Lavengro; The Scholar - The Gypsy - The Priest

London: John Murray, 1851. First edition. Leather. Very Good. 7.5" by 5". Not Stated. The first edition of this part-memoir part-novel by George Borrow, an spiritual work following his life in London. The first edition.Complete in three volumes.Illustrated with a portrait frontispiece to Volume I.Bound without half-titles and adverts.'Lavengro' is a mix between a memoir and a novel, following George, the protagonist, who moves to London and becomes associated with the London low-life. Eventually he takes to the road, where he meets Romany travellers. The author gives memorable and sympathetic portraits of the people he meets.George Borrow was a travel writer, best known for his works about his time with the English Romanichal. He includes, in 'Zincali' a helpful glossary of Romani terms.Bookplate of Cosmo Nevill to the front paste downs. Nevill was a respected British Army officer who fought in Western Europe during World War II. In a half morocco binding with cloth to the board. Externally, smart. Light rubbing to the spine and extremities. A little discolouration to the extremities of the boards and a few minor marks. Minor bumping to the extremities. Cloth to the front board of Volume I and rear boards of Volumes II and III is a little cockled. Front hinge of Volume I is starting but firm. Bookplate and bookseller's labels to the front paste downs. Internally, firmly bound. Pages are lightly age-toned and generally clean with scattered spots, including to the frontispiece. Very Good