This copy of the Limited Edition (only 30 copies printed) of “The Religious Opinions of Elizabeth Barrett Browning”, as Expressed in Three Letters Addressed to Wm. Merry, Esq. J.P., and Edited by the Rev. W. Robertson Nicoll, LL.D. was published in London in 1896. The book was privately printed and limited to just 30 copies. The letters, which were written by Elizabeth Barrett some three years before her marriage to Mr. Browning, were part of a correspondence between Ms. Barrett and Mr. Merry relating to Mr. Merry’s published pamphlet, “Predestination and Election, Considered Spiritually”.

The book, which measures approximately 6 ¼ x 8 ½ inches, contains 28 pages plus endpapers and a printer’s device (Ashley Library) as tail-piece. The book is hard bound in what appears to be full vellum covered boards and has a matching clamshell case. The book is in near fine condition, with only slight toning to the edges of the cover and spine and with the rear outer cover very slightly soiled. The clamshell case is in fine condition. Both the book and clamshell case have gilt titling on the spines.

The illustrations accompanying this description show the book in its clamshell case, the Title page of the book, the first page of the Editor’s Preface, and the first page of one of Elizabeth Barrett Brownings’ letters.

Elizabeth Barrett Browning (née Moulton-Barrett; 6 March 1806 – 29 June 1861) was one of the most prominent English poets of the Victorian period, popular in Britain and the Unitred States during her lifetime. [Wikipedia]

William Walter Merry (1835–1918) was an English classical scholar, clergyman, and educator. [Wikipedia]

Sir William Robertson Nicoll (10 October 1851 – 4 May 1923) was a Scottish Free Church minister, journalist, editor, and man of letters. [Wikipedia]