Winchester: James Robbins, n.d. [1798-1801].2 volumes, 4to (262 x 210 mm). Engraved title-page in each volume by J. Pass after T.H. Turner. 10 engraved plates (6 folding) (some spotting, a few folding plates with repaired tears). (Title-page in volume one trimmed along lower margin affecting caption.) Contemporary half russia, marbled boards, flat spines gilt (some wear at spines and edges, spines dry, a few minor wormholes). Provenance: William Clark (armorial bookplate).FIRST EDITION of Milner's topographical and architectural history of Winchester, including it's conquest by the Normans and the Danes as well as descriptions of the town's cathedral and numerous other monuments and points of interest. "A performance, which notwithstanding the religious bias of the author, will always keep its place among the few standard works in English topography" (Lowndes 1265). Milner was the Roman Catholic priest in Winchester for 23 years before being appointed Bishop of Castabala in 1803.