Synopsis
This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1900 Excerpt: ...in 1782. He also wrote a History of Derby. Robert Dodsley, 1703-1764, may be looked upon as one of the shining lights in the bookselling trade of the Johnsonian era. He began life as a footman, but very soon became famous as a writer of poems and dramatic satires, and opened a bookseller's shop in Pall Mall. In 1738 he made the acquaintance of Dr. Johnson. In 1744 he edited and published a "Collection of Old English Plays," which has always been a standard work of its kind. In 1741, at Dodsley's instigation, Johnson commenced his Dictionary of the English language; this undertaking was the joint property of some halfdozen booksellers, with Andrew Millar as manager. Johnson is said to have received £1,600 for it; after sending his last "copy" to Millar, he asked the messenger what the bookseller said. "Thank God I have done with him," was the reply. "Ah!" replied Johnson, "I am glad that he thanks God for anything." Dodsley also published Johnson's "Rambler," and entrusted to Burke the editing of the "Annual Register." "Cleone," Dodsley's last play, was a great success, and he retired from business some years before his death, which happened in 1764. The Chapter Coffee House was a favourite resort for eminent booksellers about this time; among its chief members were John Rivington, John Murray, Thomas Longman, James Dodson, Alderman Cadell, Tom Davies, Robert Baldwin, Peter Elmsley, and Joseph Johnson. Another association of the trade delighted in the name of "The Congers." The most successful book published under the name of "Chapter Books" was Johnson's "English Poets." Later on the Chapter Coffee House became the place of call for poor parson...
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