[395]A Catalogue of the genuine and valuable Collection of printed Books and Manuscripts of the lateMark Cephas Tutet, Esq., to be sold by auction by Mr. Gerard, on Wednesday, the 15th of February, 1786, 8vo. This library evinces the select taste and accurate judgment of its collector. There were only 513 articles, or lots; but these in general were both curious and valuable. I will give a specimen or two of theTutet Cabinetof books.NO.£s.d.10.Various Catalogues of Curiosities, elegantly bound in 14 volumes, and a few loose:most of them priced, with the purchasers' names. A.D. 1721 to 1783, 8vo.316055.Two volumes of ancient and modern cards,eleg. in russia550[These volumes were purchased by Mr. Payne's father, and of him by Mr. Gough. At the sale of the MSS. of the latter (1810) they were purchased by Mr. Robert Triphook, bookseller, of St. James's Street; with a view of making them instrumental to a work which he is projecting,Upon the History and Antiquity of Playing Cards.]86.Broughton's Concent of Scripture:printed upon vellum120118.Snelling's Silver Coinage,—1762; ditto Gold Coinage, 1763; ditto Copper Coinage, 1768; ditto Miscellaneous Views, 1769; ditto Jettons, 1769: all in folio700"These form a complete set of Snelling's works in folio, and are interspersed with a great number of very useful and interesting notes and observations, by Mr. Tutet."126.The Byble, &c. Printed by Grafton and Whitchurch, 1537, folio330[There is a note here by Tutet which does not evince any profound knowledge of English etymology.]168.Rede me and be not wroth, 12mo., no place nor date1116175.Servetus de Trinitatis erroribus,cor. tur., 1531, 12mo.3140316.—— de Trinitate divinâ, Lond., 1723, 4to.1120329.The Arte and Crafte to know well to dye.Printed by Caxton, 1490, folio220337.Hautin, Figures des Monnoyes de France, 1619, folio600364.Parker de Antiq. Brit. Ecclesiæ, 1572, folio. A long and curious note is here appended440371.The Boke of Hawkinge, Huntynge, and Fysshynge, 1496, fol.290372.Sancta Peregrinatio in Mont. Syon, &c. 1486, folio770["This is the first book of travels that was ever printed. The maps are very remarkable; that of the Holy Land is above 4 feet long."]463.Spaccio della Bestia trionfante.Paris, 1584, 8vo.770477.Expositio Sancti Jeronimi in Symbolum Apostolorum,cor. maur. Oxon., 1468, 4to.1650479.Polychronycon;printed by Caxton, 1482, 4to.4120480.Pfintzing (Melchoir) His German Poem of the Adventures of the Emperor Maximilian, under the name of Tewrdanckh's. Nuremb., 1517, folio576481.Initial Letters, Vignettes, Cul de Lampes, &c., 2 vols.,elegantly bound in russia. [These beautiful books are now in the possession of Mr. Douce]460483.Bouteroue, Recherches curieuses des Monnoyes de France:in morocco, gilt, Paris, 1666, folio500486.Froissart's Chronicles; printed by Pynson, 1523, folio, 2 vols.A beautiful copy elegantly bound.1600487.Recule of the Hystoryes of Troye;printed by Caxton, (1471) Folio.A very fine copy, and quite complete.2100490.Ciceronis Officia, 1466, 4to.On paper.25100And thus we take leave of that judicious and tasteful bibliomaniac,Mark Cephas Tutet!Three months after the sale of the preceding library, appeared theBibliotheca Universalis SelectaofSamuel Paterson; containing a collection to be sold by auction in May, 1786. To this catalogue of 8001 articles, there is a short (I wish I could add "sweet") preface, which has been extracted in theGentleman's Magazine, vol. lvi., p. 334; and in theCensura Literaria, vol. ii., p. 252—but, whatever accidental reputation the volume may have received from the notice of it in these periodical works, I deem both the preface and the work itself quite unworthy of Paterson's credit. There is an alphabetical index (not always very correct); and a few bibliographical notes are subjoined to the specification of the titles; and these considerations alone will give the book a place in the library of the bibliomaniac. The collection is, in fact, neither universal nor select: and the preface is written in the worst of all styles, containing the most commonplace observations.
[395]A Catalogue of the genuine and valuable Collection of printed Books and Manuscripts of the lateMark Cephas Tutet, Esq., to be sold by auction by Mr. Gerard, on Wednesday, the 15th of February, 1786, 8vo. This library evinces the select taste and accurate judgment of its collector. There were only 513 articles, or lots; but these in general were both curious and valuable. I will give a specimen or two of theTutet Cabinetof books.
And thus we take leave of that judicious and tasteful bibliomaniac,Mark Cephas Tutet!
Three months after the sale of the preceding library, appeared theBibliotheca Universalis SelectaofSamuel Paterson; containing a collection to be sold by auction in May, 1786. To this catalogue of 8001 articles, there is a short (I wish I could add "sweet") preface, which has been extracted in theGentleman's Magazine, vol. lvi., p. 334; and in theCensura Literaria, vol. ii., p. 252—but, whatever accidental reputation the volume may have received from the notice of it in these periodical works, I deem both the preface and the work itself quite unworthy of Paterson's credit. There is an alphabetical index (not always very correct); and a few bibliographical notes are subjoined to the specification of the titles; and these considerations alone will give the book a place in the library of the bibliomaniac. The collection is, in fact, neither universal nor select: and the preface is written in the worst of all styles, containing the most commonplace observations.
The following year, was sold, in a similar way, the select and very curious collection ofRichard Wright, M.D.;[396]the strength of which lay chiefly in publicationsrelating to theDramaandRomances. It is, in my humble opinion, a most judicious, as well as neatly printed, little catalogue; and not more than a dozen copies of it, I think, were printed uponlarge paper. Secure this volume, Lisardo, if you wish to add to your riches in English bibliography.
