I've read this book several times and have tried for years to secure my own copy. This is a condensed version of about ten volumes written over a period of years containing the highlights of a long and busy lifetime. Parson Woodforde was a very droll, insightful , rather whimsical man . His diary not only gives us a delightful view of eighteenth century manners and habits of rural England, but also sheds insights on the foilables and conceits of all ages. Perhaps not "Tristam Shandy"but a classic all by itself. Read and enjoy: savor the language and humor----and good luck trying to secure your own copy!