Papers of the South African Literary Society, 1824

(Cape Town: African Connoisseurs Press, 1963). Number 206 of an edition limited to 510 copies, a facsimile reprint of the 1825 printing by W. Bridekirk. 8vo; original brown rexine gilt; pp. (vi) + 24. Regular browning throughout. Very good condition. (SABIB 4, p. 317 [1st and 2nd printings]) "It is interesting, though not surprising, to find that in 1824, the year when, in spite of all the efforts of Pringle and Greig, Lord Charles Somerset succeeded in suppressing the free press in Cape Town, an attempt was made, sponsored by the same circle of independent-minded citizens, to found a South African Literary Society. Sixty-one citizens of distinction became members, and Thomas Pringle was appointed temporary secretary. It was essential to have the approval of the Governor, however, so Somerset was respectfully requested to become Patron of the Society. Ever suspicious of anything inaugurated by the 'rebel' Pringle, Somerset began by refusing that honour, and proceeded to forbid the establishment of the Society, on the grounds that it 'might have a tendency to produce political discussion'. The very rare contemporary documents dealing with this episode are now re-published after the lapse of 140 years. They are of great historical interest, particularly for the contrast they reveal between the alert-minded members who sought to pursue cultural activities, and the despotic and ultra-conservative Governor." .