In 1882 Buckfast Abbey in Devon was put up for sale by its owner, Dr. James Gale, with the hope that it could be restored to its original purpose. The Abbey, founded in 1081, had been left in ruins following the Reformation. Buckfast was purchased by French Benedictine monks and formally reinstated as an Abbey in 1902. Anscar Vonier (1876 – 1938) was a German Benedictine monk who was elected Abbot of Buckfast in 1906. He was instrumental in the rebuilding and restoration of the monastery. He was also the author of some 15 books of popular theology.       During the First World War two-thirds of the Buckfast monks were German. They faced suspicion, and even some hostility, and were prohibited from leaving the monastery without special licence. This biography of Abbot Vonier focuses on his rebuilding work at Buckfast and the challenges he faced during WW 1 as he quietly and patiently dealt with local residents and officials fearful of the ‘enemy aliens’ living in their midst. Published by Burns & Oates in 1957. A good reading copy. Dust jacket frayed and torn on top edges. Water stains on front and back boards, long since dried. Black and gilt cloth with armorial on upper board.