Victorian vice guide for auction

A 19th century version of a lad’s mag has been unearthed in a Staffordshire house. The 164-year-old book claims to hold the secrets to being a fine man in early Victorian England, and includes advice on drink, fashion and girls.

Called The Young Man’s Own Book, the rare pocket-sized find was discovered by auctioneer Charles Hanson in the property near Burton. Mr Hanson said: “It is remarkable. It’s a manual of politeness, intellectual improvement and moral deportment.”

Though penned in 1844, some of the tips contained within its pages could still resonate with a 21st century man.

The leather-bound book includes words of warning on the consumption of alcohol, with the author noting: “To frolic at night is followed by pain and sickness.”

Any sign of poor hygiene or laziness was frowned upon – a gentleman’s hands, mouth and nails were to be scrupulously clean, and readers were advised never to cut the edges of nails down below the ends of their fingers as it was a “sign of a labourer”.

Sleeping in was also to be avoided, as “lying late in bed should be one of the ills only of the aged and sick”.

Meanwhile, on the subject of women, young men were told to “beware of treating ladies as mere playthings, enter in a modest and respectful spirit, be very quiet and unostentatious”.

Mr Hanson added: “The book is a complete and socially intriguing insight into fashions and morals of early industrializing English men.”

The auctioneer estimated it could fetch up to £300.

The book will be sold in Hansons Derbyshire antique auction, which is being held at the Mackworth Hotel near Derby on Wednesday May 28 at 10am.

To find out more, contact Hansons on 01283 733988, or email service@hansonsauctioneers.co.uk