[396]Lysander has not drawn too strong an outline in his picture of theBibliotheca Wrightiana. The collection was elegant and select. Let us say a little more about it. "A Catalogue of the Library ofRichard Wright, M.D. &c., consisting of an elegant and extensive collection of books in every branch of learning, &c., many of the scarcest editions of the Old English Poets, Novels, and Romances; also a most singular assemblage of Theatrical Writers, including the rarest productions of the English Drama." Sold by auction by T. and J. Egerton, April 23rd, 1787, 8vo. The volume is neatly printed, and the books in the collection are arranged in alphabetical order under their respective departments. We will now fill up a little of the aforementioned strong outline of the picture of Wright's library: which contained 2824 articles.£s.d.917,920, 921-4-5-6-7, 931-2-3, exhibit a glorious specimen of the ancient English Chronicles—which, collectively, did not produce a sum above45001223.England's Parnassus, 1600, 8vo.01401333.Churchyarde's Choice, 1579, 4to.21401334.—— first part of his Chippes, 1575, 4to.31361343.Robert Greene's Works, 2 vols.,elegantly bound, 4to. (containing 17 pieces.)51901374.Shyp of Folys.Printed by Pynson, 1508, fol.31301384.Skelton's Works: 1568, 8vo.01401398.Turberville's epitaphs, epigrams, songs and sonnets, 1567, 8vo.My copy has no price to this article.1493.Thomas Nashe's Works, in three vols. 4to., containing 21 pieces121501567to 2091, comprehendsThe English Theatre.These numbers exhibit almost every thing that is rare, curious, and valuable in this popular department. I know not how to select stars from such a galaxy of black-letter lustre—but the reader may follow me to the ensuing numbers, which will at least convince him that I am not insensible to the charms ofdramatic bijoux, nos. 1567-9: 1570-6-8: 1580: 1595-6-8-9: 1606: 1626: 1636-7-8: 1712 (Dekker's Pieces: 15 in number—sold for 3l.3s.Eheu!) 1742: 1762. (Heywood's 26 plays, 3l.4s.) 1776.—1814: (Marston's 9 pieces, 3l.4s.) 1843. (Tragedie of Dido, 1594, 16l.16s.Euge!) 1850. (Middleton; 13 pieces: 4l.5s.) 1873-5. (George Peele's: 7l.7s.) 1902: (Sackville's Ferrex and Porrex: 2l.4s.)—But—"quo Musa tendis?" I conclude, therefore, with the following detailedseriatim.1960.Shakspeare's Works;1623, folio.First edition; bound in Russialeather, with gilt leaves.10001961.The same;1632.Second impression.2901962.The same;1632.The same.1601963.The same;1663.Third Edit. in Russia.1101964.The same;1683.Fourth Edition.110My copy of this catalogue is uponlarge paper, beautifully priced by a friend who "hath an unrivalled pen in this way;" and to whom I owe many obligations of a higher kind in the literary department—but whose modesty, albeit he was born on the banks of the Liffey, will not allow me to make the reader acquainted with his name. Therefore, "Stat nominis umbra:" viz. ——!
[396]Lysander has not drawn too strong an outline in his picture of theBibliotheca Wrightiana. The collection was elegant and select. Let us say a little more about it. "A Catalogue of the Library ofRichard Wright, M.D. &c., consisting of an elegant and extensive collection of books in every branch of learning, &c., many of the scarcest editions of the Old English Poets, Novels, and Romances; also a most singular assemblage of Theatrical Writers, including the rarest productions of the English Drama." Sold by auction by T. and J. Egerton, April 23rd, 1787, 8vo. The volume is neatly printed, and the books in the collection are arranged in alphabetical order under their respective departments. We will now fill up a little of the aforementioned strong outline of the picture of Wright's library: which contained 2824 articles.
These numbers exhibit almost every thing that is rare, curious, and valuable in this popular department. I know not how to select stars from such a galaxy of black-letter lustre—but the reader may follow me to the ensuing numbers, which will at least convince him that I am not insensible to the charms ofdramatic bijoux, nos. 1567-9: 1570-6-8: 1580: 1595-6-8-9: 1606: 1626: 1636-7-8: 1712 (Dekker's Pieces: 15 in number—sold for 3l.3s.Eheu!) 1742: 1762. (Heywood's 26 plays, 3l.4s.) 1776.—1814: (Marston's 9 pieces, 3l.4s.) 1843. (Tragedie of Dido, 1594, 16l.16s.Euge!) 1850. (Middleton; 13 pieces: 4l.5s.) 1873-5. (George Peele's: 7l.7s.) 1902: (Sackville's Ferrex and Porrex: 2l.4s.)—But—"quo Musa tendis?" I conclude, therefore, with the following detailedseriatim.
My copy of this catalogue is uponlarge paper, beautifully priced by a friend who "hath an unrivalled pen in this way;" and to whom I owe many obligations of a higher kind in the literary department—but whose modesty, albeit he was born on the banks of the Liffey, will not allow me to make the reader acquainted with his name. Therefore, "Stat nominis umbra:" viz. ——!
Loren.Was Wright's the only collection disposed of at this period, which was distinguished for its dramatic treasures? I thinkHenderson's[397]library was sold about this time?
