[Johnson, Samuel]--Forms of Prayer,

12mo, engraved frontispiece, contemporary morocco with gilt borders on covers, spine gilt in compartments, marbled endpapers, hand-drawn addition to frontispiece, some spotting and browning, binding worn and rubbed at extremities, hinges split

Condition is described in the main body of the cataloguing, where 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."

Samuel Johnson's copy, given to his step-daughter, Lucy Porter (1715-1786). A statement at the front of the volume reads "This Book given to Mrs [sic] Lucy Porter by Dr Johnson 1782". An additional note laid-down at the conclusion of the volumes states "Dr Johnson selected this Book for Mrs [sic] Porter in 1782 and wrote the prayers manuscript. My son the Revd George Pearson to have this book – at my death. Eliz Pearson". Two pages of manuscript are loosely inserted comprising two prayers 'At the Table' and 'At Departure or at Home' (both of which are published within Prayers and Meditations composed by Samuel Johnson..., published in 1785). The publication notes that they were written for Lucy Porter 'in the latter end of the year 1782'. Despite a note on the manuscript stating 'these prayers are Dr Johnson's handwriting' this does not appear to be correct.