Samuel Johnson, William Dodd, 1777

[JOHNSON, Samuel (1709-1784)] – DODD, William (1729-1777). Thoughts in Prison: In Five Parts. London: Edward and Charles Dilly and G. Kearsly, 1777.

First edition, from the collection of Halstead B. Vander Poel. Dodd's verse reflection on his time in prison awaiting execution for forgery is one of the most remarkable entries in the genre of prison literature in the English language. Samuel Johnson wrote requesting clemency for Dodd, but to no avail. Variant of Fleeman’s title-page with comma after “His Last Prayer”. Courtney and Nichol Smith, pp. 128-129; Fleeman 77.6WD/S/29.

Octavo (204 x 121mm). Advertisement at beginning, complete with 73-80 omitted in pagination (tear to title-page repaired and not affecting text, some leaves toned, occasional minor stains). Contemporary half calf and marbled boards (extremities rubbed, upper joints started). Provenence: Halstead B. van der Poel (Christie’s, his sale, 3 March 2004, lot 50).

With: DODD, William. The Convict's Address to his Unhappy Brethern. London: for G. Kearsly, 1777. First edition. 24pp. Modern half morocco and marbled boards. Provenance: Donald and Mary Hyde (bookplate).