Very unusual and seldom seen believed first edition, brown cloth hardcover Tom Bond Bishop. Covers have some minor marks please study photos to ensure condition is noted.

London: Children's Special Service Mission, ND (circa 1900. Possible First Edition? Hardcover. Small octavo. ( 5 1/4 x 4 1/4 inches). 36pp. Brown cloth wrappers with black titling and floral design to front wrapper. A selection of prayers and meditations for young Christians. The author, Tom Bond Bishop (1839-1920) was an evangelical Christian, founder of the Children's Special Service Mission, and the maternal uncle of Aleister Crowley. The young Crowley, who was for a time sent to live with Bishop, came to loathe him, and the type of religious fervour he represented, and there can be no doubt that his experiences with Bishop played a strongly negative role in shaping Crowley's view of Christianity. Writing in his "Confessions" Crowley observed of Bishop that "No more cruel fanatic, no meaner villain, ever walked this earth." Crowley wrought some minor revenge by attributing his book of erotic verse "White Stains" to someone with the surname Bishop, published a premature obituary of his uncle, and wrote a scathing review of another of his books. (An excellent summary of Crowley's relationship with Bishop can be found in Richard Kaczynski's "Perdurabo.")

Last leaf notes printed by king & Jarrett ltd.

Covers lightly rubbed and very minor scuffs and curling at corners, owner's details and acquisition date (1924) on first blank, general modest wear, but still a VG copy of an uncommon book

Some light markings through but overall in very good condition considering age

Item will be securely packaged to ensure safe transit.