1859 interest tables

I love old books. I think I always did, but its only recently that I've realised just how much I love them. You really can't imagine my delight when I find a gorgeous old book in a shop. I just have to buy it!

A recent find is this 1859 interest table book. Yes, 1859! 

The book is filled with page after page – not sure how many, no page numbers – of column after column of numbers, all calculating interest rates for the financier from 1859. Some pages have numbers scribbled in ink, evidence of a quick calculation by its owner.

As I leafed through its pages I wondered how had it managed to survive for 150 years? 

Who had scribbled those spidery-ink figures in the margains? 

How had it found its way to Australia? 

How many hands had it passed through? 

Who donated it to the op shop in which I discovered it? 

And, what would have happened to it if I hadn't found it and bought it?