1830 WILLIAM WILBERFORCE. On True Christianity - Gifted to His Goddaughter on His Death Bed.

Superb copy of Wilberforce's tour de force treatise contrasting cultural and authentic Christianity, in a fine leather binding, gifted to Wilberforce's own goddaughter, the granddaughter of his dear friend, Legh Richmond, Henrietta [Richmond] Ayre. In the waning days of Wilberforce's life, he had the uncommon privilege of being aware that the end was in sight. And so, he organized meetings with dearly beloved friends and family and prepared special mementos for each, to be gifted to them after his death.  The present is one of those special, sacred gifts offered by Wilberforce to his own goddaughter; the gift being effected by his widow, Barbara Wilberforce, in the days just after William's death.  A meaningfully provenanced association copy of Wilberforce's most enduring work.  Inscribed, in Barbara Wilberforce's hand: ToHenrietta L. R. Ayre, Grandaughter [sic] to the excellent Legh Richmond and godaughter [sic] to the Author, This Book is presented by His Widow, in fulfillment of His