[397]A Catalogue of the Library ofJohn Henderson, Esq. (late of Covent Garden Theatre), &c. Sold by auction by T. and J. Egerton, on February, 1786, 8vo. Do not let the lover of curious books in general imagine that Henderson's collection was entirely dramatical. A glance at the contents of page 12 to page 22, inclusively, will shew that this library contained some very first-rate rarities. When the dramatic collector enters upon page 23, (to the end of the volume, p. 71) I will allow him to indulge in all themaniaof this department of literature, "withouten ony grudgynge." He may also ring as manypealsas it pleaseth him, upon discovering that he possesses all the copies of a dramatic author, yclepedGeorge Peele, that are notified at nos. 923-4! Henderson's library was, without doubt, an extraordinary one. As we are uponDramatic Libraries, let us, for fear Lysander should forget it, notice the following, though a little out of chronological order. "A Catalogue, &c., of the lateMr.James William Dodd, of theTheatre Royal, Drury Lane, &c. Sold by auction by Leigh and Sotheby, Jan. 19, 1797, 8vo., 2435 lots." There was more of theDramain this than in Henderson's collection. Mr. Kemble purchased the dearest volume, which was "Whetstone's Promos and Cassandra," 1578, 4to. (no. 2396) for 7l.10s.Mr. George Nicol (for the late Duke of Roxburgh) kept up a tremendous fire at this sale! Akin to Dodd's, was the "Curious and Valuable Library ofGeorge Smyth, Esq.—sold by Leigh and Sotheby, June 2, 1797, 8vo." There were many uncommon books in this collection, exclusively of those appertaining to the Drama; and when I mention, in this latter department—Hughes's Misfortunes of Prince Arthur, &c., printed by Robinson, 1587, 4to. (no. 1376; 16l.15s.), both the parts of Shakespeare's Henry the Fourth (1599-1600, 4to., nos. 1436-7; 18l.18s.), his Much Ado about Nothing, 1600, 4to., (no. 1438; 7l.10s.)—I say enough to sharpen the collector's appetite to obtain, if he have it not, possession of this curious but barbarously printed catalogue. To these, let me add the "Catalogue of a portion of the Library ofWilliam Fillingham, Esq.,consisting of old quarto plays, early English Poetry, and a few scarce Tracts, &c., sold by Leigh and Sotheby, April 1805, 8vo." The arrangement of this small catalogue is excellent. Many of the books in it are of the rarest occurrence; and, to my knowledge, were in the finest preservation. The collector is no more! He died in India; cut off in the prime of life, and in the midst of his intellectual and book-collecting ardour! He was a man of exceedingly gentlemanlike manners, and amiable disposition; and his taste was, upon the whole, well cultivated and correct. Many a pleasant, and many a profitable, hour have I spent in his "delightsome" library!!!
[397]A Catalogue of the Library ofJohn Henderson, Esq. (late of Covent Garden Theatre), &c. Sold by auction by T. and J. Egerton, on February, 1786, 8vo. Do not let the lover of curious books in general imagine that Henderson's collection was entirely dramatical. A glance at the contents of page 12 to page 22, inclusively, will shew that this library contained some very first-rate rarities. When the dramatic collector enters upon page 23, (to the end of the volume, p. 71) I will allow him to indulge in all themaniaof this department of literature, "withouten ony grudgynge." He may also ring as manypealsas it pleaseth him, upon discovering that he possesses all the copies of a dramatic author, yclepedGeorge Peele, that are notified at nos. 923-4! Henderson's library was, without doubt, an extraordinary one. As we are uponDramatic Libraries, let us, for fear Lysander should forget it, notice the following, though a little out of chronological order. "A Catalogue, &c., of the lateMr.James William Dodd, of theTheatre Royal, Drury Lane, &c. Sold by auction by Leigh and Sotheby, Jan. 19, 1797, 8vo., 2435 lots." There was more of theDramain this than in Henderson's collection. Mr. Kemble purchased the dearest volume, which was "Whetstone's Promos and Cassandra," 1578, 4to. (no. 2396) for 7l.10s.Mr. George Nicol (for the late Duke of Roxburgh) kept up a tremendous fire at this sale! Akin to Dodd's, was the "Curious and Valuable Library ofGeorge Smyth, Esq.—sold by Leigh and Sotheby, June 2, 1797, 8vo." There were many uncommon books in this collection, exclusively of those appertaining to the Drama; and when I mention, in this latter department—Hughes's Misfortunes of Prince Arthur, &c., printed by Robinson, 1587, 4to. (no. 1376; 16l.15s.), both the parts of Shakespeare's Henry the Fourth (1599-1600, 4to., nos. 1436-7; 18l.18s.), his Much Ado about Nothing, 1600, 4to., (no. 1438; 7l.10s.)—I say enough to sharpen the collector's appetite to obtain, if he have it not, possession of this curious but barbarously printed catalogue. To these, let me add the "Catalogue of a portion of the Library ofWilliam Fillingham, Esq.,consisting of old quarto plays, early English Poetry, and a few scarce Tracts, &c., sold by Leigh and Sotheby, April 1805, 8vo." The arrangement of this small catalogue is excellent. Many of the books in it are of the rarest occurrence; and, to my knowledge, were in the finest preservation. The collector is no more! He died in India; cut off in the prime of life, and in the midst of his intellectual and book-collecting ardour! He was a man of exceedingly gentlemanlike manners, and amiable disposition; and his taste was, upon the whole, well cultivated and correct. Many a pleasant, and many a profitable, hour have I spent in his "delightsome" library!!!
Lysand.It was; and if you had not reminded me of it, I should have entirely forgotten it. Catalogues ofdramatic Libraries, well arranged, are of great service to the cause of the Bibliomania.
Lis.I wish we could procure some act of parliament to induce the dramatic collectors—by a fair remuneration—to give a well analysed account of their libraries. We should then have theBibliotheca Roxburghiana,Bibliotheca Maloniana, and what say you to theBibliotheca Kemblëiana.
Lysand.You are running wild. Let me continue my bibliomaniacal history.
We may now advance directly to the exquisite—and shall I say, unparalleled?—library ofMajor Pearson![398]a gentleman, who has far eclipsed the bibliomaniacal reputation of his military predecessor, General Dormer.This extraordinary collection was sold by auction the very next year ensuing the sale of Dr. Wright's booksand so thickly and richly is it sprinkled with the black-letter, and other curious lore—so varied, interesting, and valuable, are the departments into which it is divided—that it is no wonder his present Majesty, the late Duke of Roxburgh, and George Steevens, were earnest in securing some of the choicest gems contained in the same. Such a collection, sold at the present day—when there is such a "qui vive" for the sort of literature which it displays—what would it produce? At least four times more, than its sum total, two and twenty years ago!
