An Essay on the Art of Ingeniously Tormenting

London: Andrew Millar, 1806. Leather. Very Good. 7" by 4.5". Not Stated. A smart copy of the fourth edition of Jane Collier's satirical conduct book, offering humorous guidance on the best methods of annoying and manipulating family members and acquaintances. First published in 1753, this is the fourth edition of Collier's delightful work.Illustrated with an engraved frontispiece depicting a gleeful cat capturing a mouse.Chapters offer methods of enraging the patroness, lover, husband, wife, friends and acquaintances.With the inscription of Edward Riggall to the verso of the title page, dated 1858.With an advertisement leaf to the rear.Collier's work is a parody of conduct books that were popular in the eighteenth century, and offers a witty critique of social norms and expectations, providing fascinating insight into the social context of the day. In a full calf binding. Rubbing to board perimeters and joints, with minor losses to the leather in these regions. Front joint and head of rear joint starting, with boards holding firm. Internally, firmly bound. Inscription to verso of title page. Light spotting to title page, with pages otherwise generally clean and bright. Very Good