Trials Of Robert Watt And David Downie

Edinburgh: Manners & Miller, 1794. Half Morroco. (2), titlepage, 92. Title page strengthened at inner margin. Finely bound half-crushed morocco, possibly by Baytons. Engraving 'The Pikes'. pp1-54, Trial of Robert Watt and pp 55-84 on the Trial of David Downies. pp 85-92 comprises the speech of Sir Hercules Langrishe in the House of Commons, Ireland, on Parliamentary Reform. Robert Watt, an unsuccessful wine merchant, and David Downie, an Edinburgh goldsmith were prosecuted for high treason for involvement in a murky plot to seize Edinburgh Castle, the post office, and banks, raise the manufacturing districts in Scotland, and establish a provisional government in Edinburgh. Watt appears to have been the main architect of the plan, which may only have existed in his imagination. Watt was found guilty and executed in October 1794; Downie received a pardon and was exiled to America. A fine copy of this very rare original account, mostly found only in institutional libraries. Very Good. Item #17314

Price: $1,200.00