Restored Cambridge panel tan calf binding with black title plates, gilt banding and title on the spine.

Duplicate ERROR

F.B.A. provides an in-depth photographic presentation of this item to stimulate your feeling and touch. More traditional book descriptions are immediately available.

A very finely kept book with a truly historic pedigree

Printed by W. Bowyer, for Henry Clements at the Half-Moon in St. Pauls Church Yard. Published by Henry Sacheverell 1716.

Henry Sacheverell (1674-1724) was a popular preacher at Oxford University. His controversial printed sermons attracted attention in London. In 1709 he became chaplain at St Saviour’s in Southwark.  In November of that year, he made his most contentious speech to date, attacking Catholics and dissenters by comparing the Gunpowder Plot to the execution of Charles I. Despite an order banning the printing of the sermon by the Lord Mayor, he independently published it prompting the Whig government to act. Articles of impeachment for high crimes and misdemeanours were drawn up, to which Sacheverell gave an uncompromising reply.

The trial began in Westminster Hall on 27 February 1710. As the case began there were riots on the streets and several chapels were attacked, confirming the Government’s viewpoint that Sacheverell had encouraged violence. Despite a well-executed defence, Sacheverell was found guilty although his sentence was lenient; he was prevented from preaching for three years.