Robert Liddel (1741-1822) British, The Seaman's New Vade Mecum First Edition. This text served as a comprehensive guide to the internal administration and record-keeping required on a Royal Navy vessel, particularly targeted at instructing young officers and the captain's clerk. Guidelines outlining the specific administrative duties of the Captain, Purser, Surgeon, Boatswain, Gunner, Carpenter, and Purser's Steward, with a full-color breakdown of battle signal-books and an extensive glossary. There are some equations and illegible writing scribbled in the inside cover, with spotting throughout and weathering to the front and back covers, although the spine is intact and the gilt title is legible. 

Size: 5 1/2 x 8 x 1 1/2 in. 

Robert Liddel (1741-1822) served as an experienced purser in the British Royal Navy during the late 18th Century, gaining a deep practical understanding of shipboard administration and maritime supply management. Drawing from his extensive service at sea he authored The Seaman’s New Vade Mecum, first published in 1787. The comprehensive handbook offered practical guidance on naval book-keeping, detailing the precise duties of ship pursers, captains, and clerks. Beyond accounting procedures, Liddel’s work served as an essential reference manual for naval operations by providing explanations of sea terms and outlining regulations regarding officer duties and pay, and his handbook was used by seamen of various classes for nearly half a century afterwards.

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