JOHNSON, Samuel (1709-1784). Prayers and Meditations ... published from his manuscripts by George Strahan. London: T. Cadell, 1785. 8°. (Heavy spotting to quires H, N and O.) Contemporary calf (scuffing at edges, spine chipped, upper joints splitting). PRESENTATION COPY 'to John Scott Esqr. from his affectionate Friend the Editor' (inscription on front free endpaper; Eldon bookplate).
FIRST EDITION. George Strahan (1744-1824), Vicar of Islington, is known for having been spiritual counsellor to Samuel Johnson, who entrusted him with the papers that became Prayers and Meditations. Johnson was an old man at the time John Scott became a politician of 'rising reputation'. But the two knew each other. Johnson is reported to have sent Scott a message from his death-bed, urging him "'to make a point of attending public worship every Sunday'" [and perhaps drink less port]. Twiss I, 168; Courtney & Smith 158.
JOHNSON, Samuel (1709-1784). Prayers and Meditations ... published from his manuscripts by George Strahan. London: T. Cadell, 1785. 8°. (Heavy spotting to quires H, N and O.) Contemporary calf (scuffing at edges, spine chipped, upper joints splitting). PRESENTATION COPY 'to John Scott Esqr. from his affectionate Friend the Editor' (inscription on front free endpaper; Eldon bookplate).
FIRST EDITION. George Strahan (1744-1824), Vicar of Islington, is known for having been spiritual counsellor to Samuel Johnson, who entrusted him with the papers that became Prayers and Meditations. Johnson was an old man at the time John Scott became a politician of 'rising reputation'. But the two knew each other. Johnson is reported to have sent Scott a message from his death-bed, urging him "'to make a point of attending public worship every Sunday'" [and perhaps drink less port]. Twiss I, 168; Courtney & Smith 158.
