Description

8vo., Second Edition, with several tables in the text, 5 folding engraved diagrams and 4 folding tables; contemporary half calf, gilt back, marbled boards, sprinkled edges, a remarkably crisp, fresh, clean copy. With an engraved armorial bookplate. A handsome and highly desirable copy of a classic work in contemporary binding. Son of Rear-Admiral Sir Charles Douglas, Sir Howard Douglas (1776-1861) enjoyed a distinguished military career and developed a well-earned reputation for enquiry and innovation. By 1811 he had perfected and patented 'Douglas's reflecting circle'; in 1816 he published an important study of military bridges and in 1819 a treatise on Carnot's system of fortification. He then turned his attention to naval matters and produced the first edition of his famous volume on naval gunnery in 1820. It is a comprehensive study covering theoretical, practical and tactical aspects and its impact was significant. Its success, both at home and in translation, led eventually to the establsihment of 'H.M.S. Excellent' as a gunnery training school.