Originally published in 1965 and now reissued, this edition of The Spectator was the first to provide an authoritative text, based upon a complete collation of the original sheets. An extensive introduction and commentary together throw light on problems of publication and authorship, enabling the reader to enjoy those essays against the background of their own times. A full analytic index provides a clue to the multiplicity of topics covered in the essays. 'a major feat of scholarship...it can confidently be said that no further editorial work on The Spectator will ever be required.' Times Literary Supplement 'The Spectator will always remain one of the most valuable of historical documents, and in this edition by Professor Bond it receives a treatment worthy of its quality.' The Spectator 'five handsome volumes with a masterly introduction and notes...deals authoritatively with the questions of authorship.' Sunday Telegraph
