Published by Collins Clear-Type Press, c.1900. First edition thus. Undated. Illustrated Pocket Classics. Illustrated by J. Finnimore. 642pp. Condition: Good.
Bound in original red cloth boards with title and decoration in gilt to the spine. Some fading to the spine and a little rubbing, bumping, and marking to the boards, but the binding is otherwise in smart condition. Inside, the pages are clean and bright and free from marks or damage save for a touch of toning.
In all, this is a smart edition of this historical romance by Harrison Ainsworth. Originally published serially, it is set during the Great Plague of London and the Great Fire of London, and follows the life and events of grocer Stephen Bloundel and his daughter Annabel. In 1914, it was the basis for the silent film Old St. Paul's. With a remarkable eye for detail, Harrison Ainsworth brings to life the colourful panorama of Restoration London and the disasters that befall it. It is a spectacular tale of love, greed, betrayal, abduction, conspiracy and revenge, set against the backdrop of St Paul's Cathedral.