Poems,

on various Subjects and Occasions.

First Edition 8vo., [4], 360 pp. Slight staining around the edges of the title-page and final leaf caused by the turn-ins, dark ink stain in the blank fore-margin of B3, single crease across the centre of the first few quires probably due to the sheets being too tightly sewn. Contemporary sheep, spine ruled in gilt with a single small tool in each panel (spine label missing, covers a little scuffed and stained, edges and corners bumped and rubbed, headcaps a little ragged single small hole in the second band on the spine).

Edinburgh, for Ch. Alexander, and are sold at his House in Geddes's Close; where Subscribers may call for their Copies,

Foxon p.681. The title-page appears to be a cancel. The title-page is undated but the book is usually thought to have been published between 1751 and 1752. A copy at the British Library has a manuscript date of 1752 on the title-page (according to Foxon this copy is now missing).

Alexander Robertson (c.1670-1749) was the thirteenth holder of the barony of Struan and chief of clan Robertson. Robertson took part in a number of Jacobite rebellions but was only punished lightly. Known for his reckless, savage and misogynistic ways, he is said to have composed many of his poems whilst drunk. His portrait, now in the National Gallery of Scotland, shows him holding a glass of wine aloft.

The book is common institutionally but according to ABPC the last (and only) copy of this book to appear at auction was at Lawrence's, Feb 15, 1979 (lot 379).

1. W Burgh, small neat signature on the title-page. 2. Henry Fanshawe Davies (1837-1914) of Elmley Castle, Worcestershire; Late 19th-century engraved armorial bookplate on the front pastedown. 3. James. O. Edwards, book collector, small modern book label on the front pastedown.

Stock Code: 62971