Baretti, Giuseppe Marc' Antonio.

8vo, first edition, presentation copy inscribed by the author ("M Cator the Gift of | Mr Baretti -- 1782"), preface by Samuel Johnson, text in double columns (Italian and English), contemporary calf, flat spine in compartments, light browning to edges of title and endpapers, joints beginning to split, wear to extremities

M. Cator, presentation inscription by the author on front free endpaper; John Cator, armorial bookplate on lower pastedown

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, when appropriate.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The dedicatory letter is addressed to Baretti's former pupil Hetty, the daughter of the London brewer Henry Thrale and his wife, the writer Hester Thrale, to whom he had been introduced by Samuel Johnson. The antagonism which developed between Hester Thrale and Baretti was noticed by Johnson, who wrote to Boswell: "Mrs Thrale did not like Baretti, nor Baretti her. But he was the best teacher of Italian that she could have for her daughter, therefore she kept him in the house. Baretti was well entertained and well paid, therefore he staid in the house..."

The timber merchant and Member of Parliament John Cator, whose frequent guests at Beckenham Place included the Thrales, Johnson, and other members of the Literary Club, was a loyal friend of Baretti's, and occasionally helped to support him financially. He was also, with Johnson, one of the executors of Henry Thrale's will, and helped to negotiate the sale of the lucrative Anchor Brewery for £135,000.