Author: SHAW (James):
Title: Sketches of the History of the Austrian Netherlands: With Remarks on the Constitution, Commerce, Arts, and General State of these Provinces.
Description: London: Printed for G. G. J. and J. Robinson..., 1786. FIRST EDITION. 8vo, pp. [viII], 310, including half-title, contemporary calf, gilt spine, morocco label; some very slight wear to binding, but a very good copy. Inscribed "From the Author" at the top of the title-page. With the bookplate of the Dunnichen Library on the front paste-down end-paper. Shaw sings the praises of the Emperor Joseph the Second, but his useful and often perceptive work ends with this observation: "general tranquillity is now established in Europe, and gives leisure to Princes to bend their whole care to the government of their dominions. What an accession to the happiness of mankind, if philosophy, which has made such progress in this age, could engage Sovereigns to maintain this happy tranquillity, and to seek their chief glory in the improvement and just regulation of the States that are committed to their charge!" The work was translated into French in 1788. ESTC T105639 locates seven copies in British libraries (L, Csj, O, Owo, SAN, SHp) and eight copies (CSmH, CU-SB, ICN, ICU, KU-S, MSaE, NNUT, PPL) in United States libraries. There is also a copy at GOT.

Keywords: history PROSE


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