Sir Walter Scott — Guy Mannering or the Astrologer

London, Baudry's European Library, 1836. Leather. A scarce edition of this novel by Sir Walter Scott, which forms part of the Waverley Novels series. According to an introduction that Scott wrote in 1829, he had originally intended to write a story of the supernatural, but changed his mind soon after starting. The book was a huge success, the first edition selling out on the first day of publication. It tells the story of Harry Bertram, the son of the Laird of Ellangowan, who is kidnapped at the age of five by smugglers after witnessing the murder of a customs officer. It follows the fortunes and adventures of Harry and his family in subsequent years, and the struggle over the inheritance of Ellangowan. The novel also depicts the lawlessness that existed at the time, when smugglers operated along the coast and thieves frequented the country roads. In a half-grained-morocco binding with marbled boards. Externally rubbed, with some wear to the extremities. Internally, firmly bound. Pages are bright, though with some heavy spotting throughout. Good Only . Ill.: None. Good Only .