Old St. Paul's. A Tale of the Plague and the Fire. by AINSWORTH, William Harrison:

London: George G Harrap, 1931. Leather. Fine. 7.5" by 5". None. A beautifully bound copy of this historical novel by William Harrison Ainsworth, in a charming leather prize binding. Published as a part of George G Harrap's 'Standard Fiction Library' series. In a prize binding with the gilt crest of Lambrook, Bracknell to the front board. Based on the events of the 1666 great fire of London Old St Pauls comprises of six books, all discussing details and events of the grocer Stephen Bloundel's life and how the fire affects him. Much of the work is an allegory and connected to the Book of Revelation, as the work is connected to accounts of the plague and the fire. The novel even begins with a sermon about judgement day. William Harrison Ainsworth as an English historical novelist. He originally trained as a lawyer but did not feel attracted to the profession. He therefore turned to literary and dramatic works. In a full morocco prize binding with the crest gilt crest to the front… Read More