BROOKE | The History of Emily Montague, 1769

From the Library of the Earls of Haddington

BROOKE, FRANCES

The History of Emily Montague. J. Dodley, 1769

THE HISTORY OF EMILY MONTAGUE. J. DODLEY, 1769

4 volumes, 8vo, first edition, half-titles, errata leaf in last volume, publisher's advertisements on verso of K11 (volume 4), contemporary calf, spine gilt with Baillie’s golden fleece motif, red morocco spine labels, browning, spotting, volume 4 final blank with substantial tear and loss, inner hinges starting, rubbed

THE FIRST CANADIAN NOVEL.

The History of Emily Montague was the first novel set and written in Canada. Frances Brooke lived in Sillery, Quebec, where her husband was garrison chaplain, from 1763 to 1768. The novel provides a vivid description of the Quebec scenery and manners of the time and is particularly notable for its sympathetic portrayal of the Canadian First Nations. During the following decades, the work substituted as a guidebook for visitors to Quebec.

LITERATURE:

ESTC T72176; Raven 1298

PROVENANCE:

George Baillie (1644-1738), engraved armorial bookplate applied posthumously; Hon. George Baillie (c. 1721-1797), signature on title; thence by descent to the Earls of Haddington

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