Edward Smedley — Erin a Geographical and Descriptive Poem

London, Hamblin and Seyfang; W Ginger, 1810. First edition. Leather. The first edition of this scarce geographical poem on Ireland by English clergyman, Edward Smedley. With an engraved vignette title page to parts I and II in addition to engraved tail pieces to the end of each part. With the list of subscriber's to the start. Lacking the illustrated map. Edward Smedley was a clergyman who was also known as a miscellaneous writer. He edited 'Encyclopaedia Metropolitana' from the seventh part and continued until his death. He was also a frequent contributor to the 'British Critic' and to the 'Penny Cyclopaedia&apos. He penned several other poems in addition to this one on Ireland, such as 'Jonah: A Poem', 'A Few Verses, English and Latin' and 'A Churchman's Epistle&apos. Smedley took inspiration for this poem from Dr Campbell's political survey of Great Britain. To the preface Smedley quotes page 236 of this work in which Campbell describes the natural advantages of Ireland in a positive nature, 'And sure it is yet a most beautifull and sweet country&apos. This poem is in two parts, with both parts to this volume, as issued. A scarce work, with the majority of copies on Copac held at Legal Deposit libraries. A nicely bound copy of this complimentary poem on Ireland. In a full calf binding. Externally, generally smart with patches of rubbing to the extremities and spine. Heavier rubbing to the joints, which are cracked to the head and tail. Internally, firmly bound. Pages are bright with scattered spots, mostly to the edges and heavier to the first and last few pages. Good . Ill.: None. Good .