A harbinger for Eric Partridge: the Scholartis Press edition of Francis Grose’s A Classical Dictionary of the Vulgar Tongue

In 1931 the Scholartis Press published an attractive edition of Francis Grose's A Classical Dictionary of the Vulgar Tongue. Edited by Eric Partridge, it was a significant title for several reasons. Firstly, it was the last major book Scholartis published before Partridge was forced to resign from the Press some five months later. Secondly, it is also, more by chance than design, the only Scholartis title where a detailed record of the production costs and sales figures are known. Finally, editing the book was a major catalyst to Partridge becoming a lexicographer. This article will outline the history of the publication and distribution of the book and also discuss its significance to Eric Partridge.