400 A BIBLIOGRAPHY OF [MEYER 
The second series of the original work was intended to be 
published in conjunction with Yarrell’s History of British 
Birds. In a prospectus inserted in Part 1 of Yarrell’s work 
it is stated that “ on the first day of July (1837) will be 
published Part 1 of a second series of Coloured Illustrations of 
British Birds. By H. L. Meyer. To be published in Parts, 
every Two Months, and to come out simultaneously with the 
History of British Birds by William Yarrell, Esq., F.L.S. etc.” 
. . . “ The motive of the author in recommencing the pub- 
lication of the work at the time and in the manner specified 
is that it may appear before the public periodically with 
Mr. Yarrell’s History of British Birds ; which History, by the 
kind permission of that highly talented author, it is designed 
to illustrate in Colours — the representation of the Birds and 
other embellishments in Mr. Yarrell’s work being uncoloured. 
London, June, 1837.” 
But difficulties afterwards arose, and the result was the 
independent publication of the individual works. 
Of the second issue of the Illustrations six copies were 
struck off on large paper (22 J inches by 15 inches), and these 
are of the utmost rarity. The large-paper copy in the 
Library at Welbeck Abbey contains the following memo- 
randum in Meyer's handwriting : 
“ This copy has been coloured by me and the eggs which I have obtained 
since the publication of the work I have drawn on the plates at foot. The 
plates of the Swallow and Martin and the Bearded Titmouse I have drawn 
and painted on purpose for this copy. This is consequently the best and 
most perfect copy that has been sold by me of the only six copies on large 
paper in existence (signed) H. L. Meyer, Chertsey, Janry. 1844. 
The Queen. 
Prince Albert. 
Lord Middleton 
The King of Holland, 
Myself. 
Sixth Copy. 
The advertisement on the back of one of the later numbers 
of the 8 vo edition (1842) is as follows : 
Just published, | the Fourth volume | of | Coloured Illustra- 
tions | of | British Birds and their Eggs. | By H. L. Meyer. 