[398]If the reader attend only to the above flourishing eulogy, by Lysander, upon the extraordinary collection of Major, or Thomas, Pearson, I fear he will not rise from the perusal of these pages impressed with very accurate notions of the same. To qualify such ardent panegyric, and at the same time to please the hearts of all honest bibliomaniacs, I here subjoin something like a sober analysis of theBibliotheca Pearsoniana. The title to the Sale Catalogue is as follows: "Biblioth. Pearson. A Catalogue of the Library ofThomas Pearson, Esq.Containing a very extensive Collection of the best and rarest books in every branch of English Literature, &c. Sold by Auction by T. and J. Egerton, in April, 1788," 8vo. Like all the sale catalogues put forth by the Egertons, the present is both judiciously arranged and neatly printed. It is said that there are only twelve copies uponlarge paper; but I doubt the smallness of this number. My own is of this kind, superbly bound, and priced with a neatness peculiar to the calligraphical powers of the 'forementioned friend. It may not be amiss to prefix an extract from a newspaper of the day; in which this sale was thus noticed: "The Black-lettero-mania, which raged so furiously in the course of last Spring at the Sale of Dr.Wright'sBooks, has broken out with still greater violence at the present auction ofMajor Pearson'sLibrary. This assertion may be countenanced by the following examples." Then follow a few specimens of the prices given. The reader is now presented with copious specimens, selected according to their numerical order: the addenda, between inverted commas, being copied from the said newspaper.NO.£s.d.1888.Webbe's Discourse of English Poetrie, 1586, 4to.350"Bought by Mr. Steevens versus Mr. Malone."1889.Puttenham's Art of English Poesie, 1589, 4to.11201900.The fyrst Boke of the Introduction to Knowledge, &c.;Printed by W. Copland, no date, 4to.4150"By the Rev. Mr. Brand versus Lord Charlemont."1910.The Castell of Laboure;Emprynted by Pynson, 4to.,no date.2201926.Dekker's Miscellaneous Pieces, 1604, &c., 4to.2201932.A curious collection of sundry rare pieces, 4to.3401951.Drollery's (eleven) 1661, &c., 8vo.566These droll pieces are now much coveted by knowing bibliomaniacs. Mr. Heber and Mr. Hill have each a copious collection of them; and Mr. Gutch of Bristol, a bookseller of great spirit in his trade, and of equal love of general literature, recently gratified the curious by exhibiting, in his catalogue of 1810, a number of "Garlands;" which ere now, have, in all probability, proved a successful bait for some hungry book fish.2035.Sir John Harrington's most elegant and witty Epigrams, with portrait, 1618, 8vo.2302090.Flowers of Epigrammes, &c.Impr. by Shepperd, 1577, 12mo.11402130.The Paradise of Dainty Devises, &c.,printed for E. White, 1600, 4to. The workes of a Young Wit, by N.B. b.l.printed by Thomas Dawson, no date. Watson's Mistresse, &c., and Sonnets, b.l.imperf.Diana, by the Earl and Countess of Oxenford,printed for J. Roberts, wanting title, 4to.9126"Bought by Mr. Steevens versus Mr. Malone."2131.England's Helicon, 1600, 4to.5100"By ditto versus ditto."2147.The Example of Vertu;printed by W. de Worde, 4to."Bought by Mr. Mason versus Mr. Malone."2162.A Mirrour of Mysterie;finely written upon, vellum, with two very neat drawings with pen and ink, 1557, 4to.2002186.Manley's Affliction and Deliverance of Saints, portr. 1652, 8vo.11202190.Tragedie of Sir Richard Grenvile, Knt. printed by J. Roberts, 1595, 8vo.01562289.Laquei Ridiculosi, or Springes for Woodcocks, by Henry Parrot, 1613, 8vo.046N.B.This little volume was sold for as many guineas at the sale of Mr. Reed's books in 1807.2373.Lyf of St. Ursula;Impr. by Wynkyn de Worde, no date, 4to.11002374.Lyf and History of Saynt Werburge.Printed by Pynson, 1521, 4to.130N.B.This volume was sold for18l.18s.at the last mentioned sale.2575.This lot comprehends a cluster of precious little black-letter pieces, which were purchased at the sale of West's books, by Major Pearson. Eight in the whole: executed before the year 1540.31902421.The Goodly Garlande, or Chaplet of Laurell, by Maister Skelton;Impr.by Fawkes, 1523, 4to. See here a long note upon the rarity and intrinsic worth of this curious little volume. "Purchased by Brand versus the King."71762710.Ancient Songs and Ballads; written on various subjects, and printed between the years 1560 and 1700; chiefly collected by Robert Earl of Oxford, and purchased at the sale of the library of James West, Esq., in 1773 (for 20l.): increased by several additions:2 volumes bound in Russia leather.2646"Bought by Mr. Nicol for the Duke of Roxburgh, versus Messrs. Arnold and Ritson." "N.B. The preceding numerous and matchless collection ofOld Balladsare all printed in the black-letter, and decorated with many hundred wooden prints. They are pasted upon paper, with borders (printed on purpose) round each ballad: also, a printed title and index to each volume. To these are added the paragraphs which appeared in the public papers respecting the above curious collection, at the time they were purchased at Mr. West's." Thus far Messrs. Egerton. I have to add that the lateDuke of Roxburghbecame the purchaser of these "matchless" volumes. Whilst in Major Pearson's possession, "with the assistance of Mr. Reed, the collection received very great additions, and was bound in two very large volumes; in this state (says Mr. Nicol,) it was bought by the Duke of Roxburghe. After the industrious exertions of two such skilful collectors as Major Pearson and Mr. Reed, the Duke did not flatter himself with ever being able to add much to the collection; but, as usual, he undervalued his own industry. Finding that his success far exceeded his expectations, he determined to add athird volumeto the collection. Among these new acquisitions are some very rare ballads; one quoted by Hamlet, of which no other copy is known to exist."Preface to the Roxburgh Catalogue, p. 5. The ballad here alluded to may be seen in Mr. Evans's recent edition of his father'sCollection of Old Ballads; vol. i., p. 7.3262to 3329. These numbers comprehend a very uncommon and interesting set ofOld Romances! which, collectively, did not produce 35l.—but which now, would have been sold for——!?3330to 4151. An extraordinary collection of the English Drama.And thus farewellMajor Pearson!
