James Lackington 

James Lackington (1746-1815) was originally from Wellington, Somerset. He became one of the most famous booksellers and entrepreneurs of his day, operating a bookstore in Featherstone Street in 1774, then Chiswell Street (1775-95), and finally at Finsbury Square from 1786 to 1822, the latter place becoming known as the “Temple of the Muses.”  His main principle was to “sell everything cheap” and to conduct business only in cash. He retired in 1798, turning over his business to his cousin, George Lackington.