John Woodvil, A Tragedy . . . To Which are Added, Fragments of Burton, the Author of The Anatomy of Melancholy

London: Printed by T. Plummer for G. and J. Robinson, 1802, 1802. First edition. Roff, Charles & Mary Lamb, pages 47-52; NCBEL III, 1225 (Charles Lamb) and 1291 (Mary Lamb). Boards somewhat rubbed and worn; some light foxing; very good copy, enclosed in a chemise and pull-off morocco box.. Small 8vo, original drab boards, untrimmed. ¶ Lamb's first play - "a tale of witch craft" which was never performed. Upon hearing that it was being published Southey commented: Lamb "is printing his play, which will please you by the exquisite beauty of its poetry, and provoke you by the exquisite silliness of its story" - Roff. At the conclusion of John Woodvil are some other writings by Lamb and one poem by Mary Lamb, "Helen," her first appearance in print. John Woodvil is not a rare book, though copies in the original boards, as here, are uncommon. According to Roff, a printed spine label is not called for. (Inventory #: 23684)