From a bygone era

Today I had a delightful excursion. The original plan was to meet up with a friend, enjoy a leisurely brunch at a French pastry shop and stroll around the botanical center. We may or may not have gotten a later start than was planned, but fortunately there were still plenty of pastries remaining, although the same was not true for seating. The array of baked goods was plentiful, and making a decision was difficult. In the end I settled on a slice of tomato asparagus quiche and an almond pastry and washed it all down with some apple juice. During the course of our meal we decided to scrap the idea of going to the botanical center (since the botanical center didn't know we were coming, and therefore wouldn't be disappointed). Instead my friend and I indulged in a guilty pleasure...we went to a bookstore!

Now, for those of you who know me well, you know I love a good book, especially old ones. I have amassed a small collection in the past few years. Old books have so much more character as a rule. Sometimes it is the illustrations, or the detailed scrollwork on each page that catches my fancy. Other times the title intrigues me. A few of my favorites are as follows:

"Peter, a book in which he is not the hero"

"The Husbands of Edith"

"My Lady Peggy Goes to Town"

"The Case of the Velvet Claws"

I also own an old atlas, a book about the woman's role in business published in the 60s (complete with illustrations and diagrams on how to pack for a business trip), a few classics by great authors such as Dickens and Wordsworth and random titles gifted to me by close family and friends.

Today I was thrilled to discover a new find! The first thing I notice is the book cover, and this one was no exception. It is a faded brown and silver with stars, falling flowers and LA BELLE LIBRARY emblazoned across the front. This book was rather small, almost pocket-sized, published by Montgomery Ward & Company Publishers in Chicago, but I was unable to find out when. The title is "Bracebridge Hall" written by Washington Irving and beautifully illustrated. I was interested, but not convinced yet. Then I turned the page and saw these words:

PREFACE

The success of "OLD CHRISTMAS" has 

suggested the re-publication of its sequel 

"BRACEBRIDGE HALL," illustrated by the 

same able pencil, but condensed so as to 

bring it within reasonable size and price."

After seeing that, there was no turning back. The sequel to Old Christmas? Illustrated by the same able pencil? You better believe this is going on my shelf! Upon further investigation the table of contents and list of illustrations proved to be very intriguing as well. I haven't had the pleasure of reading it yet, but this book appears to have everything. An old soldier, 'ready-money Jack,' bachelors, falconry, gypsies, politicians, and a wedding are just a few of the surprises I have yet to uncover. And let me tell you, I can hardly wait. 

If you need me, you will most likely find my nose in a book...

~Liz