12mo. xii, 167pp, [1]. Original publisher's brown cloth, stamped in gilt and blind. Lightly rubbed and marked. Contemporary inked ownership inscription of J. W. Edwards to FEP, foxed. Presentation copy, inked inscription to title page: 'By John Timbs / With the Author's Compts. / to J. W. Edwards Esqr.'

The first edition of a culinary primer by remarkably prolific author John Timbs (1801-1875), including advice on the art of drinking wine, the correct preparation of tea and coffee, and notes on smoking and snuff.