A History of England in the Eighteenth Century; History of European Morals from Augustus to Charlemagne; Democracy and Liberty

London: Longmans, Green, and Co,. , 1869-96. First edition. Leather. Near Fine. 8.5" by 5.5". None . A beautiful group of three first edition histories by Lecky in twelve volumes, uniformly bound by Hatchards. Three of William Edward Hartpole Lecky's major historical works, retracing the history of eighteenth century England, of European morals from Augustus to Charlemagne, and of democracy and liberty. A striking group in sumptuous uniform half crushed morocco bindings signed Hatchards.Comprising the following:Eight volumes of A History of England in the Eighteenth Century, a sweeping and detailed history of England in the eighteenth century  the history of the growth or decline of the monarchy, the aristocracy and democracy, the Church of Dissent, and much more, painting an all-round picture of the country. First impressions of vols. I, II, VII and VIII; fourth edition of vol. III, IV; third edition of vol. V and VI. Two volumes of Democracy and Liberty, first editions of 1896.And two volumes of History of European Morals from Augustus to Charlemagne, first edition of 1869. This work aroused much criticism with its opening essay on "the natural history of morals." It became one of Mark Twaine's favourite books, inspiring his work of A Connecticut Yankee in King Arthur's Court.Collated, complete with half titles. From the library of Sir William Eden, Bart, father of Anthony Eden, once Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, with his armorial bookplate to front pastedowns. Rebound in uniform crushed half morocco bindings signed Hatchards, with five raised bands, renewed endpapers, gilt to top edge. Externally lovely with minor shelf wear only, back strips faded. Internally, firmly bound. Pages bright and clean. Near Fine