[398]If the reader attend only to the above flourishing eulogy, by Lysander, upon the extraordinary collection of Major, or Thomas, Pearson, I fear he will not rise from the perusal of these pages impressed with very accurate notions of the same. To qualify such ardent panegyric, and at the same time to please the hearts of all honest bibliomaniacs, I here subjoin something like a sober analysis of theBibliotheca Pearsoniana. The title to the Sale Catalogue is as follows: "Biblioth. Pearson. A Catalogue of the Library ofThomas Pearson, Esq.Containing a very extensive Collection of the best and rarest books in every branch of English Literature, &c. Sold by Auction by T. and J. Egerton, in April, 1788," 8vo. Like all the sale catalogues put forth by the Egertons, the present is both judiciously arranged and neatly printed. It is said that there are only twelve copies uponlarge paper; but I doubt the smallness of this number. My own is of this kind, superbly bound, and priced with a neatness peculiar to the calligraphical powers of the 'forementioned friend. It may not be amiss to prefix an extract from a newspaper of the day; in which this sale was thus noticed: "The Black-lettero-mania, which raged so furiously in the course of last Spring at the Sale of Dr.Wright'sBooks, has broken out with still greater violence at the present auction ofMajor Pearson'sLibrary. This assertion may be countenanced by the following examples." Then follow a few specimens of the prices given. The reader is now presented with copious specimens, selected according to their numerical order: the addenda, between inverted commas, being copied from the said newspaper.
And thus farewellMajor Pearson!
Lis.O rareThomas Pearson! I will look sharply after alarge paper,priced, copy of theBibliotheca Pearsoniana!
Lysand.You must pay smartly for it, if you are determined to possess it.
Belin.Madness!—Madness inconceivable!—and undescribed by Darwin, Arnold, and Haslam! But, I pray you, proceed.
Lysand.Alas, madam, the task grows more and more complex as I draw towards the completion of it.
In the year 1789 the book-treasures of the far-famedPinelli[399]Collection were disposed of by public auction:nor can one think, without some little grief of heart, upon the dispersion of a library, which (much more than commercial speculations and profits) had, for upwards of a century, reflected so much credit upon the familyof its possessors. The atmosphere of our metropolis, about this period, became as much infected with the miasmata of theBook-Plagueas it did, about 130 years before, with the miasmata of a plague of a different description: for the worthy inhabitants of Westminster had hardly recovered from the shock of the bibliomaniacal attack from the Pinelli sale, 'ere they were doomed to suffer the tortures of a similar one in that of theParis[400]collection. This latter was of shorter duration; but of an infinitely more powerful nature: for then you might have seen the most notorious bibliomaniacs, with blood inflamed and fancies intoxicated,rushing towards the examination of the truly matchless volumes contained within this collection. Yet remember that, while the whole of Pall Mall was throngedwith the carriages of collectors, anxious to carry off in triumph somevellum copyof foreign execution—there was sold, in a quiet corner of the metropolis, the copious and scholar-like collection ofMichael Lort, D.D. The owner of this latter library was a learned and amiable character, and a bibliographer of no mean repute.[401]Hisbooks were frequently enriched with appositems.remarks; and the variety and extent of his collection, suited to all tastes, and sufficiently abundant for every appetite, forms, I think, a useful model after which future bibliomaniacs may build their libraries.
[399]Mention has already been made of the differentCatalogues of thePinelliCollection: seep. 21, ante. Here, as Lysander has thought proper again to notice the name of the collector, I am tempted to add a few specimens of the extraordinary books contained in his extraordinary library: adding thereto the prices for which they were sold. But—again and again I observe,in limine—these sums form no criterion of thepresentworth of the books; be the same more or less! It is a document only of bibliographical curiosity.NO.£s.d.703.La Biblia Sacra in Lingua Vulgare tradotta; 1471. folio. 2 vols.61502555.Bandello, Canti xi delle lodi della Signora Lucrezia Gonzaga di Gazuolo, &c., 1545, 8vo.151502605.Dante, La Divina Comedia; 1472, folio.Ediz. Prin.251463348.Petrarca, Le Rime. Venez. 1470, 4to.Prin. Ediz.27603458.Sannazzaro, L'Arcadia. Ven. Ald. 1514, 8vo.Esemp. stampata in Cartapecora.161604909.Biblia Polyglotta; Complut. 1514, &c., folio. 6 vols.Exemplar integerrimum splendidissimum.impressum in membranis.48300All the world (perhaps I should have said thebibliographicalworld) has heard of this pre-eminently wonderful set of books; now in Count Macarty's library at Thoulouse. My friend, Dr. Gosset—who will not (I trust) petition for excommunicating me from the orthodox church to which I have the honour of belonging, if I number him in the upper class of bibliomaniacs—was unable to attend the sale of the Pinelli collection, from severe illness: but hedid petitionfor a sight of one of these volumes of old Ximenes's polyglott—which, much more effectually than the spiders round Ashmole's neck (videp. 293, ante), upon an embrace thereof, effected his cure. Shakspeare, surely, could never have meant to throw such "physic" as this "to the dogs?!" But, to return.8956.Anthologia Epig. Græc. 1494. 