John Newton; William Cowper — Olney Hymns, in Three Books

London, J. Buckland; J. Johnson, 1787 . Leather. A handsome example of the fourth edition of this important and scarce collection of hymns by William Cowper and John Newton, which featured the first appearance of 'Amazing Grace&apos. The fourth edition of this work. Compiled by John Newton and William Cowper, this is an important collection of hymns written for use in the parish church at Olney, Buckinghamshire. This work featured the first publication of the hymn 'Amazing Grace', the work of Newton. Arranged in three books - on select passages of Scripture, on occasional subjects, and on the progress and changes of the spiritual life - the volume was intended to accompany the church year and the ordinary course of Christian worship. Newton contributed the majority of the hymns, while Cowper supplied a smaller portion of them. ESTC T18671 [2], b6, A-M12, N10, O8, P2. Collated, complete. Inscription to title page head. Rebacked, with endpapers renewed. The collection became one of the most influential hymnals in the English-speaking world, remaining in continuous use throughout the nineteenth century. Rebacked, in a full calf binding, with endpapers renewed. Externally, excellent. Spine label renewed. Light rubbing to binding. Internally, firmly bound. Inscription to title page head. Pages a touch age toned, with spotting to tail of leaves. Very Good . Ill.: None. Very Good .