The Absentee

Washington City: William Cooper, 1812. An early Washington, D.C., imprint, published the same year as the first editions, issued in London, New York, and Philadelphia. 12mo. Two volumes in one: (4), [5]-150; (2), [3]-140, (2) pp. "The brightness of [Maria Edgeworth's] style, her keen observation of character, and her shrewd sense and vigour make her novels still readable" (DNB). Preface: "The Absentee is not intended as a censure upon those, whose duties, and employments, and superior talents, lead them to the capital; but to warn the thoughtless and the unoccupied from seeking distraction by frivolous imitation of fashion and ruinous waste of fortune ... Irish agents are here described as of two different species. That there have been bad and oppressive Irish agents, many great landed English proprietors have felt; that there are well informed, just, and honorable Irish agents, every day's experience can testify. R.L. Edgeworth [the author's father]. May, 1812." American Imprints 25318. Name torn from top of front endpaper, considerably foxed, but a very good copy. Contemporary tree calf, gilt rules and label on spine. (#4326). Item #57336

Price: $250.00

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