The institution of the Order of the Garter. A dramatic poem

London: R. Dodsley, 1742. First edition, 4to, pp. 64; contemporary full blue morocco, elaborate gilt floral borders on covers, gilt-decorated spine in 7 compartments, a.e.g.; minor rubbing, occasional foxing, bookplate removed; near fine in a binding seemingly meant for presentation. A long poem, "written in the form of a masque, but not apparently intended for performance" (Foxon), set in Windsor Park, outside the castle, at the time of Edward III. West was educated at Eton and Oxford, and was friendly with Pope. His verses were popular, but considered stiff by such critics as Johnson and Walpole. Foxon W-358. (Inventory #: 30160) (truncated)