John Guthrie’s handwriting certainly improves over time, starting out larger and looser in 1867 and becoming more controlled and precise by 1868 . 
Either way, it’s very skilful and his handwriting exercise book covers topics such as letter writing, scripts on ‘common things ‘, etymology and the ‘vanity of wealth‘ to name a few . 
This lovely book also contains five hand drawn and beautifully coloured maps. 
52 written/ drawn pages with a hardboard marbled cover . 19 x 24 cm