Lectures on Natural and Experimental Philosophy: Considered in its Present State of Improvement (4 volumes)

 George Adams; William Jones; Robert Patterson; Herbert Simon

Whitehall : Printed fow W.W. Woodward, Philadelphia, 1806

First American edition.  4 volume set.  21 cm.  Bound in contemporary acid-calf.  Gilt ruled.  With red and black morocco spine labels.  43 engraved folding plates. Scattered foxing, generally sound.  <br> George Adams was the mathematical and scientific instrument maker to George III.  He "wrote largely on the use of mathematical instruments, and his books on that subject were highly valued. In politics he was a staunch tory, and as such was received with favour at court by George III. In many of his published works he combined a religious with a scientific aim, and 'applied all his knowledge,' says the 'Gentleman's Magazine,' 'to the best of purposes - to combat the growing errors of materialism, infidelity, and anarchy.'  … Many of Adams's books elaborate plates were published separately, and almost all of them passed through more than one edition." - DNB, v.1, 97 p.  The beautifully engraved plates depict his many instruments, including telescopes, globes, and related devices.  Rink 585.  Shaw & Shoemaker 9799.  This edition was edited by  Robert Patterson of the University of Pennsylvania. 

Early inscription on one end page, "Property of Augustus Marion."