ELLIS (William). [The practice of farming and husbandry in all sorts of soils, according to the latest improvements... Dublin: Printed by M. Rhames, for R. Gunne, 1735.] Bound with: ----. [The Practical Farmer: or, the Hertfordshire Husbandman: Containing many new Improvements in Husbandry... Part II [only].1735

Dublin: Printed by M. Rhames, for R. Gunne, First Irish edition, 2 vols., in one, 8vo, first work: [8], 38, 47-317, [1]pp., with half-title but LACKING TITLE-PAGE which appears to have never been bound in, (pp. 23-30 and 259 misnumbered 15-22 and 256 respectively); second work: 46, [10]pp., LACKING TITLE-PAGE which appears to have never been bound in, the last five leaves contain an illustration and the index to both parts, contemporary calf, foot of spine and spine label chipped. William Ellis (c.1700–1758), agriculturist and writer. After a short period in the brewing industry, Ellis bought Church Farm at Little Gaddesden, near Hemel Hamstead, Hertfordshire, were he combined the practice of farming with his passion for writing on the subject. His writings were far more successful than his farming activities and his early books were very well received and "farmers in all parts of the country asked him to visit and report on their farms. He travelled over the country giving advice and observing different farming methods... Many farmers visited Ellis's farm at Little Gaddesden, but they found that he did not practise what he advocated in print, that his implements were old-fashioned, and that his land was neglected and in bad condition." (ODNB). Provenance: From the Lawes Agriculture Library, Rothamsted Research Institute.