4to.Exemp. impr. in membranis.45009308.Theocritus (absque ulla nota) 4to.Editio Princeps.311009772.Plautus, 1472. folio.Editio Princeps.360011,215.Aulus Gellius, 1469, folio.Edit. Princeps.5816011,233.Macrobius, 1472, folio.Edit. Prin.3312012,141.Priscianus de art. gram. 1470. fol.In Membranis.5190[Sale Catalogue, 1789, 8vo.]But—"Jam satis."It probably escaped Lysander that, while the sale of the Pinelli collection attracted crowds of bibliomaniacs to Conduit Street, Hanover Square, a very fine library was disposed of, in a quiet and comfortable manner, at the rooms of Messrs. Leigh and Sotheby, in York Street, Covent Garden; under the following title to the catalogue:A Catalogue of a very elegant and curious Cabinet of Books, lately imported from France, &c. (sold in May, 1789). My priced copy of this catalogue affixes the name (in MS.) ofMacartney, as the owner of this precious "Cabinet." There were only 1672 articles; containing a judicious sprinkling of what was elegant, rare, and curious, in almost every department of literature. The eleventh and twelfth days' sale were devoted to MSS.; many of them of extraordinary beauty and singularity. It was from this collection, no. 248, that Lord Spencer obtained, for a comparatively small sum, one of the most curious books (if not an unique volume) in the class of early English printed ones, which are in his own matchless collection. It is the "Siege of Rhodes," which has a strong appearance of being the production of Caxton's press. The copy is perfectly clean and almost uncut.[400]If the reader will be pleased to turn topage 90, ante, he will find a tolerably copious and correct list of the different sales of books which were once in the possession ofMons. Paris de Meyzieux. In the same place he will also find mention made of a singular circumstance attending the sale of the above collection noticed by Lysander. As a corollary, therefore, to what has been before observed, take the following specimens of the books—with the prices for which they are sold—which distinguished theBibliotheca Parisiana. They are from the French Catalogue, 1790, 8vo.NO.£s.d.2.Biblia sacra latina vulgatæ editionis (ex translatione et cum præfationibus S. Hieronymi); Venetiis, N. Jenson, 1476, 2 vol. in fol.:avec miniatures, relié en mar. r. doublé de tabis, dentelles et boîtes:imprime sur velin. "On connoît l'extrême rareté de cette belle edition quand les exemplaires sont sur vélin. Nous n'en connoissons qu'un seul, bien moins beau que celui ci; celui que nous annonçons est de toute beauté, et on ne peut rien ajouter au luxe de la relieure."591703.Biblia sacra vulgatæ editionis, tribus tomis distincta (jussu Sixt. V., pontificis maximi edita);Romæ, ex typographia apostolica vaticana, 1590;in. fol. ch. mag. maroquin rouge. "Superbe exemplaire d'un livre de la plus grande rareté; il porte sur la couverture les armes de Sixte Quint."641010.Epitome passionis Jesu Christi, in 4o.sur velinavec miniatures.Manuscrit très précieuxdu commencement du 16 siecle, contenant 37 feuillets écrits en ancienne ronde bâtarde, et 17 pages de miniatures d'un dessein et d'un fini inappréciables. "Les desseins sont d'Albert Durer, tels qu'il les a gravés dans ses ouvrages, et l'exécution est si animée qu'on peut croire qu'elle est, en tout ou en partie, de la main de ce peintre célebre. On ne peut trop louer la beauté de ce livre."508013.Officium beatæ Mariæ virginis cum calendario; in 4o. mar. r. dentelles. "Cette paire d'heures manuscritesur velin, est sans contredit une des plus belles et des plus achevées que l'on puisse trouver. Au rare mérite de sa parfaite exécution elle réunit encore celui d'avoir été faite pour Françoise 1er, roi de France, et d'être décoree dans toutes ses pages de l'embléme et du chiffre de ce monarque. Ce manuscrit, d'un prix inestimable, est ecrit en lettres rondes sur un vélin très blanc"—"il est decoré de très belles capitales, de guirlandes superbes de fleurs, de culs-de-lampe, & de 12 bordures ornées d'oiseaux, d'insectes, de fleurs et de lames d'or très brillant."—"Il est impossible de donner une idée satisfaisante de le beauté et de la richesse de 12 peintures admirables qui enrichissent autant de pages de 8 pouces et demi de hauteur, sur environ 6 pouces de largeur; elles sont au dessus de toute expression; mais il n'y en a qu'une qui soit du temps de François 1er.; un seigneur dont on voit les armes peintes sur le second feuillet, a fait exécuter les autres dans la siecle dernier, avec une magnificence peu commune. Les tableaux et les ornemens dont il a enrichi ce précieux manuscrit se distinguent par une composition savante et gracieuse, un dessin correct, une touche précieuse et un coloris agréable," &c.1094014.Heures de Notre-Dame, écrites à la main, 1647, par Jarry, Parisien, in 8o.chagrin noir, avec deux fermoirs d'or et boîte de mar. bl."Ces heures sont un chef-d'œuvre d'écriture & de peinture. Le fameux Jarry, qui n'a pas encore eu son égal en l'art d'écrire, s'y est surpassé, & y a prouvé que la regularité, la netteté & la precision des caracteres du burin et de l'impression pouvoient être imitées avec la plume à un degré de perfection inconcevable."—"Le peintre, dont le nom nous est inconnu, & qui doit avoir été un des plus fameux du siecle de Louis XIV., a travaillé à l'envi avec Nicolas Jarry à rendre ces heures dignes d'admiration."—"Les sept peintures dont il les a enriches, sont recommendables par la purité de leur dessein, la vivacité des couleurs, la verité de l'expression, et leur précieux fini."73100This matchless little volume was purchased by Mr. Johnes of Hafod, and presented by him to his daughter, who has successfully copied the miniatures; and, in the true spirit of a female bibliomaniac, makes this book her travelling companion "wherever she goes."15.Office de la Vierge,manuscrit, avec 39 miniatures et un grand nombre de figures bizarres, oiseaux, etc. supérieurement executé; 2 vol. in 8o.m. bl. doublé de tapis, avec étuis. "On ne peut rien voir de plus agréable & de mieux diversifié que les différents sujets des miniatures; en tout, cet exemplaire est un des plus beaux que j'aie jamais vus; c'est celui de Picart. Il est à remarquer à cause du costume de quelques figures; il a été relié avec le plus grand soin et la plus grande dépense."11050145.L'art de connoître et d'apprécier les miniatures des anciens manuscrits; par M. l'abbé Rive, avec 30 tableaux enlumines, copiés d'après les plus beaux manuscrits qui se trouvoient dans la bibliothéque de M. le Duc de la Valliere, et d'autres précieux cabinets.Exemplaire peintsur velin. "M. l'abbé Rive se proposoit de donner une dissertation sur les manuscrits enluminés pour accompagner ces dessins; mais jusqu'ici ayant des raisons qui l'empêchent d'en gratifier le public, il en a donné la description en manuscrit (le seul qui existe) au propriétaire de ce superbe exemplaire."56140240.Les faicts, dictes et ballades de maitre Alain Chartier:Paris, Pierre le Caron, sans date, in