Publisher's Synopsis
First published in 1780, this charming little publication, designed to fit in the hands of a child, is by far the most comprehensive and influential compilation of nursery rhymes. It is here that many of today's favourite rhymes make their first appearance in print, including 'Hush-a-by-baby', 'Ding dong bell', 'High diddle diddle', 'Jack and Gill', and 'See saw Margery Daw'. To these were added the 'songs and lullabies of the old British Nurses, calculated to amuse Children and to excite them to Sleep', as well as the lullabies of Shakespeare, intended to counter criticisms of frivolity(!). Each rhyme is illustrated with delightful engravings by Thomas Bewick of Newcastle-upon-Tyne. This facsimile edition, from the Library's fine copy of John Marshall's second issue in 1784 of Mother Goose's Melody retains the original size. Bound in a copy of a gold-flecked Dutch floral paper similar to the original binding and presented in a handsome slipcase, this is truly a collector's item.
