Sir Walter Scott — Guy Mannering; or, the Astrologer

London, James Ballantyne and Co. for Archibald Constable, 1820 . Leather. The complete three volume sixth edition of Sir Walter Scott's work of historical fiction, the second novel in his Waverley series. The complete three volume sixth edition of this work, published five years after the first edition. Published anonymously, Scott's enormously successful novel is set between 1760 and 1780 in Galloway, following the fortunes and adventures of Henry "Harry" Bertram, the son of the Laird of Ellangowan, who is kidnapped at the age of five by smugglers.Scott's name did not appear to the title page of this work until 1827.His second Waverley novel, in an 1815 letter Scott wrote that is was 'an odd little tale within such time as will mystify the public [..] W. Erskine, and Ballantyne, are of opinion that it is much more interesting than Waverley'With the former owner's inscription J Y Sayer 1879 to the front free endpaper of volumes I and II, and to the rear free endpaper of volume III. In half calf bindings, with marbled paper covered boards. Externally, smart, with rubbing to back strip heads and tails and board perimeters. Front hinges strained and firmly held. Former owner's inscription to front free endpaper of volumes I and II, and rear free endpaper of volume III. Internally, firmly bound. Pages generally clean and bright. Very Good . Ill.: None. Very Good .