The Life of a Lover

Lee, Sophia
THE LIFE OF A LOVER. IN A SERIES OF LETTERS.London: Printed for G. & J. Robinson, Paternoster-Row, 1804. 8vo.
Vol.V (of 6): 298pp.

Sophia Lee (1750-1824) was born of theatrical parents, and, as the oldest child, took care of her sisters when their mother died at an early age; her first work, a play, "The Chapter of Accidents," was staged at the Haymarket Theatre in 1780, "received with great applause" and was published the same year. With the proceeds she founded a school for young ladies "where she made a home for her sisters. The school became a success and occupied nearly all of Miss Lee's time" (DNB). By the turn of the century, Lee had published a novel, "The Recess," a long poem dealing with border warfare, "A Hermit's Tale," and another play, "Almeyd." Having secured an income, she gave up her school in 1803, and published this work a year later. "It is supposed to contain much personal history ... Lee was a woman of great conversational powers and an excellent instructress, inspiring her pupils with liking and respect." Bears a Griffin stamp on the spines and the bookplate of Alexander R. Stewart with the logo "Metuenda Corolla Draconis"; Stewart was serving as High Sheriff in Donegal in 1850.

Cardboard (publisher's) hardback; blank front and end papers, first and second title page, 298pp in this vol V. Pages untrimmed.Condition; poor but still attractive; no spine left, damage to all corners and front. Staining/foxing to some pages ; see pics for overall condition.