Details
[JOHNSON, Samuel (1709-1784)]. [Rasselas]. The Prince of Abissinia. London: R. and J. Dodsley, and W. Johnston, 1759.
2 volumes, 8o (151 x 100 mm). 20th-century speckled calf, spine gilt with red and green morocco lettering-pieces, top edge gilt.
FIRST EDITION. Johnson wrote this work quickly in order to pay for a trip to Lichfield to see his mother, who was seriously ill, but it appears that she died either as he was finishing the work, or just afterwards. Johnson used the money he received for the work to pay for his mother's funeral and other debts she had left. Later known as Rasselas, Johnson neither used this title for the work during his lifetime nor let his name appear on the title-page. Courtney and Smith, p. 87; Rothschild 1242; Tinker 1314. (2)
2 volumes, 8
FIRST EDITION. Johnson wrote this work quickly in order to pay for a trip to Lichfield to see his mother, who was seriously ill, but it appears that she died either as he was finishing the work, or just afterwards. Johnson used the money he received for the work to pay for his mother's funeral and other debts she had left. Later known as Rasselas, Johnson neither used this title for the work during his lifetime nor let his name appear on the title-page. Courtney and Smith, p. 87; Rothschild 1242; Tinker 1314. (2)