The History of the Post-Office Packet Service, Between the Years 1793-1815

London: Macmillan and Co., 1895. First edition. Leather. Very Good. 8" by 5.5". Not Stated. A smart copy of this exciting history of Post-Office Packet Service between 1793 and 1815, from the library of Brigadier Peter Young. The first edition of this uncommon work in a quarter morocco binding, with marbled boards and end papers. Inscribed by Lieutenant Colonel P. Young DSO MC to the front blank, dated 19th June 1947. There is a stamp to the title page, stating that this volume is a presentation copy. This volume was therefore likely presented to Peter Young (1915-1988) who served as a British Army officer during the Second World War and later became a well-known military historian. He was awarded the Military Cross (MC) following Operation Ambassador, Operation Claymore and Operation Archery, and later the Distinguished Service Order (DSO) for his participation in Operation Jubilee, the Dieppe Raid, in 1942. Arthur Hamilton Norway (1859-1938) was a British civil servant, and also an author of an eclectic collection of writings, from travel works to histories. This work explores the history of the Post Office Packet Service from 1793 to 1815. At this time, the Post Office used packet ships to carry post to and from British embassies, colonies and outposts, and also private goods and passengers. However, as Britain was at war during the 18th and early 19th centuries, these packet ships were often caught up in naval skirmishes, and were occasionally captured. In a quarter morocco binding. Externally fairly smart, though with splitting to the head of the front joint and fading to the spine. Extremities are somewhat bumped. Internally, firmly bound. Pages are bright and clean except for the odd spot to the first couple of pages. Very Good