MERCURIOUS POLITICUS, London, England, May 19, 1659 

* News from Scotland, Ireland, and England
* Newsbook format
* Very rare 17th century item 

Here is an early and uncommon title in newsbook format (the forerunner of newspapers) "Comprising the sum of Foreign Intelligence, with the Affairs now on foot in the Three Nations Of England, Scotland & Ireland. For Information of the People." Has news from locations in England as well as several major cities in Europe.

On the front page is a report from "Antwerp" that says: "Though we are not assured yet that the peace between France and Spain is absolutely concluded... there are...great appearances for it, that not doubt can be made of it...in the mean time while the hostilities are laid aside, which causeth great joy in these parts; and on the other it is doubled, because the long expected West-Indy fleet is arrived..."

On the third page is a report that says: "The Great Seal herein mentioned being confirmed as follows, the former Seal was broken in the House." Hereafter is: "An Act for the Great Seal of England" which describes the seal. Another page has news "From the Court of Spain at Madrid" that says: "...the Silver-Fleet was safe arrived in the Port of St. Andero in Biscay..."

A great early item! Measures about 8 1/8 by 6 1/2 inches, has 16 pages, some wear at the edges, otherwise in very good condition.