Ainsworth, William, Harrison, HISTORICAL ROMANCES OF WILLIAM HARRISON AINSWORTH, Philadelphia: George Barrie& Son, [1898-1900], 20 vols.(complete), Limited Victorian Edition #492 of 1000, brown/green 3/4 crushed morocco/marbled hardcovers, t.e.g., deckled edges, 8vo (8 x 5.5"), very good+/n.a., roughly 10,000 pp. in all.  Spines are sun-faded to a lovely brown tone.  What beauties, with etchings, proofs-before-letters, on Japan paper, and impressions of the historical portraits on India paper.  Bookplate of Henry Camp Potter (Harry Potter's grandfather) on front paste-down of 3vols. Among them vol.1 as shown in the photos.  O.k., just kidding about the book-plate being Harry Potter's grandfather - but one must admit it would be a good story. 

 William Harrison Ainsworth (4February 1805 – 3 January 1882) was an English historical novelist born at King Street in Manchester. He trained as a lawyer, but the legal profession held no attraction for him. While completing his legal studies in London he met the publisher John Ebers, at that time manager of the King's Theatre, Haymarket.  Ebers introduced Ainsworth to literary and dramatic circles, and to his daughter, who became Ainsworth's wife. Ainsworth briefly tried the publishing business, but soon gave it up and devoted himself to journalism and literature.  His first success as a writer came with Rookwood in 1834, which features Dick Turpin as its leading character. A stream of 39 novels followed, the last of which appeared in 1881. Ainsworth died in Reigate on 3 January 1882.

        Pretty much everything Ainsworth here.  It is doubtful that anyone read every book in this set - but who knows. They are beautiful just to contemplate; having graced the shelves of book lovers for over 120 years.  Quite the distinctive set of Ainsworth's indeed.  Waiting for a loving and caring home. A wonderful selection of Captured Tyme!