The Colonial Policy of Lord John Russell's Administration.
London: Richard Bentley, 1853.
Two volumes, octavo, a fine set in contemporary full polished calf, all edges marbled with matching endpapers, spines ornately gilt in compartments with double labels, a fine set,
Australian colonies at a turning point
A finely boudn copy of this long political essay. Henry, Earl Grey (it was his father who gave his name to the tea blend) was appointed to lead the Colonial Office during the administration of Lord John Russell.
A finely boudn copy of this long political essay. Henry, Earl Grey (it was his father who gave his name to the tea blend) was appointed to lead the Colonial Office during the administration of Lord John Russell.
"In 1848 Grey was elected to the New South Wales Legislative Council representing the City of Melbourne despite never visiting the colony; his seat was declared vacant in 1850 due to his non-attendance. This election was a protest against rule from Sydney and in 1850 Grey introduced the Australian Colonies Government Act which separated the district from New South Wales to become the colony of Victoria. After his retirement he wrote a history and defence of his colonial policy in the form of letters to Lord John Russell (Colonial Policy of Lord John Russell's Administration, 1853)."
'Their convict origins, their very recent establishment and their unfortunate lack of outstanding governors combined to make him uninstructed and high-handed in his Australian policies. The lack of sympathy between Grey and Sir Charles FitzRoy was particularly significant' (ADB). Appendices include correspondence between Grey and Charles Fitzroy.
Provenance: W. R. Piddington (Sydney bookseller, with blind stamp on endpapers).
Ferguson, 10090.
Price (AUD): $650.00
US$429.05 Other currencies