fol. velours vert;imprime sur velin. "Exemplaire qui ne laisse rien à desirer, pour la grandeur des marges, la peinture des miniatures et de toutes les lettres capitales. La finesse des lignes rouges, qui divisent chaque ligne, demontre combien on a été engagé à le rendre précieux. Il est dans sa relieure originale parfaitement bien conservé; il a appartenu à Claude d'Urfé: l'edition passe pour étre de l'année, 1484.Voyez Bibliographie Instructive, no. 2999."31100242.Contes de la Fontaine, avec miniatures, vignettes et culs-de-lampes à chaque conte; 2 vol. in 4o.; m. bleu, doublé de tapis, étuis. "Manuscrit incomparablepour le génie et l'exécution des dessins. Il est inconcevable que la vie d'un artiste ait pu suffire pour exécuter d'une manière si finie un si grand nombre de peintures exquises; le tout est d'un coloris éclatant, d'une conservation parfaite, & sur du vélin egalement blanc et uni; enfin c'est un assemblage de miniatures précieuses et dignes d'orner le plus beau cabinet." L'ecriture a été faite par Monchaussé, et les miniatures par le fameux Marolles.31500328.Opere di Francesco Petrarcha;senza luogho1514,mar. r. doublé de tabis et étui;imprime sur velin. "Exemplaire sans prix, avec grand nombre de miniatures charmantes. Il passoit pour constant à Florence, où je l'ai acheté, qu'il avoite été imprimé à part probablement pour quelqu'un des Mêdicis, et sur les corrections de l'edition de 1514; car les fautes ne s'y trouvent pas, et il ne m'a pas éte possible d'en découvrir une seule.—La parfaite conservation de ce livre précieux démontre combien ses possesseurs ont été sensible a sa valeur. P——."116110486.Collectiones Peregrinationum in Indiam Orientalem et in Indiam Occidentalem, xxv partibus comprehensæ, &c.Francof. ad Mæen. 1590, &c., 60 vol. reliés en 24, folio; maroq. citr. bleu et rouge."Exemplaire de la plus grande beauté, et qui possede autant de perfection que pouvoient lui donner les soins et les connoissances des plus grands amateurs."21000543.Les grands chroniques de France (dites les chroniques de St. Denys);Paris, Antoine Verard, 1493, 3 vols. fol.vel. rouge, et boîtes;imprime sur velin. "Exemplaire d'une magnificence étonante pour la blancheur du vélin, la grandeur des marges, et l'ouvrage immense de l'enluminure; chaque lettre-capitale étant peinte en or, et contenant 953 miniatures, dont 13 sont de la grandeur des pages, et 940 environ de 4 pouces de hauteur sur 3 de largeur. Il est encore dans sa relieure originale, et d'une fraîcheur & d'une conservation parfaites: il a appartenu à Claude d'Urfé."15140546.Chroniques de France, d'Angleterre, d'Ecosse, d'Espagnes, et de Bretaigne, etc.; parFroissart; Paris, G. Eustace, 1514. 4 vol. in fol. mar. r. doublé de tabis, et boîtesimprime sur velin. "On peut regarder ce livre comme un des plus rares qui existe. L'exemplaire est unique et inconnu aux meilleurs bibliographes; Sauvage ne l'a jamaie vu; il est de la premiere beauté par la blancheur du vélin, & par sa belle conservation. On y a joint tout le luxe de la rélieure."In the Hafod Collection.14920[401]The following is the title of the Bibliotheca Lortiana. "A Catalogue of the entire and valuable Library of the lateRev. Michael Lort, D.D., F.R.S. and A.S.,which will be sold by auction by Leigh and Sotheby, &c., April 5, 1791," 8vo. The sale lasted twenty-five days; and the number of lots or articles was 6665. The ensuing specimens of a few of the book-treasures in this collection prove that Lysander's encomium upon the collector is not without foundation.NO.£s.d.1738.Gardiner's (Bishop) Detection of the Devil's Sophistry, MS. title: printed byJohn Hertford, in Aldersgate Street, at the cost and charges of Robert Toye, 1546, 12mo. Note in this book: "Though this book is imperfect, yet the remarkable part of it, viz. sheet E, printed in the Greek letter, and sheet F in Latin, with the Roman letter, are not wanting."0201847.Hale's (T.) Account of New Inventions, in a letter to the Earl of Marlborough, 8vo. Note in this book: "Many curious particulars in this book, more especially a prophetic passage relative to the Duke of Marlborough, p.xlvii."0501880.Harrison's (Michael) four Sermons. "N.B. The author of this book cut the types himself, and printed it at St. Ives," 8vo.0301930.Festival (The) impressus Rothomage, 1499, 4to. In this book (which is in English) at the end of each Festival is a narration of the life of the Saint, or of the particular festival.01601931.Festival (The) with wooden cuts, compleat:emprynted by Wynkyn de Worde, 1408, 4to.01502156.Johnson's (Dr. Sam.) Journey to the Western Islands of Scotland. "In this book is contained the cancelled part of page 48, relative to Litchfield Cathedral; likewise the cancelled part of page 296, respecting the cave at Egg, and the transaction there; also parts of reviews and newspapers, concerning Dr. Johnson; two plates, MS. copy of a letter of Dr. Johnson's: and Henderson's letter to Johnson on his journey to Scotland." 1776, 8vo.01502558.Muggleton's Acts of the Witnesses of the Spirit;with heads, MS. remarks, and notes, 1699. Ludowick Muggleton, born in Bishopgate Street, 1609; put apprentice to John Quick, a taylor. Married a virgin of 19, ætat. suæ 22. Another virgin of 19, ætat. 32. A third virgin wife of 25, ætat. 53. Chosen a prophet 1665, 4to.0562559.Muggleton's and Reeve's volume of Spiritual Epistles; elegantly bound, with a head of Muggleton underneath a MS. note, 1755, 4to.01062579.Lower's Voyage of Charles II. made into Holland, head and plates. Hague. 1660. Folio. N.B. "A very uncommon book, containing many curious particulars."1302776.Owen's (Dr. John) Divine Originall, &c. of the Scriptures, Oxford, 1659, 8vo. Note in this book: "One of the scarcest and best of Dr. Owen's works."0103005.Psalms (The whole Booke of) with Hymns, by Ravenscroft, with music, 8vo. "Note; in this book are some tunes by John Milton, the great poet's father. See page 242, 62."0203342.Stubbes's Anatomie of Abuses, printed at London by Richard Jones, 16 August, 1583, 8vo. Note in this book: "I bought this rare book at the auction of Mr. Joseph Hart's books, in May 1772, where it cost me 8s.