_Tandem D.O.M._--In an ancient mansion, which stands secluded in the
distant recesses of Cornwall, there reposes a library nearly as ancient as
the edifice itself, in the long gallery of which it has been almost the
sole furniture for a space of full two centuries. What is still remarkable,
the collection remains sole and entire in all its pristine originality, as
well as simple but substantial bindings, uncontaminated by any additions of
more modern literature, dressed up in gayer suits of calfskin or morocco.
It is even said that few of the pages of these venerable volumes have even
seen the light since the day they were deposited there by their first most
careful owner, till the present proprietor took the liberty of giving them
a dusting. How far he has advanced in examining their contents is
uncertain; but, as he seldom can summon courage to withdraw himself from
their company, even for his parliamentary duties, these literary treasures
stand a chance, at last, not only of being dusted externally, but of being
thoroughly sifted and explored internally. A note of the existence of such
a collection of books is at least worth recording as unique of its kind. I
have now a query to put in relations to it.
The collector seems to have been one Hannibal Gamon, whose name appears
written in fine bold characters,--as beseems so distinguished an
appellation,--on the title-page of each volume; but, besides, there is
frequently appended this addition--"_tandem D.O.M._" The writer has his own
solution on the meaning of this bit of Latin, but would be glad to know
what interpretation any of your readers would be inclined to put thereon.