This book contains the lectures that Beecher gave at Yale for the first Yale Lectures on Preaching, named after Beecher's father. This particular book is in good condition (I keep it in an archival box for protection.). The phrase "Author's Edition", on the cover, means that this particular book is published with the permission of the author. Before copyrights were strictly enforced, many printers, especially those in other countries, would print unauthorized or "pirated" copies of books. The phrase "Author's Edition" was meant to ensure the integrity & honesty of the publisher and guarantee the author proper royalties.
Beecher illustrates the all too common characteristic of powerful men in the ministry: questionable ethics. During his lifetime, he was accused several times of immorality.