8vo. In two volumes. [2], 260pp; [4], 260pp. With an engraved frontispiece to Vol. I. Contemporary blind-stamped, gilt-ruled calf. Rubbed and marked, with scuffing and scoring to boards, wear to extremities, upper joints of both volumes starting. Leaves lightly browned, very occasional light spotting.

An eighteenth-century selection of poetry from English poet and dramatist John Gay (1685-1732), best known for his ballad opera, The Beggar's Opera (1728). Gay went on to write fables for the six-year old Prince William in 1727, and was even offered the situation of gentleman-usher to the Princess Louisa, which he declined.