&c." M.L. [The reader may just run back topage 279, ante; where he will find some account of this work.]11404185.Champ Fleury, auquel est contenu l'Art et Science de la deue et vraye Proportion de Lettres Antiques et Romaines selon le Corps et visage Humain, avec figures. Par. 1529. Folio. "This uncommon book was sold at an auction, 1722, for 2l. 15s."01264437.Alberti Descriptione di tutta Italia, Venez., 1568, 4to. Note in this book—"This is a very scarce and much valued account of Italy." With another curious note respecting the author.0964438.Aldrete Varias Antiguedales de Espana, Africa, y otras Provincias. Amberes, 1641, 4to.Note in this book: "One of the most valuable books of this kind in the Spanish language, and very rarely to be met with."0965532.Humfredi, Vita Episcop. Juelli, foliis deauratis, Lond. ap Dayum, 1573, 4to.Note in this book: "At the end of this book are probably some of the first Hebrew types used in England."0106227.Præsidis (Epistola R.A.P.) Generalis et Regiminis totius Congregationis Anglicanæ Ordinis St. Benedicti. Duaci, 1628. 8vo.010[Note in this book: "This is a very scarce book; it was intended only for the use of the order, and care taken that it should not get into improper hands. See the conclusion of the General's mandate, and of the book itself."]6616.Wakefeldi Oratio de Laudibus et Utilitate trium linguarum, Arabicæ, Chaldaicæ, & Hebraicæ; atque idiomatibus Hebraicis quæ in utroque Testamento inveniuntur.Lond. ap. Winandum de Worde.—Shirwode Liber Hebræorum concionatoris, seu Ecclesiasten. Antv. 1523. 4to.Note in this book: "These two pieces by Shirwood and Wakefield are exceedingly rare."040For some particulars concerning the very respectable Dr.Lort, the reader may consult theGentleman's Magazine; vol. lx. pt. ii. p. 1055, 1199.
[399]Mention has already been made of the differentCatalogues of thePinelliCollection: seep. 21, ante. Here, as Lysander has thought proper again to notice the name of the collector, I am tempted to add a few specimens of the extraordinary books contained in his extraordinary library: adding thereto the prices for which they were sold. But—again and again I observe,in limine—these sums form no criterion of thepresentworth of the books; be the same more or less! It is a document only of bibliographical curiosity.
[Sale Catalogue, 1789, 8vo.]
But—"Jam satis."
It probably escaped Lysander that, while the sale of the Pinelli collection attracted crowds of bibliomaniacs to Conduit Street, Hanover Square, a very fine library was disposed of, in a quiet and comfortable manner, at the rooms of Messrs. Leigh and Sotheby, in York Street, Covent Garden; under the following title to the catalogue:A Catalogue of a very elegant and curious Cabinet of Books, lately imported from France, &c. (sold in May, 1789). My priced copy of this catalogue affixes the name (in MS.) ofMacartney, as the owner of this precious "Cabinet." There were only 1672 articles; containing a judicious sprinkling of what was elegant, rare, and curious, in almost every department of literature. The eleventh and twelfth days' sale were devoted to MSS.; many of them of extraordinary beauty and singularity. It was from this collection, no. 248, that Lord Spencer obtained, for a comparatively small sum, one of the most curious books (if not an unique volume) in the class of early English printed ones, which are in his own matchless collection. It is the "Siege of Rhodes," which has a strong appearance of being the production of Caxton's press. The copy is perfectly clean and almost uncut.
[400]If the reader will be pleased to turn topage 90, ante, he will find a tolerably copious and correct list of the different sales of books which were once in the possession ofMons. Paris de Meyzieux. In the same place he will also find mention made of a singular circumstance attending the sale of the above collection noticed by Lysander. As a corollary, therefore, to what has been before observed, take the following specimens of the books—with the prices for which they are sold—which distinguished theBibliotheca Parisiana. They are from the French Catalogue, 1790, 8vo.
[401]The following is the title of the Bibliotheca Lortiana. "A Catalogue of the entire and valuable Library of the lateRev. Michael Lort, D.D., F.R.S. and A.S.,which will be sold by auction by Leigh and Sotheby, &c., April 5, 1791," 8vo. The sale lasted twenty-five days; and the number of lots or articles was 6665. The ensuing specimens of a few of the book-treasures in this collection prove that Lysander's encomium upon the collector is not without foundation.
For some particulars concerning the very respectable Dr.Lort, the reader may consult theGentleman's Magazine; vol. lx. pt. ii. p. 1055, 1199.
Alman.I am glad to hear you notice such kind of collections; for utility and common sense have always appeared to me a great desideratum among the libraries of your professed bibliomaniacs.
Belin.Yes:—You pride yourselves upon your large paper, and clean, and matchless copies—but you do not dwell quite so satisfactorily upon your useful and profitable volumes—which, surely stand not in need of expensive embellishments. Lort's collection would be the library for my money—if I were disposed to become a female bibliomaniac!
Lis.You are even a more jejune student than myself in bibliography, or you would not talk in this strain, Belinda. Abuse fine copies of books! I hope you forgive her, Lysander?
Lysand.Most cordially. But have I not discoursed sufficiently? The ladies are, I fear, beginning to be wearied; and the night is "almost at odds with morning which is which."
Loren.Nay, nay, we must not yet terminate our conversation. Pursue, and completely accomplish, the noble task which you have begun. But a few more years to run down—a few more renowned bibliomaniacs to "kill off"—and then we retire to our pillows delighted and instructed by your——
Lysand.Halt! If you go on thus, there is an end to our "Table Talk." I now resume.
Loren.Yet a word to save your lungs, and slightly vary the discourse. Let me take you with me to Ireland, about this time; where, if youreremember, the library ofDenis Daly[402]was disposedof by public auction. My father attended the sale; and purchased at it a great number of theOld English Chronicles, and volumes relating toEnglish History, which Lisardo so much admired in the library. You remember the copy of Birch'sLives of Illustrious Persons of Great Britain!