Mary Hardy and her World 1773-1809: Volume 4: Under sail and under arms

The Hardys as farmers and brewers, their workforce and their wider circle were constantly on the move: itinerancy was a way of life. Roads, waterways and the sea heaved with people and freight. We enter the Hardys' world of trade and beer deliveries, and of shipping, elections and counter-invasion measures in which civilians were actively involved. The middle and labouring classes led pressured lives which were governed by the clock. What little opportunity they had for leisure pursuits in the form of clubs, fairs and the playhouse is described in this volume. Hundreds of illustrations, in black and white and full colour, accompany the text. Meticulous sidenotes elaborate on sources; the extensive index serves as a research aid. Part of a four-volume set the book nonetheless stands on its own. See more