manuscripts ofThomas Martin, Esq.,of Suffolk, lately deceased. Consisting of Pedigrees, Genealogies, Heraldic Papers, Old Deeds, Charters, Sign Manuals, Autographs, &c., likewise some very rare old printed books. Sold by auction by Baker and Leigh, April 28, 1773, 8vo. The MSS. (of many of which Edmonson was a purchaser) consisted of 181 articles, ending with "The 15 O's, in old English verse—St. Bridget." Among the 19 volumes only of "Scarce Printed Books" were the following:—no. 188. Edwards' Paradyse of daynty Devices, 1577. 196. The Holy Life of Saynt Werburge, printed by Pynson, 1521. The Lyfe of Saynte Radegunde, by Pynson. Lyfe of Saynt Katherine, printed by Waley, 4to.——iii.A Catalogue of the remaining Part of the valuable Collection of the late well known Antiquary, Mr.Martin,of Palgrave, Suffolk: consisting of many very valuable and ancient Manuscripts on vellum, early printed black-letter Books, and several other scarce Books; his Law Library, Deeds, Grants, and Pedigrees; a valuable collection of Drawings and Prints, by the best masters—and his Collection of Greek, Roman, Saxon, and English Coins—with some curiosities. Sold by auction by Baker and Leigh, 18th May, 1774. 8vo. This collection consisted of 537 articles, exclusively of the coins, &c., which were 75 in number. Among the printed books were several very curious ones; such as——no. 88. The Death and Martyrdom of Campione the Jesuite, 1581, 8vo. 124. Heywood's "If you know not me, you know nobody," 1623, 4to. "This has a wood-cut of the whole length of Q. Elizabeth, and is very scarce." 183. Fabyan's Chronicle. This I take it was the first edition. 186. Promptuarium Parvulorum. Pynson, folio, 1499. See Hearne's Peter Langtoft, vol. ii., 624-5. 228. Dives et Pauper; yis Tretyys ben dyvydit into elevene partys, and ev'ry part is dyvidit into chapitalis. "The above extremely curious and valuable Manuscript on vellum is wrote on 539 pages. Vide Leland, vol. ii., 452: Bale, 609. Pits, 660. MS., 4to." 236. Original Proclamations of Q. Elizabeth, folio. "A most rare collection, and of very great value: the Earl of Oxford once offered Mr. Martin one hundred guineas for them, which he refused." Qu. what they sold for? 237. The Pastyme of the People; the Cronycles of dyvers Realmys, and most specyally of the Realme of Englond, &c., by John Rastell. An elegant copy, in the original binding, large folio, black-letter, London, 1529. "Supposed to be only two or three copies existing;" but seepage 337, ante. The folio Manuscripts, extending to no. 345, are very curious; especially the first 60 numbers.——iv.Bibliotheca Martiniana. A Catalogue of the entire Library of the late eminent AntiquaryMr.Thomas Martin,of Suffolk. Containing some thousand volumes in every Language, Art, and Science, a large collection of the scarcest early Printers, and some hundreds of Manuscripts, &c., which will begin to be sold very cheap, on Saturday, June 5 (1773). By Martin Booth and John Berry, Booksellers, at their Warehouse in the Angel Yard, Market Place, Norwich, and continue on sale only two months: 8vo. This Catalogue is full of curious, rare, and interesting books; containing 4895 articles; all priced. Take, as a sample, the following:
But I proceed. The commotions excited in the book world, by means of the sales of theBibliotheca WestianaandMartiniana, had hardly ceased, when a similar agitation took place from the dispersion of theMonastic Librarywhich once belonged toSerjeant Fletewode;[390]a bibliomaniac who flourished in full vigour during the reign of Elizabeth. The catalogue of these truly curious books is but a sorry performance; but let the lover of rare articles put on his bathing corks, and swim quietly across this ocean of black-letter, and he will be abundantly repaid for the toil of such an aquatic excursion.