HOLE, S. Reynolds. The Six of Spades – A Book about the Garden and the Gardener.

(Edinburgh & London): William Blackwood and Sons, 1872. First edition. Octavo. 236 pages. Delightful little volume about a small club of gardeners (called the six of spades), which meets in winter evenings to discuss certain matters connected with their profession. The author himself is the president, and he draws the portrait of each of his fellow-clubmen. Also includes a section on flower shows (and showing) and the happiness of a garden. A very good copy in gilt decorated boards.