On Parliamentary Government In England: Its Origin, Development, And Practical Operation

London: Longman, Green And Co., 1867-69. First Edition. Todd was librarian of the Legislative Assembly of Upper Canada and subsequently of the Dominion Parliamentary Library in Ottawa. “[His] most significant work was undoubtedly On Parliamentary Government in England…These…volumes were well received and made him an eminent authority throughout the empire. Indeed the Edinburgh Review declared that it was “a remarkable circumstance that we should be indebted to a resident in a distant colony…for one of the most useful and complete books which has ever appeared on the practical operation of the British Constitution.” The Westminster Review called it “the most complete treatise” on royal prerogative and on parliamentary privilege…His treatise…emphasized the history of executive authority in the British system and “sought to vindicate for the monarchical element its appropriate sphere.”” (Bruce W.Hodgins, DCB, Vol. XI, p. 884) The second volume was dedicated by Todd to Sir John A.Macdonald and the late Thomas D’Arcy McGee. Sweet & Maxwell II 358. 2 Volumes. 8vo. pp. xx, 629, [1], [1 leaf]; xxii, 779. with half-titles. A nice set in contemporary full chagrin by Dawson Bros. Binders all edges gilt