MALONEY, Mary T[eresa]

The Legend of Nonnenwerth, and Other Poems

San Jose: J.J. Owen, 1876. First Edition. Octavo (17cm); green cloth, decoratively stamped in blind and gilt; iv, 126pp. Spine cocked; large abrasion to rear board, with extensive material rubbing, else milder rubbing and wear; minor scratches and spots of soil; leading edges bumped. Textblock shows dampstains throughout; bindings shaken; light foxing and soiling, else Good, scarce.

Mary T. Maloney received some critical praise for this small book of poetry, even though she intended it only "for a circle of admiring friends". Of particular interest is the title poem, an epic tale of Roland, a nephew of Charlemagne, and the eponymous convent where his bride-to-be cloistered herself after believing he died in battle. The story might have some roots in truth; the remains of Roland's castle—allegedly constructed so Roland could keep an eye on his lost love—is a popular destination for Rhine valley hikers and tourists. As for Maloney's poetry, her other subjects range from the historical to the sentimental, with some specific to California and her native Louisiana.

Price: $75.00

Go Back