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Execution of Maclean, Commonly Known by the name of The Gentleman Highwayman.
Publisher: Sold By S. Hazard & J. Marshall, Bath & London;
Date of Publication: 1795
Stock Code: 8611
Chapbook, pp. 24. 12mo. Undated but circa 1790. Woodcut vignette to title page depicting a building with faces peering out from a barred window, with gallows in the background; floral head- and tail-pieces. Slight glue-stains to spine (disboumd from a larger volume); small loss to upper margin p. 5-6 (text unaffected); scattered light foxing and creasing. A Very Good clean copy. Sensational account of the career of James Maclean or MacLaine (1724-1750), known for his courteous behaviour whilst committing his crimes with accomplice William Plunkett. The couple were responsible for around 20 robberies in London over a period of six months, and were apprehended following the sale of stolen lace to a pawnbroker, who by chance took it to the victim who recognised his property. His trial and execution were society occasions and reputedly nearly 3000 guests visited him whilst imprisoned at Newgate; the 1999 film “Plunkett & Macleane” starring Jonny Lee Miller was based upon the duo’s exploits. £175.00