PBA Galleries

[8], 188 pp. (8vo) 18x11.5 cm (7¼x4¾"), modern calf, gilt lettering.  First Edition, one of three issues in 1681.

Part of a larger work on parliamentary procedure and history by Henry Elsynge (1577-1635), a parliamentary official, but not published until after his lifetime. 

An interesting copy, with corrections, annotations and substantial additions on more than 25 pages. On the title-page are two signatures: the first has been marked through and difficult to read, but is possibly the signature of author Fabian Philipps (1601-1690), who was interested in matters of parliamentary procedure and history; and the second signature is that of Edward Ward, possibly the judge and lawyer, Sir Edward Ward (1638-1714). Bookplate of M. H. De Young on front pastedown.

"Elsynge played an important part in the codification of the procedure of the House of Lords and in the development and preservation of its records. His principal claim to recognition is as a scholar and historian of parliament, using the original documents to which his official positions at the Tower and at Westminster gave him access. His studies formed the basis of his treatise on parliament entitled The Manner of Holding Parliaments in England . . .  which remained unfinished at his death. Subsequently various parts have been published. Book 1 first appeared in 1660. A chapter on judicature, formerly attributed in error to John Selden, appeared in an imperfect form in 1681 . . . " The attribution to John Selden remains to this day in many catalogue entries, including ESTC.