The History of Salt, with observations on its geographical distribution, geological formation, and medicinal and dietetic properties.
London: Bailliere, Tindall, & Cox, 1881.
Octavo (21.5 x 14.5 cm.), 95, 31, [1] pages. Bibliography. Publisher’s advertisements at rear. FIRST EDITION. An early English language history of salt, indeed a review in The Lancet of 1881 declared this the first work on the history of salt. Unfortunately, the same article declares, “We cannot but regret that the portion of the work on which the author should speak with most authority contains so much that is not far removed from nonsense” (The Lancet. July 9, 1881, page 56). The reviewer in Nature was even more harsh, “After reading the first half-dozen pages of hi work the idea gradually dawned upon us that he intended it for an elaborate joke…” (Nature. July 9, 1881, page 123). Small green crayon scribble on page 59; early and effective reinforcement to hinges. Publisher's black-ruled and gilt-titled green cloth, a bit mottled. Still, near very good. Scarce in the trade. [OCLC records twenty nine copies].
Price: $180.00