8vo. In two volumes. [2], 285pp, [3]; [2], 219pp. With an engraved frontispiece to each volume. Finely bound in contemporary gilt-tooled speckled calf, contrasting black morocco lettering-pieces. Marbled endpapers. Light scattered spotting.

The first novel by English actress and dramatist Elizabeth Inchbald (1753-1821), described as a 'story of passion', the narrative touches on themes as broad as women's education, Catholicism, and sensibility. Inchbald, whose moderately successful acting career involved overcoming a stammer in the face of a disapproving family, utilised theatrical aspects in her literary works such as tableau and gesture, often with the aim of defying logocentric convention.

As this continental English language edition bears witness to, the work was incredibly successful in its time, and is still in print today.