Poems and Letters in Prose... by JOEL, Thomas.

8vo (203 × 128 mm), pp. viii, 232; title slightly spotted; contemporary half calf, corners worn, spine rubbed, headcap chipped, later label; bookplate of Reginald Brett (1852–1930), 2nd Viscount Esher.

First edition of the author’s first book: ‘epigrams, tales, odes, songs, acrostics, and other pieces, which may afford an agreeable entertainment to all, except critics’ (Critical Review). It is dedicated to the Duchess of Richmond (of Goodwood), a local connection perhaps as Joel appears to have been a Chichester schoolmaster. A second edition was published in 1775. Scarce: ESTC locates 9 copies (BL only in the UK).