AUGUSTINE | The kernell or extract... of S. Augustins Confessions, Paris, 1638, modern calf by Riviere

The Property of the Downside Abbey General Trust

AUGUSTINE, SAINT

The kernell or extract of the historicall part, of S. Augustins Confessions [translated by Sir Tobie Matthew]. Paris: [widow Blageart], 1638

12mo (124 x 67mm.), modern calf gilt by Riviere & Son, gilt edges, a few signatures shaved, a few leaves slightly soiled

This is a pocket edition containing a selection of passages from St Augustine's Confessions; the same printer also produced a full edition in the same year. Sir Tobie Matthew, the translator, was a Catholic priest and a friend of Kenelm Digby, who supplied the preface for both 1638 editions. The full translation had previously been printed in 1620 but was, not surprisingly, banned in England.

Copies have been recorded with a portrait but this is not mentioned in STC or USTC though Allison & Rogers note that it is present in some copies.