A very nice early imprint of a work by MacDonald which feels perhaps uniquely relevant at the moment. 

“Faber represents the classic example of a “good” man by appearance, more kindly and compassionate and loving than many Christians. He perceives within himself no need for God. Yet his very goodness is his downfall. For its darker side reveals a fierce pride which, as the story unfolds, illuminates the spiritual and even moral bankruptcy of mere external goodness. Goodness is a good thing. But without the recognition that goodness is born in the heart of our Good Father, it can never be enough. Priding himself on the goodness of his manhood, Faber judges others while keeping his own sins hidden from view. He even tries to hide them from himself. His hidden sin is a type of all mankind’s fallen nature. Eventually Faber discovers (as must we all) that he is not “good” after all.

Not only do we discover here a parable of pride on the individual level, but on the church level as well. Faber’s perceptive, and sadly accurate, criticisms of Christians are especially disgraceful in that love and unity are the trademarks Jesus has given us to demonstrate to the unbelieving world that the gospel is true. In exploring the unbelieving heart of Faber, therefore, MacDonald also exposes the consequences of spiritual pride and division between Christians." [worksofmacdonald.com]

MacDonald, George. Paul Faber Surgeon. By George Mac Donald, LL.D. Author of "Thomas Wingfold, Curate," "What's Mine's Mine," Etc. Sixth Edition. London. Kegan Paul, Trench, Trübner, & Co. Ltd. Nd.c.1892. 516pp.

[Bound With]

Classified List of The Publications of Keagan Paul Trench, Trübner, and Co. Limited. London. Kegan Paul, Trench, Trübner, & Co. Ltd. c.1892. 80pp.

A good + copy, bound in cloth with some rippling to the cloth, spine is a bit dulled, and corners are bumped. Text is generally solid, with generally bright pages and light foxing.