Offered is the antique leather and board book "The Standard Speaker", written by Epes Sargent and published in 1853 by Thomas, Cowperthwait & Co. of Philadelphia. The book, "containing exercises in prose and poetry for declamation in schools, academies, lyceums, colleges" is a stated seventh edition. There are short pieces of prose and poetry from dozens of different writers (see photos #3-#5). An edition printed this early is a rare find; at the time of original listing I could not find any other copies for sale on eBay or anywhere else from as early as 1853.

The book is approx. 8 1/4" x 6" and contains 558 pages. It is in good condition. The leather and board cover has moderate wear over most of the surface, but is cracked along the spine on both front and back. Some of the surface leather is missing from the spine, although most of the gold words are still present. There are a few spots, scuffing, etc. There is no cracking inside the either the front or back cover. The white endpapers have yellowed and have some foxing but are mostly clean. A previous owner has written his name on the first blank page. I see no missing or torn pages and all of the pages are well-attached to the binding. Most of the pages have occasional light to moderate foxing. In addition to the former owner's name I see a few stray marks, etc. but this is not extensive.

I have a lot of experience with vintage and antique books but am not an expert so please let me know if my description is missing information and you have additional questions. I will do my best to answer them!

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